<p>okay, so im an international student applying to the university of Michigan and I dont speak english very fluently. i was wondering if anyone could evaluate or edit my essay. the topic is : Everyone belongs to many different communities and/or groups defined by (among other things) shared geography, religion, ethnicity, income, cuisine, interest, race, ideology, or intellectual heritage. Choose one of the communities to which you belong, and describe that community and your place within it.
im not sure if it answers the prompt. don't hesitate to be be brutal in critiques :D
thanks in advance :)</p>
<p>It is hard enough to determine which you community one belongs to, the word is rather ambiguous as it has several meanings and depends on many factors such as territory, religion, race... I admit that I've had some difficulties myself deciding which community I belong to, being a Syrian born in the United States, following a French patterned education system. But I consider myself a part of a pretty unique type of community that can be found in most Arabic countries: a one that is open to the west and globalization, but at the same time that had held on to the spirituality and the ideology of the Arab world.
Today, if I walk down the streets of New York City or Paris nobody would know that I am a foreigner. In fact, many will be surprised to know that I don't ride "camels" or live in a tent, when I tell them I'm from Syria. All of this is related to education I have received. The mix between the American, French and Syrian cultures, 3 extremely culturally rich heritages, has broadened my horizon and gave me a strong general culture. Furthermore, I learned so much from my parents, especially my father a walking encyclopedia- who can give me answers in a lot of subjects.
On the other hand, what is special about my modern Arab community is its attachment to the spirituality and the mentality of the Arab world. Family is considered a concept that reflects mutual commitments and provides support to all members; the family's honor should be absolutely respected. Also, traditional relationships, roles, and value orientations within the Arab family are still respected.
I am proud to be a part of that community because it is a link between two opposite worlds that I truly respect, and as a result I think it is a personal gain to have such connections between different cultures.</p>