Growing up in an area that can sometimes struggle to support higher academic students, I was thoroughly blessed with the opportunity to participate in stronger classes at my high school. Greenville, South Carolina, while a growing community, is not known for its rigorous academics or a "gateway" to the popular Ivy Leagues all around the country. Many students that grow up in our town tend to stay in our town, held by tradition and conservative values. While this is not an all negative scenario, it was never my dream. Ever since I was a young student, I had goals of moving out of my small town and seeing what God had given me and truly showing other people the love and strength of Jesus. I strive to excel and put every ounce of effort into everything I do, and finding a challenge has been a long term goal of mine, having the opportunities to grow. As I progressed in my studies, I was able to find what some would call "loopholes" for moving on to meet my goals, and I was able to do this at Travelers Rest High School. My teachers were strong and diligent in helping us meet our standards, a luxury that is rare with many high schools currently. Travelers Rest's AP and IB programs were nothing less than the academic challenge that comes with the prestigious names. Alongside, I was able to take classes at our local community college, Greenville Tech, and gain early exposure to a collegiate classroom atmosphere. In taking these rigorous courses: Dual Enrollment English 102, and Advanced Calculus with Analytical Geometry, IB Sports, Health and Exercise Science and AP Language Composition, I was able to learn critical life skills such as time management, perseverance and diligence. These classes forced me to push myself and to be all of that I could be with a lesser amount of instructor supervision, similar to what I will find later in life whether that be academically or career based. I was also able to grow significantly as a person, for all of my instructors genuinely cared about my growth and success, allowing me to be myself and create long-lasting friendships. Travelers Rest High School was able to create opportunities for everyone, no matter their abilities or goals, which is a characteristic that is sometimes hard to come by. Having the ability to complete these higher level courses will prepare me for college and will help me find the success that I have been reaching toward since I was young.