"Older Person, Younger Person"

　
      A person that has always been there is my wonderful grandmother. I am so thankful for her, and I can’t imagine life without her. So when I do think about her leaving us when her time comes to an end, I cant help but feel sad. So many cherished memories and moments I have built with her since my childhood, for sure, will keep her alive in my heart. There is a special bond between us that words cant explain, a feeling of certainty when I’m with her, her advice keeps me strong. She is my motivation she never gives up on me, I think so highly of her. She is a great, kind, caring grandmother with all of her grandchildren. My younger sister, Janelly, reminds me so much of her. They both have similar characteristics, and they spend a lot of quality time with each other.
      I see a lot of my grandmother in my little sister, she is very sharp and quick, just like my grandmother. She brings so much joy into this family, and in a way has brought us closer since her birth. My grandmother is another person that has brought us together, especially when she cooks like on special occasions. Janelly has very goods ears, she can hear almost anything and everything, I think she inherited that from my lovely grandma. She has my grandmother’s lips, and uses many of the Spanish words my grandma says. My sister loves going over to her house, they both love to eat fried plantains. When im in my room, and my little sister notices that im feeling down she sits next to me and tries to make me feel better. The only other person who does that is my grandmother. So I feel my sister has learned a lot from my grandmother, so I see a lot of similarities. I love them both very much, and I know that when the time comes, my grandmother will live in our hearts.

"Personal Essay"

     There are a number of ways in which I can become disappointed. Majority of the times that I am disappointed, I have been disappointed at myself. My friends or close family members have made me disappointed. I’ve come to realize that if you’re close to me and I expert move out of you, the more disappointed I will be when they don’t do something in the correct manner. If one of my close friends disappointed me, I probably wouldn’t talk to them for a day or two. When I’m disappointed in other people, I have the tendency of getting over it much faster than when I’m disappointed in myself. I put people on different levels. The higher you are, the more that I would expect out of them. These are the people who rarely disappoint me because they know what I don’t like and they don’t do anything that they know is going to get me upset. Sometimes, they may make a mistake and does something that really disappoints me. It may seem that I’m kind of mad at them, but I’m really not. I’m just a bit disappointed. They wouldn’t know that I’m disappointed until after I’ve gotten over the situation. I don’t like to see the people that I care about make mistakes that are going to have a very negative effect on them. I find it easy to become disappointed in myself. I know what I am capable of. When I don’t reach or exceed my expectations. I feel somewhat like a failure to myself and to the people around me. I remain disappointed in myself for a much longer period time I would with other people. The only way to take the disappointment away is when I prove to myself that I could do much better and exceed my expectations. It was this one time in tenth grade where I didn’t understand this concept in chemistry and became so disappointed in myself. I was pushing myself so hard to grasp it, but I couldn’t. I studied more and the teacher explained it thoroughly, so I thought that I had it, when it come down to the test, I literally forget how to solve everything that was on the test. I gave up on myself. I turned the test into the teacher and left the classroom. I began to cry because I expected so much more out of myself. I went over everything that was on the test. Then I took it over and got them all correct. I exceed my expectations.

"Memoir"

    People often judge people before they even get a chance to know who the person really is. Seeing a person around and knowing them are very different. Once you begin to get to know a person, all the negative thoughts that you had about them will be forgotten and replaced with positive things. I believe that people shouldn't have these negative perceptions about people because it prevents that person from creating new friendships and bonds. I have been a person who in the past, judged people by their apperance and not their personality. I learned that it is wrong to judge a book by it's cover when I met my brother's girlfriend.
When I met my brother's new girlfriend, I immediately told myself that I didn't like her being that she looked like she had an attitude. Another reason why I made a judgement so quickly was because I had grown close to his previous girlfriend and I thought I shouldn't like the new one. Everytime I saw her around the house, I wouldn't try to start up a coversation with her. The only two things that I would say to her were hi and bye.   My brother saw how I was acting towards his girlfriend and he somewhat confronted me about the situation.
My brother made me realize that I should give her a chance and I might like her. I started to talk to her more and learn more about her. I started to enjoy the time that I spent with her. We started to go out to Pinkberry, the mall, and to restaurants. We began to open up to each other about some of the problems that we were going through at that moment in time. I knew that she could be someone that i go to whenever I may need something. I began to understand he personality and why she seemed as though she had an attitude.
Listening to her problems made me feel bad about being rude towards her when I first met her. I learned that she was a troubled girl, who was in search of who she was.

"Cats and Dogs"

    A cat is a small and furrye domesticated animal. It is a part of the feline family. Cats are types of animals who enjoy to jump on top of or off of things. This is easy for them to do because their tail helps them keep their balance. Cats also have quick reflexes and retractable claws. They make a meow sound. Cats like to communicate with others through body language. Cats have excellent night vision. They have the tendency of being more active at night. They also sleep a lot throughout the day, allowing them to conserve energy. Cats like to drink milk. They like to hunt and eat mice. Mice make high frequency noises that cats could hear.
   A dog is a domesticated animal who eats meat. They are known as man's bestfriend. Dogs are a part of the canine family which includes wolves and foxes. Dogs enjoy running around. They could be used as protection against unwanted people. Dogs also help police department by sniffing out drugs and criminals. They help the military by using their nose to sniff the gunpowder of a bomb and locate it. Dogs also help herd sheep.
   Dogs and cats are similar due to the fact that they walk on four legs. Something else that makes the two similar is that they both have tails. Dogs and cats both hunt. Another thing that cats and dogs have in common is that they are both animals that are domesticated.One difference between cats and dogs is that dogs bark, while cats meow. Cats are usually small, while the size of a dog could vary from small to large. Most dogs are much bigger than cats. Cats are nocturnal. Dogs are smarter and could be taught how to do different tasks that help the community or others.

"Formal or Informal"

    Most people don’t really think there’s a certain way you should be dressed when going to certain places. shouldn’t you be able to dress with whatever you feel comfortable in? many would answer yes, the way you dress is your way of expressing yourself. When you are young your parents are the ones that pick out your clothes. You are forced to wear the clothes they have selected, and so when you get older there’s a change. You begin to form your own style, you are free to choose what you wear now. Then there are times when you need to change your appearance to make a good impression. When you go to a job interview you are advised to dress formally. It can help you get a job, rather than you wearing informal clothing, wearing formal clothing at an interview, makes you stand out. It allows the other person to see how presentable and responsible you can look. When you’re hired, one of the reasons why you may have had the opportunity to have the position, is because of your attire. There are other important occasions where you wear formal clothes. When you go to a school event like the Prom, you have to dress to impress. It all depends on where you are going, you should know when to wear formal or informal clothing. There are places like schools, who make it mandatory for their students to use formal clothing to prepare them for the real world.

"Raw And Uncooked Foods"

    Foods that are raw are in their natural state. Raw foods are uncooked. Usually foods that are raw are damp and a bit chilly. Fresh fruits and vegetables are considered to be raw, since they are uncooked when they are eaten. Even though fruits are eaten raw, they can turn into cooked food if they are added to a pie. For example, apples that are in apple pie are cooked and therefore not raw. Foods that are raw tend to be more nutritious because it is not cooked. Cooking foods that are raw destroys the good things that we need to be healthier.
   Cooked food involves the use of heat. To prepare this type of food with the use of heat, you could boil, bake, or roast. Food that has been cooked could be eaten while it is hot, mild, or even cold. Cooked food is unhealthy because of all the artificial ingredients used to prepare it. Foods that are cooked can also be fattening depending on what is type of cooking oil are being used to cook the meal. Anything could be cooked. The flavors of cooked food could vary. A food that is cooked could be spicy, mild and sweet.
   Raw food is different from cooked food because it doesn’t apply a heat to its food. Raw food has to be cold or mild. Cooked food could be any temperature. Another difference between cooked and raw food is that cooked food has added ingredients that change the flavor of the food. They are similar because some foods could fit into both of these categories. If a person buys a pumpkin, cuts it up, and eats it, its natural and considered to be raw. If they get some pie crust and put the pumpkin inside the crust and put it in the oven it is considered cooked.

"Spicy or Sweet"

    Spicy food is seasoned with aromatic or pungent seasoning. Spicy foods are hot and are peppery when you taste them. Spicy food has much more flavor than other foods. Most spicy foods have to be heated up or warm to eat, so a person could get the full flavor. Not all people are able to handle spicy foods being that it may be too hot causing a burning sensation in their mouth. Other people enjoy this burning sensation and try to intensify the feeling by adding hot sauce like, Tabasco, or even jalapeño peppers. This causes an explosion of flavor in your mouth. When you eat spicy foods, beverages that cool your mouth down are water and milk.
    Foods that are sweet, have the taste of sugar. Foods that are sweet have the tendency of being high in fat. Most people enjoy eating sweet foods. The sugar in the food helps energize anyone who eats it. Many types of foods could be sweet. For example, the juice of a watermelon could be sweet and this is what makes the watermelon taste good. Some foods that are sweet, could be naturally sweet. While other sweet foods are sweetened artificially. Some foods which are sweet, are produced in factories. For example, candy such as Jolly Ranchers and Snickers.
    Foods that are spicy and foods that are sweet can be similar. When you eat these types of food, there is a mini-explosion of flavor. Some foods that are sweet could also be spicy. People have cravings for both of these types of food. Some of their ingredients sre natural or artificial. There are also some  differences between the two types of food. Spicy foods are hot, while sweet foods are mild and  sweet. Sweet foods are usually eaten at room temperature or colder. Spicy foods are usually eaten hot.

"College" Semester 5 Essay

    It is very important for people to go to college and further their education. Then they could go out into the world and become very successful business people. People who go straight to college prefer that things should be done at a faster rate. This would allow them to take care of business and move on with their lives faster. Some students want to go straight through to college so they don't have to think about school later on in their life. When a person goes directly to college, they are surrounded by students who are around the same age with them. By going straight to college, it would be a more smooth transition. Having some time to focus on you as a person then go to college is also good. You would have more time to see what life has to offer. A person who doesn’t go straight to college from high school would have more time to relax. A person will be able to see how it feels to work and pay bills. You wouldn’t have to stress out about any assignments. I think that the better choice is to go directly to college after graduating from high school. The sooner you start college, the sooner you would be able to finish and move on to more exciting things in your life. Another benefit of going to college directly out of high school is that you will be accustomed to learning new things and taking good notes. When going straight to college, you wouldn’t have to struggle to get money.
    When going directly to a college or university, you would be able to make a smooth transition. You are able to be independent and learn at the same time. It would be much easier for a student to go straight to college from high because they are given assistance on how to get to a college while at school. It would also be faster, so you could go straight through it and be done with it. After you finish college, you’ll have time to decide on what you want to do for the rest of your life. You would be much more prepared and ready to go to college and learn more things if you go directly from high school. If you take a break off, you may never regain the motivation to return back to college.
    You would become accustomed to your environment faster. It would be most peoples first time away from home. They will learn how to take care of themselves. They would also meet amazing new people while at college. Some of these people they may even stay in contact with for the rest of their lives. When you take time some time off, it would be harder for you to fit in because you would look like you are a bit older and the other students may not be as mature as you.
    When you don’t go straight to college, most likely you would have to work a low paying job. You would have to struggle to get things you want like a car or even some tennis shoes. When at college, your main focus is your education. Most of your expenses are covered through financial aid.
Going to college is very important. It is better if you go straight from high school to college. This would be easier for a person in many ways. Not going right away has its benefits and disadvantages. I prefer to go directly to college.

"Common Application Prompt"

        I feel it is a blessing to have such a supportive family that has shaped my life in a tremendous way, not only that but have taught me to be the best that I can be. I believe those are the most important things in my life right now. The way my parents have structured their home God is first, your family second, then school, and lastly your friends. My family has been there for me through everything and have loved me despite my minor imperfections. I feel that I need that support in order to achieve the goals I have set for myself. I want to not only make myself proud, but also my loving family. In order to have a good life I have to start now by being productive in school as well as in my home. My brother, Kevin Hernandez, has been the one person who has influenced me the most out of my family. He has always been the one to give me the motivation I need during times of frustration.

        I have gone through many things that have shaped me into the person I am today. I know I’m mature to handle mostly anything that comes my way because of what I’ve experienced. I have had people come and go in my life and learned you have to be strong and not let it bring you down. I have God to thank for protecting me all these years, and keeping me well. Kevin has shown me that regardless of the negative things people might have to say, you cant give up on what you’re passionate about. Something he is passionate about is his art, when he was younger he received a lot of criticism about his art style. He was persistent with his talent in the arts and continued to express himself whether on a canvas or a piece of paper. He has been to plenty of art galleries where people have shown great interest in his art, and have purchased his art pieces. This to me has been of great influence, not only has he shown me that when you’re being true to yourself, you can succeed but also to use that criticism to work harder to prove to yourself you are capable of whatever you set your mind to.

"Schools"

      Public school are schools that are paid for by the federal government. Any child is able to go to a public school. In a public schools, the teacher may teach a class of at least 25 or more. In elementary school, a student gets a new teacher every school year. In junior high and senior high, a student must change their classes for every class and their teachers will also change every year. There are many public schools in many different districts. A child is assigned a school to go to depending on where they are living at the moment. If a student wants to go to a different school, they need to obtain a permit.A student may be able to get into a different school if that school has any available spots for them. If a student wants to go somewhere far away from where they live, they could catch the school bus. In public schools, there are strict time settings that you must follow. You must get to school on time. If a student doesn't get to school on time, there may be a consequence such as detention. Detention is where a student has to spend their free time doing work in complete silence.
        When a student is home schooled, they go to school once or twice a week and get their assignments for that week. Some students may even have a personal tutor that comes to their house or designated area, to teach that particular student all of the things he or she needs to know. Children who are home schooled, don't have as many restrictions as children who attend a public school. Instead of having one teacher teach 25 students, one teacher or tutor focuses on how to teach one child. This allows the teacher to learn what the child's needs are, and focus on them so they could improve. There is no strict time schedule, so a child could be somewhat late and not face any consequences. They both teach children the things that they need to know. In both school systems, students are allowed to take breaks. Public schools and home schools are different and similar in so many ways.

"UC Prompt 2"

       A personal quality that is important to me is my dedication. I find this quality to be important because when a person is committed to something, it means they stick with it no matter what. That’s something that makes me proud because I don’t quit I keep trying until I accomplish what I set to do. I know that when my family or friends feel like giving up I’m the one that motivates them. I impact peoples lives when I tell them they can do it and that believe in them. I’ve had moments in my life when I needed someone to that for me and it made me jump and go for it. My dedication to school will soon pay off when I have a career I’m proud of.

        I am dedicated with my church, I am there every Saturday and Sunday in the afternoon. Its rare when I miss and if I do its because I have other responsibilities like homework. I usually do things in a timed manner so I won’t worry about it and cause unnecessary stress. When I know I have an assignment or I have to be somewhere I am punctual with it. I like to get things done on my own so that way if something goes wrong I can only blame myself and improve on it. This personal trait has helped me go through life smoothly.

        I’m responsible with everything I do, dedication is needed in order to be responsible. A lot of other qualities come with being dedicated, such as strength. Strength is necessary so you won’t give up when you get frustrated. Not every one can be dedicated whether if its with their school, goals, or people in general that’s why I think its unique. It does bring some type of pride when I accomplish the things I set my mind to. I needed dedication in order to reach second degree red belt in Martial Arts. I was good in sparring and if it wouldn’t had been for my father losing his job and us being able to afford it, I would have earned a black belt.

         I enjoyed practicing Martial Arts, each new belt was an obstacle I had to go through in order to reach the ultimate belt. I had to practice the forms my instructor taught me. The test to move to the next level helped me advance. I learned to have discipline and be more respectful. I was a dedicated student and it showed because I always had my moves right on point. When lower belts needed help I was the one the instructor chose to teach them. I never made them feel like they were inferior, I told them that the time would pass by in no time and they would reach their goal. It was physically and mentally challenging because I wasn’t used to it but then over time I became a strong willed person.

       My experience with Martial Arts made me dedicated to something I enjoyed. It helped me stay focus with a certain thing and I later on used that focus in other areas of my life. I became dedicated with school, church, family, and friends. I was responsible and I learned to have things done on time. I had a higher self-esteem coming out of Martial Arts and dedication was instilled in me. It would be hard for me to give up on something, and I would only work hard to make it happen.

"UC Prompt 1"

         The world I come from is not only productive, but inspiring at the same time. I am glad to say I am blessed with health, and a supportive family. I feel those are the most important things in my life right now. The way my parents have structured their home is God is first, your family second, then school, and lastly your friends. I feel that I need that support in order to achieve the goals I have set for myself. I want to not only make myself proud, but also my loving family. I have seen my parents struggling to keep the necessary things in their household. I know what it feels like to worry about how the rent will be paid, so I have made up my mind to be successful in life. In order to have a good life I have to start now by being productive in school as well as in my home.

        At a young age I have gone through many things that have shaped me into the person I am today. I know I’m mature to handle mostly anything that comes my way because of what I’ve experienced. I have had people come and go in my life and learned you have to be strong and not let it bring you down. I have God to thank for protecting me all these years, and keeping me well. My family has been there for me through everything and have loved me despite my minor imperfections.

I help my in any way I can, I have responsibilities in my home. My father currently lost his job at the Westin Hotel, and my mother is the only one bringing money in. I took it upon myself to help her by getting a small job on the weekends. I clean Mrs. Brown’s home when she need me to. The money I earn goes to my mother, I feel I contribute to the family and I don’t feel guilty that its only my mother working. If I could get a part job time it would be perfect, but I cant let it interfere with school.

         I take school very seriously, I will be the first in my family to graduate High School. I want to be a role model to my younger sister and I want to make my family proud. They are my inspiration when it comes to school. My family always tells me how they are proud and they say I have the potential to be whatever I want to be. I know I can make it into a college if I try hard enough, and that exactly what I’ve been doing. My brother is the main one pushing to do my best. When I know I haven’t done my best I feel disappointed in myself, and work harder than ever. If I’ve ever felt weak and not able to do something I look for him to give me advice which always motivates me.

        The hardships people go through can seem like a big deal at the moment but in time they become less important. I feel that if you focus on the present your past will soon fade away and make the future the more better. You can improve yours and your family’s life when setting a goal and reaching it, their support will be the key to your success.

       The people closest to you always have the right words to say to you. I find it fascinating how a person‘s surroundings can make them who they are. If it weren’t for my family I don’t think I would like my world, they help me get through the hardships in life. I know there aren’t many people that have someone to talk to and that why I want to be a psychologist. I think its in my nature to want to help out people like my family has done for me. I am a great listener and I give plenty of advice to my friends which in the end makes their lives better. If while doing something I enjoy I can make a person life better, I would do it in a heart beat.

"An Effective Teacher"

      My education is very important to me, but there are times I get frustrated with school. A subject in particular I take great interest in, is U.S. History, thanks to Mr. Berry. I had him as a teacher for my junior year. When I was a tenth grader I heard his class was hard and that he was strict. Going in to his class, I was kind of scared and worried about how much work I was going to be having. The first wee I was in his class I knew I was going to enjoy being his student. The way he taught his class wasn’t complex, he made the class interesting. All the information he gave was given at a good pace. I was never lost in his class, all the work he gave made me understand the concept of the subject. When I worked in a group all of us had to contribute and talk in front with other people instead of by yourself. I feel that when you work together the content of the subject is grilled into your head because you’re not only responsible for your grade, but of your classmates also.
        I recently had to take the SAT subject test, and I chose U.S. History as one of the subjects to test on. I felt confident before the test because Mr. Berry was the most effective teacher I have had. When I took it, I knew most of the answers, the way he ran the class actually made me remember everything. The warm ups, workbook sheets, vocabulary, and book work helped me save the information in my head. Mr. Berry’s class was my favorite, and I know his current students will be affected in a positive way by him.

"Sleep"

        Sleep is very important especially for teenagers. A teenager needs between nine to ten hours of sleep each night. A normal adult needs around seven to eight hours of sleep. Not getting enough sleep each night can affect your day in a negative way. For instance, not getting enough sleep could cause you to be sleepy throughout the day. A person who is lacking sleep wouldn't be able to think or convey their thoughts in a clear manner. Another negative effect of lack of sleep is the loss of energy. When a person doesn't get the amount of sleep that he or she needs, they have the tendency to be more sleepy the following day. If they are trying to complete a task that they are not interested in, they would slowly begin to doze off. They may even go to sleep if they aren't disturbed by anything around them. Being sleepy would cause them to move slower. It would also cause them to have slower reactions.
        Not getting the required amount of sleep each night will cause the thinking capability of that person to be much slower than that of a person who has had a full nights rest. Another effect is that they wouldn't know how convey their ideas in a very clear and understandable way so that everyone would be able to understand. You would most likely be completely lost of confused when you are trying to complete an assignment. You would stare into blank space and not be able to fully comprehend the things that are going on around you. Completing simple tasks would be difficult to do because your body is not energized. You would have to struggle throughout the day. When you sleep, your body is being reenergized. Without sleep, your body doesn't have all the energy it needs to function properly.

"300"

        I hope to one day visit Greece, I have a favorite movie,”300”, that took place in that beautiful country. The main character of the movie, King Leonides, talked about his life growing up in the city of Sparty in Greece. In Sparta only the strong survive, if there were a new born baby to look weak or scrawny it would be thrown over a high elevated ground. Once the males in Sparta reached about the age of eight, they would be tested. They would have to go outside the gates of Sparta and fen for themselves. If in the process they didn’t survive, the people would know the boy was not deserving of the title, Spartan. This city was known to have warriors as citizens. The King of Persia wanted to extend his kingdom and he threatened King Leonidas. There was a man who was working or getting bribed byt the King of Persia. So when King Leonidas wanted to go to war to defend his land, that evil man didn’t let him.
      King Leonidas was smart, he gathered three hundred of his best warriors and walked to a location that would give him the advantage in winning the battles. The Queen helped her husband out by talking to the council. They discovered that the evil man was being bribed. King Leonidas died protecting his land, and because of his death all of Sparta went to war.

"Study Abroad"

      At the beginning of the year, i attended a college fair in Pasadena. I received a lot of information about colleges and universities all around the United States. There was a university in particular that caught my attention. Soka University of America not only offered the major I plan on studying, but it mandated study abroad. The countries that were for selection are Argentina, Chile, Ecuador, Costa Rica, Mexico, Japan, China, I would have to learn to speak Chinese first. This would be a challenge but also a great opportunity to expand the languages I speak. Overall, it would be interesting to go overseas to a foreign country to study and live. A year away from home would be difficult, but I believe it would impact my life.
      The steps I would have to take in order to accomplish this goal as quickly as possible is to enroll into a Chinese language class. It would take time but with effort and hard work, I know for a fact I can learn the language. Then I would have to talk to my counselor at school to set up my trip to China. Studying abroad in China would be a great experience. I would encourage students to look for a school that offers study abroad, its something that can shape your life and change your mentality. It will introduce you into a new world you couldn’t have imagined, a new culture, and a new you.

"Telephone"

        My favorite music video is "Telephone" by Lady Gaga and Beyoncé Knowles. The beginning of the music video Lady Gaga is being stripped down and put into a jail cell. Then some explicit things were said between the two prison guards. Lady Gaga jumps on to the bars. Then she has caution tap on her body and she starts singing “Telephone”. Lady Gaga is walked out into the prison yard with the other female prisoner. She has on sunglasses that are made out of cigarettes. Some of the cigarettes are lit up and smoking. Some of the aggressive woman prisoners try and grope Lady Gaga. There is a place advertisement in this scene where the camera zooms in on her Virgin Mobile device. Then it goes to a scene where I believe the prisoners are having some free time. Then Lady Gaga gets a call from Beyoncé. Beyoncé picks Lady Gaga up from jail in the truck that was used in Kill Bill. Before they leave Beyoncé gives Lady Gaga a bite of her honey bun and they drive off. While on the road, Beyoncé begins to sing her verse. While Beyoncé is singing and driving the truck Lady Gaga is taking pictures of her. Then they go to this restaurant. Lady Gaga is in the back part making food with poison. Beyoncé is at the table with her boyfriend, who is played by Tyrese Gibson. Lady Gaga comes to their table and drops off his food. He begins to cough then his head falls. Everyone else who is eating heads begin to fall too. All the other people get up and start dancing with Lady Gaga and Beyoncé, who look like pin up girls.After that Lady Gaga is dancing in the front of the truck wearing a leopard body suit. Her and Beyoncé drive down the road and they make a pact.

"Teenage Fad"

     When you’re a teenager life is what you make it. It’s a time when you are curious, and you try new things. Even if you have strict parents that don’t let you explore things for yourself, you find ways to do what interest you. You might have friends that are a bad influence on you, or it might be the other way around. You might be the crazy friend that talks people into trying things. Regardless, you do things in your teenage years you will never forget. You might be pressured by others of the same age to be a certain way, this is where fads come in. you either try to follow the trend that others follow, or you feel this trend expresses who you are. Its something temporary that teenagers have in common, until it is out of style.
      What’s in right now, or what I see most teenagers wear are Vans. There really isn’t just one fad going on right now though. Different types of groups of teenagers, like rockers have their hair uniquely styled, its called scene hair. They wear scene clothes that consists of very colorful clothing. They follow this trend to catch attention and they believe it’s a way to express themselves. Then there are others who try to have their own style, but still buy the name brand all teenagers wear. Vans has a lot of styles of clothing, shoes, and accessories. I feel this is the fad teenagers are into right now.

"Animals"

       Many spend a great deal of time with animals. Some animals are a better companionship than others, for example dogs are known to be man’s best friend. It’s a saying, but in reality a dog remains loyal to whomever is its owner. I had my first dog when I was about eight years old. It was a mix breed, black, and it was very small. I remember naming her, Beauty, it was very obedient and well trained. Most people have owned a dog at one point in their lives. Its so interesting to see how strong of a bond an animal can have with a human being. There are other types of domesticated animals, or pets people build relationships with. There are plenty of cat lovers, and people who own other small animals like hamsters.
       People take great interest when it comes down to animals. If you’re not allowed to have pets there’s a place where you can go see animals. The zoo used to be one of my favorite places, they are so many different types of species to be learned about. There’s a channel on the television that focuses on different animals around the world, it gives the viewer information and facts. People have a relationship with animals in their own way whether if in person or from far away. One thing is clear many people spend a great deal of time with animals.

"A Decadent Dessert"

         I absolutely love dessert, they are the main reason for why I have cavities. I mostly enjoy eating a warm slice of apple pie topped with whip cream or vanilla ice cream. Another dessert I eat a lot, mostly during the holidays, is cheesecake. I think the best cheesecake is made or served in the restaurant Cheesecake Factory. I like how the white creamy dessert taste, its so soft and delicious. The graham crust has such a decadent flavor to it, its hard to take just one bite. I have tasted other brands of cheesecake and they don’t compare to the cheesecake from the Cheesecake Factory.
       If I were able to eat a luscious, decadent dessert it would have to consist of cheesecake and some type of fruit topping. The fruit I would pick would be strawberries. It wouldn’t be regular strawberries, they would have to be juicy and have a sauce to go along with it. The sauce would be sweet and out of this world. If there were a specific way to eat it, it would be the sauce and the cheesecake on top of it. Around the cheesecake there would be little spots of whip cream and then on top the strawberries. I believe this would be a delicious and decadent piece of dessert.

Figures of Speech

Misery tainting your heart
Dressed in shadows of darkness
Copes with the burden of loss


Time flies by right in front of you
Dressed in memories
It stops for no one



Music inspires around the world
Wearing musical notes
It makes an emotion within


Despair creeps behind you
Adorned by pointy thorns
Pain is what it hungers for



Hope enters the door
Covered in blossoming flowers
It invites itself in you



Death awaits you near your home
Cloaked in black from head to toe
Collecting the souls for his master

"No Cellphones"

         Technology has become an essential part of everyone’s daily life. You can literally walk anywhere and find some type of technology. It helps us throughout the day, whether if it’s the simplest thing like heating our food or something complex like making calculations on a graphic calculator . We have become dependent on things being done for us. When I think about it, people back then were more intellectual than people now. They weren’t stuck on electronic devices, they would study or do something productive with their lives.
           I believe a major electronic device everyone around the world can relate to owning is a cell phone. A cell phone is used to communicate with your friends and family. There are plenty of ways a cell phone is used. You can text someone in secret when you don’t want people to hear or see what you’re talking about. You can make phone calls all around the world to keep in touch with people. Its necessary nowadays to have one, if you’re lost you can call someone. Cell phones now allow you to access the internet, your email, send instant messages, and have tools like alarm clocks and/or a navigator. Modern life without a cell phone would be difficult.

"A Foreign Country"

         I find my culture to be fascinating, even though I don’t know much about it. I would love actually go to both my parent’s native land. I have seen pictures of the landscapes in El Salvador , the rivers and mountains are a spectacular view. My parents tell me how life in El Salvador was back then, they had a hard childhood because they had to work at a young age. They came to the United States to have a better life, but they miss their country. I haven’t been there since, but its something on my to do list.
         When I get the chance to visit El Salvador, I will definitely have to adjust to the culture. My Spanish isn’t so good but experiencing life there would help me practice. I love pupusas, and it’s something I want to learn to cook. The type of music they listen to captures my attention. I would take dancing lessons, they rhythm of, Cumbia is amazing. I would want to explore the different sites El Salvador has to offer. Overall the new lifestyle interest me, I know an experience in a foreign country would impact my life for the better.

"College Out of State"

When you attend college in a different state, you need to complete many tasks before leaving. Your parents are not going to be there for you when ever you need something. You have to get the majority of your materials before you live. You have to pack up the majority of your clothes being that you are not going to be at home. You need all of your clothes because you're not going to be able to shop being that you're going to be busy unpacking, adapting to the state and the college life. A couple of months before you leave you should try and save money or get some money from your parents. You could also get a job. The money that you get can be used towards your book or any other expenses that you might have in the first couple of weeks of college. You may also need a source of transportation. This is an essential to life in another state. Transportation allows you to get from one place to another. This becomes very important when you have a job because if you're unable to make it to work on time you may get fired. You need a cell phone, this allows you to communicate with your family. A person going to school out of state needs to purchase a laptop computer or a notebook and a printer. This is important for completing your class assignments. Things that you would need in a college out of state are sheets for your bed, towels, bath and hand soap, slippers to walk around the dorm room, pajamas, flip-flops to take showers, a bucket to use to bring all of your personal cleaning supplies to the community restroom, perfume, deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste and mouthwash.

"Birthday Celebration"

     I have been blessed with a couple of friends. Friendship is very valuable to me, I am an easy person to get along with. A quality that I must see in you in order to call you a friend is, trustworthiness and honesty. Once I feel I can trust you, I will become open with you. I love to talk to my friends, it's a way to let out my thoughts, ideas, or frustrations. I usually am the one my friends go to when they have a problem. One of the people I have become close to is Ashley Acrie, she is one of my best friends. If I had the opportunity to plan her birthday celebration, it would be one she would always remember.
      I would have to put careful thought into planning the celebration. I would invite our closest friends. I would decorate my house with black and purple decorations. Then I would put lights all around so it could look like a scene from Paris. The food I would have would be pasta from Macaroni Grill, and the drinks would be Hawaiian Punch. I would hire a Dj so he could play all her favorite music. I would order a Oreo cookie ice cream cake for her. I would have a cute outfit set for her for when she arrived, then I would have an area set up for picture taking. I know if I surprised her with all this she would never forget it.

"The 70's"

       During the 70’s, there were a lot of hippies and lots of talk about peace. I would pick this decade, if I had the choice of selecting a decade which I could experience. I would want to be the age of twenty-one, so could be an adult. I like the designs on their clothing, and especially the bell bottom jeans that they were worn back then. The cars that were driven looked very nice. I’ve viewed pictures of my parents in the seventies, my father’s car looked different from the modern car of today. That’s whats so attractive about the cars from the 70’s, the material looks strong. I imagine that back then there weren’t as many gang violence incidents. I think it was a time where people were intrigued by new technology coming about.
       I find the seventies to be a very interesting. I know that the Beatles were a popular bad at the time, and even until this day I like their music. Feminism took a role in society during the 70’s. also the African American Civil Rights Movement achieved some goals to benefit minorities. I feel the 70’s was a time when people found courage to stand up for their beliefs. the beliefs African Americans helped change the world completely, we all have been greatly impacted by it. We have the rights we deserve, and we have evolved. The 70's is a decade in which I would've enjoyed experiencing.

"My Loving Parents"

        I was born into a wonderful family, the parents God blessed me with have done a lot for me. My father, Jose E. Hernandez, has worked long hours in order to provide for his family. My mother, Leonor E. Hernandez, wakes up before sunrise to go to work. They try to provide for us and give us the necessary things like food, clothes, shoes, and love. Regardless of the long hours they work, they make time for their children. They come home tired and sleepy, but they still manage to cook or clean. I know they work hard to pay the bills like water, gas, telephone, and electricity. On top of that, they try to satisfy my need like providing internet on my phone or buying me electronics. I try to be great student so I can make my parents proud.
           My parents want me to have a career so I don’t have to struggle like they have. They have taught me to be responsible and to be prepared. I appreciate everything my parents do. They have taught me the necessary tools to make my life easier. Respect is one of them, and so is discipline, these things can help you progress in life. My parents have taught me right from wrong, so I know how to act. I appreciate the fact that my parents were overprotective with me. It prevented me from doing stupid things. I took their advice as something that could prevent me from making mistakes. Overall, I am very appreciative of the type of I had the privilege to have.

"Newly Arrived"

     When a person arrives in a new country, all of their surroundings are completely different. Their way of life would have to change. People who come to live here would have to start from the bottom and gradually make their way up. Those types of people would be looked at as different, from the perspectives of the native citizens of the country they are entering. They will miss their country a lot because they may not get a chance to go back.
     When writing the article I would try to include their main reason for coming to the country. I would try to find out if their stay will be temporary or permanent. I would also ask them how do they like the country where they are residing. The last thing that I would try to find out about that person is, do they regret the decision of leaving their native country to come to this country.
      Knowing what made that person want to come to this country is important. Other people who are considering coming to this country may want to come for the same reason. It lets us know why people want to come to this country. This also informs us of what we have that other countries don't. Finding out that a person who is coming into the country is planning to stay permanently or for a little while is also very important. It lets us know if they are just trying to experience something new. It also tells us if they are happy and want to spend the rest of their life here.

"Family History"

       No one would want to forget all of the things that their family has done over the years and past generations. Preserving the history of my family is very important. We have overcame many difficult obstacles and we've remained strong. We also came a long way and my family's way of life has also changed throughout the generations. My family has made plenty of accomplishments. It would be a very sad situation if any of this important and valuable information was lost or forgotten. In order to keep the history of my family alive. It must be transferred throughout my family and to future generations. I would try to find one of the oldest people in my family who has a good memory and knows a lot about the family. I would ask them many questions so I could get a full understanding of what has happened throughout the previous generations. I would want to know the origin of my ancestors. This will give me a sense of where my family is from. Hopefully, I would be able to visit there in the future. I would also want to know how people in earlier generations lived and how were they financially.
      Knowing where they were financially will help me understand what type of life they lived. The more money that they have, the easier life is. I would ask what motivated my family to relocate to the United States of America. I would also want to know the year that my family actually moved to the United States. I would want to know, what traditions they brought with them from El Salvador.