Coming from the first generation of my family to actually have the opportunity to complete their education is a great privilege to me. Although I was born in the United States both of my parents were born in Guyana. The education in Guyana is very advanced as it is based on Great Britains system of education; despite this however; my parents were unable to finish their education.
Both my mother and father went to school in Guyana my mother was the only one in her family who finished high school while my father on the other hand because of difficult circumstances did not complete the eighth grade. Many of my fathers family who immigrated to America have children who went to school over here.
Most of my older cousins completed their education here by continuing on to college unlike our parents. I am the oldest cousin on my mothers side so it will be my duty to continue my education in order to set a good example for my younger brother as well as my younger cousins. I am fortunate to have been born in the United States and have the opportunity to make a better life for myself by graduating high school and then going on to college which will hopefully ensure a bright future for me.
One of my biggest goals is to complete college which I know my father would have been proud of. My father passed away in October of 2002 and left behind my mother, younger brother my step-brother and I. This was a great difficulty for us but somehow we have begun to cope with our great loss and the effects. Both my mother and father always told me and my younger brother that the only thing they really want from us in order to make them proud is to continue school and graduate from college.
Fulfilling their desires is very important to me. Knowing that my father lived a very hard life because of his lack of education is a great motivation to me because I do not want to have to work hard just to put food on the table or provide clothes for my family. Although my mother finished high school in Guyana it still didnt give her an easy life she still has to work hard each and everyday to keep providing for my younger brother and I.
In school, I have always had a one-on-one aide to help me with physical tasks like setting up my books or taking things out of my backpack. An aide was always provided for me in school, as an adult, I need to hire my own personal attendants. Having a PA will give me the same opportunities in college as everyone else, and I wouldn’t have to rely on college staff or other students in my classes for help.
The most important reason I am applying for this scholarship is because I would like to further my education. If I receive this scholarship it will enable me to continue my education so that I can have a future ahead for me.
