For the most part, I can say that my life has been very sheltered. My parents have provided everything I’ve ever needed for me. Even so, every child must grow up and face the world. At eighteen years old, I have only made a few steps outside of the safe haven my parents have provided. The first step occurred when I was given a student Metrocard after my family had moved to Brooklyn. Because I refused to transfer schools, I had to ride the subway for forty minutes to get to school by myself. On the first day I rode the train to school, I did not get off on the right stop to transfer. Luckily, I was able to figure out what had gone wrong. I was able to correct my mistake and go off on my way. When my parents realized that I could do certain things by myself without them, they began to let me go more places without them. I was even able to stay out later than I had before. I cannot say that I am truly independent because I still need my parents. I also cannot say that I took the first few steps voluntarily because the circumstances at the time had forced me to. All I know is that the push from my parents has helped me a great deal by instilling the values of responsibility.
As I adjust into college life, I hope to find out what it is that I am passionate about. It is difficult for me to find motivation in doing work because I do not care about what my task is, just that I complete it on time. My willingness to complete tasks fluctuates, but occasionally, there is a spark of inspiration. I want to find something I can care about, something I will not tire of. This is not something that can be guaranteed in my first semester, but it is my primary goal.