In this essay, I analyzed and responded to a peer’s perspective on culture, using their experiences as a lens to better understand the complex ways identity is shaped by social expectations and personal background. The assignment required me to critically engage with my classmate’s narrative, reflect on their interpretation of culture, and connect it to broader cultural themes and social constructs. Writing this Op-Ed challenged me to think beyond my own cultural experiences and to consider how others navigate issues of belonging, identity, and societal pressure. By balancing analysis with personal reflection, this piece represents my growth as both a writer and cultural thinker.