Never Ending Adventure by Taiya

Never Ending Adventure by Taiya - December 2016 Scholarship Essay

My determination to explore the world and experience different cultures presented me the opportunity of a lifetime. This past summer, I studied abroad in the Dominican Republic. In the Dominican Republic, most children are neglected in their homes and schools because of the effect of poverty on the population. Using the basis of service and leadership, this trip would inspire young children to fight through the conditions in which they live. After the long process of applying to a rigorous program that required multiple essays, recommendations, and what seemed like a million steps before I clicked ‘submit’: the hard work had finally paid off. I remember opening my email and seeing the gigantic words “CONGRATULATIONS TAIYA”, and that was enough for me to scream my lungs out, so much that my mother panicked. I was soon about to live, what seemed like, a dream. “ Pinch me!”
Growing up in many diverse environments, I was always curious about the cultures outside of my own. I can recall most of my childhood and teen years where my mother would explain the correct terms on how to address people that did not look like me. For example, she told me about the different cultures within the Hispanic community. At a young age, I would not always understand; however, with the constant reminders from my family and exposure to diversity, I became very aware of different cultures.
Just weeks before my departure to the Dominican Republic, I reflected upon those times where my mother would tell me what to do in situations. I slowly became more anxious the closer I came to leaving, in fear that I would not adjust well. Despite being unfamiliar with the language and unique customs, I knew that it would take a great deal of perseverance and determination to overcome foreign situations, all qualities I knew I possessed.
Besides my overweight suitcases, which had things I thought I needed; luggage wasn’t the only thing crossing the border. This experience was not something I would have the opportunity to share with my mom or my family, this was just me. This transition was life changing because it confirmed my independence. There would be no one near to tell me to do this or that. It was a test of everything I have ever learned in its’ rawest form. Surprisingly, I was not scared, I was ready.
Being in another country was the greatest experience of my life. I learned so many new values and traditions. Living within the community, and amongst so many people was such a beautiful thing to see. I remember waking up to the roosters calling on our porch, women and men dancing in the streets on Sunday nights, and the delicious taste of fried plantain and potatoes made by my host mother. Each encounter was a moment that I will savor for the rest of my life. I was not in another country as a “kid” but as an adult. I was not an adult because I had not met the age requirement, but because I carried myself as one. I used every quality I learned throughout my life and applied that to my surroundings.
In college, it is a new world. One in which I am ready to uncover, because I can and will do whatever I put my mind to. I am confident I will struggle less in my transition to college because of this experience. This experience was a stepping stone to the abilities and characteristics I learned about myself which I hope to further explore in college. My knowledge and experiences will be a great contribution to my peers. I hope to continue exploring the world throughout college, inspiring the people around me.