"City ties"

I recently spoke to my cousin Sarah about her experience living in Detroit. She lived there for eighteen years before going away to the University of New Orleans. I asked her if she felt safe living close to the rougher areas of the eastside and she explained that she had to be cautious when walking to school or taking the bus. My cousin then went into detail about what it was like going to school in Detroit. She said that the kids were misbehaved and there were not a lot of class options because they were continuously laying off teachers.  But went on to say that although the city was rough and dangerous, it did not stop her from achieve her goals.

I also lived in Detroit, but only for a few years. I also lived closer to the Westside and I never went to school in the city. Even though we are closely related our experiences growing up were entirely different. My parents sent me to private school instead because they did not like the district. I later moved to Northville and finished up my grade school education in their public school system. I cannot say my experience with public school was completely different because all the districts were facing similar problem. But unlike the area my cousin grew up in, I rarely felt worried about my safety. I walked carelessly to the bus stop every morning.

My cousin and I were close growing up and although our circumstances were different we both were able to achieve most of our goals. By doing this interview I have realized that the area you live in does not necessary determine your fate. I also remembered that there are problems in every city and it’s up individuals to decide if they are going to let these problems hold them back. My question is, is the city the problem or the people?