Nissi Xavier – Winner, Best Essay

My name is Nissi Xavier. I am an eighth grader at Magsig middle school, in Centerville Ohio. I love to be involved in different activities and events! At school, I am involved in many clubs and activities such as speech and debate, orchestra, volleyball, art club, student council, student ambassadors, and more. Outside of school some of my hobbies include volleyball, reading, and playing my violin. I am also a 2nd degree Black Belt in Taekwondo.

Volunteering is a major part in my life. I am part of a group at our local library that hosts events and fundraisers, called TAB (Teen Advisory Board). I also volunteer monthly at a senior living facility. A small group of friends and I sing songs and play music on our instruments for the seniors. It never ceases to put a smile on my face! I also volunteer at my church on Sundays at the nursery. Giving back to my community is a major aspect of my upbringing, so I enjoy doing my part to make the people around me happy.

I know it’s far away, but when I graduate high school, I would like to go to med school and eventually work in the medical field, specifically as a dermatologist.

Throughout my middle school career, my favorite subject has always been social studies. I love learning about our past and current day events! I would just like to say I would not be where I am today without the many influences in my life such as my faith, teachers and friends – who inspire me and make me aspire to be the best version of myself possible.

One of my favorite verses from the Bible is Proverbs 3:5-6…Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths. This verse never ceases to humble and remind me that all my success comes from God!

Last but not least, I would like to thank my parents for always encouraging me and telling me I can succeed in anything and everything I do.

Click here to read Nissi’s Winning Essay!

Our Interview With Nissi

Was this the first time you entered the contest?
Yes, this was the first time I entered

How did you hear about the contest?
My parents informed me about it. They heard about it through social media.

What inspired your work?
When I looked at the prompt – the first concept that I thought explained this the best was the scenario in my social studies class about the social contract. My social studies teacher definitely played a big part in inspiring my work.

What did you learn while creating your entry?
I never knew that the first amendment can be abbreviated as RAPPS, it is now really helpful and easy to remember.

How do you plan to spread the word this year to your peers about the importance of the U.S Constitution?
I am very close to many of my peers and classmates, I have been telling them about this contest and what a great opportunity it is! Many of them said they would be willing to try it next year.

How do your friends respond to history or talking about the Constitution?
Many of them are interested in what I’m talking about because they already have background knowledge about this from class.

What do you love about U.S History and the forming of our government?
I love how the founding and forming of our government is so unique, and how it has influenced the establishment of democratic governments around the world.

Which U.S. historical site would you like to visit?
Mount Rushmore

Which American historical figure is most influential/inspirational to you?
Thomas Jefferson – 3rd president of the United States. He was an incredibly smart man and invented many things, and the primary author of the declaration of independence, when he was just 33 years old.

Who is your greatest role model?
My parents – they believe in me and want the best for me more than anyone else in the world!

What in your life are you most passionate about?
I am most passionate about my faith, family, friends and my sport – volleyball.

How do you spend your free time?
I spend my free time reading, playing volleyball, and spending time with family and friends

What are your plans for the future?
I plan on going to med school once I graduate high school. I want to work towards becoming a dermatologist!

If you could do one super impactful thing to help people, what would it be?
I would be a good citizen and affect people within my sphere of influence.

Why is the Constitution relevant today?
We need to know what goes on in our country, as well as the rights we have as the citizens of this nation. The Constitution can help us know all the rights we have.

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