Balancing Passion, Service, and College Goals: A Teen’s Perspective

Kids Care Too Serving the at the Beacon (Houston)

As a 17-year-old high school student deeply interested in history and aspiring to pursue law in college, I often reflect on how the past shapes the present and the future. History teaches us about justice, resilience, and the courage to stand for what’s right — lessons that align with the values I aim to carry into my legal career. One way I’ve connected these passions is through my involvement in ‘Kids Care Too,’ an organization I cofounded with my younger sister in 2020 to inspiring youth to make a positive impact in their communities. This blend of service and ambition has taught me valuable lessons that I’d like to share with others.

Current Event: Lessons from Tinker and the Supreme Court

The landmark Supreme Court case, Tinker v. Des Moines Independent Community School District, serves as a cornerstone in understanding students’ rights. In this case, the Court ruled that students do not “shed their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate.” This decision continues to resonate, reminding us that the principles of free speech apply to everyone, regardless of age. It also underscores the importance of standing firm in the face of challenges to these rights. For students interested in law, cases like Tinker demonstrate how historical precedents influence our modern understanding of justice.

Service as a Path to Growth

Through ‘Kids Care Too,’ I've discovered that serving others not only benefits the community but also transforms you. Volunteering at food banks, organizing drives, and mentoring peers have equipped me with leadership, empathy, and problem-solving skills—essential for any career. My advice to peers is straightforward: find a cause you care about and begin with small steps. Your efforts will make a difference and help you develop crucial qualities necessary for college success.

Tips for Success

1. Combine Interests with Actions: If you’re passionate about history, consider volunteering at local museums or historical societies. This not only reinforces your passion but also builds a strong extracurricular profile for college.

2. Engage in Mock Trials or Debate: These activities sharpen critical thinking, public speaking, and teamwork skills. Both my sister and I have served as teen attorneys at our local teen court for 3 years. In this role, we have honed our public speaking skill, learned how to analyze cases, present compelling arguments, and work collaboratively with others. This experience has been invaluable in preparing for a future in the legal field.

3. Stay Informed: Regularly read about current events, particularly those related to your field of interest. Websites like SCOTUSblog or The History Channel’s news section are great resources.

4. Develop a Service Plan: Connect with organizations like ‘Kids Care Too’ or start your own initiative. Colleges value students who demonstrate leadership and commitment to their community.

5. Prepare for College Early: Meet with your school counselor to discuss programs, internships, and scholarships. Building a roadmap now will ease the transition later.

Looking Ahead

As I plan for college, my dream is to merge my love for history with a career in law, championing causes that promote justice and equity. For fellow students, remember that your passions and service can shape not only your future but also the world around you. Embrace every opportunity to learn, give, and grow—the possibilities are endless!

The Tinker case reminds us of a fundamental truth: our First Amendment rights are not something we acquire upon reaching adulthood. These rights are inherent to us from birth. It is the foundation of our constitutional principles—not the ideological beliefs of any institution—that defines our freedoms of speech and expression.

Khang