INFP

So, here's the thing: I'm an introvert. (INFP to be exact if you're familiar with Myers-Briggs. I am a textbook INFP.)

This is probably no surprise to anyone who has taken a class with me or anyone who knows me in person. Friends who know me well can attest that I am bubbly, kind, and witty once I'm comfortable around people. However, I get very shy, soft-spoken, and self-conscious around people I don't know well and this can lead to me coming across as somewhat flighty and inarticulate.

The only time this bothers me is when some people make certain assumptions about me. I've known people who have thought I wasn't very bright because I don't raise my hand in class, because I'm clumsy and easy-going, and I often wear my heart on my sleeve. And well, screw them.

I'm quiet in class because I learn more from listening to discussions than trying to monopolize my professor and my peers' attention. My natural disposition (inherited from my parents because they have the biggest hearts in the world) is to be as kind as I can be and to help others whenever I can. I'm normally very cheerful because I love life and I'm grateful for everything I have.

If those people got to know me, they will find that I'm fiercely opinionated and care strongly about social issues even if I don't always voice them. I'm good at remembering names, people, and random trivia. Nothing pleases me more than good literature. I've always been fascinated by music and I'm a passable singer and pianist. I'm a history buff-- I can go into full lecture mode on Tudor history.

And I think it's their loss if they firmly believe that a person's entire worth is based on what little they see in class or upon first impression without any expendable effort made on their part to get know them.

People can pleasantly surprise you.

And on a slightly related note: I adore my friends, they are wonderful.