Four years ago, I could not have imagined myself wearing this uniform and slicking my hair back in a bun every week. As a freshman, I wanted to go beyond my comfort zone and perhaps challenge myself. Despite my interest in joining this predominantly male and militaristic program, JROTC, I was intimidated and afraid of being judged by the other male cadets for not being athletic or for being "too girly." Reeled in by my friends, I blindly signed up to what I now consider "one of the best decisions of my life."

Through this program, I was able to test my physical capabilities. Whether it's competing with my peers as to who can do the most push-ups and sit-ups in a minute, creating a rope bridge suspended above a river, or rappelling off of a 70 ft cliff, I was defying my own limitations without realizing it. Alongside my friends, I was given the privilege to take my team to Washington D.C. and compete in an international academic competition last June, where I was recognized for my knowledge and commended for my leadership skills. As I created fruitful relationships with my fellow cadets, I have earned their respect and became a role model for many underclassmen. Throughout my years in high school, the leadership positions that I have earned in JROTC have not only taught me to be empathetic and kind, but it has definitely taught me to be the graceful and confident woman that I am today.

Now, as I present my story, I am not here to brag about my achievements. Today is all about celebrating all the wonderful women around us. In the midst of International Women's Day, I am inspired not only to share my own story but encourage all of you to reach our to your mothers, aunts, and girlfriends and ask them about their stories, their backgrounds, and the hardships that they have encountered making them the woman they are today.

Most importantly, I am here to thank all of you. Because of women like you who have made a difference in our communities, through your families, friends, and colleagues… young girls like me can aspire to be impactful members of our society. Being surrounded by plenty of women who have incessantly displayed grit within male-dominated fields and yearned to strive for greatness by challenging the stereotypes about being a woman, young girls like me are driven to advocate for gender parity. Through women like you, I am able to learn the meaning of resilience and fearlessness. With days like today, young girls like me can learn to empower one another, defy any expectations, and celebrate what it means to be a woman, so for that I thank all of you!