this is what I have so far for my Rutgers essay:
Diversity can be defined as people coming together from all races, religions, sexual orientations, and ethnicities to form a group, organization, or community. A diverse community is one that accepts and values the differences in people. Rutgers University is home to students from all over the world with many different backgrounds, attitudes and skills. I believe I can benefit, as well as contribute to Rutgers University's diverse community.
June of 2012, I was an ambassador at the Hugh O'Brian Youth leadership conference or HOBY, at Monmouth University for 3 days. HOBY was an empowering, life changing seminar targeting students who show leadership potential. One student per high school was sponsored and sent to live at Monmouth University for a long weekend. Every minute of every day was planned. Ambassadors were assigned roommates and dormitories. The days of the workshop had themes such as volunteerism, personal growth, and leadership. Speakers from all over the world gave lectures on their HOBY experience.
Before I went to HOBY, I was a self-conscious, rarely spoke to anyone I didn't know, and didn't enjoy being the center of attention. At HOBY, being self-conscious and shy was not an option. The counselors at HOBY had all the ambassadors participate in activities such as silly dances, and cheers that pushed all of us out of our comfort zone.
The first day, I didn't enjoy my experience but by the last day, I didn't want to leave the seminar. In the three days I spent at HOBY I had become a completely different girl. In her place, is an outgoing, confident, intelligent girl who loves learning and wanted to make the biggest impact she can.
My experience at HOBY inspired me to give back to my community and plan a diaper drive that was held at my high school. I had faced many obstacles while planning the diaper drive such as, advertising my efforts, and obtaining donations. Despite the disappointing turnout I decided to preserve. Over 400 boxes of diapers donated after month long diaper drive concluded.
