Robert Lawyer Memorial Scholarship

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been working. I got my first job when I was 15 years old, and I haven’t stopped since. Now, at 34, I look back on nearly two decades of working multiple jobs—sometimes two or three at a time—not just to support myself but to get myself through school. Being a non-traditional student has shaped my educational experience in ways I never could have predicted, and it’s driven me to set ambitious goals for my future. Throughout these 19 years, I’ve gained a lot of professional experience, building a resume I’m proud of. I’ve been fortunate enough to work my way up to a role where I managed over 650 employees. That experience taught me leadership, responsibility, and the value of hard work. I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had, but now, I’m ready to take a different path—a path that leads me to flight school. As someone who had to work hard from a young age, the idea of a traditional college experience never really applied to me. While some of my peers were able to focus entirely on their studies, I had to split my time between work and school, constantly juggling both to make ends meet. Balancing two to three jobs with coursework wasn’t easy, but it taught me discipline and time management in ways that a classroom never could. Every paycheck, every long shift, was a reminder of why I was doing it—to create a better future for myself, and now, for my fiancée and future children. Looking ahead, my goal is to attend flight school. Aviation has always been a passion of mine, but it’s more than just a career choice; it’s a way to provide stability for my family, to give them the opportunities I never had growing up. I want to make sure my children can focus on their education without the constant worry of how they’ll support themselves. Becoming a pilot will not only allow me to pursue something I love but will also secure a future where my family can thrive. Being a non-traditional student has given me a perspective that I carry with me in everything I do. It’s taught me that no matter the obstacles, with enough determination and hard work, you can forge your own path. I’ve spent years making sacrifices, but I know those sacrifices are leading me toward something meaningful. The drive to succeed for my family has been my biggest motivator, and it’s what pushes me forward even when things get tough. Thank you for considering my application. This scholarship would be a crucial step in helping me achieve my goals, not just for myself, but for the future I’m building for my family.

The path to obtaining a college degree has not always been the easiest for me. When my father died from lung cancer while I was in college obtaining my bachelor’s degree, I learned then about the curveballs life throws at you. As a 31 year old pursuing their dreams of accomplishing a Master’s degree, I wholeheartedly understand the sacrifices and challenges that one faces. However, I am determined to never let my struggles stop me from achieving my goals. Going to school as an older student is challenging. However, this time in my life has given me clarity on my passions by allowing me to pursue my interest in a way that is beneficial to society. I dedicated myself to being of service to others. I volunteer with multiple non-profit organizations who aim to help less fortunate people in disadvantaged communities. Also, I volunteer my time with my local police department by offering assistance to the individuals who help support many people within the community. Being in this predicament has taught me how to adapt to a multi-generational environment. It has also kept me abreast of the new technological advances that I will take forward with me throughout my career. Being a non-traditional student has impacted my future goals because it has shown me how I want to be of service to those within my community. Whether it is sharing my story, motivating others, or helping those in need financially, by attending college at this age I now have clarity about my life’s purpose and pursuits. I am more mature and more equipped to handle anything thrown my way. This maturity has given me understanding about how I am supposed to be positively supporting and influencing others. People are the center of my life. I love people. I love the individuals within my community. Any opportunity available to help another individual, I will take. Completing my master’s degree gives me the tools to communicate and learn to collaborate with a wide variety of people. I have faced many challenges throughout my lifetime from homelessness, to losing a parent, to experiencing discrimination at work, and trying to navigate adulting. All those experiences have led me here to this moment where I have the opportunity to turn lemons into lemonade. No matter what obstacle is presented to me in life I am determined to not let those issues deter me from fulfilling my goals in life. I hope that my essay offers you the information that you need to make your decision. Thank you for your time by reading my story and thank you for the opportunity to honor Bob in a meaningful way. Take care!