Essay contest: My third place

Essay contest winners write about East L.A., a place to skate and a patch of grass as being their favorite places.

I couldn’t take it anymore

After more than a year of being harassed because he is gay, Trayvione, 18, found a way to make it stop.

My mom rules at home and school

Although she’s strict, Samantha, 15, says it’s not so bad having her mom work at her school.

AIDS in Africa

After helping people in countries ravaged by AIDS, Olivia, 18, wants to dedicate her life to stopping the disease. WITH Photo gallery of Olivia’s trip to Africa.

Simple gifts you can make

Noelle, 17, shows how to make three homemade gifts that don’t cost a lot.

Driving on sunshine

Chris, 17, says that it was exciting and challenging to build a solar-powered car that doesn’t pollute.

Embracing diversity

Victoria, 17, says the friends she’s made at her small, integrated magnet have helped her overcome prejudices.