More than 300 "Harry Potter" fans submitted entries in The Plain Dealer's "How 'Harry Potter' Changed My Life" essay contest.

Judges selected 10 honorable-mention essays, four runners-up and one grand-prize winner. One essay will be published each day until the grand-prize winner is revealed Friday, July 15 -- the day that "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2" opens in theaters.

Prizes include passes to a preview screening of "Deathly Hallows," Cleveland Cinemas passes and a $100 gift certificate from Half-Price Books.

Today's essay is from honorable-mention winner Apurva Padubidri, 23, of Canfield, Ohio.

"Harry Potter" taught me that everyone, no matter how cruel, cherished or clumsy they appear externally, has internal, personal struggles.

For example, Luna Lovegood was teased incessantly; Severus Snape had immeasurable guilt after essentially setting up the death of the love of his life; Professor Dumbledore had a troubled childhood and broken family; Neville Longbottom's parents were incapacitated by the Death Eaters; and Hagrid experienced prejudice for being a half-giant.

It was a beautiful way of teaching me to be kind to everyone. Additionally, I was touched by Snape's unwavering, inexhaustible, albeit unrequited, love for (Harry's mother) Lily. Snape was loyal and brave without any glory.

The books taught me about prejudice, love, friendship, loyalty, respect, determination and more. I read the first book when I was 12 and will have just turned 24 when the last movie is released. Growing up with the series has been a truly magical experience I will cherish forever.