In the fast-paced, technology-saturated world we live in today, many resources and services are readily available through the internet. What may have taken a long time in the past is now achieved in mere moments. We have grown accustomed to getting what we want, when we want it. Yet, technology has not been able to speed up everything. It is within this gap that we are living—in a state of increasing impatience—as we seek instant gratification in every facet of life, yet are forced to wait for those beyond our control.

Qaas Shoukat is an NSU freshman who was born and raised in Pakistan before moving to Florida in 2010. Shoukat’s experience of living in two different cultures has given him a unique perspective on life and, he believes, has helped shape his personality. While the differences between his homeland and his new home took time to adjust to, Shoukat has found ways to appreciate and adopt the American way of life while holding on to his cultural roots. In his home and on social media, Shoukat stays connected through his native language, Urdu, and he still enjoys Pakistani music and films. In high school, he stepped outside his comfort zone to join both the Theatre Department and the Health Science Occupation Students of America (HOSA) Club. Participating in these groups allowed him to pursue his diverse passions for science and the performing arts. Now in college, Shoukat is advancing his experience and knowledge in these areas as a biology major pursuing a minor in theatre.

This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at http://ted.com/tedx