With Pride and Joy by Annie

With Pride and Joy by Annie - November 2013 Scholarship Essay

I was a freshmen in high school when Dad lost his job. I remember the night he told us not to worry; he would have another job in no time. But without a college degree his options were limited. Weeks turned into months and months turned into years as he scrambled for any way to bring in money. At first I was unaware of the fallout and hardship our family felt- after all I was only 14. However, as time went on I caught frequent glimpses of the pain in my parents’ eyes when they had to say no more often of what I wanted. Turning sixteen and not getting a car like all the other juniors. Having to borrow dresses for school dances. These cutbacks certainly impacted my self-esteem. But knowing Mom was selling her jewelry just to assure there was food on our table absolutely flipped my priorities! Confronted with the reality of my parents’ hardship and sacrifices shocked me out of my complacent world.

During these difficulties I never had to give up on cheerleading; something I had been doing since I was eight. Cheer Express was my second home, second family and go-to place when I needed an escape from reality. My parents bent over backwards to keep me at Cheer Express. When money got tight and both my parents were not able to travel with me, they still made sure at least one of them was there to support me. On my part, I was practicing seven days a week, frequently traveling out-of-state on a four-time World Champion team, while still maintaining my honor roll status. I became a significant team player in my family, covering as many of the household chores for Mom as I could without being asked, in addition to volunteering at the neighborhood elementary school.

Keeping this positive attitude in spite of the mounting tension was the best way I knew how to show Mom and Dad I appreciated everything they were sacrificing for me. This time of my life has taught me the value of self-discipline, endurance and cooperation. These
Dad’s lack of college degree limited his job opportunities. Dad and I are determined I will not fall into the same heartbreaking situation. Determination to go to college and earn a degree, my life will be open to multiple opportunities. Dad never gave up searching and praying for a way to provide for his loved ones, nor will I let life stop me from achieving my goals. My future will not be limited by closed doors.

With pride and joy, I call myself lucky for the amazing family I have who always supported each other even when times were tough. If it weren’t for these setbacks that began freshmen year, I would not be the young lady I am today.