Please critique and comment. I wrote this fairly quick so I don't think it is very good.
Describe an experience of cultural difference or insensitivity you have had or observed. What did you learn from it? (250 words)
"Today's topic is race and culture at school," the teacher announced. Sitting in a circle, surrounded by those of different cultures and skin colors, each student shared their perspective on the matter. There was no criticism or disrespectfulness, until a boy bluntly commented, "I think my culture is better than everyone else." Staring at this individual across from me, I pondered at how anyone can think of such thing. I could not understand how this individual, who shares the same cultural background as me, could think so differently. From the comment, a debate began among the students.
Statistics, stereotypes, and personal opinions were tossed into the debate. The atmosphere and the conversations made me feel incredibly uncomfortable, yet I was able to gain great insights into other cultures. The differences that risen brought me closer to understanding others and appreciate the differences between us. My efforts and the efforts whole class were eventually able to change the boy's mind, but from this experience every one of us learned something valuable.
This experience broadened my horizon. I learned that each of us is different and that I should not assume anything about anyone. From the conversations, I am more open minded to other cultures and gained an appreciation for the differences that makes up every individual. The most important lesson that day was that if enough effort is put into a matter, I can make a change occur, not just to the opinion of a boy, but to the world and the people around me.
Describe an experience of cultural difference or insensitivity you have had or observed. What did you learn from it? (250 words)
"Today's topic is race and culture at school," the teacher announced. Sitting in a circle, surrounded by those of different cultures and skin colors, each student shared their perspective on the matter. There was no criticism or disrespectfulness, until a boy bluntly commented, "I think my culture is better than everyone else." Staring at this individual across from me, I pondered at how anyone can think of such thing. I could not understand how this individual, who shares the same cultural background as me, could think so differently. From the comment, a debate began among the students.
Statistics, stereotypes, and personal opinions were tossed into the debate. The atmosphere and the conversations made me feel incredibly uncomfortable, yet I was able to gain great insights into other cultures. The differences that risen brought me closer to understanding others and appreciate the differences between us. My efforts and the efforts whole class were eventually able to change the boy's mind, but from this experience every one of us learned something valuable.
This experience broadened my horizon. I learned that each of us is different and that I should not assume anything about anyone. From the conversations, I am more open minded to other cultures and gained an appreciation for the differences that makes up every individual. The most important lesson that day was that if enough effort is put into a matter, I can make a change occur, not just to the opinion of a boy, but to the world and the people around me.