Undergraduate / I come from a world of fantasy - The World that inspired me is the Anime World. [7]

Prompt: Describe the world you come from - for example, your family, community or school - and tell us how your world has shaped your dreams and aspirations. 250-500 words.

For UC application

I come from a world of fantasy, a world where supernatural phenomenons are rampant. Yet I also come from a world of reality, a world where lessons of life are beautifully painted into a brief 20 minutes. I come from a world of conflict, a world where courage and resolution are put to the test. I also come from a world of peace, a world where friendship and love brings us together. I come from a world of the future, a place where science booms and robots and flying cars are common sights. I also come from the past, a world where history leaves it's unremovable marks on mankind. I come from a limitless world, the world of anime, a place where one's imaginations surge wildly.

As I watch my favorite shows, my mind immerses itself into the world, and all the stresses of daily life fade away. This fantasy world isn't a place for me to escape reality, in fact it teaches me the truths of reality. By tightly intertwining them closely together, audiences not only enjoy stunning artworks and captivating storylines, but also moral lessons of friendship, passion, and self-expression. In this world, anything I desire can become reality, from experiencing youthful love to becoming a pilot of the robot I've always dreamed about. In this world, I learn that I can be whatever I want to be. I realize that as long as my passion exists, as long as I have my motivation, anything can become reality. It is the fact that the world of anime is so wide, so limitless, that I am able to let myself run free.

When I was 7 years old I was instantly intrigued by the protagonist of "Astro Boy". Watching him fighting the bad guys with an arsenal of weaponry, and becoming the symbol of friendship and justice of Metro City, I was captivated. That became the budding of my love for robots. Science fiction suddenly became my favorite genre, from books I read to shows I watch. The ideas that are depicted in the stories stem from the deepest wishes of the writer's mind. When I see them in motion, I can't help but think of the possibilities that lie beyond. Later on, I was also introduced to the popular "Gundam" franchise. Like with Astro Boy, I became interested by the show's depictions of giant, humanoid robots, piloted by people sitting inside them. As the pilots battle to protect their families, home country, and values, their strong burning passions remind me of why I developed a love for robot. I think to myself, "When I grow up, I will definitely create a giant robot like that Gundam!" I still remember when Honda released its models of the Asimo line humanoid robots. I couldn't contain my excitement as I replayed the demonstration video over and over, while in my head ran the thought, "Maybe it could become a reality!" Although I did not realize at the time, engineer became my career goal since the age of 10.

I am often mocked, even criticized by peers for being so passionate about my anime world. However, I am not disheartened. My passion has not dwindled. Every time I return to this world, I am constantly reminded that as long as my dreams and enthusiasms exist, I will be able to achieve them.