How High Can I Jump?

Discover the Inspiring Journey of Royal Campbell

In a world turned upside down by a global pandemic, Royal Campbell's story unfolds. At just 19, she leaves her home in Jamaica to pursue her dreams at Victory University, a prestigious private institution in the U.S. Armed with a full athletic scholarship, Royal embarks on a journey of self-discovery and resilience, despite the odds stacked against her.

A Fight Against Isolation

The initial excitement of moving to a new country is quickly overshadowed by the challenges of quarantine and isolation. As the world goes into lockdown, Royal finds herself navigating uncharted territory without the comfort of family. Join her as she faces loneliness, struggles to adapt, and tirelessly works toward her academic and athletic goals.

Breaking Barriers in a New World

Despite the emotional hurdles, Royal excels in both her studies and her athletic endeavors. Holding a place on the track & field team, she rises to become a first-team All-American high jumper. Dive into her academic journey as she balances more classes than her peers while maintaining commendable grades, all while dealing with the complexities of racism and microaggressions. Royal’s strength shines through as she often remains on the honor roll, proving her determination and intellect.

The Importance of Friendships

As isolation begins to lift, Royal finds solace in friendships formed on the track. Alongside her fellow international student-athletes—Munroe, Jalia, Odalia, and Ralik—she constructs a supportive network that enhances her college experience. Through shared challenges and triumphs, these relationships fortify her spirit, enabling her to navigate life’s rough waters together.

Facing Economic Hardships

As she approaches graduation with dreams of pursuing a Master's degree, Royal grapples with the daunting realities of job searching in a struggling economy. Battling against her racial and immigrant status, she embarks on a journey toward future success. This gripping narrative not only examines the societal challenges faced by many immigrant students but also highlights Royal's fervent desire to rise above her circumstances.

A Testament to Resilience

How High Can I Jump? is not just a story about track and field; it’s a poignant exploration of identity, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of dreams. Through Royal’s journey, readers will find inspiration, strength, and hope, seeing glimpses of themselves within her narrative. Join Royal Campbell as she dares to ask, 'How high can I jump?' in the face of adversity.

Target Audience

This book is aimed at young adult readers, particularly those interested in stories of resilience, personal growth, and the experiences of student athletes navigating challenges in a new environment.

Key Takeaways

• Overcoming obstacles in a new culture and environment
• The importance of perseverance in academics and athletics
• Building supportive friendships during challenging times
• Understanding and combating racism and microaggressions
• Personal growth through adversity and self-exploration