Sophia Lin Wins National Audio Essay Contest, Highlighting the Attributes of Democracy
Meet Sophia Lin, a 16-year-old senior at BASIS Scottsdale who recently clinched the top spot in a prestigious national audio essay contest. The theme of her winning essay was “What Are the Greatest Attributes of Our Democracy?”
Reflecting on her unexpected victory, Sophia expressed, “I genuinely didn’t think it would be me. Out of 52 people, 53 people… there’s no way.”
The VFW Voice of Democracy audio essay contest crowned Sophia Lin as its champion for the year 2023-2024, a moment she describes as a “once in a lifetime experience.” Her winning essay delved into the stories that form the tapestry of American democracy, starting with her parents’ immigration journey and their pursuit of the American dream.
According to Sophia, her parents’ story of sacrifice and resilience served as a cornerstone for her essay. “We literally came here with nothing,” shared Baochun Lin, Sophia’s mother. The essay also paid tribute to the dedication of individuals like Dolly, a 100-year-old Navy veteran whom Sophia interviewed, highlighting the diverse voices that enrich American democracy.
Sophia’s success has opened doors to a myriad of opportunities, including a $35,000 scholarship at the national level and recognition at various prestigious events. Her parents, Bin and Baochun Lin, couldn’t be prouder of her achievements.
Looking ahead, Sophia is set to continue making an impact in her community. She has collaborated with esteemed figures like Congressman Greg Stanton and is actively involved in initiatives like iReach, a youth education service she co-founded during the pandemic.
As Sophia embarks on this exciting journey, she remains grateful for the support of her family and believes in the transformative power of youth activism. With a heart set on making a difference, Sophia’s future shines bright with promise and potential.
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