Domino Effect by Ella

Domino Effect by Ella - February 2024 Scholarship Essay

Did you know that when you try to recall information, your eyes often look upwards? To middle school Ella, this piece of information was world-shattering. The fact that every little movement could be traced back to the intricacies of the mind consumed my life, and today all my questions boil down to this: Where do our actions stem from?
I realized that the answers I so desired were contained in the broad field of Psychology. Where the individual could not even begin to grasp the complexities of their mind, I would be able to uncover the essence of human cognition and behavior. It made me feel as though I could connect to others, share their pains and joys, even when I could not understand my own. Growing up, mental health was never spoken about and when it did reach the dinner table it was with hushed tones and saddened glances. The support that I lacked with my mental health transformed itself into advice and genuine care for those who may be undergoing the same struggles. My interests could be used to help others and my pain could become their joy.
Education, like the brain, is at the root of all human interaction. The classroom is where our evolving minds are formed into the actions we put back into the world. Oftentimes, students grow within the confines of a structured system. From a world of opportunities, our capabilities mold to the predetermined ideals of success. “Not good enough” should not be the consensus after failing a test, struggling with the language, or lacking attention. The differences that make us unique become barriers to a better future. I want to uncover institutional misconceptions of both the early education system and the brain so that I can understand things about people that they might struggle to grasp by themselves. I will advocate for the mind in my local communities and globally to actively challenge the systems around me. The brain should be encouraged to develop into its fullest self, and in order to do this I must foster an environment for future generations that promotes their complexity rather than restricting it. After working as a teacher for students ranging from pre-kindergarten to eighth grade and tutoring privately, I was able to see how influential a teacher is in someone’s life. One criticism can completely alter how the student is able to learn. In the same breath, a single compliment or word of encouragement can define their dreams for years to come. Even after long days at school or moment where I was dealing with my own turmoils, all it took was a smile from one student and a vibrant laugh from another to remind me what I am working towards. As someone who used to dread school and the monotonous forms of tests and quizzes, I want to change that experience for my students. Education is a beautiful thing and the mind is even more spectacular, and I want them to realize this early in life when it truly matters. I want to be able to encourage their growth, I want future generations to find the same passions that lead me to write here today.
I like to think of it as the domino effect. With every ounce of dedication and every message of support, I am building my success beyond myself. I am ensuring that all the opportunities I have been given throughout the years come to fruition and can be used to genuinely help people. As an aspiring teacher I strive to use my privilege to give back to the communities who truly need it. I will not only be able to fulfill my once seemingly impossible dreams, but also open pathways for generations to come. I want to become the cheerleader many children are not afforded, the support system they may lack, and the person they can see themselves in. This is not just my story, but the prologue of theirs.