I write this expression and I find that I follow it. In Afghanistan where I grew up, I would wear a scarf every time I went outside my home. But since I arrived in this country I have not been wearing my scarf when I go outside my home because I do not want to look odd.

Why did I stop wearing my scarf here? Probably since I am a new arrival here I don’t want to look odd among the people. People in the United States don’t have the same culture as I have. So as the proverb goes, “When in Rome do as the Romans do.” But it doesn’t mean that I lost my culture and my religion.

I like the United States. Here are all nationalities who can follow their culture and religion. They are free. Why did I wear a scarf in my native country? All Afghan women wear scarves. Also the Islamic faith requires modesty for men and women.

Faranaz Rahimi is from Afghanistan and came to the United States a year ago.  She is a student at Quinsigamond Community College. “I would like to continue my education and become an educated and suitable person in society so that I can serve my people.”