Growing Up In High School

Growing up, I learned the importance of putting great effort into my school work and extracurricular activities. Throughout high school, my work ethic and determination have not changed, despite the struggles I faced.

From the beginning of grade ten, school was a challenge. I was overwhelmed with the drastic change from the intermediate level to high school. The lessons were challenging and I struggled to keep up with the pace of my classmates. For this reason, I often reviewed the material and prepared for tests and examinations well in advance. However, my results did not reflect my commitment. I often left school in tears and questioned if there was a purpose to my efforts. I eventually had the courage to ask for help, which was given generously

I wanted to give up, but despite my diagnosis, I persevered. In addition to homework, I spent time studying and reviewing lessons covered that day. Furthermore, I spent lunch hours and after school reviewing material with my teachers, who were incredibly supportive. Throughout my high school years, there were times when I wanted to give up; however, I knew that was not an option for me. Despite attending a new school, managing my mental illness and ADD, I remained committed to my studies and long-term goals: acceptance to a post-secondary institution and becoming a Speech and Language Pathologist. With my determination, my patience and my perseverance, I have been accepted by the University of Prince Edward Island, where I will start my Psychology Degree in September. In grade ten, I was shy, sad and lacked confidence. I could not see a future with a high school diploma or a post-secondary education, but with my strength, determination and patience I achieved success. I proved to myself and others that disabilities do not limit someone’s success, nor does it define a person. In high school I gained strength, joy and confidence that I never had. My achievements will continue to benefit me when I advance to university and for the rest of my