I have lived in a rural Anson County my entire life. Until two years ago, I’ve lived in the same house. To be honest, it was difficult for me to move because I knew that house was the place where a lot of firsts took place. When we moved, it was only about four miles down the road, which made the adjustment easier. The main reason for moving was to downsize and to have a fresh start. My parents separated when I was 8 years old. Being a part of a split family has been one of the hardest challenges I’ve had to face and it has greatly impacted the person I am. Everything that is normal suddenly changes, birthday, holidays, and vacations. Understanding and adjusting to this change required time, it is not something I accepted overnight. After all of these years, I still struggle with the decisions that were made. This life event has taught me to be independent, strong, and that things always work out the way they are supposed to, even if we don’t see it at the time.  Moving during the summer prior to my junior year was also challenging.  I left what I have always known as home, where many wonderful memories were made.  I know that a home is not always the structure you live in, but home is about the people who live inside. If it wasn’t for my mom being one of the strongest people I know and learning how to do things on her own, I would not know how to see the good in the bad. Much like my mother, I try to stay positive even in the toughest times and know that in order to be successful, I have to have a never give up attitude. I strongly believe that some of life’s most difficult times have impacted my personal and academic success, and contributed to the person I am today. To many people this might not seem like a challenge but it has affected my life and the strong person I am today.  

 

 In addition to moving, I completed a 140 hour internship at Carolinas HealthCare System Anson, now Atrium Health.  During the internship, I was able to shadow in different departments, including the Lab, Emergency Department, Radiology, and Pharmacy. During the job shadowing experience, I learned various techniques used in each department. This was required for the BioMedical Program I was in. This internship took up most of my summers so it challenging as I was there early in the mornings and sometimes even late in the afternoon. It was definitely overwhelming as I was learning so much information on each different department. 

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I can relate to Walt Disney when he states "All the adversity I've had in my life, all my troubles and obstacles have strengthened me." Thinking over my life when I was elementary school, I have always strived to be a good student and maintain good grades. It was sometimes difficult for me to stay at the top of the class or get the highest grade, especially when things don't always come easy. Although I worked extremely hard, it always appeared I was one step behind my classmates. With being slightly behind others, I had to work extra hard to keep up with them. I recognized that I learn best by "doing." Becoming immersed in every class by asking questions, collaborating with my teacher and classmates, and engaging in hands-one activities, I was not only able to learn the material, but also retain it.  During my 6th grade year, my teacher, Mrs. Williams, always challenged and encouraged me to work even harder and to get better in every way. As I started my senior year, I was more prepared and knew what to expect.  In addition to taking required classes for my Associates of Arts degree, I decided to enroll in the Nursing Assistant (CNA) class offered by South Piedmont Community College.   This will help me pursue my future career, as I will be in going into the medical field. Not only have I had to learn the information for each class and being able to do clinicals, but I have learned to be positive, be a hard worker, and overcome all of these challenges.

 

The most challenging part of my time at South Piedmont Community College has been being a dual enrolled student.  My school responsibilities, along with my athletic ones and other extracurricular activities has been very demanding at times. We were given a choice between taking a few classes or complete the entire program requirements to earn an Associate's of Arts degree.  My decision was influenced by the fact that my chosen career path will require advanced degrees. My goal is to complete my undergraduate degree within 2 years, and begin working on my master’s immediately following graduation. This will all depend on transfer credits, prerequisites at the university I decide to attend, and the number of hours required to complete a specific program.  Therefore, I may have to enroll in summer classes, as well as go an additional semester.

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During the school year, I carried a full high school load, as well a full college schedule.  When I was not at school or playing sports, I spent my free time with my family and friends. Being around those who love and support me brings joy to my life. Also in my free time, I enjoy being active, going to the movies, and spending time of the lake. Being active is more than just school, sports, and hobbies; I also babysit regularly for different families. I am an active member of the Pleasant Grove Baptist Church Youth Group and Praise Team. I stay extremely busy and enjoy interacting with others. With such a busy schedule, which included homework, projects, and papers for high school and college classes, practices and ballgames, and other responsibilities, I found it overwhelming at times. There were times I missed extracurricular activities because of homework and projects that had to be finished. I often stayed after school to finish assignments or get extra help with concepts I was struggling with. I had to be organized, be able to work independently, and remain focused in order to be successful in each class. Since elementary school, I’ve had to work extra hard to keep up with my classmates. At the end of the junior year, I was informed I was 2nd in my high school class and would be serving as a lead junior marshal for commencement.  I was very proud of this accomplishment because I know how hard I worked to achieve it. Receiving this honor reminded me that with hard work and the right attitude, I can achieve any goal I set for myself.

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Having goals keeps me focused on what I am hoping to achieve.  Being a student athlete and a dual enrolled student have presented many challenges. In contrast, the experience has been extremely rewarding in so many ways. My determination, my faith, and motivation and support from my teachers and family have allowed me to conquer these challenges.  I feel confident if I continue with the same attitude and support system, I can overcome any obstacle that I may face in my future educational journey.