Small School, Big Aspirations by Madison

Small School, Big Aspirations by Madison - October 2014 Scholarship Essay

When I made my college decision, a big factor was the class size. I don't want to be just another face in the crowd; I like to create personal relationships with my teachers and classmates. I find that the closer you are to people, the better your over-all experience is. I made the decision to attend Fresno Pacific University, a Division 2 school in Clovis, California. I went on an official visit and got to experience the classes first-hand. The teachers were very animated and took the time to get the students opinions, following up with constructive criticism. The student to teacher ratio is about 18:1, which I found very inviting. It gives the school a great sense of community when the teachers know all of their students by name.

Why would a small class benefit me academically? Well, I have been home schooled my entire life----with the exception of third grade, when I attended a charter school. I am used to my teachers (my mom and dad) being very hands-on. I don't want to go to college and have professors who don't give me the individualized attention that I need to excel. I decided it would be most beneficial for me to attend a Division 2 university, which initially made my college search very difficult. There aren't very many D2 schools with the Kinesiology program I want, so I had to think through the pros and cons multiple times before coming to my conclusion. If I am going to college to get a higher education, why would I sacrifice such an important aspect of learning? Why would I even consider going to a large school if I knew it wasn't going to be the right fit? When I committed to FPU, I knew that I wouldn't find a better fit for me anywhere else.

I hope that my decision will lead me to further success in my education. I firmly believe that the key to success is over-achievement. I strive to be my best in all aspects of my life; whether it's athletics, academics, or my personal life, I always give 100%. I push myself as far as I can go, and then I push harder. I have met multiple obstacles in my life, but I know that trials and tribulations will ultimately make me a stronger individual. I look forward to meeting new challenges in my life, and finding new ways to overcome.

I am hoping to get my bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology with emphasis in Exercise Science, and a possible minor in coaching. I have worked very hard to get into college, however, financial circumstances make my situation unfortunately difficult. It has been a goal of mine to attend a four-year university but I cannot afford it on my own. I am hoping this scholarship will help me get on my way to further over-achievement.