The resolution that makes me by Luis

The resolution that makes me by Luis - January 2016 Scholarship Essay

One New Year's resolution that will help me become a better student in 2016 is perhaps my only resolution this year: The resolution to be more positive. I'm 32 years old now, but was born, raised and affected with possibly the least breathtaking of perspectives imaginable. Previously, my surroundings, most of which consisted of my household, living situation and upbringing, impacted my capacity of self-worth; and ultimately, my desire to live. I have struggled with some of the most common things of this first-world society: single-mother syndrome, homelessness, hunger, abuse, abandonment, addiction of sorts, ill-health and from all of this, I'm pretty sure I've died inside, at least once.

I recently decided that it was time to get back into school. It wasn't because I suddenly felt that I was getting older and soon it would be too late. Or even because I felt the need to solidify, on this here earth, a position of importance. These preceding failed endeavors of getting back on track to bettering myself, regarding my education, stemmed from my inability to believe in myself. I went back, time and time again just to quit once more. I was plagued by negativity and pessimism, which arose from fear and disbelief. This negativity morphed into anxiety, depression and the product of all of this, a million and one insecurities.

It took a while for me to get back into the swing of things, but I was able to because I sought help. I started to make progress after receiving pro bono therapy from a well-known Chicago psychiatrist. The professional help that I received was a blessing in disguise, allowing me to manage my anxiety as well as the depression. Over time, I was able to focus more; and with patience, I soon began reading a plethora of self-help books, watching motivational videos and eventually started getting involved with volunteer work in my community. The volunteer work allowed me to help others figure out ways to tackle the same issues that I once fought hard to conceal.

Through my experiences and latest achievements to uproot negativity, I have gained a strong desire to pursue a career that allows me to convey the same message of positivity I now have become habituated to. I am working on maintaining a positive attitude to accomplish my end goal of a degree in health care and understand that optimism will help me help others during my educational journey. Next week begins the first day of the 2016 Spring Semester. Although I am nervous that it will be my first day back as a full time student, I am confident to say that this will be the last fresh start on this latest adventure.