The Beauty of Education by Taylor

The Beauty of Education by Taylor - April 2016 Scholarship Essay

In 2013, I graduated high school with a 4.2 GPA, along with honors. I had worked extremely hard so that I could have, essentially, an infinite amount of options for college. Unfortunately, my family’s financial situation did not favor me going on to a four-year university. I ended up attending a local community college, San Bernardino Valley College, and have been there for the last couple of years. Initially, I felt discouraged. I thought I deserved better than a community college education. However, I had all the wrong ideas about community colleges and the educational opportunities they offer. At first, it seemed like I was experiencing a setback, but now I realize how necessary it was for me to attend Valley College, because it was at this school that I realized my true passion for education.
I see education as a way to be successful. Success is a major aspiration of mine, however, education means more to me than just a means to gain success. It is one of the greatest gifts a society has to offer. In addition to providing the tools for a successful career, it encourages creative and abstract thought, and it stimulates productivity and focus. I often get into arguments with my peers who believe that a job is more important than education. Yes, jobs are important, but similar to what I previously mentioned, education teaches abstract and critical thinking skills through a broad amount of subjects that one doesn’t necessarily learn at a job. College has really strengthened my appreciation for education. I have been able to learn so many things about the world, people around me, and even myself through all the courses I’ve been able to take. Education is vital, and there is no other source I know that allows a person to foster all their interests, as well as learn about the world around them in so many varied aspects.
If I were to give one piece of advice to younger students, it would be to enjoy school for what it is, which is a place to learn. Everyone gets so caught up in what is expected, that they stay fixated on the destination, rather than the journey. Society tells us to go to school, graduate, then get a job. They paint this picture as if school is necessary to live a comfortable life. As a result, school is perceived as a responsibility or obligation. But don’t go to school because you feel obligated, go because you want to. Make the most out of school, learn everything you can, and success will come. Of course my wanting an education goes beyond just pure appreciation. Ten years from now, I want to be able to look back and be proud of all that I have accomplished in both school and my career. Like many people, I want to be successful, and I believe education is the best pathway towards success. However, I am not rushing success. I know that it will come in due time. For right now, I am really enjoying school, and I hope younger students experience that same, if not more, enjoyment.