Being an American to me means the freedom to choose what I want to do with my life. My father is Iranian and knows what it is like to live under a dictatorship. Many years ago, he moved to the United States as a college foreign exchange student in hopes of becoming an engineer. He knew he would have many more opportunities and learning experiences through the college curriculum at the United States than Iran. He instilled in me the desire to become a tradesman and to take all educational opportunities that came my way. I am lucky that I was born in the United States instead of a county where freedom does not exist. I do not take this for granted. I know how blessed I am to be able to pursue my goal of being an electrician. I already have my apprenticeship license and am striving to obtain my journeyman's license as a post secondary student at James Rumsey Technical Institute. After receiving my journeyman's license, I want to give back to people in need by providing them with the essentials like heat, electricity and hot water. As an American, I believe that every U.S. citizen should cherish the freedoms and opportunities that this country provides. I am also very grateful to be able to voice my opinions. Back in my Dad's country, if he had spoken out against his government, he would have received a life sentence in prison or even death. As an American, I have the freedom to participate in helping to ensure that my rights are not taken from me. I believe that the United States has superior regulations to all other countries in building and electrical codes. Our government strives to protect its citizens from unfair or unsafe living conditions. As a tradesman, I am part of this process. I take every job that I perform very seriously and treat it as my own family is living in the structure. As a U.S. citizen, I am aware that our country has a good set minimum wage for its workers. I am thankful that I will have the chance to have earn enough money to make a living. In Iran, my father often saw homeless people starving on the streets. The United States has social programs to assist people that are in need. I am proud that I have gotten my electrician's license and that I will be able to further my education in this fine country.