This essay was submitted by Laureen Wong, a student at the University of Southern California majoring in architecture.
I am from hard work, endurance, and support. I am from 3 a.m. nights with tense shoulders and a paintbrush in hand because I choose to settle for no less than perfection in my art.
I am from a neighborhood where the aromas of Chinese food fill the air with exquisite scents. I am from Mia Hamm, a soccer forward like me, whose talent and determination push me to be my best. I am from a Christian background where faith in a loving Higher Power is teaching me to have faith in myself.
My Asian parents, responding to the call of America’s freedoms and opportunities, transplanted their roots to California. Part of being a female, raised in an Asian household, meant I was not trained to be outspoken or voice my opinion, so throughout elementary school I was shy and nervous. Artwork was the only way I could safely express the colors of my being.
Finding My Way
Gradually, I found my voice and my place among hard-working, dedicated artists from a variety of communities. I noticed how when grounded in purpose, some of the shyest were able to speak up. I was inspired by diversity, and learned that cooperation and speaking up can walk hand in hand.
With that awareness, I’ve set my sights on a career in architecture, despite the fact that I am a woman of color in a field largely dominated by White males.
My hard-working immigrant parents encouraged me to pursue a satisfying, safe career, but now that I belong to many communities, I try to strike a balance between my roots and my passions.
I believe that my Asian American background, my passion for architecture, my journey through trauma, and a growing faith in myself, will enable me to succeed in college. I also hope that my commitment to hard-work, supportive communications, open-mindedness, and the courageous pursuit of my dreams will touch the lives of everyone I encounter.
Laureen Wong is the granddaughter of Roger Wong. Her interests include drawing, traveling, playing soccer and hiking.
