What was the very last thing you did yesterday? Could it have been completing the last step in your nightly ritual? Or, maybe, hastily delivering near-overdue assignments to beat that infamous 11:59 deadline?
Common answers may include some variation of homework and hygiene, but for Jaymie Miller, a junior at Paint Branch, that last thing in her day is usually abiding by her older sister’s request for a midnight meal.
Jaymie readily admits that her common reaction to her sister’s request is “[looking] at her like she [is] crazy, but [making] her food anyway.” Such moments become commonplace for someone in the middle of seven siblings — six sisters and one brother. Jaymie often ends up mixed into the fun-loving chaos they bring, but makes clear that their compassion toward each other and bond remains strong, expressing how “it’s the most double-edged sword.”
However, Jaymie confesses that she can easily be stifled by all the noise. It’s a struggle that many middle kids know all too well. In light of this, she seeks to hit a milestone incapable of being overlooked: being the first in her family to attend college. When she does get to college, she plans to major in Criminal Justice. College will be a feat that pays tribute to her personal and academic determination, and something she truly wants to enjoy. Jaymie claims that she “wants it to be like an episode of Grown-ish,” a place where she experiences far more beyond her studies.
One of her most beloved subjects is English because “it’s always been one of the easiest things . . . read [and] write what you [see].” It just makes sense to her, but sometimes that can seem strange to others who may find it tedious. She notes how, on the flip side, math has been a long-time struggle, jokingly declaring that she “gave up after fractions.” Ultimately, though, she agrees that teachers make the most difference, reciting the names of the PB staff that made the class fun with a smile on her face.
Aligning with her family-oriented nature, Jaymie is happiest around people who know her, and, she emphasizes, “really, really get [her].” She cites her grandparents as an example and clarifies that this is much different from being among just any people, which is a stressor versus a source of joy. Jaymie values honesty, humor, knowing oneself, and feeling purposeful.
Despite the drawbacks deriving from cycling through a busy school and home life, Jaymie still puts in total effort each day. She starts them off with one of the most essential things to her — a solid shower and skincare combo. Unfortunately, after she’s ready, there comes the dreaded wait for and ride on the consistently overcrowded school bus. The worst part for her is when the bus driver wails, “You can’t stand on the bus!” Yes, sit on the bus without available seats.
Still, there will forever be part of Jaymie’s heart that belongs to education, especially since she knows that, in the US, the opportunity is an unnoticed privilege. She thinks, “What would I be doing if I was one of those people who couldn’t attend school? . . . I would be miserable. ” Yet, the dilemma of being fully functional at 7 am while still battling sleep is one many can relate to.
Once school is over and the day is done, late at night is when she finds her most authentic self, tranquil enough to be productive. She explains that “around … 10 – 1 am are my best hours of functionality.” So, even if the hour seems late, Jaymie might be awake; and if it’s a genuine conversation you seek, find her at her peak under the stars.
By: Alicia McLeod
