I come from a very conservative family; stubborn to their own beliefs. They believe in academic success over everything else, and there are a lot of times in which I feel as I am held back from what I want to do in life. And it's frustrating. But what's even worse are the five small words coming out of other people's mouths: "You're just not Asian enough."

What is that supposed to mean? What does not being Asian enough mean? What do you expect Asians to be like? I know what you might be picturing: a group of people all looking the same, burying themselves under piles of books expecting A's in everything and not enjoying the life that is placed before them. That may be true for some Asians, but that is not true for me. Ever since I was young, I believed in taking full advantage of the opportunities handed out to me, and that included having fun and finding myself.

When I walk to school, I feel as if I am being judged, based on my clothing, my looks, my actions, and mannerisms. Not only am I not a stereotypical Asian, in which I talk about academics every second, watch Korean Dramas, or hang out in large Asian groups, I am constantly being nicknamed as "the whitest Asian."

In certain aspects, it can be seen as a compliment, but in other aspects — especially from the views of my parents it is seen as a disgrace to the family. They believe in inclusion, that I blend in with my surroundings, and not stand out so much so that people can see the obvious differences.

My hair isn't silky smooth. In fact, it is wavy and really difficult to manage. I can't dance, nor can I tell you the digits of pie off the top of my head. I am not a professional with piano playing skills, and I am not an honor roll student throughout my school years. I don't watch Korean Dramas or gush about famous Asian reality TV show stars. I have Western beliefs, although I was born in China. I love rock and roll and even metal to calm my nerves.

I like rap and believe in an edgy taste in fashion. Looking at all this, everyone says that I am not "Asian enough." In certain terms, they are correct, that I don't seem like the stereotypical Asian that everyone wants me to be — but I am the Asian that I want myself to be.

In fact, I know the reason why people want me to be the stereotypical Asian. The stereotypical Asian girl helps people with their homework. The stereotypical Asian girl loves to dress cute and act "kawaii" to their fellow friends. The stereotypical Asian girl is easily bossed around and doesn't have ideas of her own. And last but not least, the stereotypical Asian girl is quiet-mouthed and doesn't like to speak up, so no one considers her a threat.

But I do not want this life. I don't want my own race to define myself. Instead, I want to be an exception. To show that just because you don't fit the stereotype, it does not mean that you aren't appreciated. It just shows that you are different, and that is totally okay.

So, to all of you out there who don't fit the stereotype and get insulted because of it, do not feel bad. That just means you're special. And being special is rare. Being different from everybody else just shows that you're human and you're not afraid to accept who you are, however extraordinary.

Embrace the unknown and stop caring what other people say. And if someone says to you "you're not _____ enough," stare them down, and say the words "I don't care" as loud as you possibly can.