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Stockl Ricarda

Admission Birmingham Southern College

November 9th, 2022

New Beginnings

Imagine starting a new life in a new country where no one knows you. Would

you want to change something about the way you lived? Before I have started this

journey, I have never thought about this question, however I quickly realized I

desired to become the best version of myself. At the end of the summer in 2021, I

broke out of the small bubble I grew up in, moved from Austria to the USA, and left

my old life behind.

After my graduation in high school, I was uncertain what I wish for my life. I

was not able to state my goals, hesitant about my talents and indecisive in my

career. Nevertheless, I have always known I desired to see more from the world.

Personally, I would say I grew up in a sheltered household in a village, where

everyone has the same expectations in life. Therefore, it was a tough decision to tell

my peers to go abroad for an undefined time. However, my choice was the best I

could do, although this way was not always simple.

Unfortunately, a few stones have been put in my way that I had to overcome

to make my dream come true. The Covid-19 pandemic resulted in visa bans and

delayed my departure for over a year. This travel uncertainty caused in negative

judgements from others and as a result, it made it difficult to continue striving for my

goal. Nevertheless, one of my best character traits to never give up, allowed me to

keep believing in myself in these tough moments. Finally, after a rough

postponement, I arrived in the USA.

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Since this point in my life, everything changed, and I collected new

experiences every moment. Not only had I speak a different language, but it was

also necessary to adapt to new family, new climate, and new surroundings. To be

honest, the first month did not go as I expected, because the different way of living

overwhelmed me. However, the saying “Good things take time” spoke its truth, and

as soon as I settled, the American dream has begun. One of the most important

parts of my journey was joining the United Methodist Church at Canterbury since this

community gave me so much in every aspect. Not only found I my way to God, but

also the greatest Sunday school class, which I call my best friends now. Another

crucial point to become my best version of myself was that I focused more on

physical activity. Especially, playing competitive tennis, and taking lessons regularly

increased my lifestyle.

In Austria, I did not acknowledge that I desire to improve my life and

personality. Nevertheless, life in America showed me my potential, and I realized

that I am able to make my dreams to reality. Taking the risks and going out of

comfort zones are such significant steps in the process of becoming an adult.

Therefore, I could not have hoped for a better outcome after leaving behind my old

life. Furthermore, this was only the beginning of my journey, and I cannot wait to see

what else life can offer.

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