My Rock by Ximena

My Rock by Ximena - April 2024 Scholarship Essay

No one knew how long it would take before the overwhelming stress consumed her. Witnessing my mom navigate a wrongful termination reshaped my perspective to uphold a system meant to defend one's integrity. Employees shouldn't have to feel like their circumstances aren't validated by Human Resources, administration, or their employers. The verdict of my family's newfound circumstance compels me to address the fundamental issues shaping work culture in America.

Pursuing something solely for foreseeable high-income reward was a brief and unfulfilling path for me. I’ve always been drawn to pursuing knowledge that couldn’t be solved by applying a formula or rule. My interests are increasingly heightened when delving into historical topics open to diverse perspectives. In high school, I was fortunate enough to complete a semester-long internship with a local law firm. Engaging in discussions with the attorneys facilitated a newfound perspective for advocacy. There, I found the confidence to run my student council campaign and become part of my school’s student ambassador team, inviting prospective families and students to a world rich in opportunities.

Throughout my high school experience, my mom’s journey of undergoing a legal dispute for wrongful termination has been both a revelation and a source of motivation. The thought of someday demonstrating skilled legal advocacy to protect those mistreated gives me inspiration and the drive to pursue an interest that aligns with my conviction. The lessons I take from this transformative battle serve as fuel to keep the spirit of belief, integrity, and devotion, ablaze.