Learning Moments by Halie

Learning Moments by Halie - September 2018 Scholarship Essay

Life is full of learning moments. Opportunities to gain knowledge and understanding are everywhere. There is so much to learn outside the classroom. Even though it may not feel like it now, most of my days are spent outside of school. I am fascinated by the things and people I see around me. I am eager to explore and research these topics. I am open to listening to people with opposing ideas. Expanding my knowledge also offers self-fulfillment. Learning is a lifelong journey that I am excited to be on for the next 25 years and beyond!
The education I received in elementary, middle, and high school is a foundation to support my individual learning throughout adulthood. My schooling has taught me to work hard, develop effective time management, and establish strong relationships with my school community. These skills will also benefit me in my career and personal life in the future. Teachers have greatly influenced my love of learning. Mr. Ackerman, and his enthusiasm for Earth Science, ignited in me a passion for science. My interest in science blends into a desire for knowledge about our world and the people in it.
A nurturing home environment and encouraging parents contribute to my academic success. My love of reading can be traced back to observing my parents relationships with books. Bedtime stories were read outside under porch lights, inside by Christmas tree lights or snuggled in bed with a nightlight. My passion for learning was fed by educational trips. Family vacations were usually road trips in the RV to national parks. In 2013, it was Yellowstone, my siblings and I earned our Junior Ranger Badges. Learning was fun and exciting among the geysers, hot springs, and wildlife. Other years camping was closer in nearby state parks. These excursions consisted of observing birds, collecting wildflowers, cooking on an open flame, or tying rope knots. I see my parents studying and doing continuing education for their jobs and realize learning does not stop after high school or college.
My formal educational goals are to attend North Dakota State University to attain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Nursing has so many different pathways to pursue. I am interested in neonatal nursing, emergency room nursing and travel nursing. After exploring some of these areas, I may further my education toward becoming a nurse practitioner or nurse anesthetist. The medical field is always changing and advancing. To keep up with the improving research and evolving technology, I will have to keep advancing my own skills and knowledge. Receiving a diploma, certificate or license in my career will not signify an end to my education.
I am excited to nurture my creative side as time allows in my future. I am curious about music, art, and nature. I would like to expand my talents in playing the guitar. Maybe learn the cello alongside my sister or find a beat drumming with my dad. Ceramics and photography are a couple fine arts I studied in high school and would enjoy exploring more.
In 25 years, I will continue self-discovery and growth. I will educate myself on current events in the world so I can be a contributing member of society. I will learn about conflicts happening in the world and I will also learn from them. I will read books and search the internet. I will travel and learn how others are successful. I will continue to ask questions and seek the answers.