My name is Shailin Paredes; however, I go by Shay. I was born in the Dominican Republic on May 26, 2004, and I lived there for 12 years. During this time, I was divided by two worlds, and they never met each other. While I was at home, it was just me playing by myself, my aunt was always sleeping, the other was always working, and my grandmother was always cooking and cleaning. My life at school included getting involved with my school friends, which meant a lot of talking. My teachers would always tell me that although I was a great student I talked too much and often, which got me in trouble. Despite not having anyone to play with at home it taught me that I do not have to depend on others to succeed. I first came to America at the age of 9 and in lived in the Bronx with my mother. We lived in my uncle’s house but then my mom and my uncle had a conflict and we had to move out. Due to this, my mother was not able to keep me and had to send me back to live with my grandmother in the Dominican Republic. Although I was sad that I had to leave my mother, I was also relieved to go back to the place I knew. The time I spent in the Bronx was traumatic, I was getting bullied because I did not speak English, and I often felt like an outsider. I was 12 when my mother had a permanent place to stay, and this is when I returned to the Bronx. This was the last time I stepped foot in the Dominican Republic, and I have not been there since. It took me a while to get comfortable speaking English to others, however I quickly learned and understood the language. I would see how students would treat others who spoke with an accent which worried me that they would make fun of me as well. Eventually, I realized that my way to independence meant I had to speak English because I did not want to depend on others. I am still not 100% comfortable with speaking the language, however my surroundings are helping me practice and I choose to never give up. I decided to attend Buffalo State University and as a result I’ve had to make many difficult choices and sacrifices. My mother did not want me to go away to school because she wanted me to stay at home with her. Some days I wonder if I made the wrong choice leaving my mother. However, I have learned to become independent and have been taking care of myself. I have managed to stay motivated, I am doing well academically, and remind myself that I want a better life. I know that hard work will pay off in the future. My EOP family has been helpful in keeping me grounded when I feel defeated. I have also started a dance team to help other students feel connected when they don’t fit it, like I did as a little girl.
