Classmates Quote by Nathan Chen
“As a kid growing up, I didn't want to tell any of my classmates I did figure-skating because I knew they'd be like, 'Oh, you're a skater, you're gay, blah blah blah.' So I kept it to myself. Once I started getting to more of an elite level, I didn't really care what people thought, though.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: NBC Sports, 2022
Self‑acceptance grows when external judgments fade, allowing personal passion to flourish despite societal stereotypes.
In simple terms: Accept yourself despite others’ stereotypes.
Embrace your passion, ignore stereotypes.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- coming out
- elite athletics
- peer pressure
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What internal barriers remain after external acceptance?
- How can you support others facing similar bias?
Stereotypes can still affect mental health even after acceptance.