Personal Statement
When I moved to the United States, I faced a number of challenges, ranging from learning English to adjusting to the new culture. It was difficult for me to express myself and communicate with my classmates and teachers. It was also challenging for me to keep up with the cultural values in my new environment. This experience affected my self esteem as I felt isolated and out of place. Nonetheless, I had a clear sense of identity, purpose and direction. I had come to the United States to pursue the creative and inquiring education that is available in this part of the world. I believed that there was room for my personal development and nothing could put me down. I made up my mind to pursue my dream and accomplish my goals.
I enrolled in language classes where I was able to improve my English tremendously. It became easier for me to communicate with my classmates and comprehend the information that my teachers passed across in class. My personality made it easy for me to make friends and share my experiences with them. By so doing, they were able to support and advice me accordingly. This experience enabled me to appreciate the value of resilience, persistence and determination. I would have easily given up but I decided to keep chasing my dreams. This paid off eventually as I was able to overcome the challenges that I faced. My experience as a foreign student is particularly important to me because it helped me to learn to appreciate cultural diversity, friendships and open mindedness.
My determination and diligence in school, coupled with the support I receive from my teachers has enabled me to excel in my studies, maintaining outstanding grades throughout the past two years in college. Furthermore, my passion for business from an early age has enabled me to develop a critical thinking ability as well as analytical skills. I am a hard working, resilient and optimistic individual. I have great organizational and multitasking skills; at one time I was able to handle two jobs, four examinations and two outside activities all in a single week. I also have excellent time management skills; the old saying that “time is money” is my motto when it comes to managing time. I put down a schedule every night for the following day. I even schedule my leisure time so that I have adequate time to relax, meet with friends and re-energize myself especially after working hard all week. I am also an active member of the international student club and I am talented in athletics, basketball and Chinese chess which I enjoy playing in my free time.
I care a lot about the plight of the less fortunate people. Back in Hong Kong, I volunteered to work in homes for the elderly. I also volunteered to sell sticker flags which were some kind of donation for a non-profit company. I have also organized a donation for a small group when China experienced an earthquake at Sichuan. These achievements make me extremely proud because I was able to make a difference in people’s lives. My ultimate desire is to make the world a better place. Helping people and contributing positively to the society gives me a sense of fulfillment.
