My success path by Nora

My success path by Nora - March 2025 Scholarship Essay

I am still undecided when it comes to my future plans for a potential career area. I have job shadowed multiple internship opportunities including Pharmacy and accounting. I am also curious about the field of dental hygiene. It has been very intriguing to see the different work forces and be able to experience what I do and do not like in these various fields. In 10 years, I hope to have a degree in my chosen field and be established. Initially, my plan is to go to Sauk Valley Community college in the Fall for 2 years to achieve an Associate's degree. I then plan to transfer to a University somewhere, depending on which career direction I choose.
I was fortunate in my junior year of high school, to take a business class called Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities-CEO- through our vocational school, Whiteside Area Career Center. This class left such a great impact on my life. I was able to take away so many skills I can apply in the future. This class involved business and time management skills, effective communication, and problem solving skills. We had multiple businesses present to our class throughout the year to talk about their path of success such as the education needed to owning and operating a business, as well as, what they look for when hiring their staff. At the end of the year, each student creates their own business plan and develops an original business that is designed, independently, by the students. We met with bankers to give a sales pitch and ask for a loan for the business. My business was called Blooming Scents. The products I sold were flower shaped wax melts that I hand made, and warmers. I was pleased to end up profiting from my business once all loans were paid back. This was by far one of my favorite classes. This particular class was something different from regular classes and I truly enjoyed meeting new people and business owners throughout the community.
Currently, I am a senior in high school. I have focused all four years on balancing school responsibilities with work and sports. I am fortunate to have teachers that have been supportive and willing to guide me through difficult times. Many have gone above and beyond to help me be successful. As I prepare to move forward in my education, I am very grateful for all of the support they have given me. I do not think I could have done it without my teachers.