There is always that one teacher that changes your idea of a valued education, and sometimes it can be years later in college when you realize this. I grew up in a single-family household, and I knew the value of education because it was a way to a better life. My mother always taught me to do my best, and my education was at the forefront. It was always what I wanted to do but what I could do. She worked as a secretary at the airport's air traffic control. She never fussed about her work, and even though my mother never pressured me about finances, I knew they were a struggle. As a small child, I had hardships that I had to overcome. I failed the first grade. Then during my first year of college being told that I would never amount to anything by one of my English professors. Which has stuck with me the last three years; this is something that I will never forget. Over the years, I have learned that hard work, decisiveness, and persistence can lead to opportunities rather than money. My education is priceless, and as a college student, it has made me dig deep within myself to overcome the mental boundaries of not knowing the unknown. Additionally, education has challenged me to go over and beyond at whatever I do. I have learned how to dig deeper in the research of each subject I take, which opens more doors and questions for me to investigate. It opens a whole new world full of wonder. I shouldn't take my education for granted. Education is one of the most effective ways to make people better, and it is a tool to lead people away from naivety and ignorance. The value of education has helped me become more responsible and a more sensible student, and it has also helped me become a more valued citizen and a better-rounded individual who loves things more. I do not take anything for granted. As I continue to learn, I grow in curiosity and equip myself with more skills to better myself as a human being. Education builds upon itself, creating more significant nurture of value learning. My mother's lessons about following my dreams and always supporting me have enabled me to continue my goals of furthering my education with a master's degree and then to continue with a doctorate afterward.