Introduction to Honors

I began to explore my cultural background seriously during my Introductory Honors course. Until then, I had a decent understanding of my cultural background being a multicultural student, but I did not have a very in-depth understanding of it. In other words, I acknowledged my multiculturalism, but did not understand the implications. An assignment in class had us use different words to describe ourselves. I recall drawing a rectangle and writing “unique” across the top. I admit that there is a sense of uniqueness to everyone, but in the context in which I saw it I felt as if I was the only individual to ever experience the struggles and hardship of being a multicultural individual. I realized this was not the case. We explored the stories and backgrounds of other multicultural individuals, even some in our own local community (Knowledge and Understanding Level 1). This also prompted us to learn more about our own cultural background. For the first time I could understand the conflicts and blessings that stirred within me. I recalled in one assignment the moment my “inner voice” shifted from Spanish to English (Communication Level 1).. This seemingly insignificant detail is indicative of much more. For me, it symbolizes the ways in which I adapted from the predominant culture of my parents to my own (Self-Awareness Level 1). I still felt as if I was at an impasse, never fully here nor there, but for once I began to accept the differing cultural fabric of my composition. This newfound awareness prompted me to search deeper and look further. My passion for diversity grew out of self-awareness and understanding, and this course was an instrumental part of my journey.