Undergraduate / 'picked the wrong school for the wrong reasons' - Boulder Essay: Transferring [4]

Prompt: Discuss any events or special circumstances that have affected your academic record, as well as any adversities you have overcome. (250 words max)

My freshmen year of college was a huge disappointment. I remember feeling so accomplished after my high school graduation ceremony. I completed what felt like the longest four years of my life, was recruited by my top choice college to play soccer, and would be playing on an academic scholarship.

I quickly realized I picked the wrong school for the wrong reasons. Cultural diversity was scarce and I was begging for people to understand me and my opinions. Ignorance and racial tension ran high in the large Midwestern city (Aurora, IL).

From being called a Jap and the N-word, it was baffling to me how people could be so ignorant and oblivious to how offensive it was. I couldn't understand how people could be so misinformed and unaware. I became angry all the time; angry at myself for picking such a place to attend college, angry at my parents for not talking me out of it, and angry at the ignorance of people.

My first season as college athlete was a complete failure. I suffered from a case of mono and sat out almost the whole season. Depression soon took the place of anger and I found myself sleeping more and working less. Eating maybe once every other day and sleeping for days at a time became normal. My motivation disappeared and I felt like nothing mattered anymore.

(228 words)

I know I'll probably have to take some out, and I need get started on a good conclusion. Critisicm is welcomed please! be harsh if you need to. I just want to make sure it is a good essay. My biggest concern is that I don't want it to sound like I am asking for sympathy or pity. Comment, comment, comment, comment please!!!!