Abby's First-Generation College Student Scholarship

While the COVID-19 pandemic affected everyone differently, distance learning was a major change for all students. I adjusted to online school quite easier than my peers because I am technologically inclined and intrinsically motivated. However, being at home without my own room and with about 8 to 10 people in the house at any given time did not leave any room for concentration. I had cousins, grandparents, and children in my home for the first time as we tried to make it by. There were also no spaces in the house I could use for studying. This made it hard for me to participate in virtual classes, focus when it came to assignments for my higher-level courses, and complete work on time. While I was an active member of the National Honors Society and Creative Writing Club during these times, there was far less opportunity for extracurricular activities. I would have been entirely more involved in other activities if I had not struggled to manage my workload with online school. Also, the distance from the classroom made it difficult for me to make new connections or maintain the relationships I had with my peers. I missed out on some really big milestones which may have delayed my growth mentally. The pandemic put a damper on my grades, my participation in and outside of class, and my relationships with my peers. But throughout that difficult time, I stayed focused on my goals. Moving into my senior year, I went on to do impressive work. I was named my Class President, FCIAC Scholar Leader for Central High School, and a College Board National Recognition program Scholar. I was accepted to 12 incredible universities including Howard University, Penn State, and the University of Connecticut. Finally, I gained many new friends and connections with people that will have an important place in my life. Of course, it was not easy. But I was able to salvage my high school career, even in the midst of a pandemic.