Coming from a city of 10 million people, the small town of Fayetteville offered a refreshing contrast. It enabled me to appreciate the different lifestyles and treasure the unique southern hospitality.
Knowing a total of zero people coming in, I was pushed out of my comfort zone to befriend all these new faces: an unprecedented yet extremely rewarding experience. At the U of A, I have had the privilege of meeting people from all over the world. Being a part of a community with such diverse religious beliefs, cultures, and perceptions of the world, I have learned so much. It has broadened my horizons and cleared so many misconceptions, thus making me more informed. Similarly, it has given me the opportunity to be an accurate representative of my country: free from media bias and pre-conceived notions. This gathering of people from various background has helped me and the people I interact in becoming cosmopolites. I have grown to be grateful of our similarities, but also, appreciative of our differences. It would be boring if all of us were the same wouldn’t it?
Furthermore, The U of A has provided me with the necessary tools to excel not only in my major, but also enhance skills outside of it. The E-Class learning support center here offers excellent writing support as well as tutoring of almost any subject. I was initially hesitant of using such a resource, but the people turned out to be so encouraging and offered constructive feedback. I was also able to take a Marksmanship class where I learned about gun safety as well as the responsibilities that come with it. Having little prior experience with tools, I was able to enroll in a welding class where I learned to perform all kinds of welds: basic as well as advanced.
This unique atmosphere at the U of A to get involved in diversifying yourself is something I admire and has impacted me immensely. It has made me more well-rounded as a person: capable of thinking critically and not afraid to speak out. The tight knit community here has made me feel truly welcomed and my time spent here is something I’ll cherish forever.
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