Voices final project link: https://ttd.wjwoker.repl.co
The most influential idea I took away from my research was the idea that trans people face decisions that often have only two answers, both of which can seem both wrong and right. A trans person’s decision to come out to everyone they meet or keep their past a secret has both detrimental and positive effects on a person’s mental state. The way society exists today also means that these decisions cannot be avoided. This is something that every trans person must face, regardless of social status.
One more interesting concept that I took away from my research was the importance of supportive people in a trans person’s life. These decisions may be tough, and life may be challenging, but any adversity is made manageable if there is even a single person to back them up completely. I was surprised to find so many stories where despite a world of discrimination and harassment, one, two, or maybe three people who supported someone were enough to keep them going.
I hope that after reading my project, people will realize that trans people live under constant, near-unmanageable pressure. However, what I also hope people see is that the way to make that pressure manageable is to be the person that supports them. If someone who read my project ever meets a trans person in the future, or knows one now, I hope that they will see that they can be the difference in their life that makes it worth living.
What I realized during my time at North was how important it is for me to make a difference in someone else’s life. I’ve spent so much time dedicating myself to robotics that I’ve learned a lot about myself, and what really makes me happy. What I’ve found is that nothing makes me more proud than thinking about the people I’ve inspired during my time on the software team and as the lead. So many current high schoolers who learned about robotics under my mentorship will major in computer science and develop incredible software that will change the world. Every person I’ve taught programming to at Kennedy, every person I’ve stopped to help in a programming class for even just a minute, every person I’ve helped with math and science in peer tutoring, they will all do something in the world, and I will have influenced their journey. That idea is really meaningful for me.
My advice for future NNHS seniors is to not get wrapped up in school. Focus on doing what you love and don’t make schoolwork always your priority. I certainly don’t mean that you shouldn’t turn in anything at all, which a lot of seniors this year seem to have done, but your time is limited- if you put half an hour less each day into your homework and projects, and instead dedicate that to your activities, your sports, or your friends, you’ll create lasting memories that are far more meaningful than a 10% better grade on some random high school assignment.
Also, make an airband! Even if you’re terrible, it’s quite fun.
Hey Wyatt,
This was a really interesting read regarding the challenges trans people face in society today. Of all the voices analyzed across all the voices projects in our class, I feel that the trans person’s voice is the one I have the least background on, which made your project an interesting read. The constant pressure the trans community is under does seem overwhelming and unimaginable as you describe, and I hope that in time society as a whole can become much more supportive and welcoming of these groups. For your personal growth part of your blog, it’s great to hear you’ve found joy in helping people, whether through a leader in robotics, peer tutoring, or anywhere else. I agree that helping people is a remarkable feeling, and I hope that all people find some joy in this feeling, as it will make the world a much more collaborative and supportive place.
Hey Wyatt,
I loved your presentation of your voices project. I think trans representation and how to be a supportive friend is something that is still somewhat new for many of us, and it’s so important to remember how much support can help someone out. Meanwhile, one of my biggest regrets my freshman through junior year was absolutely killing myself with my studies. I had really no time for anything, and my senior year I had so many regrets about not spending more time for myself. However, as soon as I stopped spending my whole life on school and started enjoying myself, my happiness increased exponentially and actually my grades improved. It just goes to show how putting yourself first does pay off, and I’m glad that you figured that out too!
Hi Wyatt,
I really enjoyed reading your blog, and your project is super engaging and interesting. I can’t even imagine the struggles of trans people. They have to constantly prove their validity to others. It breaks my heart knowing that there are people who are unwilling to accept someone trying to reach their true potential and feel comfortable in their own skin. I’m so glad that you were able to have such a beneficial time at north. I’ve seen you become such an amazing leader in all aspects of school. I think being a leader and role model is so so important because people learn from others. If you lead well, then you’ve trained the next generation well.
Hi Wyatt,
Having read this book as well, I wholeheartedly agree that it is important to support a trans person’s decision to come out or stay in the closet. These decisions, after all, are incredibly difficult, and it’s hard for cisgender people to empathize with them because they’ve never had to deal with this issue. Regarding the second half of your blog, I’m glad you’ve found so much personal satisfaction in helping others, and I think it’s always a great feeling to know that you’ve inspired others through your thoughts and actions.
Hi Wyatt,
I personally know a few trans people very well as I have trans friends and family and I completely agree with your takeaway. Even after knowing trans people for years I could never imagine walking in their shoes or trying to experience what they’ve been through but I know having a source of support can make a tremendous difference in their lives. As trans people are typically overlooked I really appreciated your project and the way you were able to bring attention to what trans people go through on a daily basis.
Hey Wyatt,
I really enjoyed how you presented all your info, the website and the interaction clicking the two choices was a nice touch as well. I never knew that Madeline was transgender, I’ll have to take another look (or maybe play through the game again) at the ending. Your advice really resonated with me, I feel like I spent so much time worrying about schoolwork that sometimes it took away from my enjoyment, so I’m going to try and carry that forward with me to college. What a crazy 4 years it’s been, robotics, band, the pandemic, but it’s been fun regardless. Best of luck in your future endeavors!
Hi Wyatt,
I can’t believe that it is time to say goodbye to robotics. I truly appreciate all that you have done for the software team this past season to prepare them for the future. I will really miss working on the vision system until 9 PM. Your blog really highlights the struggle that some people have to face every day and I hope that we can use more platforms to nurture a more empathetic community.
Anyway, I hope to keep in touch. Good luck at Purdue!