My name is Kathy Pan. I might sound conceited, but I feel like my name is unique! I love my last name ‘Pan,’ and people always say my full name rolls right of their tongues compared to just my first name. My last name definitely helped me develop a sense of humor. It’s such a fun last name; I can always change it into a word. For example: Pancakes, Pancreas, Panda, and Frying Pan. Need I say more? I’ve heard every joke about my last name considering I grew up in all white schools and most children had last names such as ‘Smith’ or ‘Charles.’ I have a great sense of humor and I love when people tell me jokes. I grew up to a noisy household. I have a large family and every second of my house is filled with noise from babies crying to my dog barking. Therefore, my family is extremely important and I put my family before myself.  I’m shortest person most people know; I’m only five feet tall! I haven’t grown an inch since freshman year of high school. It doesn’t faze me though; I’m not ashamed of my height.

I was born in Manhattan, raised in Brooklyn, and now I live in Staten Island. Your probably thinking, “Staten Island… Really? I didn’t even know it existed until ‘Jersey Shore.’” Well, it does exist and it’s a great place. The neighborhoods are peaceful and it definitely played a major part in my development as a strong young woman. I went to Susan E. Wagner High School and I’m proud to call it my second home. The school looks run down but it was extremely welcoming. Unfortunately, Baruch College doesn’t produce the same atmosphere that illuminated Wagner. College is much more independent compared to my family like high school. One of my main concerns is my ability to meet new people. I’m sure every student at Baruch have brilliant personalities; unfortunately, I only developed friendships with students within my freshman seminar.  I’m generally a social person, however, I don’t know where to start in the process of meeting new people. Another one of my concerns is whether or not I would be able to balance my job and school. I need my job in order to pay for transportation, books, and food; however, I found myself dozing off a few times. I’m working on the proper balance between the two! My biggest concern is definitely my ability to wake up everyday for school! I’m sure I’m not the only student with this concern. I’m glad I get out of class twice as early compared to most of my friends, but it’s so tragic that I have to wake up twice as early!

Hopefully, I will be able to develop better sleeping and studying habits! I am hoping my first year of college doesn’t impact my weight like most college students! Let’s hope for the best and thank goodness Baruch has a gym!