The sound of gunshots and distant explosions disrupted my sleep. It was already a week that the started happening. The people were not happy, the government had recently passed a tax reform that as always benefited the rich and cruelly taxed the less advantaged, and riots erupted throughout the main street and center of Cali, the city I was raised in. Going out for groceries felt like a mission, dodging loose debris and clouds of tear gas deployed by the authorities. The fact that the global pandemic of COVID-19 was still at its peak did not help with the grim ambience the city had become. The situation seemed like it could only get worse, but I guess it was something I had to sadly get used to.
The protests weren’t just confined to the streets; social media platforms buzzed with calls for justice and demands for systemic change. Citizens organized online petitions and virtual town halls, amplifying their voices in the digital sphere. The tension was palpable, with each passing day bringing new challenges and uncertainties. Additionally, reports of police brutality and arbitrary arrests and unjust killings further fueled the anger of the populace, deepening the divide between the government and its citizens. Despite the turmoil, grassroots initiatives emerged, with community-led efforts to provide aid and support to those most affected by the unrest and economic hardship. And the protests served as a catalyst for broader discussions on the intersectionality of social, economic, and environmental issues, highlighting the urgency of adopting integrated approaches to building a more just and sustainable society. Amidst the chaos and despair, there lingered a glimmer of hope — a collective resilience and determination to fight for a better future, no matter the obstacles. This made me ponder how even in the most adverse circumstances, and how even in the grimmest of situations, the human innate desire to overcome adversities weighed more than anything else.
Although, not everything was turmoil and confusion, From very little, my days were spent in nature’s wonder, enjoying every moment of my childhood. Even now I can still feel the same heat of the burning sun everytime I go outside my house, and the sweet aroma of coffee that surrounded my house every morning. After finishing my secondary education, and while the joyous elements persisted, the social unrest and violence were slowly taking over my beloved country, and as I matured with the years, and gained a little more social and political awareness, the idea of pursuing a future in Colombia seemed each day more impossible.
The opportunity to come to the United States arose out of the blue, among all these challenges, a flicker of hope emerged—a family friend, a beacon of support, extended a helping hand for me, providing me with the opportunity to chart a new course in the United States. My dream come true. As the months passed, my excitement was eagerly growing. However, I was filled with uncertainty, as this journey had to be accomplished by myself, due to the fact that my parents couldn’t travel with me.
My first experience with classes in the US was just as exciting as it was daunting. Stepping into the unfamiliar environment of an American classroom, I was greeted by a diverse array of faces and voices, each representing a unique story and background. The educational system, with its emphasis on interactive learning and critical thinking, was a stark departure from what I was accustomed to back home. Despite the initial challenges of adapting to a new academic environment and especially grappling with the nuances of a different language, I was determined to seize the opportunity to broaden my horizons and pursue my academic goals with fervor. As the days turned into weeks, I found myself gradually acclimating to the rigors of American education, fueled by a newfound sense of resilience and a relentless pursuit of knowledge.
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I believe that my roots in Colombia laid the foundation for a narrative of resilience and determination. The city, shadowed by economic struggles and constrained opportunities, instilled in me an early awareness of the delicate balance between human existence and environmental harmony. The transition to the United States marked the beginning of a new chapter, not just in my personal story but in my understanding of sustainability. The external landscape presented its own set of hurdles, particularly the need to navigate the intricate web of education amidst economic constraints. My knowledge of colleges here – My ultimate goal before coming here, was very limited, and I had no idea how to pay or even apply to college. But I was stronger than that, my sheer determination to pursue my higher education was enough to overcome any hurdles I encountered in my path towards success.
The realization dawned that sustainable living extended beyond environmental considerations—it embraced the holistic development of individuals and communities, acknowledging the profound impact of education on our collective future. The pursuit of education, a cornerstone of my journey, became a focal point in managing my overall demeanor. Navigating through economic constraints, I discovered the transformative potential of sustainable educational practices. Harnessing the power of knowledge and empowerment, I witnessed firsthand how education could act as a catalyst for change, not only in my life but in the broader community. Sustainability, I realized, was not just about environmental preservation but about creating a sustainable and equitable future through accessible education. The internal landscape of sustainability, characterized by compassion, consciousness, and connectedness, evolved as a guiding force. From the heart of Colombia to the bustling streets of the United States, the interconnectedness of humanity and the environment became apparent. Compassion emerged as a driving force, fueling a desire to give back to the communities that shaped my journey. Consciousness became a tool for mindful living, fostering an acute awareness of the impact of personal choices on the environment. Connectedness transcended borders, highlighting the need for collaborative efforts in shaping a sustainable global future for all.
My journey from the tumultuous streets of Colombia to the bustling classrooms of the United States has been a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Despite the challenges and uncertainties that I faced, both in my homeland and in my adopted country, I have remained steadfast in my pursuit of a brighter future. The upheavals of social unrest and economic turmoil in Colombia instilled in me a deep sense of resilience and determination, while the transition to the United States opened my eyes to new opportunities and challenges. As I adapted to the rigors of American education, I discovered the transformative power of sustainable practices, both in academia and in life. From navigating economic constraints to embracing the interconnectedness of humanity and the environment, my journey has been guided by a commitment to sustainability and equity. As I look ahead to the future, I am filled with hope and optimism, knowing that my experiences have better prepared me to contribute to building a more just and sustainable society, both locally and globally.
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