Rosemarie Hathaway is a name you might not be familiar with, but once you are, it’s a name that’s hard to forget. She’s a Dhampir; a half human half vampire breed from a book series Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead. Rose has two life duties, one is to protect her best friend, and other is to kill evil vampires. It doesn’t get more badass than that, does it?
Growing up, I’ve never entertained any thoughts of going against the status quo. Even the slightest possibility of ever having to stand up for myself would make me a little queasy. I grew up taught to conform, and for this very reason Rose became my ultimate teenage heroine.
Aside from being a totally kick-ass fighter, Rose was unapologetically confident. She was sure of herself, and never doubted her own potential. She was only a half vampire and a mere student, but that never made her feel incompetent or any less than she was. She would stand tall in a room surrounded by fierce fighters, and even held her ground against vampire royalty. She was never intimidated by the likes of authority, and defied all expectations proving her strength time and time again. Despite all the judgements, disapproval and warnings, she never restrained from being herself.
I admired Rose for her outspoken nature, and her refusal to accept control. Although her world was ruled by stringent laws and punishments, she never stopped fighting the system. She was rebellious in the best kind of way.
We’re so often made to feel meek against the grand scheme of things. It’s difficult to find the courage to be fearless and speak our truths and our passions. Rose inspired me to be brave as I find my place in the world, and to always stand up for what I believe in. As a strong female, she showed me what it meant to be courageous and the importance of attaining self-confidence. To this day, I’m still always channeling my inner Rose Hathaway.
-Seav Lov
Junior Girl
Girl Museum Inc.