Coming from a small town in Bosnia and Herzegovina, I never felt like I had the opportunity and room to fully express my beliefs and become the best version of myself. Going to UWC helped me understand and meet some parts of myself I never knew were there. To learn about the differences between us and how they help us grow into unique characters. I discovered how our differences make us feel more connected to each other rather than our similarities. It is because our differences represent us. They create one-of-a-kind pictures of ourselves that make others want to learn more about us.
I connect my UWC experience to the sense of belonging and feeling of home. Life in a community of 200 different, new people might seem to be overwhelming and sometimes challenging. However, we learned how to understand each other and work together as one with time.
My generation went through thick and thin. We experienced some things no one ever expected when coming. No one ever imagined spending months in lockdowns or leaving everything and everyone suddenly overnight. However, all of it again brought us all closer to each other. That sense of community is what brought hope and made us overcome all the difficulties. Two years in UWC taught me to learn how to make the best out of the situation, to enjoy and appreciate every moment I spend with people around me. That, even without realizing it at the moment, people around you have a significant impact on your life and growth.
I recognized the similarities between UWC and Lewis & Clark when it comes to beliefs and goals. That is what made me apply to this college. As a student at Lewis & Clark College, I believe I will have the opportunity to join a friendly and respectable community. I am beyond excited to meet new people and start this new chapter of my life.
I can’t say that I’m a very indecisive person, but I like to keep my options open. I am interested in social sciences such as Economics but I plan on exploring more before deciding what to study. On the other hand, I consider myself to be a person with a creative spirit. I have been playing the flute for ten years now and art represents an essential part of my life. Therefore, I hope for opportunities to work and develop in that aspect of my life as well.
I strive to be the best version of myself by applying my values, knowledge, and experience throughout my entire life. Changing the world with more intercultural understanding and taking mutual responsibility and respect are the goals I hope to achieve. I believe that becoming a part of the Lewis & Clark community would allow me to grow as a person and help me come one step closer to my goals in life.