Overcome by Breana

Overcome by Breana - April 2016 Scholarship Essay

When I was born, I was unconscious and not breathing. My mother's umbilical cord was wrapped around my neck. The doctors immediately rushed to give me medical attention. Finally, when the miracle happened the doctors told my mom that she had a beautiful baby girl alive and healthy. Growing up I have always had to "try harder" than my other classmates. When I wanted to accomplish something, I had to give my all. I could not cut any corners or take any shortcuts.
In Kindergarten, my mother noticed I was not able to learn or remember what was taught as other children were able. In second grade, I was tested to see why I was not learning as well as other children in my grade. The doctors said that because of the lack of oxygen that went to my brain when I was born, I had a processing difficulty. That being said, in elementary school through middle school, I was provided a tutor. The tutor not only helped me understand the material more thoroughly but she helped me find studying strategies that could help me succeed in school. Finally, in High School I did not need a tutor. Although I did not need a tutor, school was still challenging for me.
Every day I had to work wholeheartedly, knowing that trying my best would mean success. Even though academics is not my strongest asset, I have found other things that I excel in and have a passion to persevere. I have a passion for helping people, being there to listen to them for whatever may be happening in their lives. I have learned through my experiences that going through situations in life is always challenging. The way we handle a situation is what is most important. In order to succeed, you have to be willing to give it your all. I succeed, because I strive for success.