Achieving The American Dream

As Dan Rather once said, “A college degree is the key to realizing the American dream, well worth the financial sacrifice because it is supposed to open the door to a world of opportunity.” Words such as these are what pushes me forward into achieving my goals. Achieving a college degree and the american dream is exactly what i intended to do from a young age. Every since I was little my parents always instilled in me the values of hard work, dedication and sacrifice through the amazing example they set forth. My educational journey began at the Jefferson Elementary School in the Wallington school district in kindergarten. Then followed the Frank Gavlak Elementary where I studied until the sixth grade. In a few more months I will complete the

My parents immigrated to the United States from the Dominican Republic and Jordan. They came here to build a better life. A life of hope, freedom and opportunity. I proudly state that I am first generation american and that Motivates me to achieve the American Dream. My desire for this is not only for myself but for my parents and brothers. I will forever remember the late night conversations with my father talking to us the important to have an education, and not wanting to see me work with my hands, like him, but with my brain. I remember my mom and her story of struggle back in her native country. My parents do everything to provide for their children by working two jobs, putting food on the table and teaching us the values of hard work, integrity, and

I developed leadership, character and a sense of purpose to give of myself to those that need it. From participating in the Heroes and Cool kids, to volunteering in the Glamour Gals, also tutoring the younger students along with my peers from the National Honor Society and being the Captain of the Girls Varsity Basketball Team. Another of the experience that has shaped my life is achieving a Black Belt in Karate from one of the toughest, and dare I say one of the best programs in our State which is the Police Athletic League of Bergen County. After seven years, thousands of hours, dedication, perseverance and hard work I had the honor of becoming a black belt last year. This experience has taught me that anything is possible in life, that overcoming the obstacles and circumstances of life is what develops character and resilience. Through it all it all I have become a strong young woman with big dreams. A young woman that understands that life is about dreaming, believing and creating the life we want. Life is about doing always whats right. Life is about taking responsibility for my actions and trying to always be a positive example to those around me. Life is also about making a positive impact in someone else's life. I believe that with the power of hope and a concrete set of goals I can achieve