Endurance: Autobiography

For the first unit of our humanities class, Endurance, our class learned about people’s past, and what mental and physical aspects made them who they are today. Our class also did some of our own endurance tests. For the first test we took, we were asked as a class to stay completely silent for 10 minutes straight. We were all surprisingly able to handle it well. Personally, I just slept for a solid seventy percent of it, and most of the other kids just waited it out. For our second test, we were each asked to hold an ice cube in our hand for 1 minute. The first time, there were a few people who weren’t able to hold the ice the entire 60 seconds because of the burn. However, the second try, everyone was able to get it right. For our third test, the class went on an Field Experience to a martial arts studio. I was unfortunately late to class this day, so I wasn’t able to go on the trip. But, I heard that they did some rigorous training exercises. For our AP, we were asked to describe a challenge that we had to face, but from the point of view of ourselves 50 years in the future. I really liked this AP because it gave me a chance to reflect on the challenges I’ve had in the past, but at the same time think about what my future will be like. Hope you enjoy the first chapter of my autobiography.

Family Camp, SC, 2011

Chapter One: Revolution

My name is Sam Cowell. I was born at Evanston hospital, and raised by my two parents in a small town named Glenview, Illinois. Ever since I was little, I’ve been a shy and reluctant person. I generally dislike talking with people and making friends, so I’ve always had a tough time being socially active in school. I was pretty lonely at home. Most of the time I’d just be on my computer or watching TV. My parents hated seeing me shut everyone out, so they decided it would be best to find someone to socialize with.

One night, my mom and I were watching the season finale of American Idol. We were really eager to find out who was going to win. During the middle of the show, they had a segment on a village in Africa, and how the families there barely have enough food and water to survive. I asked my mom if there was any way that we could help them, which is when she came up with the idea of adopting a sibling for me.

From my knowledge, my mom and dad talked it over for at least three months before coming to a final decision; once they came to a conclusion, they both sat me down and asked me “Do you want a little brother?” I was overwhelmed with the question. I didn’t even know what to say at first. After being in shock for a few seconds, I responded: “Of course!” I didn’t really know what to feel after that moment. I was so extremely excited to be getting a sibling. Someone to talk to, hang out with, and develop a relationship with. I was excited, but also nervous. I started to think about what it would be like to have to share the attention I get from my parents and all of my things. We started the adoption process in May of 2008, and began looking for adoption agencies in Nigeria, Africa. As months went by, I was anxious to move forward with the adoption. Over a year passed, and all I knew at the time was that progress was happening.

After I got out of school in 2009, my parents told me that proceeding with the adoption at this point was extremely unlikely, and that we’re going to have to wait a little while until we can change agencies. As disappointed as I was, I was okay with it; I understood that the process can be time consuming and stressful. My parents eventually decided that they had to switch countries in Africa. There were too many laws in Nigeria at the time that prevented us from going through with the adoption. As a family, we decided that we were going to adopt from Ethiopia.

My parents took about a month before choosing an agency to go through with. The next year, in 2010, we were asked to choose a kid for adoption. This was one of the biggest decisions we, as a family, were ever going to make, so we wanted to make sure we did it right. We went through thousands of kids, and it was really hard to find a right fit. After looking for a few weeks, we finally chose a 7 year old boy who goes by the name of Natenial Samuel. We chose him because of his middle name: Samuel.

As we started to prepare for our trip to Africa, we had to go get shots to prevent ourselves from getting any possible diseases that are common in the city we were going to. I had to get about 18 shots, which only made me more nervous. My mom and dad had also told me that it was going to take a little while before he was going to be able to get adjusted here. The entire way he lives his life was going to change. I tried my best to mentally prepare myself for the trip. Not only was it hard realizing that I was going to be in a different continent for an entire week (I had never even left the country), but coming home with a brand new sibling.

In early July we left and met our new member of our family. It was amazing being able to finally meet him. I introduced myself and so did my mom and dad. We tried to ease ourselves into the situation he was in, because it was a big deal for him to be moving out of the adoption place. He’d lived there for over a year. We came home from after and everything was going great for a few months. We renamed him to Nate, as Natenial wasn’t really as fitting in America. After a couple of months, Nate started to get anxiety over being with us. It was really difficult for him to adjust to America. He started to have panic attacks and meltdowns. It was really hard on my parents and myself.

Nate because the center of attention for a little while. It was a challenge for me to have to go from being in the spotlight to having no attention at all. My middle school years were hard for me. I was socially awkward, and had to take care of myself most of the time. Nate was only getting worse when he was with us. My parents told me that he has Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and has to follow through with a treatment process.

After a few months, we decided that it would be best if Nate went to a treatment center. It was too difficult for my parents to live with him because of his meltdowns, and they realized that I needed some awareness too. It was really hard to understand at first, but I eventually came to terms with him leaving. Over the next few years, we went back and forth of him going through programs to help get him treated, and he was finally able to come home. He was 10 when he was allowed to leave the treatment center, and I’m sure one of the happiest days of his life. My parents and I were so excited to finally have him home again, but without all the chaos.

I was thrilled to be able to finally develop a real relationship with him. We had always been close up to this point, but it was so hard to keep in touch while he was recovering. We became the best of friends, and still are to this day. Since the moment he came home, our relationship has gotten stronger each day. As I went through college, we would talk to each other almost every day, and stayed best friends all through those 4 years. During his college years, I would try to check in on him at least once a week, and make sure I told him everything he needed to know to succeed. At this point in time, we’re both in our forties and living our own lives. We both have our own families and are happy. We be sure to meet up at least once a month to catch up and hang out. I couldn’t have asked for a better gift than my brother. Through all the challenges and hardship my brother put my parents and I first when we first got him, I’m so happy that I was able to overcome those obstacles, because our relationship we have now is more of a reward than I ever could have asked for.

GCE Mixtape

For my elecetive term I decided to take Mixtapes, where I learned all about different musical elements and styles. Our class was taught about the multiple historical periods of music and what their meaning was. Also, we learned about how today's music differs from music in the past. We went on many different FEs in this class. On one, our class went to sit in and observe on a music theory class at Columbia College. There, we were taught by the professor about Bebop Jazz, and listened to some of the students' presentations. For our next FE, we went to the Stoney Island Arts Bank, where we learned about its history and how it grew in Chicago. For our last FE, we went to the Electrical Audio Studios, where all of us got to look at a real recording studio. We also were taken inside the rooms where they record music. We were given the oppurtunity to play the instruments used by the bands and artists that record there. For our Action Project, we were asked to pick out 5 different songs to put together a playlist for the Pitchfork Music Festival and explain the reasoning behind your choices. I found this AP to be really fun, because I was given a lot of flexibility with what I was able to pick. I just wish that we were given some more time in class to complete them. Overall, it was an amazing experience being in the class and I got a lot out of it. I hope you enjoy my choices!

1. Galantis & Hook N Sling - Love On Me
2. Fitz and The Tantrums - HandClap
3. 여자친구 - 시간을 달려서
4. Caravan Palace - Black Betty
5. Lost Kings - Bad

GCE: Scheduling

For Unit 3 of Systems and Models, we learned the ins and outs of how a company works, and the different methods and process industries to achieve efficiency. We went into depth about The acomlons, which are public resources that are shared but not regulated. In addition, we looked at different situational environments and what factors can affect the productivity of a company. For our FE our class spoke with the creator of our school, Eric Davis, and asked him questions about the obstacles he faced when building the school. For this unit's Action Project, we were asked to take a system within the school and explain it through SWOT. While explaining through SWOT we also had to relate it to different business models that companies today use. After this, we were assigned to figure out a solution to this problem, and write out what we think would make it better. I chose to discuss GCE's scheduling. I thought this would be an interesting topic to cover because it affects everyone in the school. Also, I really wanted to give my input on what could be done to improve the schedule for everyone. Enjoy!

Equality in 2117

GCE Tribune

Yesterday our first Transgender President of America was elected president. Ashley Marano is a transgender woman that made history last night as she completely wrecked her opponent, Rick Parley, in the polls winning 405 electoral votes. Over the past 100 years, our nation has completely flipped from a country filled with racism, hate, and inequality, to a democracy full of true freedom. We have truly become a country where people don’t have to be afraid to be themselves.

Just under a century ago, the 45th president of the United States, Donald Trump, was passing laws that kept people out of our country, and was openly against LGBT rights. Comparing our country to what it was then, it doesn’t even look like the same universe.

Barbara Smith reporting here with an immigrant from Mexico who just recently gained her citizenship here in America. Below is an interview about her thoughts on the new presidency:


How do you feel about having a transgender woman as our president?

It fills me with joy to see that the people of our nation are brave enough to elect this woman president. Not only was she the most brilliant candidate, but having her lead our country sends a message to every other nation in the world. I believe that this will help our world become a better place and bring us close together.

Are you glad about getting your citizenship?

I’m so happy about finally gaining my citizenship here. I’ve been living here for a while and the government has been so helpful and guiding with the process. A few decades ago, it would have been almost impossible for a woman like me to even get a visa to visit here, and look how times have changed!

Do you think this country is far from having a latino or president of color?

Seeing how welcoming everyone has been here, I don’t think we’re far from it. It feels great to have such a sense of openness from everyone around you. To me, having a transgender president tells me that the citizens here are just as accepting of a latina woman as they would be to a transgender woman.


In other news relating to our newest president, a barbie doll attributed to her was released this morning. “The Marano Doll” was already reached record sales. The purpose of creating the doll was to teach all boys and girls that they can be whatever they aspire to be, and to help them be theirselves. We hope to see a spreading of acceptance through this doll.

Guide: Geometric Proofs

For this workshop we were assigned to create a guide on a mathematic topic we weren't familiar with. I chose Geometric Proofs as my topic to research on because I haven't done any Geometry since Freshman year and I thought this would be a good chance to refresh myself. It was a bit difficult getting this compelted with the time allotted, because we had two Mondays off of school where we didn't get to meet. But, I was able to finish with some out of class time. This is was a great workshop overall, and it really helped me touch on the topic of Geometry. I hope that I get to do something like this again soon. Enjoy my guide!

What Variables Affect Sampling Behavior based on the Person Giving out Samples?

For the second unit of my STEAM course Systems & Models, Group, our class focused on the different ways groups functions and techniques used to improve groups. We created and learned about multiple team building exercises, which we used in class to better relationships between our class. Additionally, we also learned about how Psychologists use the scientific method in their studies. For our AP, we were asked to conduct an experiment and observe and log data from a specific group. I enjoyed being able to choose what I wanted to do during the experimental part of the project. I thought that researching for my project was the best part, because it gave me a lot of insight on what to focus on during my experiment. Even though the AP did take a lot of work, we were given enough class time to complete it. This was my favorite unit so far in this course, and I’m glad I was given the chance to do this AP with it.

Textbook Chapter

For Unit 1 of my humanities course, Equality, our class researched and explored the historical background of race, gender, and class to help us create a better understanding of the current context of these issues. Throughout the unit, we individually researched each topic and learned about significant events in progressive timelines. For our action project, we were assigned to “ recount a historical event through research and the use of marginalized voices.” I created a textbook page that follows the timeline of events leading and proceeding 9/11. My textbook is titled “The Twin Towers.” Reading my project should give you a better understanding of the reasons 9/11 occurred, and how it’s affected our nation today. During this unit, I gained a clear understanding of the ways different minorities are treated and the inequalities they have. Enjoy!

Chapter 2: Nine-Eleven

In this chapter, we’ll learn about one of the most violent attacks on America to date: nine-eleven. Keep in mind that there may be topics discussed that some people may be sensitive to; however, I urge you to continue reading even if it may be painful. This content is meant to educate and open your eyes to new ideas.

On the morning of September 11, 2001, 19 members of a terrorist group named al-Qaeda hijacked four airplanes and used them to attack multiple targets across the East Coast of the United States. The planned attacks killed just under 3,000 people, making it the biggest and most effective attack on the United States in history. Al-Qaeda is a very small, violent group who practice Muslim religion and consider the freedom that U.S. citizens have to be evil and don’t want America to spread this to other countries. Under their leader, Osama bin Laden, al-Qaeda has executed terrorist attacks all around the world; however, the attacks on 9/11 were the most destructive by far.

Two of the four hijacked airplanes hit 2 identical skyscrapers known as the twin towers. Shortly after the collision, the buildings collapsed entirely, killing everyone inside. Thousands of people died at the World Trade Center that day. A third plane flew into the Pentagon in Arlington, where the U.S.

military is headquartered, which killed nearly 200 people. The fourth plane crashed in rural Pennsylvania after passengers onboard fought the hijackers. 44 people aboard the flight were all killed.

The single event of 9/11 changed the country tremendously. Not only was there a massive impact on americans, but muslim americans as well. Muslims have been subjected to an extremely intrusive interrogation process. Scholars estimate that 200,000 to 500,000 Muslims have been affected by this process. In addition to that, over 18,000 Muslims have been deported from the United States. A recent study also showed that Muslim American professionals suffered a 10 percent wage reduction since 9/11. After reviewing studies and multiple articles on this, I decided to have a talk with my friend Saarah. Saarah Bhaiji is a close friend of mine who has lived her entire life in America. In middle school, she said she was “judged constantly for being a practicing Muslim.” People criticized her based on the headscarf she wore to school everyday. “When Osama Bin Laden died, people said, ‘I’m sorry your dad died,’” Bhaiji said. “There was horrible stuff that I had to go through in middle school and that’s what made me so strong.” Bhaiji said she isn’t looking to change the world, she just wants to be treated like an equal in her home town.

After hearing all of this, I was shocked I hadn’t noticed this type of discrimination in our society before, and I’m glad I got to research the events that led up to it. Right now, I only see our nation going downhill. With the recent travel ban on Muslims, it’s clear that we’re moving in the opposite direction of equality. I always viewed nine-eleven as a historical event that had a terrible effect on Americans, but I never even remotely thought about how it affected the treatment of Muslims in our country. I’m also really pleased that I was able to learn about the hardships my friend went through, and talk with her about her experience in our changing country.

Racial Profiling Vocabulary

Below you can study the different terms used with the racism and discrimination against all races. It's important to know the language and vocabulary associated.

American Muslims share their experiences one week after 9/11

Below is a video filmed one week after 9/11, of American-Muslims sharing their experiences being a part of society after the attack. I think it'll be interesting to hear their voices on the subject. Hopefully this video will shed some light on your opinion of the importance of discrimination.

Timeline of the events of 9/11

This timeline should help you get more insight on the specific times of the events during the morning of 9/11. Take a look at how quickly the nation changed, and the times apart that these events took place.

Works Cited:

Slorfha Follow. "9/11 PowerPoint." Share and Discover Knowledge on LinkedIn SlideShare. N.p., 21 Nov. 2013. Web. 01 Feb. 2017.

"Information for 9/11 Family Members." National September 11 Memorial & Museum. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 Feb. 2017.

History.com Staff. "9/11 Attacks." History.com. A&E Television Networks, 2010. Web. 01 Feb. 2017. <http://www.history.com/topics/9-11-attacks>.

Chehade, Carol. "The Racial Lesson of 9/11." The Racial Lesson of 9/11. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 Feb. 2017.

Tim Wise / AlterNet. "Rationalizing Racism: Panic and Profiling After 9/11." Alternet. N.p., n.d.

Web. 01 Feb. 2017.