Where I'm from begets who I am

When asked the question -who am I?- many things come to mind. First off I'm Italian Irish and German. There are many of us "mutt's" on the island; Staten Island New York that is. Ever hear of it?

By most blatant observations I look like a normal girl on the outside. Fair skin, auburn brown locks that were once as vibrantly multi shaded as her personality; and average height. I know first impressions are key in my field (Public Relations) so I am conscious of how I present myself to other businessmen and women. But as I am making contacts, I realize more and more, peoepl py attention to HOW I'm saying as opposed to WHAT I'm saying.

Most people can hear it in my voice and ask "where are you from?" I politely reply "Staten island" and they reort -without hesitation- "I figured as much but didn't want to say it first cause like...". Cause "what?" "Well, you know..." Awkward pause ensues...

I get it. Not many people have ventured out into Staten Island and probably have no reason too. I agree there isn't much to do out there unless you know someone who could squire you about town. By town I usually mean the local Starbucks, our one mall, maybe grab a bite to eat at the usual suspects Applebee's and Carraba's and maybe even catch a movie.

But that's it. Is that a mean to be insulted as the kind yet endearing hostess at the downtown Cosi had suggested? Probably not but I take it in stride. It's not the first time and with this New York-esque accent it is certainly not the last.