STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
Saturday, October 13, 2007

A feature on area youth who are leaders and volunteers in their communities. The teens featured were nominated for The Ann Arbor News’ Young Citizen of the Year award.

Jessica Chang

High school: Pioneer High School in Ann Arbor.

Grade: Graduated.

Parents: Jimmy and Theresa Chang.

School activities: President of Asian Student Union, webmaster of Rotary’s Interact Club, lead team member of Leap the Gap project from Youth Senate.

Community activities: Taught English to young children, created brochures for the Caregiver’s Day conference, raised money for tsunami relief in southeast Asia and earthquake aid in Pakistan. Also donated blood.

Post high school plans: Will attend the New York Institute of Technology as part of a seven-year bachelor of science/doctor of osteopathic medicine program.

Why is community service an important part of your life?

“The community has provided a lot for me, and I believe that it is important to give back even more. It brings people together to make the town a better place and generates new ideas.”

What do you wish to tell other students about the value of community service?

“What you do will make a big impact on someone else’s life, no matter how small or insignificant you think the service is. People appreciate those who help. Thus, in turn, you will receive help when you need it.”

http://www.mlive.com/annarbor/stories/index.ssf?/base/news-1/1192255838208480.xml&coll=2&thispage=2