Hello everyone! My name is Melissa Ma and I am a first year student at THE Ohio State University. I started this journey about one year ago, when I decided to apply to one of the top universities in the nation: Ohio State. Coming from the suburbs of Cleveland, I grew up with buckeye in my blood. My father attended Ohio State, while the rest of my family grew up in Ohio. My grandparents, originally from Germany and China, moved to the states in the 1960s and built a beautiful family together. Descending from a culturally diverse family, coupled with my roots in Cleveland, I was certain that Ohio State University was going to be my future home. I chose to attend this University because of its accepting and welcoming nature, its academic excellence, and the opportunities a larger school can provide.
As I stated earlier, my grandparents both immigrated from foreign countries, arriving to the states knowing little to no english. They struggled through school, but worked extremely hard to obtain a PhD and start a company. They taught me to persevere through difficult times, strive for my goals and believe in myself. I took their struggles and turned them into values. This year I am studying political science on a pre-law track, in order to become a civil rights attorney. I have heard stories from my grandparents, struggling to fight against discrimination, as well as seen this absurdity in the media, all around the world. I am determined to fight for the rights of our citizens and create a government in which we can trust.
During my high school career, I immersed myself in activities relating to my interests and future goals. I was president of Amnesty International, secretary of the student government, attorney in mock trial and counsel for model united nations. Seeing that I am a very social person, I enjoyed making new friendships through these activities. This year I hope to join clubs similar to those in high school.