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White Girl Stereotype

February 18, 2016

This morning in chapel we heard about how stereotypes add to racism in society today. The more our chaplain talked the more I thought about the different labels we give people everyday.

As much of a laugh as being a basic white girl is, I may dress in scarves, cardigans, and boots but I'm not a dumb blonde. Was Elle Woods my role model growing up? Yes! However, I have learned that while I might be blonde I'm not a dumb one most times and I'm not just a basic white girl either.

I struggle with self-esteem issues, so don't think that I am saying that I am by any means smarter than you, i.e. the person reading this. I am saying that as a Chemistry major I like science and to learn. I may not always use my brain but it's there. And since today is the day that our school newspaper is writing about me and one of my best friends' struggles I will lay it out here.

I have struggled with my self-esteem my whole life and what size I am. In my eyes, I am defined by the number on my jeans or dresses. I'm not a five and never will be... Do I wish I could be? Kind of. I have always seen that the smaller I was the prettier I was. I am learning that's not true. However, I can't hardly take a compliment because I don't think I deserve it. It's like this vicious cycle that never stops.

I don't like how I look so I try harder to look nicer and be prettier. I get a compliment but can't take it so I don't try so hard but then I don't like how I look. Will it ever stop? I don't know. I just have to lean on the fact that I am made in the image of God. He doesn't make mistakes. cliche, I know but true.

Who am I? I am a white girl, yes. However, I am a nerdy, smart, outgoing white girl. I love people and to talk. In fact, sometimes I don't know how to shut up. It's a problem. But, I love me. The girl who reads her Organic Chemistry book for fun, has a Star Wars keyboard cover, and can quote Mean Girls almost word for word.

I am not defined by my adjectives or cookie cutter stereotype. Are you?

xoxo,
Em

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