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Born in Amboy, Illinois
I was born late in the year, which Gladwell would argue is a disadvantage, but because I grew up in Illinois, which has different cut-off dates than most states, I was always one of the oldest students in my class. However, I did not show any signs of being "advanced" or of having any advantages over my peers. I was always the tallest in my class, but as you can see, that didn't last. -
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Growing up in Illinois
Amboy, IllinoisI spent the first 7 years of my life in a rural farming community. My grandfathers on both sides were farmers who worked every day to build successful farms. This work ethic was passed down to me through my parents. Gladwell would argue that my ancestors' European heritage and agriculatural background would make me more lazy, but that is not the case. -
Moved to Clarkston, Michigan
My mother got a promotion and we moved to a suburb of Detroit. Gladwell argues that socioeconomic status plays a large role in success, and I can now see how I had many advantages because both of my parents had good jobs. I was able to grow up in a nice community and I went to excellent schools. However, I did not have many opportunities to practice the grit that was discussed as essential to success in the Rock Center clip. -
Space Camp
Space Camp Every summer, my parents would sign me up to participate in a camp or enrichment activity. This gave me the opportunity to continue learning during the summer months. Gladwell discusses this in Ch. 9, arguing that students with these opportunities do better in school and I would have to agree because I was always a good student.
