Being introduced to new cultures is a rarity for me.

For the most part, I have lived a

sheltered life surrounded by people similar to me. I have never traveled off the continent
of North America. In fact, I hardly leave Massachusetts. Until this past summer, I was
content with going to school, playing sports, socializing with my close group of friends
and spending time with my supportive family. For the past eighteen years of my life, I
would label myself a planner; always wanting to know what is happening next with no
surprises. However, during the summer before my senior year I experienced a new,
diverse environment. This experience was monumental to my development as an
individual as I learned two important lessons: become more open minded and realize
there is more than one way to approach my future.

Since I was five years old, I have lived in a typical middle-class, small town. Almost
everyone knows everyone and shares similar opinions. Located ten miles north of
Boston, with residents of predominantly Irish and Italian heritage, I live in a fairly
conservative community. Many people live here their whole lives and never leave. This
past summer, I traveled to New York City for the first time. Growing up close to Boston, I
had been to a large city, but nothing could compare to New York City. Everywhere I
looked, I witnessed individuals from all walks of life. Never had I been immersed in so
many cultures. Buddhist monks sat in front of me on the Ellis Island Ferry. Spanish,
French, and Arabic words floated in the air. Vendors sold ethnic foods, such as falafels
and flan. During my few days in the city, I realized the world has more to offer than my
homogenous hometown. Although my small town can be credited for many of my
important life experiences, encountering the diversity of New York City taught me to
become more open minded and learn about the people around me.

Learning to become open minded has made its way into my new way of thinking that
there is more than one way to approach my future. Prior to visiting New York, I always
thought I wanted to pursue a career in the medical field. Yet, I have never naturally
excelled in math and science. The sole reasons I wanted to enter the medical field were
because I knew I could earn a high salary and have job security. I was basing my
decision off practicality, not what my true interests were. Shortly after I returned home
from New York City, I realized I no longer wanted to enter the medical field. Now, I am
eager to take courses in marketing and communications, and study abroad. Additionally,
I now understand I do not have to conform to one path for the rest of my life. Being
indecisive is okay. I do not have to continue my life always knowing the answer. As long
as I work hard and learn from experiences around me, I will be successful.

Attending a college with a diverse student body excites me. Forming friendships with all
types of people will expand my knowledge in many ways. Also, the school I choose will
help me on my path to success as I learn about my interests and how I can make an
impact on the world. Even though I will never forget the small town I come from, I look
forward to meeting new people and experiencing new ideas.