28
FALL 2017
CARLIE HORTON '19
Urban elementary education and iSTEM
I struggle every day trying to be so strong and perfect and
hide when I'm cracking. Spring break of my sophomore year,
I had a breakdown. I was crumbling and feeling alone.
It was hard to admit, but I needed help. Now I want to be
a role model that it is OK not to be perfect.
WINDY ROBERTS
Supervisor, Traditions, Brower Student Center
In April 2014, my 19-year-old son was shot three times and killed.
I cry every day. I don't want another mother to feel the way I do and
I hope my message might touch someone and start a conversation to make
this stop. At work, and with the students, I put on a happy face, so when they
heard my story at Dear World, it surprised them. Many came up to
me and hugged me. I am glad I shared — it was healing.
GABRIEL SALAZAR '18
Interactive multimedia
In middle school, a group of guys in my grade
followed me home. They yelled slurs at me;
they called me a chink. I was used to ignoring
the verbal harassment, but then they threw rocks
at my head. That was the moment
I understood hate. I am still learning to
love myself. But I am here, and I am thriving.
