Being Apart of a Second Family by lena

Being Apart of a Second Family by lena - December 2019 Scholarship Essay

The moment I entered a new High School in a new area, I knew I needed a foundation, a second family to keep me focused and grounded. As a freshman at the school puts you through a presentation of classes and extracurriculars. To inform and help you decide who you want to be from there on out. At the end of the seminar, I got up and signed my name under an AVID application unsure whether I would enjoy the class. I now thank myself because that is one of the best decisions I made within these four years.

As an AVID student, I first learned the power of having an open mind. The boundaries in my brain that only knew the limits of each end of my valley were expanded. The AVID program taught me more about college than just the idea of an extended school. Within the class we collaborated, learned, and made presentations on colleges, classes, jobs, and being impactful in the world. The program and their educators took time to reward us for our accomplishments in academics with trips to prestigious schools. With that, they impacted my growing brain in the importance of living and learning. Learning to expand your mind and be able to make a greater change in the future.

As an only child to my single father who never made it past secondary school. My idea of organization was no better than the 50 percent off section' of a thrift store. AVID shaped me into a college-ready student by guiding my way through tips and tricks to stay organized. It started with academic probation and forms to better gain my attention in my academics. Then progressed into a detailed agenda and daily reminders. I soon got to the point where I no longer needed a guide, but support because the AVID family had done their part in positively shaping my work ethic.

AVID being my second family, has created a safe space for me to feel open in asking questions and wanted to pursue a greater education for myself. It is one of the most impactful courses I had put myself through and I could not have been more grateful for being able to be part of this family. Now coming to the end of my high school career I have an open mindset, work ethics, and the enthusiasm to want to accomplish my educational goal, all thanks to AVID.