So It Begins!

            Moving to New Orleans from a suburban area of southern California has surpassed my every expectation. Upon arrival, a stranger kindly helped with my luggage that, in their entirety, weighed more than me! Thus far, his friendly mannerisms appear to be reflected in the majority of the locals here, which is foreign yet awesome. I love that I can walk down a street and be greeted multiple times, or strike up conversations at checkout lines. Prior to moving here, I had been prepared to be overwhelmed by this large metropolitan city, ready to be lost amongst the hordes. However, the mingling of undeniable city vibes with the warmth and familiarity of a small town is just one of the many reasons that NOLA has me in its thrall.

            Attending school in this vibrant city is such a privilege, but I definitely underwent a transitional period. As expected, the lecture material is denser than I am accustomed to, and the sheer quantity of information we must master is just short of inundating. For the first block exams, I devoted myself to pre-class readings and post-lecture reviews. However, I was disappointed that my score did not accurately reflect my understanding. Thus, I am learning to study more efficiently, to focus on the overall implications rather than succumbing to impedance by minute details. This is now the driving force behind my pursuit of betterment.

            I have yet to begin community service, but I can hardly wait! As an immigrant, community service was the venue through which I established my place in California. Now I would like to do the same here in New Orleans. Given my passion for education and the desire to perpetuate a love of learning, I have decided to spend time with SciHigh this year, hopefully tutoring a science-related subject.

            Though this year has just begun, it promises to be filled with all sorts of adventures that I am really looking forward to! I am so glad to be living in Deming Pavilion, not only for its convenience but for the friendships I have already formed with fellow residents. Maybe our bonds were reinforced by our proximity, but I already cannot envision this year without them. Our different backgrounds, habits and preferences are well balanced, our strengths and weaknesses complementary. I feel unbelievably fortunate for the opportunity to learn from this incredible group of individuals and to explore this unique city with them!