Most scientists suggest not separating humans into races based on a single combination of physical characteristics. Especially in Australia where we are so multicultural and full of different people from different backgrounds. However, we are quick to categorize each other into a category of some kind. This essay will therefore investigate multiple socially defined group identities, particularly how an individual's race, ethnicity, and social class can influence his or her perception and experiences as a student. I will demonstrate this by examining the identities of diverse immigrants who have migrated to Australia, the cultural conflicts of second generation migrants and international students who fall into socially defined groups. We will investigate how their identity is contested, renegotiated or rejected. Punk haircut, Dark skin. A "funny" accent. Almond shaped eyes. The smell of curry. We label ourselves all the time. It's our personal shortcut to making our way in the world. All people have multiple socially defined group identities, and these identities influence each other. When defining one's identity it is important to consider various other types of socially defined group identities that a person holds, which may influence our understanding and perception of gender roles and norms. Can people choose their own identity? how much of our identity do we choose? Identity is a complex topic, more fluid than fixed. I believe that identity can be chosen and ethnicity is fixed. Identities are constructed based on various traits and experiences. Many of these characteristics are open to different interpretations. Race is a good example. Skin color is an important marker of identity in many societies, but in others...... middle of paper ......nclusion, the identity of bilingual and bicultural students is always in a process of continuous change . renegotiation. Identity formation for mobile students turns into a lifelong task, never complete; at no point in their lives is their identity definitive. The varied responses given by interviewees to questions about their belonging suggest that “home” is a shifting concept in a life of constant mobility. Those students who had only moved once or who consistently returned to their home base found it relatively easy to describe “home.” As the number of moves increased, however, it became more difficult to decide which place claimed their primary allegiance. Cultural identity is fluid and contingent in relation to historical and cultural circumstances. David Miliband, former British politician once said: "History is information." Memory shapes your identity.’