While reading in my college library, I found a magazine announcing an international theater writing competition. Did I tell you that I love writing as much as reading books? I was so excited. But at the same time, my self-esteem was at an extremely low level. I kept asking myself, “What if I can't do this?” then one of my teachers, Mother Louisa, helped me change my mind. (photo) He told me: “Whoever enters has a chance. However, if you don't participate, you will surely have destroyed your chance before you even get started. First you have to believe that you can do anything you set your mind to.” And this is what I did: I decided to breathe in my courage, breathe out my fear, and run for office. Mother Louisa was usually right; and this time too it was: I won the prize. (pause) Before that life-changing moment, I immersed myself in the struggle for academic success in hopes of gaining favor, acceptance and belonging in my family, but also for its rewards as I found pure pleasure and passion for writing and reading.