The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language defines diverse as “differing one from another; made up of distinct characteristics, qualities, or elements.” Early in adulthood, I began to recognize and understand the diversity I experienced around and within me. Through my continuing exploration I also realize that diversity is less of a difference among people and more of uniqueness in the quality of a person.

I was born at Mercy Hospital in Miami to an Indian heritage. From a young age, I remember being influenced by two very distinct cultures. I have always lived in the United States, but I have been surrounded by aunts, uncles, and other relatives keeping me in touch with my Indian culture. Growing up in these two cultures has helped me find a deeper understanding of myself and the world around me.

As I transition further into adulthood, the greatest influences I see are in the values and strongly held principles that are reflected by the people of each of my cultures. I remember noticing when I visited my relatives in India that people value the more intangible needs of life. I witnessed that the struggle to live together and support each other as a family is more vital to life than living in luxury with material needs.As I transition further into adulthood, the greatest influences I see are in the values and strongly held principles that are reflected by the people of each of my cultures. I remember noticing when I visited my relatives in India that people value the more intangible needs of life. I witnessed that the struggle to live together and support each other as a family is more vital to life than living in luxury with material needs.

After my visits to India, I’ve noticed that in the U.S., there exists an inherent quality of freedom. Contrary to the traditionalist pressures of Indian society, in American culture, the individual is accepted within an open-minded environment. There is a freedom of expression and opportunity for individuals to grow that isn’t often evident in India. Americans are not afraid to be judged, and as a result of this liberty, there exists an atmosphere which encourages the personalities of individuals to flourish and expand.

The more intimate experience of the Indian culture makes evident the strong cultural value of respect. Elders in society are given respect as a way to honor their experience and wisdom. For instance, my family would never consider sending my grandparents to a nursing home. It is understood that it is the child’s responsibility to support parents in their old age as the parent did when the child was young and vulnerable.

As I develop my career goals, I have witnessed the significance and value of hard work in American culture. Americans believe that the qualities of consistency and determination help to achieve goals. This, above all else, does not exclude any person from the hope for a better future. I better understand the meaning of the American Dream, and believe that this distinctive and uplifting attitude in American culture is what continues to bring many immigrants to this country.

I am mirrored in both of these distinct and complex cultures. Though in the past I sometimes stumbled between the disparities of the two, the result was that I learned more about myself and became a better person in light of those differences. I have learned to balance my life and make my own choices, creating my own personality and character. I know as I continue to grow and learn, I will come to see myself through all the diverse people that impact me.

Atena Yunus is a second year Honors College student and biology major in the Honors College medical education program at Florida International University.