Influencing Hearts and Minds by Elizabeth

Influencing Hearts and Minds by Elizabeth - December 2013 Scholarship Essay

The most influential extracurricular I became involved in through school was theatre. I started theatre when I was nine years old, as a little girl in Pollyanna. I was never a lead role, always a supporting role or chorus member. I simultaneously developed both confidence and humility. Although many of my roles were small, I took great pride in being part of each and every production. Performing gave me such joy, and it taught me to carry myself with grace. I loved watching how our productions inspired the hearts and minds of audience members, particularly children.

My experiences in theatre have impacted me in numerous other ways, great ways - ways I didn’t realize back in high school. Since graduating from college, I have discovered my calling to become a teacher, particularly one serving a low income, diverse school district. To gain experience in the classroom, I decided to spend a year substitute teaching before going to graduate school to get my teaching license. In social situations, I am generally somewhat reserved. However, as soon as I get in front of a classroom, I come alive, just as I always did in front of a full theater. I believe strongly in the role of teacher as actor, and I am confident that my experiences in theatre have allowed me to fulfill this role beautifully. I am eager to further my education and subsequently, gain more opportunities to influence hearts and minds in the classroom, just as I strove to do in theatre.