Empowering Others by Nick

Empowering Others by Nick - April 2015 Scholarship Essay

Throughout my life, I have always found myself with the any desire to connect with people. Whether it is my family, friends, acquaintances or clients, I have found that connecting with others is my true passion. When I have the opportunity to help others, I find that I feel that connection even more immensely. Through my internship at a residential treatment facility, as part of my undergraduate degree in Sociology, I discovered a better understanding of the ways in which I can help others in a therapeutic manner. Additionally, my more recent experience working with adolescents as a therapeutic mentor has allowed me to work more closely with school counselors that also serve these children and adolescents. I have gained a better understanding and stronger appreciation for the importance of their work in the educational system, as well as their impact on children's family and home life.

I had the privilege of being taught by professors who evoked my curiosities and sparked my interests. One of those professors, Dr. Les Ruder, shared information on an internship opportunity at a residential treatment facility, which subsequently helped lead me to the realization of my professional goal of becoming a school counselor. The experiences, inspiration and knowledge I gained from working with the young men and woman helped me recognize my purpose to help others. I aspire to embody the skills and character to provide support for academic success, social interactions, development of coping skills, and clinical interventions. As well, I attribute my passion for helping middle school students to the therapeutic support I received as a young person diagnosed with ADHD. In turn, I look forward to providing the necessary support and positive impact to empower the students I will work with. I hope to work alongside other professionals who enjoy helping young people identify their motivation and passions as much as I do. I believe this to be the purpose of an education.