I grew up on a sweet potato farm about ten miles outside of town, where mornings start before the sun and “vacation” means a county fair. My parents have dirt under their nails and more grit than anyone I know. I used to think that was enough for people to respect us.

Then I got into this fancy scholarship program at a private high school in the city. It was supposed to be a big break. But on my first day, I walked into homeroom with jeans that still smelled a little like the barn, and this girl with a glossy ponytail whispered, “Ew. Do you live on a farm or something?”

I didn’t even answer. Continues…