Angela Certificate of Birth Background Similar Names Reasoning Latin origin Means “angel” Gained popularity in 18th century Ranked 220th most popular name in U.S. (Behind the Name) Certificate of Birth Similar Names Angelica Angelique Angelia “Angela” is the most common spelling Angela Reasoning There is no one in particular I am named after; my parents just liked the name Angela. My mother has liked it since she was a kid, and used to name all of her dolls Angela. My middle name, Elizabeth, is for my great-grandmother who I was fortunate enough to know. I also chose my confirmation name, Catherine, to be after my grandmother, whom I was also close to. Nicknames Gel: only used by my friends at Marist Ang: used by coaches, teachers, best friends from home. I think coaches and teachers like to use it because it is easier to say and less syllables than my full name for when they are trying to get my attention quickly. Yiy: only used (and understood!) by my family. When my brother began to talk, he could not pronounce “Angela,” so he called me “Yi-Ya.” As he got older, it became shortened to “Yiy,” and stuck with everyone. “Angie” is another nickname for Angela. I have been called it before but do not prefer it. My favorites are Gel and Yiy because they are quirky. To Change? I would not change my name if given the chance. I feel like it is uncommon enough to be different, but not to the extent so that it is unheard of, and I like the way it flows with my middle names and harsh last name (Fierst). I do not share Esperanza's dissatisfaction at all. Identity I do feel like the unique nature of my name reflects who I am as a person. I have always been independent enough to walk to the beat of my own drum and pursue my interests with confidence no matter what others were doing. It is very pleasant sounding, and I consider myself an approachable person who easily makes connections with others. I have confidence in my name and love sharing it, as opposed to Esperanza who waits until the reader is several chapters in for her to even reveal it. Works Cited Campbell, Mike. “Angela.” vvvBehind the Name. vvvAccessed 29 March 2017.