So Thankful for Education! by Grace

So Thankful for Education! by Grace - November 2020 Scholarship Essay

I am thankful for all aspects of education. As an African American student, it was not that long ago that I wasn’t able to attend what was considered white schools with the best resources. Education back then was separated by race and was supposed to be separate, but equal. Unfortunately, it was separate, but inherently unequal.

Two years ago, I had the opportunity to help Civil Rights Icon Elizabeth Eckford of the Little Rock Nine tell her story for the first time in 60 years since she helped desegregate Little Rock Central High in 1957. Although the Brown v. Board of Education decision of 1954 ruled that segregation was unconstitutional, numerous states continued the practice. As such, firsts like Eckford, the Little Rock Nine and Ruby Bridges bravely endured threats and attacks to attend and desegregate white schools across the country. I am thankful for their persistence and tenacity.

It is a great blessing that I can attend my current school, West Florida High School of Advanced Technology. I am thankful that it provides me the opportunity to prepare for my intended vocation of becoming an Obstetrician/Gynecologist. In my high school I major in Biomedical Sciences, which prepares me for my future college studies. This is a significant opportunity for me in because my middle school did not teach Biology, leaving me at a deficit. Now, my current classes immerse me and provides a solid preparation for becoming a doctor.

I am and remain thankful for education and do not take it for granted. I work hard to earn the best grades that I possibly can. Some classes are more difficult than others, but that just encourages me to work harder. My thankfulness and gratitude for education ensures that I will continue studying. My passion for education will lead to my being a medical doctor and being able to help others, which is why my appetite for education will never abate!