Describe a lesson you've learned from your favorite teacher, as well as how it has impacted your education. by Malia

Describe a lesson you've learned from your favorite teacher, as well as how it has impacted your education. by Malia - June 2019 Scholarship Essay

When I was younger, I had a difficult time reading. I struggled to get the hang of it. My teacher knew this, and she worked with me so that I could catch up. Time passed and I wasn't making much progress. I became discouraged. My teacher then explained to me that everyone learns at their rate, and that’s okay. To me, that sounded hopeless. Maybe I’ll never learn. She explained further that everyone has a unique ability. She said, “Some people pick up reading easier, and others maybe math or art.”
So I wondered, what am I good at? She helped me take classes that I was interested in alongside helping me become a better reader. Not only did taking the classes I was interested in make my school experience more enjoyable, but doing well in those classes made me feel better about myself. So, I poured that positive energy into reading, and low and behold, I became a more proficient reader. There are three things I learned from my teacher that will stay with me forever.
Firstly, to never give up, even when you feel like the odds are against you. You just have to work hard and be patient. Secondly, that we are all unique. Having a different ability or gift than others doesn’t make you unimportant. Rather, having a unique quality is what make us special. Thirdly, the most important lesson she taught me, is that your grade doesn’t define you. You are so much more than your test results. If a subject is difficult for me that doesn’t define who I am. Knowing and believing that gives me the momentum I need to, one day, achieve my academic goals.