Life Lesson by April

Life Lesson by April - October 2013 Scholarship Essay

Growing up, my mother instilled in us a love of volunteering in our community. We never had any extra money to donate but time was something that we could always spare. In 9th grade I began volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club in Tennessee where we lived. Even though I knew it was important to volunteer, this was a difficult time, age-wise, and I was more interested in spending time with friends then I was with younger children who needed my time and support. The year started out difficult, with my mother forcing me to volunteer after school. After several weeks I began to enjoy working with the children, and was even able to direct a play they wanted to put on for their parents. The year went by quickly and I looked forward to heading there after school. I was asked to be on their youth board and helped start a Friday night event for teens to keep them in a fun and safe environment. At the end of the year I was asked to attend a parent night but was given no further information. In jeans and a tee shirt, I arrived unaware that I was being given the award for Volunteer of the Year. It was the most amazing surprise and it is still one of my proudest moments. I still volunteer today, but as a fourteen year old, I am happy that I stuck with the Boys and Girls Club. I learned how important it is to be aware of your surroundings and constantly look for ways to help others. This is why I am in education and work with youth every day. It is a love that I learned very early on.