Outside Expectations In Wes Moore's Life

According to statistics, African American high school student’s graduation rate is at 69 percent. This is impacting since it’s relatable to The Other Wes Moore by Wes Moore. Both Wes Moore’s lives significantly took different turns, there outside expectations were for them to fail and to make responsibilities their priorities. Outside expectations contributed to the other Wes because he became part of the stereotype of the average African American male, while Wes proved it wrong. Responsibilities play an important role in how their lives turn out since Wes stuck to military school and the other Wes had kids not supporting wasn’t an option. In society, people are shaped by there stereotypes and if society doesn’t overcome this face, success is not an option. Although this may be true, their environment shaped the way they grew up but since Wes’s mother cared about him too much he was sent to military school, while the other Wes was not reprehended when his mom found his stash. “Mary just coolly looked at him, eyes opened in an expression of exaggerated innocence.” (Moore 74) This line stands out to me …show more content…
His mother acted quickly and sent him away to Valley Forge Military Academy. This was an expensive school and his mother struggled to pay for it. “…Too many people have sacrificed in order for you to be there.” (Moore 95) Wes did not like it at first until later he spoke to his mother over the phone and realized the sacrifice his family was making for him. After that moment Wes made his stay at Valley Forge a personal responsibility. Moore’s mindset changed and now his goal is to surpass all his peers in all aspects. While for the other Wes the stereotype over powered him and he became part of it by spending time in jail, selling drugs, having many children in his teen years and increasing the amount of