Open Book Program, a multi-faceted after-school program for young adolescents in which participants are engaged in activities that encourage the development of reading, writing and critical thinking skills.

My Journal

My Story
by Jovan Gathlings
University of Chicago
Office of Special Programs College Prep
Summer/2000

I was born on September 3, 1989. My mother named me Jovan Gathlings. I found out that my first word was "Ma-Ma." You see, when I was born I really wasn't along. My older brother Corry was there. I'm glad because now I'm ten and bigger and better.

I first stared school in kindergarten. I cried and shivered to my spine. Then I went to first grade and I was up to a whole new level. I left my original home to go over to my grandma's house.

Now, I'm taller than I was. I am old enough to do new things and I'm happy for it. I can do new things like drawing and working.

I'm smarter and I am a new person. I can do other things too. And I did meet new friends. I can't wait until I get older because I can then do the things I want to do.

I guarantee that I will complete grammar school and high school and college. I will move to Florida to start my goals. I want to be an artist, that's what I want to be. I ant to be the best I can be.