Growing up LGBTQ+, my experience in the education system is one that’s had its ups
and downs. A lot of it had to do with the fact that I grew up in Norfolk, Nebraska, a town that has
its fair number of people with rather conservative views, which were made prevalent by my
experiences in high school. These ranged from hearing slurs casually thrown around in the
hallways as if they meant nothing, to randomly being asked if I was gay by classmates, almost as
if someone was daring them to come up and talk to me. Even though these moments weren’t
always directed at me, being in an environment where such behaviors were taking place was
something that kept me from ever really feeling comfortable in school, bringing feelings of
alienation that held me back from branching out very much.
Despite the negative effects of these situations, they also helped me develop character
traits and habits that benefit me. I learned to stand up for myself, further understanding my own
feelings to a point where I can keep myself out of situations that could be uncomfortable or
detrimental for me to be in. These skills have aided my academics as well, strengthening my
abilities to focus on my work and communicate with peers and instructors. Additionally, my
experiences have led me to be more sensitive to others’ feelings, allowing me to connect with
others on a deeper level. While it presented challenges while growing up, my identity has also
strengthened my personal traits, resulting in qualities that guide me in education and everyday
life.