Jill Castro
2011
Janesville, WI
My Leavitt Heritage
My Leavitt heritage is a strong part of who I am, and is something that has influenced me in many areas of life. In 2007, my family and I were fortunate enough to take a vacation to the East Coast, where we were able to visit Hingham, Massachusetts; where the original Leavitt Homestead resides. I got to see first-hand the beauty and strength in the Leavitt home, and in the town where my ancestors grew up. This trip piqued my interest in my heritage, and made me realize for the first time where I came from and how important my Leavitt heritage is to me. It helped me to understand that I belong to history, and am shaping and participating in it every day; it is not just something I read about in class. History has always interested me, and understanding where I came from enhances the appreciation I have for it. Someday I sincerely hope I can take my own children back to Hingham to show them what I was lucky enough to see: a home built on compassion and perseverance.
My Leavitt heritage comes from my grandmother, Beverly Castro, whose mother, Fern Achsah Loynes, was the daughter of Helen Leavitt and Delbert Loynes. I am a 12th descendant in the Moses Line, something my grandmother has taught me about as she taught me the ways of the Leavitt's. My great-grandmother, Fern Loynes; ran a grocery store in rural Michigan single-handedly, while raising a 2 and 9 year old, after my great-grandfather died in a train accident. Fern lived to be 100 years old; therefore I was fortunate enough to have met her when I was very young. Although I don't remember her well, I know she was sweet and strong until the end, and I cherish the few pictures I have of her and me. She taught my grandmother the importance of hard work and perseverance, as well as kindness and a love of the English language. All of these things my grandmother has taught me since I was little. Grandma Bev taught me the difference between "my" and "I", as well as what it means to love unconditionally and never give up; something that has been passed down the Leavitt heritage line for generations. My Leavitt ancestors knew that these things were important when the immigrated - learning to adapt into the American way of life, working hard to earn their way, all while staying together and supportive. After all that they must have gone through to insure that I would have a successful and happy life; I feel that it is my duty as a Leavitt to work hard in school to achieve my dream of being a biologist, and to be a loving person, therefore letting my Leavitt teachings shine through.
Another vital thing my grandmother and my Leavitt heritage has provided me with is a devotion to religion. I have attended Sunday mass every week since I was born, usually with my Grandma Bev by my side. I was confirmed last October with Grandma Bev as my sponsor; because no one has taught me more than her, both about religion and being a good person. Just as Fern Loynes was a wonderful role-model to her daughter; her daughter is now an amazing role-model to me. I know this would not be possible if she had not grown up under the tutelage of her mother and grandmother, Helen Leavitt. The stories I have been told about these women are phenomenal. I try to imagine running a successful store and being a good role model for my young children right after the death of my husband; and it inspires me to be as strong and brave as they were. My Leavitt heritage has instilled many good morals in me, and motivates me to live up to their good example every day.
Future Plans
I will be entering the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse in August, 2011 to pursue a career in a science related field. I am specifically interested in the biological and geological sciences and intend to take advantage of the broad spectrum of career possibilities which will present themselves during the next four years. In addition, I will continue my studies in Spanish and hope to enter a profession demanding a blend of science and Spanish, which will allow me to continue my interest in cultural diversity.
I attended a parochial school through the eighth grade which allowed me exceptional educational opportunities, sports activities, fond memories, and lifelong friends. More than this, it created the platform for how I intend to live my life. My school was a mosaic of diverse students, staff, and families blended together to achieve while developing tolerance and understanding of humanity. We were all individuals but unified we shared our faith. My platform of faith is what I hope to build upon during my undergraduate education.
My family and its heritage have instilled in me the motto "God First, family second and career third". I have been taught that I need to work for what is important in life because the world is a competitive playground and no one will be giving free handouts. Since I was a child I have always thrust enormous efforts in my school work, sports, church, and community. In order to accomplish my goals I focused on daily organization and preparation. During my junior year I became aware of the opportunity to study biology in Belize during the summer but I realized that my family would be unable to finance this venture as my older sister was entering college. I was determined to earn the money as this was the perfect way to blend science and Spanish. I gained incredible self confidence while spending time outside the United States and hope to add study abroad opportunities to my undergraduate experience. I realize it will be necessary for me to hold a job during college but I seem to thrive when I am most committed.
I am driven to live a healthy life by filling my body with prayer, nutrition, knowledge, and exercise. Running is my passionate talent and presently I am preparing to compete in the State Track Meet; a race I have dreamed about since my youth. Regardless of the outcome I will be surrounded by positive peers and the love and support of my family. I will give it my best.
My race is just about to start for me in so many ways; the track meet, high school graduation, summer. employment, and the beginning of college. I am excited for this challenging race and believe I have prepared for success as best I can. I am ready for the challenges of college because I am firmly placed on my platform and my focus is the finish line; a phenomenal college experience preparing me for a purposeful life.
