Taking It To The Next Level by Dylan

Taking It To The Next Level by Dylan - June 2013 Scholarship Essay

Deciding where to attend college can be quite a challenge.  My decision on where to go to college was initially based on which school would want me for college baseball.  For as long as I can remember, I have dreamt of playing college baseball.  My plans were to attend as many showcases and college try-outs as possible. Due to an unexpected football injury, I was unable to play baseball for several months.  My plan was now completely off-track, and I was not sure what would happen.  Several schools had shown interest in me, but I was unable to show them my baseball abilities when they were available to see me.  East Texas Baptist University was one of the only schools that remained consistent in staying in contact with me throughout my healing and physical therapy.  Initially, I had doubts about attending a costly private school and I knew they did not offer athletic scholarships.  The cost of receiving a college education at a private school would definitely be a burden on my family.  After one visit to the campus, I had an overwhelming peace that this was where God wanted me to be.  It is a small college with small classes.  There is an accountability to attend classes...my teachers would actually KNOW me!  I met all of the baseball coaches and almost immediately felt a bond with them.  Several of the baseball players introduced themselves and shared their future plans with me.  I was truly impressed with everyone we encountered.  When my mother and I left the campus that day, we discussed everything on the ride home and she was just as pleased as I was. We all felt this was where God was leading me.With everyone in my family being on board, my college choice is East Texas Baptist University. The oppurtunity to attend this school means the world to me.  I received some scholarships through the school for my high school academic performance.  I am excited about my college because I feel it fits me in every way.  It will be a structured daily life and I feel this will serve me well.  It is a Christian, Bible-based school to keep me spiritually in check.  My classes being small will give me more one-on-one time with my instructors.  Another added perk is that it is only one hour from my home.  And, of course, I am so excited about playing baseball there with my fellow teammates.  I believe everything that transpired led me to this university.  I know God will continue to bless me in this next chapter in my life.