Clara Denise Hall Earle Aspiring Educator Memorial Scholarship

My name is Aliyah Allen. I am a high school senior at Central High School and will graduate this year. I am also excited about going to college and being the first in my family to attend college. Being a first-generation college student is something I’m really proud of, but it has also been stressful and confusing at times without grandparents that had to raise me as child. Although some people in my family have gone through the college process before, I’ve had to figure out a lot of things on my own. As I get ready to graduate high school, I’ve realized how many challenges I’ve already faced just trying to get to this point, from high school class studies, homework and grades. And currently doing financial aid, along with choosing a major and even thinking about how I’ll fit in. One of the biggest challenges for me has been understanding financial aid. Filling out forms like FAFSA felt overwhelming to me because there were so many questions about taxes and income that I didn’t fully understand. I am glad to have my grandparent and school advisors to support me on my journey. Some of family wanted to help, but I weren’t sure rather they would be able to help. I felt stuck and worried that I might mess something up. Instead of giving up, I started asking for help from my grandmother. I met with my school counselor and we talked about the importance of filling the FAFSA form on time. My counselor encouraged me attended workshops at my school, such as ACT workshops and go online on how to fill out the form. It took time and patience, but I was able to complete everything. That experience taught me that it’s okay to ask questions and that I can figure things out even if they seem complicated at first. Another challenge that I encountered as a first time generation college student was I had no knowledge of what college I plan to attend or what I want to study in college. Many of my classmates already had a their major. often because they’ve had family members guide them. For me, it hasn’t been that simple. I’ve gone back and forth between different interests, unsure of what the “right” choice is. I made up mind to not worry about having everything figured out right away. Instead, I started thinking more about what I enjoy and what I’m good at doing. I continue to engaged and discuss with other relatives and friends that already attends colleges. I talked with my counselor, teachers and classmates about the difference colleges and scholarships offer to students. I was encouraged to do researches on different careers. Currently, I am still exploring my options, I eventually came across the idea that i enjoy being around little kids, and that’s how i realized elementary education as my major was a perfect fit. I’ve also thought a lot about what it will be like socially in college. Since I’ll be in a completely new environment, it’s a little intimidating. I sometimes wonder if I’ll fit in or if I’ll feel out of place. But I’ve realized that a lot of other students probably feel the same way, even if they don’t show it. To prepare myself, I’ve been trying to step out of my comfort zone more during my senior year—talking to new people, joining activities, and being more open. These small steps have helped me feel more confident about meeting new people in college. Even though this journey hasn’t been easy, it has made me stronger and more independent. I’ve learned how to speak up for myself, ask for help, and keep going even when things feel uncertain. Being a first-generation college student motivates me to work hard, not just for myself but for my family too. I want to make myself proud and my support systems to show that all the effort is worth it. As I get ready to graduate, I know there will still be challenges ahead, but I also know I’m capable of handling them. I realize that I will be always learning, because know one knows everything. I am thankful for the support of my family especially my grandmother who is always there for me. Everything I’ve gone through, she has and still continues to stand at my side to prepared me for this next step as a first time generation college student. I realized that it had not been easy for her to raise a grandchild and me being a teenager. Although I do not have all the answers yet, I am ready to keep learning and growing as I start my journey of college life as a first generation student. I am excited to learn and experience a new environment as a first-time generation college student.