Identity is perhaps the key foundation of humanity. Such a statement sounds insane or rather too large to be single handedly called out as such; yet, I strongly belief that identity is indeed what makes up the core of human beliefs and values. Identity allows us to connect with other and find common ground with people who share a similar one, all while learning from those who are distinct.
From the moment I began packing for my freshmen year of college I realized that my identity made me interact with the world a little differently than others. As a Hispanic female, I feel that I perceive the world around me in a very different manner than most people I know; often I compared my own experiences to those I have witnessed in Colombia, or frequently remember that even studying is a privilege that so many people are not able to have. My Latin upbringing inspired me to accept different cultures for the best. To learn from different types of societies and communities, savoring every aspect that made them unique. I have also witnessed, due to my identity, the sacrifice and hard work that is produced within Hispanic communities. With this engraved deeply inside my brain, I have begun to realize the similarities and differences between the country I will be studying in, Rome, and the country in which my parents are from—Colombia.
I think that my own identity serves as a way to close the gap between unfamiliarity and comfort. I like to feel the human embrace that is often experienced when one fully clasps a city emotionally. The idea of buying fresh fruits and vegetables at the Roman market fascinates me. The deep appreciation for hardworking citizens and people who truly love their country makes me connect with a place that I have yet not been to but yearn to feel and understand. In addition to this is my identity as a young student, someone hungry for knowledge and experience makes me want to explore and open my mind to learning about every corner, every building, and every artwork produced.
Often in Colombia I see how many students struggle with financial burdens and often have to work rather than be able to enroll in their studies. This causes me to further appreciate and truly breathe in every moment of wisdom and experience that I feel and see. As I have seen what it is like to have to work rather than study despite the desire to do the latter, I am constantly grateful and happy to have the opportunity to not only devote myself to my studies, but also to do so in a country full of so much history, culture, and identity. In my host country I hope to learn from locals and live just like one! I want to exchange with Rome so much more than just the basic tourist attractions, I want to learn about its society and government. I want to partake in activities and cultural events, and I believe that my identity as a student and member of the Latin community is what prompts me to jump on every opportunity available, while ensuring that I am able to enjoy and value experiences and foreign culture, food, customs, and values.