Last summer, I visited the Philippines, but even before that I wasn't clueless about my culture. I have grown up with parents who are pretty hard-core about their roots. They're always saying how I'm not Philippine enough for them.  Sometimes I have to prove that I'm more American than Philippine and at times more Philippine than American. It’s difficult. There is nothing I dislike about this country. I love being part of the free and the brave in the good old USA.

Eileen Glaraga, Age 17