I know kids who just watch TV every day. That’s OK for them, but it’s not enough for me. I like being busy and involved. When I was younger, I took piano, flute, dance and violin. I also played soccer, basketball and tennis. And I had Hebrew school and the Saturday classes at Northwestern. Now, at 17, I still have a very full week, which includes being president of the Model U.N. at my school and tutoring special-needs children.

My parents’ involvement made all this possible for me. I especially remember the driving. Until I got my license, my mother was always chauffeuring me everywhere. Her schedule became even busier as my brother and sister–Matt, 15, and Melissa, 11–got older and involved in activities of their own. I know my mother was happy that her kids were doing things they loved to do, but I did feel guilty when I saw the amount of time she spent in the car. Fortunately, she had a car phone so she could keep in touch with her friends–also mothers talking from their car phones.

Now, as I look back, I know I will be just as involved with my own children someday. I believe it’s important for parents to support and motivate their children–especially when we’d rather watch the latest “Simpsons” episode than open a math book. The world is a lot more competitive than it was when my parents were my age. Getting into college is harder than ever. You need more than good grades and high scores. You need a deep involvement in extracurriculars that will set you apart. These accomplishments can make or break a college acceptance. They also give an idea of what the student may someday contribute to society.

My activities have helped me focus my personal goals. Because I was able to explore so many areas of interest starting at a very young age, I have learned to challenge myself and push myself to do new things. In 1999 I participated in a student exchange program in Northern Ireland. I have also worked as an intern for U.S. Rep. Janice Schakowsky and taken summer courses in international relations and sociology at the University of Pennsylvania. I wouldn’t have had the confidence to do any of these things if my parents hadn’t encouraged and supported me early on. I’m very glad they were always there for me.