I am more than positive when I say that Chatham Hall needs more Gloria Steinems. She is a perfect example of what the admissions team is looking for: she’s a leader. She’s opinionated and strong, yet refined and still feminine. Ms. Steinem is true to herself; she doesn’t bow down to anyone. At the same time, she is considerate, caring, kind, and well-mannered. It is an understatement to say that she is well-spoken, for she has probably given more public speeches than any of us will ever give put together.

“Gloria”, as my mom refers to her, as if they’ve known each other since middle school, is the perfect example of the woman who never looks out of place. She always seems to have an appropriate conversation topic that she will carry out in perfect poise, with the small exception of when the conversation gets more familiar and allows room for a few obscenities here and there. Ms. Steinem can also pull off heels that would give most of us vertigo by just looking at them.

Even after all of these amazing traits that have been resumed into one outstanding woman, one stands out amongst them. She is just like us. She was a teenager once, battled her own insecurities, and suffered through heartbreaks. More than once she debated over what to wear, heard what she didn’t want to, and most importantly, rebelled and fought for what she stood for. What is even better is that she still does what she loves; her life revolves around women’s equality in society and reproductive health. She believes in first developing and caring for ourselves before any other, what she likes to refer to as “the golden rule”. This doesn’t necessarily mean being a selfish individual, but rather giving time to ourselves to reflect and contemplate on our emotions and health.

Overall, I strongly believe that Gloria Steinem is the perfect role model for young women in our society who want to think with open minds and are respectful of other opinions. Although her views and opinions on controversial topics, such as abortion, may strike some the wrong way, I believe that it is healthy to have someone challenge or question our own standpoints. By doing so, we can put ourselves in other shoes and evaluate our own opinions. This is a virtue that in my eyes, every Chatham girl needs.