College Admission Essay

My parents never went to college and three of my older siblings never went to college. One of my older brothers did go to a university for one day, but chose not to return. In my community, the first, and perhaps only, priority for a woman is to get married and build a home. There are very few resources for someone like me, looking for something more.

Ever since I was little, I have had an immeasurable love of learning. I was curious about everything from where our food comes from to how a plane flies. As I began school, asking questions and questioning the answers became a habit. During my earlier years in school, the obstacles were not as apparent and I did not feel the pressure to conform, but the conversations were always there.

When

My parents have always been supportive of my determination and my school has allowed me to take initiative and fulfill my desire to learn about everything from biology and psychology to government policies and world conflict. Although encouraged to continue on my path of discovery, the conversations and assumptions about my future became glaring. The pressure of conforming became greater, but my focus and commitment only became stronger.

With little coming from outside, the only source of my motivation could be from within. Instead of being closed-minded and allowing the expectations drown out my aspirations, I needed to open my eyes and realize my potential. I wanted to continue my interest in advocacy, so I became president of my school’s Students In Action program and helped the team win the 2016 Gold Service Leadership Award. In order to guarantee that my presentations and ideas would be effective, I enrolled in the Dale Carnegie youth training that my school was offering. Even though my siblings have tried to persuade me not to bother worrying about report cards and colleges, I utilized my love of learning to pursue higher, more challenging course loads in AP and honors classes. I learned to find inspiration in an environment that