Where are you from?

I've had the pleasure of being named something unique, Aquiera. Many thanks to my mother and my god-mother, Leese. My name has many versions and meanings - A queera, Aqui-era, Aquieria, Ackee and Salt Fish, Acura, Aquarius (Are you an Aquarius? Well yes, but my name has nothing to do with that.), A quiera (to want), Akira (Japanese Princess) and Aquiera (Ghanian for born on a Tuesday. I was born on a Saturday.)

I believe the uniqueness of my name is why many people do not believe I am American. Throughout my years at Drexel, I have been told that I was Ghanian and Dominican.In Egypt and Ethiopia I was referred to as South African. In Lebanon, I was referred to as Nigerian. I think it's quite amusing.

This past weekend in Beirut was probably the first time in my life where I have gone somewhere and multiple people were surprised that a group consisting of two whites, one black and a fair skinned Indian could all be American. More importantly be friends.

I'm proud of the diversity I have at home. I'm proud to be American.