Greetings, Hive community!
I'm thrilled to introduce myself to this vibrant community. I go by Chidinma Okeh, or you can call me Chichi. Nestled in the heart of Atlanta, Georgia, I'm a 26-year-old Nigerian American on the verge of completing my Bachelor of Science in Integrated Health Science, with graduation set for May 2024. I'm eager to embark on a journey towards further knowledge with a Master's in Health Management and Health Informatics.
Beyond my academic pursuits, I am an Afro-centric soul with a deep passion for various forms of artistic expression. From drawing and painting to singing and dancing, I enjoy the creative process. My diverse skill set extends to culinary arts, hairstyling (both for myself and others), crochet, writing, and a dash of sewing and modeling – truly embodying the spirit of a modern-day Renaissance woman.
My faith is a cornerstone of my identity, and my relationship with God holds immense importance. I am the youngest in my family, yet I sometimes embrace the responsibilities of a middle child. Children hold a special place in my heart, although the teenage years may pose a formidable challenge. Navigating social interactions, I identify as socially awkward, but once a bond is formed, I cherish and nurture those connections. Whether it's a laid-back gathering with friends or a spontaneous adventure, I revel in creating lasting memories. Traveling is a passion of mine, as it allows me to explore new horizons and embrace exciting escapades.
In fashion, I find delight in dressing up, even for casual affairs. You might catch me at a low-key party with extra flair and style. I have a penchant for shopping, reveling in the thrill of horror and action movies, and appreciating the art of storytelling. While I might appear timid and reserved, a desire to be seen coexists with a hint of apprehension. Despite occasional shyness, I enjoy my company and the camaraderie of close friends who truly understand me.
Seven years ago, I embarked on a journey to the United States with a singular purpose—to pursue education and carve out a brighter future for both myself and my family. As I immersed myself in a new culture, the initial shocks and surprises were both eye-opening and intriguing.
One of my earliest encounters with American road etiquette brought about a cultural revelation. The sight of cars halting in unison as a school bus came to a stop was a stark contrast to what I was accustomed to. The meticulous adherence to stop signs and the courteous way vehicles made way for an ambulance with its siren blaring were gestures that spoke volumes about the respect for rules and the collective responsibility for safety in this new environment.
Amidst adapting to these cultural nuances, a unique quirk of mine emerged. I find a peculiar satisfaction in ensuring that two light switches, when placed together, face the same direction. Call it a quirky preference, but there's a certain harmony in seeing all the switches aligned—either up or down—especially when all the lights are turned off. It's a small detail, but it brings a sense of order and symmetry to my surroundings.
On a more personal note, I've cultivated a meticulous habit when it comes to my footwear. Particularly with my sneakers, I take the time to clean them meticulously and store them back in their original shoe boxes. This ritual not only preserves the quality of my shoes but also adds a touch of organization to my living space. Each pair is carefully tended to, packed away neatly—the process is almost meditative, a quiet celebration of the little things that contribute to a well-ordered life.
In these seven years of navigating a new culture, each experience, whether big or small, has been!
woven into the fabric of my journey. From the traffic rules that differ to the satisfaction derived from aligned light switches and the mindful care of my footwear, these intricacies reflect my ongoing journey of adaptation and appreciation for the details that make life uniquely beautiful.
I'm looking forward to becoming an integral part of the Hive community, sharing experiences, and building meaningful connections. Let's embark on this journey together!
WHY I JOINED HIVE AND WHAT TO EXPECT
The decision to become a part of Hive was driven by the insightful recommendation of my closest confidant, my best friend. As someone who maintains a blog, the prospect of extending my creative reach and cultivating a broader community through Hive seemed not only sensible but also invigorating.
My writing style is inherently expressive; I delve into the intricacies of my emotions and narrate the unfolding tapestry of my surroundings. Whether through poignant poems or engaging short stories, my blog serves as a canvas for my thoughts and experiences. Joining Hive, I anticipate, will provide a newfound impetus, inspiring me to elevate my creative output and sustain the writing momentum that has defined my expressive journey.
In essence, Hive presents an opportunity to seamlessly integrate my existing blog into a thriving ecosystem of diverse voices. Through this amalgamation, I aim to harness the motivation and encouragement that the Hive community is renowned for, fostering a spirit of consistency in my writing endeavors. The anticipation is not just for personal growth but also to contribute meaningfully to the dynamic tapestry of shared expressions within the Hive community.
