Elizabeth Fernandes

Unknowingly Longing for Belonging A community is more than something that is formed when people live in close proximity to each other. Rather, it is a group of people who come together over shared beliefs or parts of their identities and who value every individual that makes up the group. This, in turn, creates a sense of belonging for those who are a part of this community. Walking onto campus my first day as a high school freshman, thoughts of whether or not I would be able to find my classes and if I would make any friends flooded my mind. However, I met dozens of like-minded individuals who shared a passion for learning and who had similar interests. However, these came second to seeing other Indian students in each of my classes for the first time. Being in a predominantly white elementary and middle school for 9 years, I had subconsciously become accustomed to being the only Indian, or as a matter of fact Asian, person in the room. The experience of entering my b...

Unknowing Longing for Belonging A community is more than something that is formed when people live in close proximity to each other. Rather, it is a group of people who come together over shared beliefs or parts of their identities and who value every individual that makes up the group. This, in turn, creates a sense of belonging for those who are a part of this community. Walking onto campus my first day as a high school freshman, thoughts of whether or not I would be able to find my classes and if I would make any friends flooded my mind. However, I met dozens of like-minded individuals who shared a passion for learning and who had similar interests. However, these came second to seeing other Indian students in each of my classes for the first time. Being in a predominantly white elementary and middle school for 9 years, I had subconsciously become accustomed to being the only Indian, or as a matter of fact Asian, person in the room. The experience of entering my block ...