A strange man bearing a razor-sharp machete roams the streets of a residential neighborhood. Instead of alarmedly reporting him to the police--as most conventional Americans would respond-- excited children stream toward the armed man, hopefully anticipating the fresh sugar cane he is undoubtedly about to strike down. The astounding good faith characteristic of my hometown in Dominican Republic warrants this social anomaly and assures my annual visits, through which I have borne witness to the development of a pueblo that...

My parents have sacrificed continuously to put me through a very academically competitive private high school to shape me as well-rounded as possible. Unfortunately, though, 21st century students are more plagued with fanaticism of getting an “A” than with what school is truly meant for, learning. Columbia offers a true education, not only scholastically from its esteemed faculty, but also culturally from the international powerhouse that is New York City. Usually faring fewer than twenty students each, Columbia's intimate classes...

Supplement asking to expand on a book, conference, or cultural event you've attended in the past year: Merengue, bachata, pinchos, and chicharrones may all sound foreign to the average American, but to me they describe the familiar sounds, scents, and tastes of my Hispanic Heritage. All aforementioned comforts are plentiful each March, when twenty-four blocks of SW 8th Street in Miami are closed off to celebrate the two most meaningful aspects of my life, culture and community service. The Calle...

I really emphasized my cultural heritage (Dominican, first generation in the USA) and also my passion for community service.

Community service...

A large, diverse number of student organizations!...

Principles of Economics with Professor Gulati, I am an econ major so perhaps...

Open-minded, passionate,...

I ultimately chose my school because of its central location in New York City. Education is not just the classes you take, it is thee entire experience. New York City...