I knew that if I worked hard in school, I could create a good life for myself. Neither of my parents graduated from high school, so I was considered a low income, first generation student. During high school I joined the cheerleading team, the gymnastics team, the debate club and many other activities.
As a college student, I now participate on my university's cheerleading team, have a job at an ice cream parlor, and go to school full time. In my free time I am a representative for student government and a mentor to incoming freshmen. I also enjoy hanging out with my friends. I have fulfilled many of my childhood dreams since starting college. First, I started college; second, I became a collegiate athlete and joined student government; and third, I am studying abroad.
I chose to study abroad because it was a childhood dream of mine. I have always had a desire to see the world and experience new cultures. With that being said, I knew I would not be able to study abroad unless I worked hard. I had almost no money, there weren't many people around me that could help, and I was a little bit scared. But just asking the people at my university what I needed to do and asking them for help made the task easier. Over the course of a year, I applied for many scholarships and grants and fundraisers, and I worked a lot. I was able to raise the money, I chose my study abroad country, filled out all the forms and now here I am... in London!
Life will not be easy, since most things aren't. But if you work hard, ask questions and never give up, your dreams can come true! I am living my dreams right now, and I know you can, too! This adventure is going to be great. I can't wait to learn more about you as we travel the world together.
