<p>The prompt is : “Tell us about a personal quality, talent, accomplishment, contribution or experience that is important to you. What about this quality or accomplishment makes you proud, and how does it relate to the person you are?”</p>
<p>I went with an experience for it also described why I am applying for my major. </p>
<p>I just don’t really know if it fits the topic? My teacher says it fits but I just want some more opinions! Thanks! </p>
<p>If it is any consequence, I am applying to UCSC and UCI.</p>
<p>During my high school career I had the unique opportunity to be enrolled in American Sign Language classes which not only afforded me the experience to learn another language but also gain insight into the world of the hearing impaired. At first the class was simply a way to fulfill a requirement, but it soon became the most rewarding and enriching experience that I have had. The language itself is a pleasure to learn for it offers a new way of communication that brings attention to little nuances such as facial expressions and body movement. This aspect of the language made me appreciate my own abilities, but mostly inspired my curiosity about human behavior and ways of communication, especially the fascinating concept of body language. Besides the actual language, the deaf culture is an enthralling and intriguing faucet of society that is exceptionally proud and organized within themselves. As I continued through the sign language program at the high school I became more exposed to the deaf community and had various opportunities to associate and interact with the society. During the time I spent immersed in this other culture I gained valuable insight on not only how others live and communicate and the etiquette the society expected, but also how different and similar all individuals can be no matter the circumstances. With this new regard toward human nature and behavior, my interest in understanding mankind was exceedingly heightened. It was rather incongruous that my foreign language class stimulated my interest in a career in psychology; however the importance of body language coupled with the nature of the deaf culture inspired me to pursue a career in which I could question human nature and understand it. Besides the intellectual aspect of the sign language program, it also offered various rewarding and fun volunteering opportunities; through the program and along with my knowledge of the language I was able to assist and build relationships within the deaf community which proved to be a gratifying experience. Overall, the American Sign Language program I participated in helped flourish my interest in human nature and gave me incredible humility and understanding of others. Without the experiences I have had with the deaf culture and community, I would not be the patient, open minded, compassionate, and curious student I am today.</p>