Despite the negative stigma associated with Camden, I’m grateful I grew up there

As a child growing up in Camden, I would sometimes compare my neighborhood with more affluent areas. I’d fantasize about living in a bigger house in the suburbs, in an area where I could stroll down the streets without a worry in the world. But in reality, I grew up with a lot of caution and fear, always alert to my surroundings. I often tried to picture myself in another, maybe nicer, neighborhood.

However, despite these thoughts, I constantly came back to the fact that I would never trade my upbringing for anything else. My experiences living in Camden have ultimately shaped me in so many ways: I’ve gained insight, perseverance, and compassion, in ways I probably would not have gotten in a more privileged environment.

I grew up in a calm area, but I noticed a lot of violence nearby. Yet, I’m not ashamed of where I grew up, because I refuse to let other people’s actions and mistakes define me. Instead, I choose to push through these situations. The difficulties and obstacles I came across have only strengthened my desire to succeed.

Going to school in Camden meant being surrounded by classmates who shared similar backgrounds and experiences. My teachers were crucial in shaping my academic journey. They went above and beyond as mentors to make sure my classmates and I achieved success.

We were constantly encouraged to do well academically, especially because we were aware that opportunities might not come easily for kids like us. Our teachers frequently brought up the financial struggles and lack of resources in our community, highlighting the significance of seizing opportunities in order to better ourselves and our futures.

My teachers always believed in me, and I never felt out of place. As I look back on my graduation from high school in June, I recognize that it is more than just a personal achievement, but also a testament to the resilience instilled in me by my school and community. Although my family and I have struggled with financial hardships and barriers, I have also been allowed to show that I am capable of overcoming these challenges.

I’m also aware my story is one of the more fortunate ones. While I certainly experienced difficulties growing up, some people have had it even tougher.

In spite of the stigma and negativity often associated with Camden, there are kindhearted people here who are striving for a better future for all of us. They are committed to providing opportunities and support to youth like myself, and the city as a whole.

This city will always have a special place in my heart, no matter where life takes me. Camden is, and forever will be, a part of who I am; it’s where it all began for me. I was forced to see the problems of society directly; therefore, I’ve grown more conscious of them. I strive to be someone who does good and gives back to my community, and Camden has contributed to that.

The love and unity I’ve witnessed have influenced my aspirations and fueled my desire to help others in my chosen career path. I am forever grateful for the support I received from the people in this city who helped get me to where I am now.

My hope for the future is that more children in Camden will have the assistance and opportunities they deserve. I hope Camden will one day be recognized for its positive aspects rather than its negative ones. In Camden, there is an atmosphere of optimism — and I’m proud to call it home.

Jennifer Duran, a graduate of Camden Academy Charter High School, is an incoming freshman at Rutgers University-Camden, where she plans to major in nursing.