Improving myself by Mohamed

Improving myself by Mohamed - February 2017 Scholarship Essay

It was initially difficult for me to come from another country to the USA. I was the only kid in the class that did not understand what the teacher was saying or what other students were saying to the teacher. However, it is funny when everyone else is laughing because I start laughing, too. When students in class would come to talk to me, I could not answer them. The only question I could answer was when I was asked my name. One day, someone came to talk to me and I started laughing; I looked at him again and I started laughing. I thought he was saying something funny. As he started to walk away, I realized he was asking me what time it was.
The history teacher told me it was going to be difficult to stay here, but I did not give up. I wanted to prove that I could do it. I would improve in my reading, speaking, and writing day by day. This would make me stronger. I would be able to get up in front of the class and speak and not be afraid of anyone laughing at what I am saying. Challenges like this will help me in the future, even when the culture is different. They have helped me to become a better person, understanding and learning more of this new culture. It motivated me to continue what I was starting from the bottom.
There were people who reached out to me, but I thought I could do it on my own. My
ESL instructor was very understanding and she became my mentor. If there were situations, whether it be cultural difference or school questions, I knew she would be able to explain and help me understand the concept or the situation. I went from not knowing any English to one of the honors students in my school. I went from not participating in school activities to one of the best players on the varsity teams, making friends in a new environment. Maybe I liked it because it was different and new, from my old country I learned to adapt to new environments. As the year went on it turned out I was one of the funniest kid in class and I made five close friends, soon, I started meeting more great friends and teachers. I always make sure I smile at someone one a day, so I could make new friends. One day, I remember a moment walking in the hallway and people were saying hi, or nodding; at that moment I realized I had become accepted by my peers.
My goal has not changed since I came to America. I am still intent on not giving up and adapting to any situation I am in. I will continue to work hard to become a dentist. As my high school years progressed, I became more proficient in English as I knew I had to keep ahead of other students because I was still at a disadvantage. I began to run my life like I run in my race. I am always determined to catch up to the people ahead of me, through hard work and dedication, no matter the circumstance. It is not just about winning the race, it is about beating your own record and improving yourself to be successful in life.