I come from what most would describe as a very “unique” background. My father, a multi-talented Algerian immigrant, was raised as a Muslim. My mother, a bubbly all-American blonde, is Jewish. Despite their religious differences, however, my parents have made sure to teach me the importance of tolerance and diversity. Serving as a living example of open-mindedness and respect, my parents helped instill the qualities that make me the understanding and compassionate person I am today.

 Migrating from my comfort zone in New York to attend college in New Orleans was one of the most important and terrifying decisions I have ever made. Moving to the South was definitely an obstacle to this born-and-bred New Yorker, as it was completely out of my comfort zone.  However, after I embraced my new surroundings, the move allowed me to view life from a vastly different perspective and helped me recognize the importance of diversity.