Define Diversity In America

We define diversity as the means of having a variety of qualities in a particular setting. However, in a campus community, diversity is more than just merely having a variety of people. Colleges desire students of different backgrounds, stories, and experiences. The reason why this is a must for a community is that it gives us more of an understanding towards one another. We are all American but the roots of our heritage delve deeper than that. Even though I am born and raised in America, as a Vietnamese American I understand the importance of diversity. The culture and beliefs that my family brought from the old country have completely shaped who I am today. By having Americans who stem from different cultures, it gives people a window to …show more content…
I am the first generation born in America and to go to college, pursuing a degree. Getting a degree ensures me to find a job so I could help my current and future family financially. I intend on studying medicine while having music as a part of my life. However, other members of my family were not as fortunate as I. My cousin faced an extremely adverse situation. She wanted to go to college and graduate; unfortunately, she could not achieve this. During her sophomore year of high school, she underwent an immense amount of bullying that led to her dropping out of school. In order to feel accepted by her peers, she resorted to drinking and smoking. She regrets her choices from her past, wishes for others to learn from her mistakes and to not follow in her footsteps. Due to these happenstances, I became wary of who I surrounded myself with. I am careful with my actions, ensuring that I do not attract the kind of students that led to my cousin's downfall. These experiences have taught me many lessons and they motivate me to push forward in school. I always do my best to make myself and my family proud. Throughout my entire life, my parents have provided everything for me. I want to return the favor by attending