Pursuing the Best Version of Myself by Daniel

Pursuing the Best Version of Myself by Daniel - July 2014 Scholarship Essay

Having been educated at home from kindergarten through 9th grade, I would have to say that the most influential teacher in my life was (and still is) my mother. Homeschooling all six of her children, my mother taught us the value of self-motivated learning. For her, education was not simply about enabling her children to regurgitate mindless facts, but about instilling in each one of us a love for the process and the reward of learning.

She not only taught me how to read, but to love reading and discovering new truths about life. She not only taught me math and science, but how to problem solve, which was not only helpful in achieving good grades, but an essential component for becoming a mature and healthy adult. She taught me that consistency, diligence, and the ability to finish what you start are more precious than any of the facts I learned in history books and are values that carry tremendous significance throughout your entire life. She taught me what it means to be proud of a job well done, but also to never be satisfied with the status quo.

Most importantly, she affirmed in me the understanding that education is not about competition with others over abilities and knowledge; rather, education is a way to make yourself the best you can be. In pursuing my higher education, I am not pursuing a degree or a career; I am pursing the best version of myself. I have her to thank for that!