North Babylon High School senior Muskan Malik was named a runner-up in the Hispanic Heritage Essay Contest, presented by Optimum in partnership with TelevisaUnivision. Representatives from Optimum, along with New York State Senator Monica Martinez and North Babylon administrators were on hand to present him with his certificate on Jan. 5.
The student essay contest was open to middle school and high school students in Optimum’s 21 state service footprint. Students were asked to write about how they connect to Hispanic culture. Winners were selected in the East and West regions in the middle and high school categories. Malik wrote about her friend Mayita, who eased her pain, provided comfort and emitted joy. Hangouts at Mayita’s house were filled with Latin music, Hispanic foods, and Spanish language. Her family welcomed Malik to their culture with open arms. Through Mayita, she learned the true Hispanic culture, not the stereotypes portrayed in media, but a loving, caring and welcoming one.
