Hands On Learning Old School is still Relevant by Taylor

Hands On Learning Old School is still Relevant by Taylor - September 2024 Scholarship Essay

As a female high school senior, I have found tremendous value in the practical application of knowledge alongside traditional textbook learning. Throughout my high school journey, I have come to realize that while textbooks provide a strong foundation, the real-world application of skills is equally important. This is particularly evident in everyday tasks that we often take for granted — tasks that our parents typically handle while we are in high school. However, as we transition to college and independent living, it becomes imperative for us to possess the skills necessary to address real-world challenges. During my high school years, my favorite way of learning is hand on learning and applying that to everyday situations.

During my high school years, I made a conscious effort to partake in automotive classes. This decision has proven to be invaluable as it has allowed me to gain hands-on experience in tasks such as changing a flat tire, performing basic car maintenance, and scheduling necessary upkeep for a vehicle. These are essential skills that cannot be fully grasped through textbooks alone. Additionally, I also delved into accounting classes, where I learned practical skills like writing a check, balancing a checkbook, and creating a monthly budget. These seemingly minor yet crucial life skills often go unnoticed until they are urgently required. While learning, we also had the opportunity to compete at the state UIL Accounting Competition, winning and becoming state champions.

With the knowledge and proficiency gained from these classes, I feel confident and well-prepared to face the challenges of independent living and higher education. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn these specific life skills during my time in high school, as I believe they will be instrumental in building a strong foundation for my future endeavors.