Undergraduate / Shy, curious, analytical - UBC Personal - Tell us about who you are. [4]

Tell us about who you are.

How would your family, friends, and/or members of your community describe you? If possible, please include something about yourself that you are most proud of and why. (maximum 250 words)

From a young age, I had always been curious, analytical, but also shy. As a child, I would always have questions racing through my mind; however, I would always be too afraid to raise my hand or ask the teacher for help in fear of being reprimanded. This fear worsened to the point that I constantly felt trapped and unable to progress, both academically and socially. In grade 8, I was pulled aside after I did poorly on a test; my teacher sternly told me that I needed to ask for help if there was something that I did not understand. This incident led me to the realization that I had to do something about my social anxiety, that I needed to overcome it, otherwise, I would never be able to improve. From that day forward, whenever I struggled with content that was being taught, I would suck up the courage and ask teachers for clarification, which led to my grades significantly improving. Another thing that helped me most when overcoming my anxiety was reaching out to my friends. Although I had few, the ones that I did reach out to, were all extremely supportive. They would help me when I struggled, as well as introduce me to their friends, which allowed me to create meaningful connections throughout the years. Although I am still shy, I am extremely proud of overcoming my social anxiety, as well as how I constantly strive to improve.

I just finished writing this draft. Any feedback or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you :)