1) At the University of Maryland, we value a diverse community. How have your life experiences and background shaped you into an individual who will enrich the University of Maryland community?

As I stood on the balcony of my grandfather’s house in India, I watched the local students with interest as they walked back to their homes to enjoy a full course dinner with their families. Their uniforms were simple, their shoes neatly tied, and their faces lit with joy after one more day of gaining knowledge. The realization of the cultural, political, and religious diversity I have been lucky enough to see in my lifetime suddenly struck me. As I reflect back onto my travels to Africa, Europe, and Asia, I think about all the diversity I have seen, and how I have incorporated tolerance and respect for others into my life. Tolerance and respect for diversity are essential aspects for any student to live in the fast-paced and ever changing community at the University of Maryland.

Growing up, I balanced my life between the school work and social life of Western society, and the home life and traditions of Indian society. Through this harmony of both cultures, I have found that I have many hobbies and talents that would make me an asset to the diversity of the University of Maryland community.

When I entered my freshman year at Hereford High, not many boys sought to join my schools prestigious chamber choir. Stereotypes aside, I succeeded in gaining admission into the group and as time progressed, came to know my fellow choir members as family rather than peers. Surprisingly, our dependence on each other was more vital than I would have ever expected. Every person in this choir comes from a different background and a social class but we are all bound together by the music we practice. To achieve our goals of perfection, we had to practice constantly during both class time, and free time. The commitment we showed throughout the year paid off when a panel of judges awarded us the highest rating possible at the state competition. From this accomplishment I have learned that no matter which path I choose to pursue, I will be able to associate with any collection of people that I encounter.

If you were to ask me what I wanted to be when I was in middle school, I would have no clue. However, as the years progressed and I grew more mature, I became aware of my natural leadership and communication abilities. Not only was I voted Vice President of Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), but I was also awarded the illustrious Maryland Mock Trial Champion Award. These academically oriented societies prepare me for the public role I intend to play in college, and add to another spectrum of college which I expect to be a part of.

Throughout my life I have been in the company of a wide selection of people. Whether it be scholars from FBLA, musicians from chamber choir, future public figures from Mock Trial, or entrepreneurs from my work experience I have gained many valuable characteristics which would act as assets to the University of Maryland community.

VERY nice rewrite!! Congratulations!

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