Teacher Turned Hero by Annabella

Teacher Turned Hero by Annabella - January 2025 Scholarship Essay

I missed a lot of school in 7th grade because I was severely bullied, and it took a major toll on my mental health, causing me to miss a lot of school. Most of my teachers and peers ignored me, but one teacher went out of her way to be my friend, my math teacher, Miss Jensen.

Whenever I could come to class, she would tell me how much she missed me and how great it was to have me in class. She connected with me over our love for dance; I danced at a studio, and she taught dance classes. I told her I wished she should be the high school team's coach, but I never dreamed it would come true.

Fast forward to the summer before my freshman year of high school. I was trying out for the dance team, only to find out Miss Jensen was the coach! It helped calm my nerves because my freshman year was the first year of full-time, in-person classes after COVID, and I was scared to go. I made the dance team, and Miss Jensen was an incredible source of support for the next four years. She knew I was scared of my own shadow, but she kept giving me opportunities, including a spot in the dance that performed in the State competition.

I stayed on the team my sophomore year, but half of my team quit because a couple of mean teammates made it miserable for everyone. I refused to let Miss Jensen down, though. I knew she had a lot of faith in me and had supported me through so much. She motivated me to work hard and even gave me some leadership opportunities that helped build my confidence.

During my junior year, my anxiety worsened, but this time as a side effect of a physical illness. It got so bad that I vomited before and after every performance. This made it challenging to show up because I felt like an embarrassment to my team. Again, Miss Jensen sat by my side and pulled me through.

I have lost count of how many times Miss Jensen helped me in my high school career. She saw me at my lowest but never let me beat myself up or give up. Because of her help, I started to grow in many ways, including academically. I became more and more confident in myself and learned how to put steps in place so I could succeed, whereas, before this, I wasn’t sure I could finish high school the traditional way.

My senior year has been the best yet, thanks to Miss Jensen. I no longer vomit at performances, I don’t get knocked to my knees with anxiety when someone is mean, and I’ve grown a backbone and voice. Miss Jensen pushed me in ways I didn’t know I needed and helped me become who I am today. Because of her, I have a bright future, attending my dream college and pursuing my dream of becoming a nurse. If I hadn’t met her five years ago, I’m not sure I’d be the success I am today.