My first grade teacher by Bryan

My first grade teacher by Bryan - July 2016 Scholarship Essay

As I prepare to enter the unknown world waiting for me after high school graduation, I reflect on all the positive and negative experiences I have encountered since my beginnings as a young student and how each event shaped me in one form or the other. I must admit that the most difficult year in my life was the grade that all children should enjoy-the grade where you begin to learn to write your name, read basic words, and begin to discover what your abilities are.
First grade was truly a traumatic time in my life that resulted in a tough lesson of the “rules of the game”. I am not sure why, but it could have been because I was just learning English or maybe because my teacher just didn’t have enough confidence in me. Maybe she just plain hated me? I still don’t know; however, I do know that, my first grade year, I learned more than the average kid.
I do not ever recall not having a passion for learning. I’ve always had a tiny seed in me exploding with excitement to be taught, but my first grade teacher didn’t water that seed that grew in me. She did the opposite and sadly made me feel less than my classmates. I began to believe I was not smart. I believed others were better than me and I felt so insignificant. When the year finished, her words were burned into my memory. She told me, “I am glad you’re leaving my class, finally!” and it scarred me forever.
As a result, instead of letting her words break me forever, I became determined to excel. I started to put all my effort during the rest of my elementary years and on. I was recognized my third grade year with an exemplary score in mathematics on my state exam and I continued to get recognition year after year. I’ve been told that I am a great student and my grades are excellent. It is how you let experiences mold you and shape you that is the key to drive oneself to want to be better. I did not let a negative experience break me; I let it shape me and prepare me for the ultimate game. Now, that my high school senior year has ended, and I am proud to say I have excelled. I can not wait to continue my path to success. I am more determined as ever!