The summer I was sixteen I received my scuba diving certification license. This incredible experience not only enabled me to explore the depths of the sea, but also allowed me to defy the expectations of those around me. Scuba diving requires tremendous levels of stamina and concentration. In a sport that is predominantly male, I was ready to defy the stereotypes I knew that were up against me as a 98-pound, five -foot one- inch tall female. Although I struggled to regulate my breathing underwater, I managed to enjoy the vibrant sea life. There was one particularly difficult dive, in which the extremely persistent current propelled us backwards a few feet each time we tried swimming towards our goal. With nearly no air left in my tank, I labored onward towards the boat, successfully reaching my goal at last. That day, other scuba divers on the boat congratulated me, someone nearly twice as young as they were, on being able to fight the strong water current that even they had trouble with. I felt humbled by their kind words and in the process I even surprised myself at my ability to defy the odds that faced me. This experience has emboldened me to view people with amazing potential regardless of their appearance, status, race, gender, age, and anything else that society has labeled us with.