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Personal Narrative: Overcoming Adversity

809 Words4 Pages

In my brief life, I have overcome a lot of adversity. My mom fled Mexico with her three young children to escape domestic violence. When we came to this country we had only a few personal belongings and the promise of a better future. We came to this country and lived in a small trailer with no toilet other than a bucket, and no shower except for the one that was lent to us from the kindness of a stranger, our new neighbor. As a single parent, my mother had to work day and night to support us. While she was working long hours cleaning people’s houses, as the oldest of three children, I had to quickly learn how to cook, how to clean and take care of my siblings. From getting the kids ready for school, helping them with their homework, and …show more content…

When I got to middle school I found out I would have the opportunity to join sports and other activities. Sports allowed me to increase not only my physical abilities but my emotional and mental ones. I learned what determination, perseverance, and hard work were all about. Cheerleading was one of the next things that I joined, and this is where I gained the confidence to speak and use my voice. I was no longer the shy girl in class, but I was much more confident and even gained new friends. From a young age, I learned to be very independent, and this independence has led me to gain leadership skills that have proven valuable in school. As Vice-President of National Honor Society, I have helped take charge of more than a hundred members and helped direct and organize community service events. Such as the Harvest Fall Festival or visiting nursing homes …show more content…

By the time I entered middle school, I had greatly improved my English speaking, reading, and writing. I learned to embrace my accent, and take pride in my Hispanic heritage. I still can't believe how much I have grown as a person in the last 9 years. The struggles that I endured growing up, strengthened and prepared me for the future challenges I am yet to face. I will be a first-generation college student next fall, and I know that I will be successful because I have always been able to overcome the obstacles I face. The challenge of moving to a new country, struggling to survive, and learn a new language have all led to who I am today, and for that, I feel I am a better person. Your investment in me today will certainly help bring a brighter future for me

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