My name is Anisa, I am from Tajikistan. I am 20 years old, and this year I will be a senior in the Economics department at AUCA. When I first heard about the Many Languages One World contest, I missed the deadline and could not participate, and I had to wait for the 2015 contest. I knew that participating in this contest would be a great opportunity to visit the United Nations in New York and meet extraordinary people.
The selection process is not at all complicated. The main thing you are expected to do is write an essay in a language you are not comfortable in (it has to be one of the six official languages of the UN). The topic of the essay is given three months in advance to think it over and write. The topic of the essay was not easy and I spent a month writing it. I won’t say it was difficult, but still, writing this kind of essay requires a lot of thinking and brainstorming. In general, the selection process is easy to follow, and the ELS organization (those who organize and finance the contest) are always in contact if you need them. 
This was my first essay contest, and I was very happy to be chosen. Participating in the Many Languages One World Youth forum gave me the chance to meet 69 incredible, smart, intelligent young people from all over the world who inspired me with their achievements. Each participant spoke at least three languages and that by itself was amazing. The ELS organization and staff were incredibly kind and helpful. They were always with us during our preparations and our trips. They organized two unforgettable days in New York City where we got to visit the main tourist destinations of the city.
I am certain that my work in AUCA’s Economic department was a part of my success in this contest. I believe I can especially share my victory in this contest with my FYS professors, Michelle Hoffman and Mike Thicke. They gave me the technical know-how to write essays, but the main lesson I learned from them was that there is no wrong question or wrong answer. 
I chose the Economics department because it is not the easiest subject and I can easily transfer to another field if I decide to do so. Regarding AUCA, I like my university. I like the way classes are taught and the way professors communicate with students. Most importantly, while studying at AUCA, I have realized that every goal and every dream you have can only be achieved if you work for it and work hard. I won’t say that my life goals have changed; but I can say that I have become more inspired and motivated to achieve them.
After we gave speeches at the UN, we had two hours to spend in Times Square. We could walk, take pictures and do everything we wanted, but we had to be back in Hard Rock cafe by a certain time. I was so excited walking and running all over Times Square that I totally forgot my way back and got lost. I asked people to show me the way back, but everyone giving me different directions. I got a bit scared but, thank God, there are a lot of Rickshaws (a type of transportation) in Times Square who can drive you wherever you need to go. I caught up with a Rickshaw, and he drove me back to the Hard Rock cafe and that was my salvation.
Many Languages One World is a great opportunity, and I recommend everyone take part. Do not be afraid of writing essays, even if the topic seems hard and complicated. Write the way you understand the topic and the organizers will appreciate it—they are not looking for perfect essays, they are looking for your ideas and your individuality.