<ol>
<li><p>How has your family history, culture, or environment influenced who you are?
Since before my older brother was even born, my parents worked hard to give me the life they truly felt I deserved. When I came into existence, they worked even harder to make sure I developed into a successful, well-rounded person that could contribute something great to the world. Growing up, I lived with my mother, father, and older brother starting in Elmont, New York and moving all the way to where I reside currently, North Port, Florida. All throughout my life, I was pushed by all three to do better than they could hope for. Although we were not the most unfortunate family around, I was always taught that people and personality is worth far more than that of money or possessions. That is why I have been encouraged to always keep my grades up and to give back to and respect the people around me. I have been influenced by Italian culture. According to my Nonna, who moved to the United States from Italy when she was 18 to give herself and her children a better life, Italian culture can be summed up in one short sentence, Life is about family, love, determination, and, of course, good food. I have always agreed with her, especially about determination. You can only go as far as you take yourself and, thanks to my family and their support, I plan to take myself very far in this world.</p></li>
<li><p>What qualities or unique characteristics do you possess that will allow you to contribute to the UCF community?
When asking my close friends and family about what type of individual I am, I believe I would be described as a person of determination, integrity, and care. Each and everyday I work hard to do good in school and at my job at Applebees Neighborhood grill and bar. I have maintained at least a 4.2 weighted grade point average throughout high school because of my determination to go to college and live a successful life. People tend to depend on me whether it is to help them out through a problem or just trusting me with something they need to talk about. I have come to learn that I can depend on people for a few things, but, primarily, I must depend on myself to get things done. I must push my own self to become successful in the goals I plan to achieve. As Pope John XXIII said, Consult not your fears but your hopes and your dreams. Think not about your frustrations, but about your unfulfilled potential. Concern yourself not with what you tried and failed in, but with what it is still possible for you to do. I feel as though the qualities I possess are what the University of Central Florida needs in a student. The university needs strong determined people that are willing to work hard everyday and become widely involved in the campus community, which is exactly the type of person I would be at the University of Central Florida.</p></li>
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