Tuador Personal Statement

The great Marcus Garvey once said that “a people without knowledge of their past history, origin, and culture are trees without roots”. This quotation has always stuck with me because it validates that, as humans, we all have a story to share. No matter where I go or who I meet, thanks to my story, I have the confidence to embrace who I am every single day. I am a first generation student. Both my mother and father were born and raised in Nigeria and came to the United States in 1998. My parents are responsible for my determination and work ethic. They came to this country with nothing but were able to raise me to be the strong woman that I am today. Adapting to American society has been a challenge, but nothing I couldn't conquer. I have learned how to maneuver through the fast paced environment of this country and have adapted in order to succeed. I have learned that I need to work hard in order to be successful and that opportunity doesn't come to anyone easily but you have to find your way. I was born with Congenital Talipes Equinovarus which is commonly known as clubfoot. I have been bullied because of my feet. Growing up, I was ashamed of my feet constantly and tried hard to cover them up. I was angry because I was being mocked for something I

My first name Tuador means “first position” in the Nigerian dialect of Khana. Tuador is typically given to the first child of a family and carries great honor. Yet, no matter where I go or who I meet: my name is just too hard to pronounce. Tador. Tudor. Todor. I grew up having people make fun of my name and most people consistently butcher it. It got to the point that I decided to shorten my name to Tua because I felt that it would be easier for everyone to pronounce. Unfortunately, I ended up losing my Nigerian heritage because I was trying so hard to fit into American culture. If I wasn't content with my own name then how else was I supposed to value anything else about