Not Just Her Legacy, But My Future Too by Azariyah

Not Just Her Legacy, But My Future Too by Azariyah - April 2025 Scholarship Essay

When I get to college, my plan is to major in Criminal Justice. I grew up watching my mother become a prosecutor, I even walked the stage with her when she graduated from law school. It inspired me so much to seek post-secondary education.
During my beginning years of high school, I drifted into the medical field—not by choice, but more so by pressure. My school offered classes toward becoming a CNA, EMT, etc, but none of it sparked any real interest in me. It was like waiting for a light to turn on that never did. I just wanted to be “different” and become a lawyer like my mom. Why? Honestly, I’m not sure. I think I didn't want people to think I was taking the easy way out by studying the same thing she did.
But over time, I realized that I had a deep passion for law. I had been ignoring what I truly wanted to do because I was worried about opinions from others. By the end of my junior year, it was time to start thinking seriously about college and careers. I came to the decision to major in psychology originally, after thinking I realized criminal justice will be a better fit for me since I plan on attending law school after I complete my undergraduate degree.
When I finally shared my decision with my mom, she said, “Oh, I knew that. I was just waiting for you to realize it.” Once I finally told my mother what my plans were, she said, "Oh, I knew that. I was just waiting for you to realize it." I was shocked because I thought we were both fully convinced I was going to become some sort of doctor or nurse. That moment made me realize all the years I spent doubting myself and trying to be different didn’t matter anymore.
Choosing a career path similar to my mother's isn’t about copying her, it’s about stepping into who I truly am. Having someone who’s been there before, who can guide and support me, feels less like taking the easy way out and more like having a personal mentor. Majoring in Criminal Justice isn’t just about following in her footsteps—it’s about finally embracing my own.