As I reflect back on my life, I realize how much I’ve grown over the years, not only physically but psychologically. I continue to learn new things about myself on a daily basis. It can be as simple as liking coffee or as complex as determining what learning strategy works best for me. Characteristics like being responsible, punctual and having the courage to stand up for myself and others, has helped to make me feel better about myself. All of these things have played a role in making me the person I am today. I believe this will help to determine the path ahead for me in my journey through college and my future.

Being responsible isn’t always easy. There are choices to make that sometimes seem a little less appealing, but are necessary to be successful. For example, I have to be at school on time but in order to do that—I need to make sure I have gas in my car. Prior to having the gas in my car, I have to make sure I have enough money to pay for that gas. One responsibility seems to always depend on a previous choice or decision I’ve made. I have set standards for myself based on my goals and beliefs so these responsibilities are upheld. By doing so, I have been able to accomplish each set goal along the way.

I am a full-time high school student and also have a part-time job working at Walgreens. Adding a job onto my current set of responsibilities has made me become even more responsible. I have to make sure I have my work schedule documented so I am there as required. I also have to make sure I balance my school duties and my work so my studies don’t suffer. I have learned how to manage my daily schedule and it has become second nature for me.

Every day I am faced with having to be a leader, standing my ground and saying what I feel in order to show that I am not a follower. I am my own person and throughout my life I have taken pride and ease in following my own agenda and standing by my own set of beliefs and values. As a high school student the peer pressure can be heavy at times and it has been important to me not to cave under those pressures. Being able to express my true feelings has become as easy as reciting the alphabet for me. I have found that communication and a strong will and sense of who I am, has proven to strengthen my relationships. I feel that if you are able to communicate effectively with others and express yourself, you can be successful in just about anything you do.

Personality traits and characteristics like being responsible, punctual, a good communicator and a leader are all skills that I can bring to your university. Over the past four years of my life I have matured both academically and psychologically. I have also grown to learn more about myself and the others around me. This has helped me to prepare as I near graduation and move onto the next step in life, college. I am excited and determined to continue my journey of learning and growth.