November 1st was the first day of the priority filing date to apply for admissions at the University of California, Santa Cruz. I have spent this entire last week working the the grueling process of writing a personal statement that will make me stand out from all the other applicants and put me in the front running for scholarship consideration. As I wrote I was often brought to tears by the remembrance of the difficult and emotional experiences I have overcome. I began to reflect on the importance of our history. On the deep implications our past can have on our futures. I am often reminded at how far I have traveled when I have contact with old friends. In my mind I travel back through time and explore the memories of our interactions. Most of the individuals I grew up with are incarcerated in some form and those that aren't, those that still claim freedom, are trapped in the self oppressive life style of selling drugs and the government imposed condition of the "War on Drugs". Prior to begin my studies at WVC I spent an entire year in a women's correctional "rehabilitation" facility on a conviction for sales of crack cocaine. As a first generation college student, and the prospects of graduating becoming more of a reality each semester, I look forward to walking across the stage in May of '09 and accepting my Women's Studies, AA. I don't know how exactly I will feel in that moment, how Proud and excited I will be. I do know that I will be just one, one individual that was able to escape the cruel reality of poverty. I will be just one former foster child that made it into college and graduated.
Our history, even if dark and ugly like mine, has rich implications for future potential.
I'll let you all know if I get accepted into UCSC.
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5 comments:
I'll be praying for you. I'm glad you see with eyes that know and don't have to guess. You stand out certainly. Good luck!
The most beautiful thing about life is being able to move forward out of its darkest, most horrid places. It is so uplifting to see people who are working to turn things around. Even if you don't get into UCSC I am sure you will go far; you have that special drive. Keep it up, and pass it on! There are so many people who would benefit from seeing your success!
I totally understand where you are coming from. I was in that same boat a couple of months ago. With a similar situation, although the same i still feel what you are saying. Keep it up! and you will get far. Like they said if one door closes another one opens!
Even though I don't know but I am really proud of what you have overcame. You are definately not alone because every single one of us has their own life story. Even though some of us don't have a perfect past but what doesn't kill you only makes you stronger. Good luck on getting into UCSC =)
Congratulations on your achievements! You are a strong spirit that can definitely be an inspiration to those who never thought a dream could come true. I wish you the best!
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