A Turning Point Essay -- Personal Narrative Essay

A Turning Point A melting pot of Asian and European culture, a land of scientific growth and opportunity, and a place grown rich with custom and tradition, Singapore is a country unlike any other. Traveling to Singapore for the Second APEC Youth Science Festival, I encountered an environment where people of different backgrounds come together, a fusion of ideas and insight, and a piece of artwork painted rich with the colors of each individual culture. Upon my return to the United States, I brought with me an enhanced cultural awareness, a greater understanding of the international scientific community, a wealth of knowledge, as well as numerous life-long friendships. The cultural benefits of the APEC Youth Science Festival are innumerable. Having virtually no previous understanding of Asian customs and traditions, I found the various cultural performances educational and truly amazing. A breathtaking musical presentation by Korean drummers and a colorful parade of traditional Indonesian costumes were two of the more memorable performances. Throughout the cultural presentations, I was in awe of the distinct differences that became increasingly apparent between each of the individual Asian cultures. My favorite part of the trip was my overnight stay with a Sri Lankan family. With my family I visited Little India, one of the liveliest districts in Singapore where traditional Indian culture is ... ... New Zealand, I have developed a vast network in just two weeks. Sharing ideas and insight, culture, and new experiences has brought us all together despite our differences. Together we did everything including riding "The Venturer" at the Singapore Science Center, researching Nepal Virus, and traveling on a Night Safari. I am amazed at how much I have learned in two weeks, and I know I will cherish this experience for a lifetime. In the future I hope only to enhance my cultural awareness, work to promote international scientific collaboration, express my appreciation for the vital work done by organizations such as APEC, and stay in close contact with the wonderful friends I made in two amazing weeks overseas.