My Bilingual Struggle by Katherine

My Bilingual Struggle by Katherine - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

One of my most challenging academic experiences was that I did not speak or understand English when I was six years old. I had trouble learning and communicating at school. I was born in Honduras and moved to the United States when I was six. I entered American school in the first grade, during the beginning of the second semester. I was the new kid who did not understand anything being said. Due to this, I had trouble socializing as kids in my class could understand me and I couldn't understand them.

When second grade came around, my biggest goal was to learn English and expand my vocabulary. I overcame this struggle with the help of a wonderful teacher, and I reached my goal. My second-grade teacher tried her best to teach me English and even stayed after school to tutor me. Thanks to her help my English improved and by the third grade, I was the best writer in my class. When I finally learned English at the age of seven, I became my mother’s translator. I would be asked to translate everywhere at school, restaurants, and doctor visits. During this time my English vocabulary was not huge. Many times, I would find myself in conflicting situations such as having to translate words I did not yet know. I felt horrible not being able to help. I used to think that expanding my vocabulary just a little more would do the trick. However, over time my English got better, and I still find myself looking up words.

As a bilingual person, I've learned that there is always something new to learn every day. There is always something new to see. There is always someone new to meet and help. This is why I want to have a healthcare career because millions of people need medical attention every day and I want to help with that as a nurse anesthetist.