As my junior year comes to rapid start, I both wonder how I got here and wonder how I will be able to keep going. You see, in order to get into a good college that will set me up for success later life, I have this idea in my mind that I have to do everything: the ACT; the SAT, Subject Test, AP Chemistry, AP Physics, AP BC Calculus, AP Language and Composition, Varsity Sports and multiple clubs — all in one year. With all this work, I find it difficult to find time to do the things I love: sleep, read, write and spending time with my friends. It certainly does not seem to help when teachers constantly remind you that this is the only year that really matters. Why?

I know 16 years on this planet is not that much in retrospect to all the lives that have been lived, but it is something. Why does my whole life depend on this one year?

Then, I remember, it does not.

To all those out there in a similar situation as I, please remember that one moment in your life does not define you. You are more today than you were yesterday, and you will continue to become more and more no matter what you score on a test. Everything has the power to change, and this very change should motivate you to work.

Every moment in your life has helped you prepare for who you are today, and although today may seem nearly impossible, as my math teacher says when the answer seems to be 0/0, keep going. Keep pushing throw life because of the difficulty. If that little voice inside of your head tells you to stop — prove yourself wrong. You will be grateful.

I have found that ever since I was little, my motivation has been to change people's perception of me, prove the people wrong. No one should let their gender, height, race or religion define them. It is pathetic that in the 21st century, these things still have control over us. In fact, if you look into any AP class at Alpharetta High School, one of the most diverse and renown schools in Georgia, you can still see these stereotypes defined by race and gender in play. I use this as motivation. That no matter how hard my day seems, at least I have opportunities that challenge me, and I have the ability to make a change.

Anyone has the power to make a change.