Grades 10–12
Memoir, NarrativeWritingI’m 17 years old and a senior. Outside of school, I like to play tennis and watch Netflix. I like being on Rubix because it helps me become a better writer and there isa nice, supportive community.
I went to Vietnam when I was 6. All I could remember was eating strawberries in front of my aunt’s house, my cousins braiding my hair, drinking a mango smoothie, and some random memories that come and go in pieces. It was the best time of my life. Yet when I was on the plane, on my way back 8 years later, I wondered what would change and what would be the same. I wondered if I would like it as much as when I was younger or if I would love it even more. But when the plane landed and I was getting off, there was a smell that was so familiar, a smell I had remembered from when I stepped off the plane when I was 6. The air was warm, but the humidity was high, which were super common weather conditions in Vietnam as it’s a place where there’s lots of rainfall during the hot summer months.
Stepping out of the airport and getting my first breath of fresh air, I remembered the feeling. This rush of nostalgia came over me. The feeling of excitement and hurry, the feeling of wanting to enjoy adventure, the feeling of being a kid. It felt like I was 6 all over again. Now, I remember the feeling of home even when being halfway across the world. I realized that no matter how long it has been, my connection with Vietnam will never change. Talking to my family felt the same. Going to the morning markets and grabbing milk tea drinks made sense. It will always feel like home–even when I’m halfway across the world.
***
From 826 Boston’s original publication, Rubix Literary Magazine
by Ryan, Grade 12, 826 Boston
In this public narrative, a student illustrates the hardships his uncle has faced to argue for a path to citizenship.
by Sylvia C., 826 Valencia
A poet demonstrates their devotion to love.
by Chris O., Age 15, 826 Valencia
A freshman describes their first day of school on their own.
by Helen, Grade 12, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a senior at South High School in Minneapolis offers words of support to healthcare workers across the country, including her own mom.
by Kayla, 826 Boston
This poem offers a very-real answer to "What do you want to be when you grow up?"
by Alexis G., Grade 11
In this narrative, the author uses vibrant language to explore their identity, in all its complexity, through different landscapes.
by Daniela Martinez, Grade 12, 826 Boston
A poem exploring an electric, freeing moment shared on the dance floor.
by Jonas K., 826 National
A student explores the paradox of how technology is used amongst teenagers.
by Reuben & Giselle, 826CHI
Two students write to each other about where they came from, what they love, and a few mishaps along the way in an exchange of letters.
Annasian Walters, Grade 11-12, 826NYC
A student explores gratitude and love through sharing food.
by Melody Marcano, 826 Boston
In this poem, a student reflects on their roots and their desire to grow.
by Quardasha Mitchell, The 826 Dallas Project
In this compelling poem, the author navigates her relationship with America as a young African-American woman.
by Tina N., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A student describes their shark like imaginary friend.
by Bianca Morcho, 826 MSP
A personal essay that explores the different shades of the Black Lives Matter movement.
by Riti Shrestha, 826NYC
In this poem, metaphor is used to describe who the narrator is.
by Gisel J., 826LA
The power of public speaking shines through this student's memoir.
by Tammy Fong, 826NYC
A soccer-filled, feud-fueled memoir.
by Raheem, 826 New Orleans
A student compares themself to the place they live, New Orleans, as both evolve through great obstacles.
Alex P., Grade 10, 826 National
A poem to the next president of the U.S. demanding change and advocating for transgender rights.
by Augustus Griffith Jr., 826 National
From the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem explores the aftermath and lasting impacts of school shootings.
by Steysi Hailee, 826LA
A student reflects on a small moment and single sacrifice that transformed her outlook on giving.
by Raymond A., Grade 10, 826 Boston
A bilingual poem that expresses the love of one's culture and people.
by Julianna Cruz, 826 Dallas Project
This narrative piece contemplates the struggle of immigrants during the pandemic.
by Jana C., 826LA
A celebration of self and exploration of core values.
by Christopher, Bryan, & Jahir, 826CHI
In an exchange of letters, three students across one city share stories about where they came from and the places that matter most.
by Kevin G, 826 Valencia
This narrative calls us to see the world through the perspectives of others.
by Oriel, 826NYC
In this poem, an echoing question strikes a chord and reveals the tragic loss held within systemic injustice.
by Abby S., Grade 11, 826 Boston
An author reflects on their correspondence with their friend from the past.
Yamilet J., 826LA
A student reflects on the fear and wonder of becoming a mother.
by Aphra, 826CHI
A student considers realistic happy endings and the representation of LGBTQIA+ youth through the analysis of two webcomics.
by Albin C., Age 18, 826 Boston
A student recalls how he was able to take charge and turn his life around.
by Isabella, 826NYC
This poet rejects judgement based on the color of one’s skin.
by Nhu N., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A young writer reconciles their sexuality with the beliefs of their community.
Virginia Walker, age 18, 826 Boston
A student writes to a grandfather she never met.
Cate H, Grade 12, 826CHI
A poet sets the stage to showcase her reflections on being trans.
by Matthew Inoa, 826 NYC
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a student describes how essential workers are the pulse of New York, fueling the city’s hope.
by Jasmine J, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on her origins to deconstruct social borders and seize her boundless future.
by Maggie Munday Odom, Kailua, HI
This poem personifies Earth as a mother coping with the brutalities of climate change.
by Elizabeth W, 826 Valencia
Even though we may look different, we remain united with one another.
by Jizelle Villegas, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
The stunning and vulnerable poem processes feelings of loss, grief, and hope for the future.
by Jarmani M., Age 18, 826 Boston
Jarmani reflects on the pain of being rejected from his top high school, but through that challenge, he finds motivation. He grows more focused, disciplined, and driven to succeed in all areas.
by Jazlyn Moses, 826 National
One student explores their online persona and the lasting importance of conscientious social media practices.
by Karina Centeno, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
This poem takes an honest look at two sides of the writer's culture.
Rosman A., age 18, 826CHI
Smells swirl about a student walking around an ice cream shop.
by Jose S., 15, 826DC
Jose’s name means lord of the world, filled with warmth and joy. At school he’s Jose, at home Bladimir, showing how his name carries both family roots and personal power.
by Cindy, 826LA
A student compellingly argues that immigrants deserve respect and to be free of discrimination.
by Ryker, 826michigan
Liner notes that showcase the meaning and musicality of the Jimmy Ruffin song “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted.”
by Abner L., 17, 826DC
Abner explores the meaning of his name through color, joy, strength, and heritage, connecting it to culture, family, and faith.
by Savannah, 826NYC
Using dialogue and detailed description, this poet investigates whose voices are heard and whose voices are left behind when injustice occurs.
by Sarah X., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A student shares how they've uplifted their community.
by Lucas Hu, 826 Boston
A poem about staying true to yourself during a challenging transition
by Yojannie Pizarro, Age 17, 826 Boston
This poem explores the beauty of friendship.
by Soraya, 826NYC
This student’s powerful piece reveals the essence of racial injustice.
by Denisse Reyes Gonzalez, Age 17, 826NYC
Using metaphors, this bilingual poem explores the idea of lost love.
by Izzy T., 826 Valencia
A student reflects on memories of home and what binds her special community together.
by Samuel Wang, Grade 10, 826NYC
A poem about the complexity of love exchanged during the holidays.
by Karla M., 826LA
A poem for lovers of love and the moon.
by Franny, 826CHI
A student spins through space and a treasure trove of memories in this poem.
by Jennifer Alcocer, The 826 Dallas Project
This personal narrative addresses the struggles of students graduating high school during the pandemic.
by David & Daniel, 826CHI
In this heartfelt exchange of letters, two students bond over food, videos games, and some scary adventures.
by Luciana, Grade 10, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a sophomore at South High School in Minneapolis gives thanks to Children’s Hospital employees.
by Earl Williams Jr., The 826 Dallas Project
A powerful poetic piece about the experience of being Black in America.
by Jahruwach Hamilton, Grade 10, 826NYC
In this rousing poem, a student asserts her strength and worth as a woman.
by Colin Y., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student describes how volunteering saved him from his online prison.
by Perla C., 15, 826DC
Perla connects her name to the sea, summer, and soft colors. It reflects her quiet strength, curiosity, and the different identities she carries at school and home.
by Maya M., Grade 11, Newburg, OR
A student reflects on the memories they made while backpacking.
by Jeremy Hsiao, 826 National
From the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem reminds activists that "to change everything, we need everyone."
by Numan Khan, age 16, 826 Boston
A bilingual "I am" poem filled with conviction and courage.
by Pretty S, 826 Valencia
Peek into the mind of a student who considers artistic influences in her life.
by Kayla Wayne, Grade 11, 826NYC
In this poem, a student reflects on their first encounter with forced assimilation.
by Tala, Grade 10, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, 10th grader Tala asks essential workers what motivates them to keep going during these difficult times, offering her own views on hope for the future.
by Tyler, Grade 11, 826DC
In this powerful letter to the United States Congress, this student stands up for representation of young people in government.
by Lukoiy V.R.G., Grade 12, Woodburn, OR
A poet speaks out as a voice for change and all those who cannot speak.
by Vanessa Ramon-Ibarra, 826DC
Living in the digital world can create unwanted attachments, as one student laments.
by Timothy T., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student tells the story of how his family has influenced his life.
by Yazmine-Gizelle, 826DC
This poem uses a fundamental poetry technique, repetition, to share the writer's future plans.
by Amalia O'Brien, Grade 10, Novato, CA
A letter to the future Madame President of the United States.
by Arianna R., Grade 11, 826 Boston
A beautiful ode to home and self.
by Junaynah R., Grade 11, 826NYC
Full of exquisite imagery, this poem explores the idea of second chances.
by Emmerson Todd, Grade 11, Novato High School, Novato, CA
This list poem shares tips to manage the anxiety that can come along with making a phone call.
by Kaleo V.C., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student looks back on their first day of kindergarten and how they've changed.
by Justis Porter, age 16, 826 Boston
A neighborhood ode filled with sights and sounds of the poet's street.
by Sabrin, Grade 10, 826 MSP
The written word is a powerful tool, and this poem shares a few reasons why the author continues to write.
by Aniah, 826 MSP
A student is lifted up by the dance of her ancestors.
by Olivia H., 826CHI
A piece that explores the connection between stars, legacy, and Black resilience.
by Navayah, 826 MSP
Through redefining a label, a student reclaims a piece of their identity.
by Katya Torres, The 826 Dallas Project
This bilingual poem explores the harrowing story of a boy working while in school to save his mother.
by Cristina, 826CHI
A student recounts separation with a beloved friend through a nostalgic lens.
by Keyshana, Grade 11, 826CHI
Black strength, beauty, and pride soar in this poem as a student discusses overcoming brutality and discrimination.
by Camille, 826LA
A student finds her wings in unexpected places in this piece about the transition to college.
Kenya G., 17, 826LA
A poet relates her experience as a queer woman in the closet to a peacock in the zoo.
by Maria, Grade 12, 826 Boston
In this public narrative, a student makes the case for creating community change by building youth centers in her neighborhood.
by Regina, 826LA
From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem expresses the realization that a cage is not the only obstacle to a bird's freedom.
by Ricardo L., age 15, 826DC
Ricardo’s name carries strength and emotion, tied to bravery, heat, and a sad color, with playful and personal versions at school and home.
by Jordan, 826 New Orleans
Crawfish, crayfish, or mudbugs. Whatever you call them, the writer of this poem doesn't like them.
by Sergio M, 826 Valencia
This piece reminds us that a smile is not always what it seems.
by Samantha Wint, Grade 9, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to explore many dualities of the narrator's life.
by Byanna & Kayla, 826CHI
Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.
by Lisbeth M.F., 826NYC
A story about how Marcus becomes Marcela.
by Rockelle Rodd, Grade 11, 826NYC
This poem uses analogies to describe all of the pieces of the writer's personal history.
by Quran Samad, age 15, 826 Valencia
A young Black student's perspective on how it feels to grow up Black in the United States.
by Jesus C., Grade 12, 826LA
A poet identifies with a trapped ocelot at the zoo.
by Terra C., Grades 10-11, 826NYC
A student recalls their journey on how they discovered their LGBTQIA+ identity.
by Jesus Sanchez, The 826 Dallas Project
This creative short horror piece explores the mysteries and danger of a night in the woods.
by Lizy A., 15, 826DC
Lizy describes her name as a promise of freedom and beauty connected to the sea and family, with unique meanings at school and at home.
by Kailyn Espinosa, 826NYC
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a student shares how essential workers’ courage and compassion center her during these hectic times.
by Corazón, 826 New Orleans
In this essay, a student threads their identity across cultures, histories, and places, engaging with legacies of violence and the movement of people.
by Sharoya Bracey, 826NYC
In this memoir, the narrator recounts the struggle of being the bigger person in a very small space.
Henry F., Grade 12, 826CHI
A trans student reflects on their desire to be male.
by Elsy M.E., Grade 11, 826 Valencia
A poet imagines a better and more harmonious world.
by Alanis T., Age 17, 826 Boston
A student reflects on how her relationship's with her parents has influenced her life.
by Charles, 826 MSP
A student reflects on his life, stemming from the life of his father.
by Joanne H, 826 Valencia
In this poem, a student’s experiences in two countries meld together as she seeks out her true home.
by Henry F., Grade 12, 826CHI
In this poem, a student reflects on identity.
by Shayne Williams
Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.
by Isaiah, 826 New Orleans
This student reveals the mysterious origin story of the king cake. Hint: it includes Big Freedia, DJ Chicken Wing, and a massive party.
by Henry, Matthew, & Santiago, 826CHI
A compilation of letters written by three students across one city filled with thoughts on books, sports, music, family, and musings on Valentine’s Day.
by Brandon R., 826LA
A student recounts the epic highs and lows of high school track and cross country.
by Johnny Vasquez, 826 MSP
A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.
by Sian Laing
When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.
by Manuel C., 17, 826DC
Manuel sees his name as joyful and strong, linked to faith, fun, and his favorite characters, with two names that reflect who he is at home and at school.
by Leydi Di Villanueva, The 826 Dallas Project
This creative narrative imagines how the coronavirus views humanity during the pandemic.
by Alphonsine M., 826LA
A student reflects on the journey and struggle of growing in the face of adversity.
by Salma Khalif, 826 MSP
A powerful poem that lifts up Black women.
by Rowan Yordy, Grade 11, 826michigan
This poem uses imagery to describe a small moment of joy.
by Michaiah Anderson, The 826 Dallas Project
In this poem, a student describes their family origins with an intimate point of view
by Sarah X. Age 18, 826Boston
A rousing public narrative from an author coming to terms with their identity as a young Chinese American woman and what they represent: the community of Boston's Chinatown.
by Anthony, 826DC
This poem gives insight to what it's like growing up Black in America.
by George S., Grade 11, 826 Boston
A writer implores people to get outside and touch grass because you never know what you might find!
by Terry Velasquez, Grade 12, The Bronx, NY
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a student shares gratitude for the dedication of nurses and gives “credit where credit is due.”
We are thrilled to have you as the newest member of our online community. Stay up-to-date on the the latest and most relevant resources, student publication opportunities, and what’s new with the 826 Digital community.
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