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Alayna Nathan

255

Bold Points

1x

Finalist

Education

Chenango Forks High School

High School
2021 - 2025

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Bachelor's degree program

  • Majors of interest:

    • Psychology, General
    • English Language and Literature, General
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Legal Services

    • Dream career goals:

      Jesus Baez-Santos Memorial Scholarship
      A defining moment in my life occurred when my uncle told me that I was like another daughter to him. This simple statement carried immense meaning because, growing up without a father figure, my uncle filled that role for me and my older brother. He has been a guiding light in my life, providing encouragement, wisdom, and love, helping me become the person I am today. My uncle’s influence on me has been profound. Despite never attending college himself, he has become successful through his dedication, hard work, and humility. He never allows his success to cloud his sense of fairness or kindness. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned from him is how to handle mistakes. Instead of becoming frustrated or angry, he takes the time to explain what went wrong and how I can improve, allowing me to learn and grow. His approach has shaped my understanding of resilience and perseverance. What sets my uncle apart is his commitment to fairness. He never judges situations without listening to both sides, ensuring that everyone is treated with respect and understanding. This has taught me the value of empathy and consideration in all areas of life. He also never treated me any differently from his biological children. Whether it was including me on family vacations or involving me in activities, he made me feel like a true part of the family, which reinforced my sense of belonging and strengthened our bond. Being a first-generation student has been a challenging journey. Without any family members who have gone through the college process, I have had to navigate it on my own. From searching for colleges to figuring out financial aid and application requirements, I often find myself unsure of the next step. It has been overwhelming at times, but I remind myself of my uncle’s example of perseverance. His success without a traditional education path shows me that, no matter how difficult things seem, there is always a way forward with hard work and determination. Though the path to college has been an uphill climb, the process has strengthened my independence and problem-solving skills. I’ve had to research everything on my own, seek advice from counselors, and build a plan for my future without guidance from family who understand the system. At times, I’ve felt isolated, but I also recognize the strength and resourcefulness I’ve developed as a result. In many ways, my uncle has been the source of my motivation. He didn’t have the opportunity to attend college, but he still made a great life for himself and our family. That inspires me to push through the challenges of being a first-generation student and continue striving for academic success. His belief in me fuels my determination, and as I prepare for college, I know that I am not walking this path alone—his lessons, values, and support will guide me.
      Alayna Nathan Student Profile | Bold.org