What does attending college mean for me? by Mary

What does attending college mean for me? by Mary - June 2013 Scholarship Essay

Attending college is something I have been doing on and off for the past 22 years. I was active duty in the United States Air Force for approximately 9 years immediately following High School. During that time, I completed 60 credit hours for a Community College of the Air Force Degree. It was an Applied Science Degree in Personnel Administration. I separated from the Air Force to be a full-time mom, and to be the stable non-deployable parent since my husband is also Active Duty Air Force. My date of separation was exactly one year and one day before 9/11, and I ultimately made the best decision for our family. Day care in Hawaii for two children was taking most of my paycheck, and I wasn't the one getting to spend those valuable minutes with my children. I was able to be a stay home mom for the most part, and ensure that at least one of us would be with our kids 365 days a year. I did work nights often during the time my babies were little, because it was a huge pay cut going from two military pay checks to only one. Often times I didn't get many hours of sleep and there wasn't money or time for anything else. When my second child started school I was able to go back to work full-time. I worked as a Special Education Paraprofessional for a year before we moved overseas. I continued to be a Substitute Teacher in my children's school and loved it. I had volunteered most of my military life as a tutor, and as a coach when my kids started playing sports. I also was a volunteer for VBS, and the Leader for my daughter's Girl Scout Troop. I decided this was what I was passionate about and wanted to teach. I had enjoyed my career in the military, but knew I was always more drawn to helping and teaching children. I felt being a teacher has always been my true calling. So upon returning back to the states I decided it was time I fulfilled my long term goal and dream of being a teacher. I have subbed the most in Early Childhood and Special Education rooms. I think this career is both important and rewarding, and there is an increased need for Special Education teachers. I had been out of school for over 10 years, and was a little intimidated that I will be 41 when I finally graduate. However, this is what I've always wanted to do, and I want to make a difference in the lives of children. To me attending college is the means to finally be able to fulfill that goal. I have waited a long time following my husband around the world, and putting his career first. I also have not regretted that decision it was what was best for our family at the time. He is now retirement eligible, and me getting a degree will allow him to not feel pressured to stay in. It also means a better future for my children who are starting to think about attending college. I also wanted to be an example to them as well of how important getting an education is. The fact I'm going to college means so very much to our whole family. By the time I'm done this will have been a 23 year endeavor, but it will certainly be worth the long wait. I think if I had done this straight out of High School it wouldn't have meant as much as it does now. I have met and worked with some amazing teachers who have been key mentors and examples for me. I have always been a compassionate person, but they have taught me how to take that to a whole new level. I'm excited to be graduating in May, and hopefully walking into my own classroom in the fall. I will take what I have learned from all teachers that have mentored me in the several schools I've worked in. I also will take away so much from my incredible instructors who are mentoring me now. Getting an education and attending college means I can continue to make a difference to future students, to my family, and my community.