What's Your Secret Sauce?

1)    Describe five ways in which you think you have human capital that is truly unique.

a.     I have a distinctive ability to grasp and retain new languages relatively easily compared to other people, even with low daily exposure to it.

b.     I’m constantly open to gaining the most from everyday life – I observe, listen, and reflect in order to acquire the most knowledge that life has to offer.

c.     Regarding people, I believe there is something new to learn from everyone. I’m highly interested in learning about different cultures and life perspectives.

d.     I have a very optimistic and calm outlook on life – I try my hardest to avoid thinking negatively in order minimize stress and worry; I don’t lose hope prematurely.

e.     Adequacy is insufficient for me. Along with meeting the minimum, I believe in going above and beyond in everything I do – as I place a strong value in quality.

2)    Interviews

a.     Justin

My friend Justin believes that I’m able to easily adapt to any situation or environment – with feasibility. I’m able to tailor myself to any context, and he says I do it well. He emphasized my flexibility with anything.

b.     Diana

My friend Diana has known me for a few years and has gotten to know me very well. She believes I harbor a variety of skills and experiences that encompass my human capital – such as languages, public speech/communication, and dedication.

c.     Anthony

Anthony emphasized my perfectionist traits – whether it be in something as simple as parking or working on projects. He says I’m determined to get the best out of anything I do – as even with trifling mistakes, I have to fix it so that it’s the best work I can produce.

 

d.     Mom

Translation: "Liana has always been a very intelligent girl, since a child. She has always wanted to be the best, and always has done the best that she can. She dreams of having a big future...becoming a professional and getting ahead. She has always been very intelligent and wanted to be the best, she has always turned out with the best grades and qualifications. She is a very tranquil and calm girl, very of the home. She is a very good girl."

e.     Dad

Translation: "Different from others? Well...what I see in you is for example your responsibility with school. You worry about it a lot and place lots of interest in it. You are very intelligent and these are qualities that I see in you that I know make you different."

3)    Reflection

I noticed that there are many similarities with the way that others perceive me compared to how I see myself. People during the interviews commented on my flexibility/ability to absorb knowledge – which is a skill I think I have. An example that I can think of is when I taught myself Portuguese by reading and listening to music, and I’m now able to converse/read/write fairly well with native speakers. In all honesty, I don’t see as much human capital in myself as others do – possibly due to my lack of confidence. However, I think my redeeming qualities are illustrated in the arduous work that I complete to my best ability -- along with steadfast determination with things, no matter how small. I wouldn’t make any changes to part 1 of this assignment as they are very similar to interview responses.