By Emily Perez
Life does not have to be perfect and has no limitations. Everyone approaches life in a different way, as we all live life differently. We do as much as we can to live the life we want for ourselves.
Around Grand Rapids Community College, many students such as Luke Baren, 35, have been shaped by their past, slowly becoming the person they are today. Baren is encouraged everyday by the goal of providing a better life for him and his family. His mindset comes from the way he was raised as well as going to church.
Likewise, 18-year-old Silvana Mendez, from Grand Rapids, is studying to become a diagnostic medical sonographer or perhaps a lawyer. When asked how she approaches life, Mendez said she’s noticed she’s mentally stronger than before as well as her actions are much more mature.
“After seeing how little people in this world take accountability for themselves, I started to see where it can start off, understanding how much I’ve changed throughout these years,” she said.
Mendez is motivated to wake up every morning by having God by her side. God inspires her the most.
“I know not every single person in this world knows him, but he treats everyone in this world equally with love and compassion,” she said. “His love is so true no man or woman can do what he can do but him since he is god himself”
Mendez wants to overcome everything that comes her way by being able to plan things and see how things go from there.
Twenty-year-old Krissy Lee, psychology major from Grand Rapids, said she tries to be grateful for everything she has and wants to make her parents proud. Lee is motivated every morning by the thought that she can be a better person.
“My parents work hard every day of their life for me,” Lee said. “I just want to give them back everything they gave to me”
Lee tries to always have an open mind because you don’t know how much someone is going through. Being there for others makes her feel like she can make a difference in the world.
Stephanie Cruz, 18, majoring in dental hygiene, wants to make an impact no matter how small it may be. Cruz is inspired by her sister who helped raise her and her siblings here in Grand Rapids. She was taught how to become independent and knowing how to set up her own goals.
“I hope the impact I’m making helps others in a way as it helps me in my path as well,” she said.
Cruz is the person she is today by the creativity and determination she has for herself.
Calla Carpenter, 18, majoring in communications, from Grand Rapids, stays motivated by wanting to try her hardest and do the best she can everyday.
“I did what I could do and whatever happens, happens,” she said. This is something she goes by everyday that keeps her going and working hard.
Carpenter is inspired by her friend Jordan who is very creative and looking for good opportunities, while also learning new ideas for her future. All of the carpenter’s experiences in life have all impacted her in a way that makes her who she is today.
Collegiate reporter Brendan Duneghy contributed to this story.
