Undergraduate / Standing motionless at the white doorway, I stared at rows of unfamiliar faces; Purdue Uni [4]

Criticize as much as you can! The harsher the better.
I also want to find a way to casually incorporate the fact that I have played the piano for 11 years, but I don't know where it is appropriate. I am a poor writer, so PLEASE HELP! I thank you in advance! :D

***TOPIC:Some students have a background or story that is so central to their identity that they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

Standing motionless at the white doorway, I stared at rows of unfamiliar faces. As I scanned the room for any similarities to the rooms that I was accustomed to, disappointment washed over me. My heart beat vigorously in my chest, as I inhaled and took a step inside. Suddenly, an epiphany hit me. There is nothing disheartening about change. Rather, it's an opportunity that must be treasured.

At the age of six, I immigrated to Canada from China. The initial cultural shock had a huge impact on me. I had difficulties assimilating into a new culture, making new friends and even communicating. But unbeknownst to me at the time, this was a life changing experience that would help me grow in many ways.

Upon conquering my language challenge, I realized I also had to strengthen myself emotionally. My family moved four more times after arriving in Canada. After every relocating, I found myself pestered by nostalgia. I was prone to tearful outbursts when things didn't go smoothly because I believed myself to be better off staying where I was. However, I forced myself to discard this state of mind when I realized that the root cause was fear. I was scared of change. I feared it because I didn't like having to position myself in a place outside of my comfort zone. But little by little, I overcame the urge of wanting to live in the past. When I thought of all the new people I can encounter and all the new things I can learn, I never looked back again.

My ability to quickly adapt was put to the ultimate test when my family moved twice during the 2012-2013 school year. The latter was a cross-border move from Canada to the United States. This time around, I found myself smoothly transitioning into my new environment.

In retrospect, my diverse background allowed me to gain a grander perspective of my surroundings. Not only was I able to speak and write in three languages that include Chinese, French, and English, I also established long lasting friendships in multiple countries. I successfully integrated with the different cultures to create my own identity.

No matter what the circumstance, I am confident in my abilities to face the obstacles that await me. I know that embracing my challenges is the ultimate way to go, and I have never been more prepared.

Undergraduate / My first visit to New York City; University Of Illinois -Urbana champaign essay 1 [2]

Trip to New York City

My eyes widened in awe as I hungrily took in the sight around me. The majestic sky scrapers, the ever changing traffic lights and the way men and women walked with purpose immediately captured my heart. I was in love with Wall Street.

My first visit to New York City was six years ago, and ever since then, I knew I wanted to have a career in business. Nothing appealed more to me than to have a respectable and stable job that is always in demand. I knew that I had many options for my future career, but the problem was which one? It wasn't until my first year of high school that I became formally introduced to accounting. I took a business education course that gave its students a taste of the various job possibilities in the business world. Right away, I developed a keen interest in accounting. There was something about the demand of the job that was a thrill for me. I was neither the most meticulous student nor the most organized, but as I became more familiar with the procedures and concepts of accounting, everything felt natural.

After gaining further insights from my accountant aunt, I decided to set my objective on accounting. Even when she elaborated on the stressful and hectic aspects of this career I was unwavering in my decision. To further express my interest, I embraced anything that would prepare me for the stipulations of this major. I took as many courses as I could that displayed relevance to it. In my senior year, I took AP Statistics, Honors Calculus, as well as AP Economics.

My decision to choose accounting brought me a great sense of relief. I know without a doubt that I will be able to enjoy my future occupation. Needless to say, I will also be able to hold on to the hope of working on Wall Street one day.