I was born in Karachi, Pakistan, and briefly lived in Kuwait before moving to the United States with my family. I was raised in Queens, New York. Six years ago, I began my life in my Japan. Japan is the fourth country I have lived in. Having lived in so many parts of the world, I experienced many cultures and ways of life. This has made me more open-minded and welcoming towards different lifestyles.
To me, international mindedness means being adaptable and accepting of different values and mindsets. Our world today is more interconnected than it has ever been. As members of the global society, we all need to be more open-minded and accepting. I feel that as a teacher, it is my responsibility to help my students appreciate and respect others, despite our differences.
I think we can learn something from each person we meet in life. There are qualities in my family members, friends, and even acquaintances that I hope to emulate. However, there is a famous figure whom I admire. Frida Kahlo, a Mexican artist, is a symbol of perseverance for me. Despite suffering emotional and physical pain at a very young age, she overcame it all. Her art was honest. It reflected her pain and imperfections, and the strides she took to overcome them. Frida’s life inspires me to be more optimistic. It teaches me to appreciate what I have and cherish the small things in life.