People should not define themselves according to a set of stereotypes

One thing I have learned at NIU is to not define yourself from something you can’t control.

Martin Luther King, Einstein, Gandhi and even President Obama didn’t allow themselves be defined by their ethnic backgrounds.

I could say as an Irish/German male that I am supposed to be a drunk and like watching professional football.

Actually, I think alcohol is pretty stupid and so is watching professional football.

I don’t allow my stereotypes to define me.

So I am calling on all people, especially those in ethnically based organizations, to take a look at who you are, not what your race says you are supposed to be.

I may be an Irish/German male but I think Beyonce is an amazing role model.

I think gospel music speaks.

I love to smile.

I love movies like “The Notebook” and “Mean Girls.”

I love to sing, and I believe in NIU’s motto of “Unity in Diversity.”

So NIU, let’s practice what we preach!


Jay Highland
junior biological sciences major

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