Essay A (required, maximum 500 words)
The University of Colorado Boulder's Flagship 2030 strategic plan promotes exceptional teaching, research, scholarship, creative works, and service distinguishing us as a premier university. We strive to foster a diverse and inclusive community for all that engages each member in opportunities for academic excellence, leadership, and a deeper understanding of the world in which we live. Given the statement above, how do you think you could enrich our diverse and inclusive community, and what are your hopes for your college experience?
Think back to late August, 1999. It's the first day of preschool, all of the kids are figuring out who everyone is through their half English-half kid language. But if you look further into the room, sitting by herself at desk is a confused little girl. Not because she's shy, but because she doesn't understand. There's a barrier between her, and the rest of the room. Not only does she look different, but she sounds different as well. This is the child of a single parent who emigrated here from Italy. Speaking fluent Italian and being of African descent were things I never would have thought to curse me. But right then and there in that classroom, they did. I was the outsider, and I would have done anything to fit in.
You ask me how I can enrich the diversity and inclusiveness of the CU Boulder community. The very next day I tore off the bandage that hid the real me, and I went for it. I turned to a fellow classmate and said "Hi, I'm Milli." In the little accented English that I knew. From that day forward there was no going back. Growing up I had been the out-going, fun, energetic girl. Having to learn the English language helped me with this, because it gave me a chance to laugh at myself a bit when others couldn't comprehend what I was trying to say. It taught me to not be so concerned about what others thought. As I've grown older I realize that in a way, the whole not caring what others think idea has helped me to fit in. I believe this kind of personality has caused others to be more accepting.
Coming to America at a young age and trying to overcome my obstacles have helped me gain an understanding of what's it's like to be in the stereotypical definition of diverse. Fortunately I've seen diversity from both sides, and have formed my own views and opinions of it. Diversity is what you make of it, not what others make of you. My story is the bandage I ripped off on the second day of preschool. Although it left behind a scar, it reminds me of where I've been but it doesn't have to dictate where I'm going.
If you turn to the table of contents in this story simply titled, "Who is Milli?" you see the upcoming chapter is about the anticipations and hopes that come with college. I want to better myself as a student, so I assist in bettering the community as a whole. If you look at me solely on paper I may not seem to be a top candidate, but through these experiences I bring a unique outlook to the CU Campus which plays a part in creating a diverse, dynamic incoming class.
Feel free to help, this is due tomorrow and I was reluctant to post it on here, because I didn't know if I was even going to apply! The "closing" is my worse I feel because I don't tie it all in together well.
