Dreams for Reality by Grace

Dreams for Reality by Grace - June 2019 Scholarship Essay

I attended public school throughout middle school and was homeschooled throughout high school. During these two experiences, I encountered very different cultures in regard to both academics and socialization. While in the public education system, many teachers were not connected to their students on a personal level (although, there are some absolutely remarkable teachers) and I felt that my individual needs weren’t addressed. While in the public education system, I found many distractions that were both pleasant and detrimental to my education. I did not study as well as I could have and, once I reached the ninth grade, I did not have those social distractions. Unfortunately, I was uninterested in my education and did not desire to study or learn. While being homeschooled, I missed the aspect of socialization and did not believe that studying mattered while being educated at home.
One of the teachers I had did inspire me, she told me to strive for goals, dreams, and ambitions. Not only did she urge me to do this, she taught me that those goals were only attainable through hard work and education. At first, this teacher, as amazing as she was, could not sway me to study. Consistently, she explained to me the value of education, determination, and applying myself. This lady never gave up on me. One day I began to think about my future, I realized what she was saying was true and that the impact that my choices were having on my future was not a positive one. Thus, I began to take my teacher’s advice. I studied intensely, worked hard, and was consistent in my work. This woman has changed my life in so many ways, not only as my teacher, but as my mentor.
I took those words of wisdom and ended up attending the local community college. I excelled both academically and socially through my college and the community. I became the Executive Vice President of the Student Government Association, a Student Ambassador, a Mentor for the Honors Program, Homecoming Queen 2019, the Secretary for Phi Theta Kappa, a member of the All-Tennessee Academic Team, a volunteer with Habitat for Humanity, the Assistant Secretary, Food Bank Coordinator and Distributor, as well as volunteer, all at a local church that I attend. I have also been nominated for the SOAR award and have been awarded an Outstanding Leadership award by Motlow State because of my leadership and volunteerism, graduating summa cum laude with honors.
I excelled during my community college experience because I took the advice of my teacher and mentor. Surprisingly, this woman was my teacher during the time that I was homeschooled: she was my mother. My mother deserves the credit for being my favorite teacher. She has impacted my education, my career and my ambitions in the most positive way possible. In all things, she has encouraged me to follow my dreams, pursue my education, and strive for what may seem impossible. Thus, I am transferring to a university pursuing a degree in Public Administration. Now, my ambition is to make a positive impact on our community through progressive change and social awareness of issues surrounding our society. I want to encourage others to work hard, follow their dreams, and get an education. The lesson that I learned from my teacher is this: Education is important to the success of your dreams.