Moving Forward by Lauren

Moving Forward by Lauren - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

During my sophomore year at Henry Abbott Technical High School, I failed my Algebra 2 course. At the time, I was surrounded by the wrong group of friends and lacked the motivation to try in school. I allowed distractions to take priority over my education, which led to falling behind academically. Failing that class was a wake-up call that forced me to reevaluate my priorities and take responsibility for my future.

When I realized that my actions could jeopardize my ability to graduate, I knew I needed to change. I promised myself that I would work as hard as I could to improve my grades and create better opportunities for my future. Although I may not be an A+ student, my dedication to self-improvement and perseverance sets me apart from many of my peers.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned from my struggles is that failure is not the end—it’s an opportunity to grow. While I regret the mistakes I made early in high school, I’m grateful for how those experiences pushed me to become better. Failing Algebra 2 taught me that success is not about being perfect but about how you respond to setbacks. I chose to respond by working harder and refusing to give up, even when the journey was difficult.

To get back on track, I sought help from teachers, attended extra tutoring sessions, and committed myself to completing assignments on time. I learned how to manage my time better and set specific goals for myself. By the end of my junior year, my grades improved significantly, and I felt a renewed sense of pride in my academic achievements. I also distanced myself from negative influences and surrounded myself with people who encouraged me to succeed.

Beyond academics, I’ve taken on responsibilities outside of school that have further developed my character and work ethic. I’ve worked part-time jobs to help support my family, gaining valuable skills such as time management, teamwork, and communication. Balancing school and work has taught me how to prioritize tasks, remain disciplined, and push through challenges even when things get tough.

Looking back, I’m proud of how far I’ve come. While I still face challenges, I’m confident in my ability to overcome them. My experiences have taught me that success is not determined by how you start but by how you choose to move forward after setbacks. This mindset has shaped the way I approach not only school but life in general.

Receiving this scholarship would be a tremendous help in making my college dreams a reality. Coming from a family with limited financial resources, paying for college is one of the biggest challenges I face. This scholarship would allow me to afford tuition, housing, books, and student fees without placing a heavy financial strain on my family. It would enable me to focus entirely on my education and personal development, rather than worrying about how to cover the cost of my studies.

I am passionate about pursuing a career in Environmental Science, where I can make a positive impact on the lives of others. Attending college will provide me with the knowledge and skills I need to achieve my goals and contribute meaningfully to society. I’m committed to working hard, maintaining high academic standards, and taking advantage of every opportunity college offers.

In the future, I also hope to give back to my community by mentoring young students who may be facing similar struggles. I want to share my story to show them that setbacks don’t define them—that with determination, hard work, and support, they can turn their lives around just as I did. I believe that education is one of the most powerful tools for personal growth and societal change, and I’m committed to using mine to make a positive difference.

Thank you for considering my application for this scholarship. The opportunity to pursue higher education without the financial burden would mean the world to me and my family. I’m determined to honor this opportunity by working hard, staying focused on my goals, and striving for excellence in all that I do. This scholarship would not only support my education but also help me continue my journey of personal growth and success. I’m excited about the future and ready to face any challenges that come my way with the same resilience and determination that have brought me this far.