Throughout high school, there is one thing that keeps me sane: Disney princess movies. From the dream-chaser Rapunzel to the entrepreneur Tiana, Disney’s princesses’ determination and positivity inspire me to face the challenges that come my way with confidence. Since the age of 5, I dreamed of becoming a princess. By the time I was 10, I had a disheartening epiphany; I realized being a mermaid princess or a Chinese warrior was probably not in the cards for me. My princess-movie-watching diminished as I entered high school and started becoming a “mature adult”; I took nearly every Advanced Placement and Honors course offered, joined all the academically prestigious organizations at CHS, co-founded a club and spent the rest of my time volunteering at charity events and memorizing college websites. I stopped reading novels about far away places and mystical creatures and began reading “How To” books on writing college applications. I did not go to parties or see a movie in theaters throughout the entirety of my sophomore year. I was busy being a responsible adult, and I was very unhappy. After completing sophomore year, I went home to wallow in self pity in front of a screen. When I turned on the T.V, Mulan was halfway through the song “Honor to Us All,” and I realized that I was just like her — I was pretending to be something I was not to please others, so I decided it was time for a change. The movie encouraged me to take on a lighter schedule and seize opportunities in fields that interested me. However, I was far from cured of my dangerous mindset that told me I was too childish. Fortunately, Pocahontas helped me with that. She was proud of her Native American heritage and did not succumb to society’s prejudices and remained proud of who she was. Because of her, I changed my belief that I was immature and realized I am the only one who needs to be satisfied with who I am, and I am. The Disney princesses have granted me with life lessons that ring true, no matter my age, and have helped me cope with the stresses of growing up with their catchy and inspiring tunes. If I had forgotten the gems of my youth, I would not be the person I am today, nor would I be on the path I am traveling toward my bright future.