My name is Rutva Hadap, a name that has been butchered by substitute teachers, squinted at by TSA agents, and questioned by curious peers. Yet, it is a name that represents my heritage, the resilience of my ancestors, and complexity of my identity as a first-generation Hindu American. Just like my name, my identity has often been mispronounced and misunderstood, but it unapologetically remains mine. It serves as a reflection of where I came from and where I hope to go, and this duality has grounded me in tradition while inspiring me to explore the evolving meaning of culture. I am applying for the Culture and Identity Envoy program at Temple Rome because it presents a unique opportunity to immerse myself in a global environment while exploring the intersection of culture, identity, and personal growth. As a first-generation Hindu American, my identity is shaped by the duality of navigating both my heritage and my life in the United States. This experience has given me a deep appreciation for how cultures evolve, adapt, and intersect, and I want to learn how this process unfolds in the context of Rome's rich cultural and historical landscape.

I bring a unique perspective to this program as someone who has been raised with the values of my Hindu heritage while also being part of a multicultural American society. I've often navigated the space between two worlds: honoring my family's traditions and finding my own path in an environment that may not always understand or value them. My experiences have taught me to appreciate how identity is not a fixed concept, but dynamic, shaped by history, community, and individual choices. I believe this perspective will contribute to the conversations in the program, particularly in understanding the ways that cultural identities are preserved while engaging with new surroundings.

While in Rome, I am eager to explore how Italian society, with its deep sense of tradition, deals with the complexities of identity, especially in the context of its immigrant communities. Italy's own rich history of art, religion, and family-oriented culture resonates with aspects of Hinduism, and I am curious to understand how Italians honor their cultural practices in a globalized world. I hope to learn how immigrants in Italy navigate their identities, much like my family has done in the United States, and what it means to be a part of a community while still holding onto your cultural heritage.

Through the Culture and Identity Envoy program, I aspire to deepen my understanding of cultural identity, not just as a personal journey but as a shared human experience. Just as my name carries the weight of history and the potential for transformation, I believe this program will help me deepen my understanding of self and culture, while empowering me to share my story with others. My name is Rutva Hadap, and it is my hope that I will leave Rome with a richer sense of who I am and how I can contribute to the broader, evolving tapestry of human identity.