Becoming a Starperson by Milena

Becoming a Starperson by Milena - February 2015 Scholarship Essay

Most of the struggles of high school students do not come from academics but from trying to fit in. In Jerry Spinelli’s novel, “Stargirl”, he creates a character that embraces her uniqueness, does not act against her emotions and speaks her mind. “We wanted to define her, to wrap her up as we did each other…” (Spinelli, Stargirl), this quote represents the need of classification of the students in order to be defined by others. Stargirl challenges the vision and the rules of society where she chooses to show her uniqueness by shining in a place where everybody’s desire is to be part of a group in order to be accepted. “Why fit in when you're born to stand out?” (Spinelli, Stargirl), this novel supports individualism by encouraging students to create their own paths in order to succeed.
In addition, this book introduces the youth to the meaning of relationships. High school students often are careless with romance as they try to experiment without having the maturity necessary to understand what relationships consist of. Stargirl meets a boy, a boy that appreciates her uniqueness, but that does not share this opinion with his friends. Eventually, he asks Stargirl to change for him; she agrees and becomes a whole new person that falls under the typical “social standards” of high school. However, she cannot hide her true self for long and ends up going back to normal, making the boy break up with her. This event teaches how relationships are based on sacrifice, showing how healthy relationships should be willing to give from both sides.

“Stargirl” is a quick, fresh reading that students will enjoy because connects with the struggles they are experiencing in their teens. This book teaches lessons that cannot be learned in regular courses. They will encounter these lessons after graduation once they become part of the work force, where uniqueness is more valuable, and where those who stand out are more likely to obtain better opportunities. Moreover, these students will have new relationships where they should know the difference between a healthy friendship or romance, and oppression of or towards a partner. “Stargirl” motivates students to be different and teaches life lessons that become useful as they reach adulthood.