I Want to Learn Things from Others

by Meché Leflore
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My YMP experience so far has been very ... different to say the least. When I first pulled up to the Capital Towers, I was so nervous! I was behind schedule because I did a deed by picking up my friend, and fellow YMP student, Maisie, because she had to go to her father's job early. As Maisie and I entered the parking garage, my stomach sank to the floor. If you've never been inside a parking garage, it's dark ... very dark, even during the day. From the roof to the floor, it's approximately 10 feet of nothing but concrete.

As I drove up floor to floor, desperately looking for a spot, I couldn't help but think, "Oh my God, I'm already late for my first day and now I can't even find a parking space?" I was STRESSED! I had to remain calm because I was with Maisie, and she was a veteran at this, so I could not wear my emotions on my sleeves. 

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 As I stood in the elevator headed to the 13th floor, I looked down at my outfit. I was wearing a white T-shirt, regular jeans and my white Nike Huaraches I just recently got for my birthday in April. I remember thinking "is this under-dressed?" and "I wonder do I look cute enough." Now reading this, I know this sounds very cliché of me to think about my appearance but that's something I have always thought of no matter where I went. I honestly blame society.
       
When I came through the doors and saw all the smiling faces from Emily, Donna and the other staff, all of my worries faded away in an instant. I knew from that moment I had nothing else to worry about. My feelings went from nervousness to anxious. I was anxious for what YMP has in store for me. I was anxious about the new friends I was going to meet. After the first icebreaker game Emily had for us, I was very relaxed. I met new people that I would never see myself communicating with at all. 
       
Though this is only my third day here at YMP, I have high expectations for the summer. I plan on becoming not only a better writer/journalist, but also I plan on become a better person. I feel as though my loquacious personality will inspire others to come out of their shells and become a better version of themselves. 

Also, at YMP, I want to learn things from others. I want to leave the program and be a better Meché. I actually feel as though I am a better Meché already. I am very hopeful for this summer at YMP. ​