College Admissions Essay: My Life In The Country Of Iraq

My life changed forever at the age of nine in the country of Iraq. I learned our house was being threatened to be bombed and we had to leave immediately. I was strangled with grief, anguish, and uncertainty. These defining challenges have been forever etched on my heart and mind. This pivotal night has been responsible in shaping me into the person I am today and altering the trajectory of my education. After fleeing Iraq, we relocated in Jordan where we lived for four years before finally being relocated in the United States. While we were in Jordan, there was a period of three months where I was unable to go to school because we were waiting on immersion information from the United Nations. My biggest hurdle was learning the English language and adapting culturally while starting high school. I was immersed into a poorly rated school where I not only had to worry about communicating effectively with my teachers, but also achieving my goals academically. Adapting to a new school system where I struggled with social acceptance was also very emotionally challenging. All of these factors contributed to a tough adjustment.

Now that I have stability and clarity in my life, I am able to see what direction I would like my life to take. In the Iraqi culture, there is a continuous parental push for children to pursue careers in the medical field.

I can accomplish many things and that my future is bright as long as I continue to be resolute. My tenacity has been the driving force of my determination and success. I plan to fund my college education through scholarships, Federal Student Aid, and work study. My open mindedness and ambition have given me the ability to not be bitter about the past. All the difficulties, challenges, and suffering have made me a stronger, determined individual. It is with this determination I will not only survive, but be