Vicente Echeverria’s Journey by Vicente

Vicente Echeverria’s Journey by Vicente - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

Sophomore year was one of the toughest times in my life. I was dealing with a lot, trying to find my place and figure out who I was. It was during this year that I came out to my family as non-binary. At first, it was a huge relief to be honest about my identity, but things got complicated quickly. My dad did not take it well and decided to disown me. It felt like my world was falling apart. I was mourning the loss of that relationship, and it took a massive toll on me.

Emotionally, I was all over the place, and it started affecting my schoolwork. I found it hard to focus in class, and my grades began to slip. It was frustrating because I had always been a good student. But I was determined not to let this define me or my future.

I reached out to my teachers and school counselors for support. They were incredibly understanding and offered me the help I needed to catch up. I also found a lot of support from friends and other family members who accepted me for who I am. Their encouragement was a lifeline during this difficult time.

I knew I had to take control of my education, so I started setting small, achievable goals for myself. I broke down assignments into manageable parts and created a study schedule that helped me stay on track. It was not easy, but I was determined to prove to myself that I could overcome this challenge.

Through perseverance and the support of those around me, I gradually got back on my feet. My grades improved, and I started to feel more confident in myself and my abilities. I learned how to balance my personal struggles with my academic responsibilities, which was a huge milestone for me.

Now, as a senior, I am on track to graduate with honors. This journey has taught me resilience and the importance of staying true to myself, no matter what. It has also strengthened my passion for pursuing a career in business, where I hope to advocate for inclusivity and diversity.

I am excited about the future and the possibility of attending a university like the University of California, where I can continue to grow and learn. This experience has prepared me for the challenges ahead, and I am ready to take them on with determination and an open heart.

In the end, I am grateful for the journey, even with its hardships, because it has made me who I am today. I am proud of how far I have come and eager to see where my path will lead next.