Case Studies

Of the four case studies we read about, I feel most connected to Danielle DeVoss's reflection about her sponsers of literacy. She had an interest in computers, and due to her socio- economic background, she had the means to pursue this interest. As a kid, my parents told me that I could do anything and they'd support it (although they never let me do karate or even gymnastics). This unwavering, encouraging support certainly affected which kinds of literacy I chose to learn, and how proficient I would become in those fields.

For example, I am somewhat literate when it comes to stage productions, especially musicals. My first opportunity to be part of a production came in 8th grade when I was living abroad; our school decided to put on "Guys and Dolls", and I decided to try out for it. Strangely enough, a year later and back in the states, my high school also decided to put on "Guys and Dolls". I was cast as a different part, which helped me gain perspective, as I now had to speak for the antagonist instead. This perception shift helped me tweak my acting style for the next and last musical I'd be in, "West Side Story".