By Joanne Su Chan
Editor-in-Chief
When people hear the name “Joanne Su Chan,” they may associate it with different roles—“the girl in Rampage,” “the ASB member” or simply “the senior.” Each environment I am in brings out a different side of me, as I adapt to my surroundings and present the most fitting version of myself, shaping how others perceive me. However, beneath these shifting personas, there is one constant: my unwavering sense of self.
At school, my peers may see me as a senior with a commanding presence and an intense resting face. However, in ASB and Rampage, I have earned a reputation as a hardworking, reliable and determined leader—someone who gets things done. I balance meticulous organization with an energy that is both driven and, admittedly, a little scary.
Whether it’s my unwavering gaze as I tackle a task or my direct responses when asked a question, my serious composure often leads people to assume I am unapproachable. While some may find me intimidating, it is a reflection of my dedication, a trait that has propelled me forward in everything I take on.
But assumptions about me don’t stop at my demeanor. Before I even speak, people see my face and automatically label me as Chinese. They don’t expect me to be culturally Brazilian, to speak Portuguese fluently or to have grown up with influences far beyond what they believe my identity to be. Just as people assume I am mean because of my serious expressions, they assume they know my background based on appearance alone. These lenses—how people categorize and perceive others—are a natural part of life, but they often hide the depth of who a person truly is.
Looking past first impressions, cultural assumptions or personal biases allows us to truly understand and appreciate each other beyond superficial labels. When we take the time to see a person for who they are at their core—their values, passions and experiences—we move beyond baseless perceptions and into genuine connections. It is easy to make quick judgments based on outward appearances, mannerisms or societal expectations, but true understanding requires effort, curiosity and an open mind. By looking deeper, we uncover the complexities that make each person unique, fostering empathy and appreciation for the richness of human identity.
So no matter how people perceive me—whether as a leader, a student or Chinese—I know exactly who I am. And that, above all else, is what truly matters.