<p>The 'Family Responsibilities' on the 'Activities' section has such a significant role in my life that I cannot simply state it in a few words. I understand that I have to be concise, but here's what I want to say:</p>
<p>Ever since I was little, I've learned that I am responsible for my own actions. If I break a rule in school, I will be punished. It was supposed to be as simple as that. However, there was a greater life lesson to be learned: I was also responsible for the well-being of others. Until recently, I believed that it was the norm for each member of the family to bear the burden of all the things I've done as a 'kid'. </p>
<p>When I was young, no more than eight or nine years old, I would have to translate for my parents - who at most understood only a handful of common phrases. I've had to explain maps, signs, documents, speeches, and anything else that needed to be understood. "What did those men say?" and "Why are there red and blue states?" were common questions during the 2004 election. Additionally, I've had to wake up before daybreak to help my father, who at the time worked several hours away. While other children were fast asleep anticipating the Saturday cartoons in their dreams, 4:00 AM was the usual time for me to be up-and-ready on weekends. I grabbed my backpack, full of books and homework which I would finish in the truck. I would help my father converse with the customers and build relationships with others by breaking the language barrier.</p>
<p>A few years later, when I entered secondary school, I was split between my academic career and my family. It would be difficult to take on both of these responsibilities, making time for the calculus test and helping my parents apply for citizenship. I took on the full IB course head-on, and I currently maintain a 4.0 UW GPA. I've been the sole decider in making my own appointments at the DMV, after-school studies, SAT/ACT test dates, etc.</p>
<p>I don't remember my family teaching me anything academically, mostly because everyone was too busy. I've had to rely only upon myself and the desire for knowledge to get as far in school as I have now. I don't hold any regrets to the things I've done or insignificant things I've missed out on as a child. How can I? In the end, I know that what I've done is for the good of the people I love around me.</p>
<p>(I will probably use this as a basis for one of my college essays after several revisions.)</p>