My most stressful but proud moments

Before my exchange program, I promised myself that when I arrived in the USA, I would do everything that I would normally be too scared, embarrassed, or hesitant to do in my home country. I made a commitment to seize every opportunity and follow the rule that it's better to regret something you did than something you didn’t do. What were the results? See for yourself:

Marching Band Competition

One of my extracurricular activities was being part of the marching band, so sooner or later, the time for a competition would arrive. We had already performed at football games, but a competition is something completely different. As we put on our uniforms, I felt my heart start to race. Right before stepping onto the field, my hands were shaking. However, I couldn’t let that stop me because, as a percussionist, I needed to use them. I looked at the crowd watching me and then at my bandmates behind me, knowing they had my back and that I could rely on them. In the end, our performance was phenomenal, and for the first time in years, our marching band advanced to the next stage of the competition. This experience taught me that if you have people you can count on, you can achieve anything.

School Pageant

My school was hosting a beauty pageant. At first, I thought, "This is absolutely not for me!", but then I remembered my rule “seize every opportunity…”. I signed up with my friend. For many girls, this was just another pageant, but for me, it was a completely new experience. I asked one of my more experienced friends for help—she guided me in choosing my shoes, dress, makeup, and hairstyle. When the big day came, I wasn’t too nervous—until I stepped on stage. That day, I made every possible mistake. I messed up the dance routine, nearly fell off the stage, slightly tore the bottom of my dress, got my speech mixed up, and, worst of all, I barely smiled, if at all. Despite all of this, I was incredibly proud of myself. My supportive friends cheered me on from the audience, making me feel like a winner. This experience showed me that what might seem like a failure to some can be a huge success to others.

Soccer

I’m not someone who excels at team sports. When it comes to physical activities, I prefer individual sports. However, under a little pressure from my friends, I decided to start soccer practice. At first, it was just fitness training, but later, we began practicing with the ball. I’m not someone who excels at team sports. When it comes to physical activities, I prefer individual sports. However, under a little pressure from my friends, I decided to start soccer practice. At first, it was just fitness training, but later, we began practicing with the ball. I met so many wonderful people, improved my physical condition, overcame my fears, and had an amazing time.