Growing up in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, my world was simple yet fulfilling. As a single mother, my mom worked as a teacher in one of the lowest-paying states for educators. Despite financial challenges, she exposed me to a rich cultural life—piano lessons, martial arts, community concerts, and more. In our two-bedroom apartment, she created an environment of possibilities, even as we lived in a town where everyone knew everyone, and life moved at a slower, predictable pace.
My first true encounter with the concept of culture shock was at the University of Tampa. Coming from a public-school background in a small town, arriving at an elite private university in Florida was an eye-opener. Suddenly, I was surrounded by peers from affluent backgrounds, many of whom had access to luxuries I couldn’t even fathom. My dorm, once the city’s first condominium, sat across from cobblestone streets and grand historic buildings. It was beautiful but overwhelming.
While I excelled academically, I struggled socially and culturally. Attending parties in affluent neighborhoods or figuring out how to stretch a $20 bill for two weeks taught me resilience. It took me almost two years to feel comfortable in my new environment. By the time I was a junior, I had found my rhythm and confidence, forging friendships that reminded me of a truth I had learned in Pine Bluff—character matters more than circumstances.
Reflecting on this journey, I realize that Pine Bluff shaped my foundation, while Tampa stretched me to grow. These experiences taught me adaptability, humility, and perseverance. This story is a testament to the beauty of stepping outside your comfort zone and discovering your ability to thrive.
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