The Light is There
AuthorCalla
Education and Career LevelUndergraduate Student
Photo Year2023
Author's StatementStarting college at a large, state university was quite the culture shock. … I felt like I had to explain myself to everyone. … Over the last year, I have experienced direct and indirect mistreatment from people of all ages and backgrounds, whether it be intentional or unintentional. … I recently had a conversation with a [medical doctor] at a conference who shared some really insightful advice. He has spent countless years on six reservations during his career and has had to navigate several challenges himself. He said that, “When I make it to the top, that is when I can be my true authentic self, but until then, I need to be careful about time and place.” While I navigate through my professional career, I try to remind myself that I can be my own light, for my family and ancestors, and for those who come behind me.
Calla
Undergraduate Student
Photo Year2023
Author's StatementStarting college at a large, state university was quite the culture shock. … I felt like I had to explain myself to everyone. … Over the last year, I have experienced direct and indirect mistreatment from people of all ages and backgrounds, whether it be intentional or unintentional. … I recently had a conversation with a [medical doctor] at a conference who shared some really insightful advice. He has spent countless years on six reservations during his career and has had to navigate several challenges himself. He said that, “When I make it to the top, that is when I can be my true authentic self, but until then, I need to be careful about time and place.” While I navigate through my professional career, I try to remind myself that I can be my own light, for my family and ancestors, and for those who come behind me.
2023
Starting college at a large, state university was quite the culture shock. … I felt like I had to explain myself to everyone. … Over the last year, I have experienced direct and indirect mistreatment from people of all ages and backgrounds, whether it be intentional or unintentional. … I recently had a conversation with a [medical doctor] at a conference who shared some really insightful advice. He has spent countless years on six reservations during his career and has had to navigate several challenges himself. He said that, “When I make it to the top, that is when I can be my true authentic self, but until then, I need to be careful about time and place.” While I navigate through my professional career, I try to remind myself that I can be my own light, for my family and ancestors, and for those who come behind me.
