Group 1
My name is Ilana Carmili and I am from Great Neck, New York. I come from a Jewish Persian background, which I take great pride in. Both my parents are from Iran, making me a first generation American. I attended Jewish schools my whole life, which have been really helpful in forming my strong religious and moral beliefs, and have helped shaped the person I am today. Being in such a great, supportive environment with efficient guidance helped me decide what kind life I want to lead. Just as my religion has shaped who I am, my Persian background has provided me with a great sense of community and culture. It has allowed me to appreciate all the various cultures and traditions that exist around me, which came in handy when entering Baruch’s extremely diverse student body.
Transitioning from high school to college has been a bit rocky, but nothing I didn’t expect. The first semester of college is known to be very stressful and, at times, a bit overwhelming. When my days don’t go as planned, I try my best to keep calm and remind myself that this is all just part of the adjustment.
My goals for my first semester are to develop new friendships, build up my GPA, and discover all the resources and opportunities that Baruch has to offer. I hope that by the time I graduate, I will be a better version of me, with more knowledge, passion, and drive. Being in the honors program has definitely helped me get off to a good start, and I am looking forward to spending the next four years with this tremendous group of students and faculty.
I look forward to getting to know you throughout our time in class together! I think I should really learn from you and try to keep calm when my day doesn’t go as plan, because sometimes I just can’t. It was very interesting reading about how your background has shaped you into becoming who you are now.
Ilana,
I really enjoyed reading about your strong sense of identity and pride. I personally wish that I had a stronger sense of self, and find your clarity to be inspiring. Hopefully you can use your strong moral compass to help you succeed here at Baruch, I know you’re on a great path!
It’s awesome that you’re so connected to your roots and culture. I’m also a first generation American. The sense of determination that you have will take you a long way so stay focused and you’ll do great in college.
Great post. It’s great that you have a strong sense of connection with your parents and culture. I think its great you can stay calm during times when things aren’t going your way. I think I should follow a similar approach. My goals for first semester are similar to yours, hopefully we both achieve them.