My Passion for Automotive Technology by Danny

My Passion for Automotive Technology by Danny - April 2025 Scholarship Essay

I plan on pursuing a master certification in general automotive technology through John A. Logan College. Prior to my dreams of becoming a mechanic, I actually wanted to pursue a career in the medical field. That was my dream for many years. Or so I thought. After taking the classes and putting in the applications, I realized that was my family’s dream for me, not a dream I made for myself. As a result, I decided I wasn’t going to college and, for a while, I stuck with that plan. That was until I bought my first truck; a 2004 Silverado 1500. This truck needed some work before I could drive it further than a couple blocks. I remember the frustration of not knowing how to fix it and how accomplished I felt after I learned how to. The first part that needed to be replaced was the water pump. I asked my brother in law, a mechanic, to teach me how to put the part on. Not only did I learn a lot that day, but I also had more fun than I could’ve ever imagined. That day sparked my love for automotive technology and how it works. Ever since that day, I have been there to learn everything I can when my truck needs work. Now when something goes wrong, instead of panicking I can think and figure out what may be happening and how I can resolve the issue. Once I finish my 2-year certification program I plan to become certified in welding and become a full-time mechanic at an automotive repair shop.
One of the major reasons for me wanting to become a mechanic is the want to help people. Automotive issues are some of the most common everyday problems. After my certification, I want to be the person people can ask to fix their issues. Likewise, I look forward to being able to diagnose and repair my own vehicle(s) in the future. Although mechanics may not seem as important as doctors or lawyers to some, they are a vital part of the workforce which keeps our society going. When was the last time you saw a city where people didn’t rely on motor vehicles for transportation? Even if someone doesn’t have their own vehicle to drive, public transportation vehicles also break down and need repairs. I also want to break the stereotype of women not belonging in blue collar fields. I may be a woman but I will not let that stand in the way of what I am passionate about. Currently, women only make up about 25% percent of the automotive workforce (United States International Trade Commission). I hope to be someone who can cause that number to grow. I am majoring in automotive studies because I am passionate about it and I plan to pursue that dream for the rest of my life.