I was raised in California and have been exposed to unusual people and places. The Bay Area, a place that portrays the epitome of eccentricity, is filled with nonconforming characters who explore the endless possibilities of their imagination. These individuals are of many different races, sexual preferences, religions, cultures, styles, prejudices, and intelligence quotients. Some are gay or lesbian couples who hold hands/kiss in public as they walk down the street. Others make unique fashion statements by dying their hair purple and pink, wearing pants and shirts with spikes hanging off of them, piercing their tongue, chin, cheek, both nostrils, and both eyebrows. I can always expect to see a homeless person asking, singing a song, telling a joke, or selling a homeless newspaper for money. There are always creative people doing artistic things for compensation such as tap dancing on wooden boards or spray painting their clothes in all silver and dancing like a robot. Some individuals are vocally or instrumentally talented and will perform for hours on the sidewalk for pay. Others will draw murals with colored chalk in the sidewalk's squares with the hope that passing pedestrians will "spare change." One can always buy innovatively made jewelry, hats, belts, clothes, artwork, and other uniquely constructed items from vendors on the street. Every city is characterized by something and everything from gay parades to homicides typifies the Bay Area where I have spent my life. It is a place where people can feel comfortable and free being whoever they are. .
I have been exposed to diversity in ways most people will never experience. This awareness will allow me to contribute an open-minded, experienced, and knowledgeable perspective of society's various kinds of people to Howard's student body. I am very serious and self-motivated to become informed in many areas of life and get the best college education possible.
