Finding My Purpose by Emily

Finding My Purpose by Emily - February 2024 Scholarship Essay

Throughout my high school career, I have been provided with various opportunities to job shadow and research professions of interest. Initially, I found it difficult to find a career that met all my needs and wants. However, it wasn’t until my junior year of high school that I became confident in my decision to pursue a degree in elementary education. The biggest influence that guided me towards this career was my mom. My mom is an occupational therapist assistant and has worked with children throughout her entire career. I’ve always underestimated her job and how much hard work she puts in to help her students succeed in life. It wasn’t until this past summer, while volunteering, that I realized how truly important her role is in a school district.
During this time I volunteered in the K-5 grade youth ministry class at my church, Crossroads. My mom has been volunteering in this room for some time now and allowed me to help out on Sunday mornings as needed. At first, I was a bit timid going into a room full of kids I had never met before, however as I got to know each of them individually, I knew that education was definitely the right career path for me. Interacting with the young kids while also teaching them about God has helped guide me toward a major in elementary education. I enjoyed helping them learn new concepts and implementing the weekly lesson plans. It opened my eyes to the challenges teachers and other school personnel face and how I can make an impact in the daily lives of my own students someday. I will be forever grateful that I had this rewarding experience with my mom and made some really great friends along the way.