Caroline
Wojtas
Family
stands as the strongest connection between humans. Each individual comes from a
unique cultural background with a specific history which in turn influences his
or her character. I am a first generation Polish-American born in the USA, yet
the journey over commenced decades ago. My great-grandfather arrived at Ellis Island
and worked vigorously for years to return to Poland and provide for his family.
Upon my recent visit to the home country, my father showed me all the land that
my great-grandfather purchased. My emotions swam with shock and awe as my
vision was filled with warm green grasses covering rolling hills, against a
pale blue sky. I decided to leave my own mark on this earth as well. Freshmen
and sophomore years went well, but junior year I vied for something more. With
hard work came satisfaction, and I finally attained high academic honors. My first
award onto principal’s list came junior year, and from then on I never looked
back. With my family support, I began establishing
my character in various ways such as forming a first-ever paddle boarding club
at my high school and becoming involved
at the local hospital. These fresh experiences opened new opportunities for
self-discovery, building my passion to aid others and my community. When one
desires to fulfill a dream, hard work always follows suit. But I find that
along the journey, the obstacles or mistakes I encounter actually prepare me
more than anything else. Throughout history, the Polish remain consistent
workers and humble peoples. I strive to continue these aspects of my family
tradition, yet at the same time form my own path by pursuing a medical career
track and eventually becoming a doctor to aid my community and to those in
third-world countries. More importantly, I wish to remind people around me and
at the university to take pride in their unique cultural background. Although
no family unit claims perfection, each one subtly influences the characters of
the next generation. I never take lightly the amazing virtues that my culture
has instilled in me, such as an unfailing work ethic and patience. Regardless
of one’s race, background, or family history, each individual possesses the
power to create change in the universe. Reflecting on this hopeful notion, I
strive to do exactly that.