Proverbs 31:31, the teacher (professor) that inspired me through a Biblical verse by Michelle

Proverbs 31:31, the teacher (professor) that inspired me through a Biblical verse by Michelle - July 2016 Scholarship Essay

Lessons in life are some of the most important factors when evaluating yourself. Some lessons are noted to be harsh and even life changing, but one of my most important lessons would have to be the influence individuals could stow upon you.

Some say that if you have never had one person to influence you throughout your whole lifetime, you have not lived life to its fullest potential. There has to be at least one person who has influenced you in some way, shape, or even form. Unfortunately I did not find my first bit of influence until I reached my junior year of my undergraduate studies. I personally think this is due to the mental and verbal abuse that I have suffered from since a young age. I had always been taught to never trust anyone and that pretty much no one has good intentions. And that God placed you in this world alone and that is how he wants you to be.
As I reflect on my junior year of undergraduate studies, I can remember the first day I stepped into my first bit of major courses, outside of the introductory classes. On the first day of class, I can recall Dr. LaRhonda Odom explaining the classwork load and what she expected out of her students. After that, she then went on to tell the class about herself and how she was raised in Mississippi and how she had to overcome many barriers to get to where she was in life. As she explained how she grew up and her struggles, I began to realize that some of the same struggles she experienced growing up, mental abuse, verbal abuse, and lack of confidence and self-esteem, were some of the exact ones that I have experienced. From living in a home with parents who never attended college to even being a minority in a majority trying to succeed beyond the measly measures of her society. From that day forward, I knew that I would be able to talk to her about my future plans and how coming from a home where education is not valued as much was so hard. Dr. Since knowing Dr. Odom, she has pushed me measures beyond of what I thought I could achieve. She has saw faith in me that I could not see within myself.

As my advisor for the Political Science Association, she has even chose me to represent the organization as the President because she sees the face of change within me. Overall, Dr. LaRhonda Odom has been my inspiration to continue to keep pushing even when the forces are against you. She has also even led me to find my favorite quote of all time, which is from Proverbs 31: 31.

As Proverbs 31:31 reads, “Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates”, I simply can say that this allows me to push forward and to continue. I know that through every upset, downfall, and even success, I will succeed. God will truly not leave me or forsake me. At the end of the day or at the end of my time here on earth, I know that through all of my services, my work will not be in vain. Somebody, including God sees my progression and my push to make my life and the lives of others better. This quote and verse is another reason why I continuously contribute to the community. Twice a week and every other weekend, I am giving back to the community that has given to me. And even to the communities that have not gave to me. I truly believe that I have a purpose greater than myself.

My favorite professor and my favorite quote have reassured me that my passions in life are more than just a passion; it is my God given destiny. Although I know that the road ahead of me will be far from easy, Proverbs 31:31, will ensure me that all of my work will not be in vain. There will always be someone who looks up to me, and I will always be their source of inspiration just like Dr. Odom.