Courtnie Clark-Kiara
McCallum High School
Class of 2008
This is an exciting time in my life – it is the time to mature, the time to dream and prepare for my future while honoring my heritage and past. I know that life does not always happen the way one plans it. I had to learn this less on at an early age, but through a strong support system, hard work, and motivation, I had to handle a very difficult obstacle that influenced my decision to go to college.
After the death of my father 10 years ago, I had to learn how to live without my father. This was very difficult as a seven-year-old child. Many times I wondered how it would be to have my father in my life, how different my life would be, even if I would be the person I am today. My mom and I have spoken about those thoughts and concluded that life’s obstacles shall pass and that energy spent on speculation is invested wiser into the future.
My mom had to raise my brother and me by herself. Her dreams of going to college were out of reach the moment my father passed away. As a young woman, I start to understand the tremendous effort my mom put forth, for both my brother and myself. She is my greatest motivation to becoming the mature adult I want to be. Her love, dedication, and support are amazing and exemplary. Her hard work as a single mother has shown me that many things are achievable when one puts one’s mind to it.
This is the reason why I am writing this essay. It is my goal to go to college, but my personal circumstances require me to be proactive in finding funding for my college dream. It is a challenge for my family to give me the financial support required, but I don’t see this as an obstacle that cannot be overcome. I see this as an opportunity to apply my experiences and acquired skills to my goal. I know that my dream of a college education can be achieved. I know how very proud I would make both of my parents when I graduate from college. It would be my honor to represent my family as a successful college graduate.
I understand that in today’s world, young positive female role models are needed more than ever. I am highly motivated to become an educated, strong, outspoken confident woman, just like my mother. I see myself growing into an future leader and will strive to serve as a guiding light to others with similar backgrounds and circumstances. I am already working as a teen mentor in the Big Brother’s Big Sister’s program and will continue this mentorship throughout my life.
The doors to my future are wide open and I am looking forward to a bright and successful future that allows me to be happy, fulfilled, and a positive influence on others.