Through this tiring college application season, I am constantly questioned on my qualities that make me a unique applicant and a key component in the school's environment. It's easy to look at me and my transcript and use the obvious: I'm a Latina with relatively higher test scores than what is average or expected. But there is so much more not only to me but to the applicant who scores out of a stereotype. I have experiences that cannot be replicated, out of the classroom work where I embody what I learn in the classroom, but most importantly I am passionate. I care about things outside my bubble. About a year or so ago I pushed myself out of my comfort zones; I began protesting circuses, I began writing publicly, I traveled to a third world country to help an orphanage, and I found my passion. I thrive off of traveling and changing lives. Through culture awareness and consideration of others we can see change and feel purpose. I am FULLY aware that not everyone has the opportunities to the luxury of travel or the abilities to travel third world, but it takes nothing more than an open mind and open arms to care about something more than yourself. Do not be afraid of coming off as caring too much or trying too hard because those are traits that should be valued. I can honestly tell you i have never felt a greater sense of purpose then when I was holding hands with orphans and building new play areas. When you step outside your comfort zone you step into a new world in which you can change yourself and others.
I want to change the world as I am sure others do as well but first focus on changing a life. Change your own by finding a passion and then follow that passion and you'll find your power to make change. Act despite critics or if someone tells you that you cannot make a difference as one person because the only person it takes is yourself. Knowing what you want is half the battle. No change is small nor is any life a life without room for help. Too often are we accustomed to poverty; no country in Africa needs to be associated with poverty, but we use that as our typical example of poverty and starvation because we allow it to be that way. Why don't we help the poor country so it can have children who don't need the leftovers on our dinner plates? It takes one person to stand up against a social normality. Whether your passion is academic, arts, social issues, or unknown, there is always a time to pursue and there is always a cause that needs you. Find your passion and be amazed by what comes following.
