The Life-Changing Dinner by Gina

The Life-Changing Dinner by Gina - February 2016 Scholarship Essay

Researching about the past makes me realize all the historical figures we remember today. One person I thought it would be interesting to have a dinner with is Maya Angelou. February is known for being black history month. After researching about Maya Angelou I realize her impact on America's social equality today. Between her bravery, and determination she is someone I aspire to be like and would love to talk to.
On April 4th, 1928, Maya Angelou, one of today’s most influential civil rights activist was born in St. Louis, Missouri. Sadly, growing up wasn’t always easy for Maya Angelou. At eight years old Maya was sexually abused and rapped by her own mother's boyfriend. Growing up Maya Angelou fought hard for racial equality. Angelou had a passion for writing. Therefore, as an adolescent and having to deal with things such as rape forced her to let out her feelings. Angelou voiced her thoughts on a piece of paper, by writing poems.
In Angelou's poems she talked a lot about not letting people bring her down. Angelou was determined to change society's views on the black population. I would like to sit down with Maya Angelou at dinner and talk about her life story and how her determination and her passion led her to become successful winning fifty doctorate awards. Her story is influential, and can help me with the new journey I am about to begin, college. Her passion and determination make me look up to her. After researching about her in my English class, I hope I have the passion and determination she had in her life. Having dinner with Angelou would be an eye opening experience hearing how she overcame difficulties. Hearing her story would educate me on how to overcome obstacles in college. I know in college subjects can become difficult and stress of a new environment can hold weigh one down, but talking with Maya Angelou would remind that there is always hope in something that you believe in.