2007 Essay Contest Winners
“I am proud to be a Yee because…”
The ability to define oneself in society is one of the most important ways to remain unique while connecting with others through cultural ties. As a Yee, I am able to define myself in both minority and majority groups. In the United States, an Asian American female like me is considered a minority. Therefore, I use my heritage and culture to share with others in order to better society. While I am considered a minority in the norms of society, I am part of an enormous group of Yee’s all around the world. This large group of family allows me to connect with others like myself while retaining my originality. I am honored to be a Yee based on all of the ways I am able to characterize myself as an individual. Being a Yee means carrying on the legacy of our hardworking and determined family.
- Allison Yee, Novi High School
I’m proud to be a Yee because it represents who I am. I’m also proud to support my heritage by carrying on the name. I’ve recently learned about the life of our ancestor, Yee Jing, who was a scholar and highly honored man. He was said to be considerate and thoughtful. These are qualities I highly admire. Fung Toy, which is translated into “elegance,” “grace,” & “dignity”, are words that Yee Jing’s friends thought fit his personality. I’m honored to be a descendant of such an exceedingly respected man. I take academics seriously and I will strive to follow in Yee Jing’s footsteps as a scholar. I love my family and I would not change anything if the chance were given to me. I am a Yee and I am proud of it.
- Megan Yee, St. Fabian School
The ability to define oneself in society is one of the most important ways to remain unique while connecting with others through cultural ties. As a Yee, I am able to define myself in both minority and majority groups. In the United States, an Asian American female like me is considered a minority. Therefore, I use my heritage and culture to share with others in order to better society. While I am considered a minority in the norms of society, I am part of an enormous group of Yee’s all around the world. This large group of family allows me to connect with others like myself while retaining my originality. I am honored to be a Yee based on all of the ways I am able to characterize myself as an individual. Being a Yee means carrying on the legacy of our hardworking and determined family.
- Allison Yee, Novi High School
I’m proud to be a Yee because it represents who I am. I’m also proud to support my heritage by carrying on the name. I’ve recently learned about the life of our ancestor, Yee Jing, who was a scholar and highly honored man. He was said to be considerate and thoughtful. These are qualities I highly admire. Fung Toy, which is translated into “elegance,” “grace,” & “dignity”, are words that Yee Jing’s friends thought fit his personality. I’m honored to be a descendant of such an exceedingly respected man. I take academics seriously and I will strive to follow in Yee Jing’s footsteps as a scholar. I love my family and I would not change anything if the chance were given to me. I am a Yee and I am proud of it.
- Megan Yee, St. Fabian School