As I look back on my academic career thus far, I can only say that I have made it this far because I have had amazing people in my corner. Achieving one’s dreams is hard and if you do not have the right support, you can lose motivation instantly. This post is dedicated to the people who have supported me through my trailing times.
First and foremost, I would like to thank my family. They have taught me so many life lessons that have been essential to me being successful. My family has taught me that life is more than just book smarts. You have to have some type of street smarts. Life will not always be writing this paper or taking this test and as a result, having those street smarts is essential to surviving. From lessons abut politics, religion, the economy, culture, and etcetera, I can say that I am a better person because I have learned this. My family was there when I had nothing and they continue to stand by my side to this day. It is easy to support someone when they are doing well and flourishing, but it is harder to support someone when they are struggling and at the very beginning of their potential.
Next, I would like to thank my mentors. I could not have gotten to where I am without my amazing mentors. My mentors range from family members to close friends and more. I always try to seek out mentors because I do not have all the knowledge. One of my mentors put it best. She said “Why study something ten ours when you can simply ask someone who knows how to do it and they can explain it to you in ten minutes”. My mentors in my life have helped me get scholarships, internships, and more. Because of my mentors, I am that much more prepared. By mentoring me, they allow me to have some of their knowledge and I can use that knowledge to better myself and be the best that I can be.
I would also like to thank all of the educators in my life. Whether it be my high school teachers or college professors, they have helped shaped me into the intellectual that I am today. My teachers in high school never gave up on me. They pushed me to challenge myself and chase my dreams. In college, the professors test my curiosity and push me to new bounds in academia. My teachers in college truly invest within each student they have. That is very powerful because by speaking and engaging in meaningful conversations with our teachers, we can learn a little more about life.
I would also like to give a huge thanks to all of the scholarship and leadership organizations that I am a part of. Because of these scholarships, I can say that I can chase my dreams of a secondary education. Additionally, the community within these organizations is truly special. They are always there for me and make sure that I have the tools to be the best person that I can be.
Lastly, I just want to thank everyone who has helped me on this journey!
-Dave