When I was in fourth grade, my parents bought me the first Harry Potter book. Little did they know that one book would start an obsession that has lasted years. I immediately fell in love with the world, plot, and characters of Harry Potter, specifically, Hermione Granger. She was a huge inspiration to me growing up, and I do not believe that I would be the person I am today without her character.
Ever since I was little, I have always loved getting good grades. However, at times, I would feel ashamed to care so much about school, when trying was not the “cool” thing to do. I would pretend to not know the answers in class just to avoid looking like a nerd, as I thought that was a huge insult. Reading about Hermione allowed me to embrace this side of myself, and to realize that being a “nerd” isn’t a bad thing. She gave me the confidence to get good grades in school without worrying what other people would think. After reading the Harry Potter series, I started to raise my hand more in class, and to genuinely feel good about myself when getting an A instead of feeling embarrassed.
Hermione Granger also taught me how to be a strong and powerful woman. She made me believe that I am tougher than I think, and that I can do anything I put my mind to. Hermione was never afraid to stand up for herself and do what was right, and I learned from that. In the fourth Harry Potter book, she starts a club to fight for equal rights for the house elves. I used this as motivation to start a club of my own in elementary school: The Animal Rights Club. I would pass out little pins and flyers to my friends and family members with fun facts about different endangered animals and how to help them.
Through the years, there have been many fictional characters that have shaped my personality. However, Hermione Granger will always be the character that taught me to embrace my love for school, and to always stand up for myself and others around me.