Can you give an example of a time you took the initiative to learn about the perspective of someone whose background was not like your own?
Can you give an example of a time you identified a social or cultural assumption held by someone else? How did you address and negotiate it?
During international student orientation, I had the opportunity to connect with students from over 30 countries, forming lasting friendships that remain among my most cherished memories. Each evening, my international friends and I gather for dinner, spending hours immersed in conversations about our diverse cultures and unique perspectives. This experience has fueled my curiosity about their backgrounds and upbringings, fostering a deep appreciation for cultural diversity.
One notable instance where I encountered a cultural assumption was when a friend mistakenly believed Mongolians to be a Chinese ethnic group. Although some Mongolians reside in the autonomous Chinese region of Inner Mongolia, it’s crucial to clarify that Mongolia is an independent country and Mongolians have distinct cultural identities rooted in millennia-old nomadic traditions. Initially, addressing this misconception was awkward, but through patient and thoughtful explanation, I was able to help my friend understand the historical and cultural distinctions between Mongolians and Chinese ethnic groups.
This experience underscored the importance of respectfully navigating cultural differences and correcting misconceptions through open dialogue and mutual understanding. It also reinforced my commitment to actively engaging with diverse perspectives to foster greater cultural awareness and appreciation among my peers.
