I am a sophomore in high school at Elizabethtown Area High School, and this is why I want to pursue my education further through trade school. I attended Catholic schools throughout my early education, but it wasn’t until high school that I truly understood my learning preferences. Throughout my academic career, I struggled with the traditional classroom setting and the expectation to sit at a desk all day. My father often remarked that when he came to pick up my siblings for appointments, he would see me wandering the hallways. It became evident that I had difficulty focusing on tasks that required me to remain stationary for long periods. While most of my siblings are pursuing degrees at larger, traditional universities, I initially felt discouraged when my mother suggested that I might not attend college at all. As a result, I began to lose motivation, and my grades started to slip. However, a conversation with my high school counselor changed my perspective. She explained that there are many different paths to higher education, including vocational schools and trade careers. This conversation sparked my interest in exploring trade programs, where I could focus on hands-on learning. Throughout my life, I have explored various career interests, ranging from marine biology to veterinary science to the healthcare field. Each of these aspirations involved lengthy college programs, which felt daunting. As I entered high school, I had the opportunity to select courses that aligned with my interests. During this time, I discovered the option of attending a college with a focus on practical, hands-on learning, which led me to consider trade school as a viable path forward. I decided to apply for the Culinary Arts program at the Career and Technology Center (CTC) because I believe this field offers an opportunity to develop valuable skills in a shorter time frame and with less financial burden than a traditional four-year degree. I am eager to gain practical experience and hands-on experience in the culinary arts, which I hope will help me refine my career aspirations. By attending a trade school, I can receive specialized training while avoiding the significant debt that often accumulates from a traditional college education. In addition to my studies, I am committed to gaining experience as soon as possible. I have already applied for a job that will help me gain entry into the Culinary Arts program after high school. At home, I actively assist with meal preparation, and at school, I have taken every available culinary class to further my skills. As I progress through high school, I am gaining more insight into why attending trade school is the best choice for me.