Perseverance, determination, passion, and grit! That’s exactly what’s needed to fulfill a dream! My dream is to become a mason. Some people love science, others love computer-based careers, and still others are inspired and fulfilled by the arts. Me? I LOVE the satisfaction of building things! Not just ANY things, but rather, homes and buildings that bring people the structures needed to live a better life. Therefore, masonry is the field for me! That is my passion, and I am dedicate and determined to achieve my career goal. How has my upbringing and life events impacted who I am today? First a foremost, I’ve learned that success is not given, it’s earned. I take nothing for granted, and I know the importance of hard work and determination. I also know that when you face challenges, you don’t run from them, you confront them with grit. All of my life, school was a challenge. In first grade, it was determined that I had a visual disorder that caused my eyes not to be able to track or converge. Therefore, learning to read was very difficult for me. It took years of eye therapy to overcome this challenge, and I remember my mom, every night, doing eye exercises with me to help me overcome this obstacle. She never gave up on me, so I never gave up! In third grade, it was determined that I had a learning disability and ADHD. With a low working memory, one can only imagine the hours each night that were spent studying, re-reading, and reviewing to pass tests that my peers passed without even trying! Many times, I wanted to give up and to be honest, it was very frustrating at times. However, a voice inside of me told me to keep going, and my parents and sister were always there to help me believe in myself- despite being called “Speddy Teddy” and “retard” by my peers. Thankfully, it paid off. In June, I will be graduating with a 90 average, a welding certificate, and a diploma. So, grit? Determination? Passion? Perseverance? I have needed them all to get to where I am now, and I am going to keep using those traits to achieve my dream to become the best mason I can be! I have also been blessed with a family that loves and believes in me. I am confident that my upbringing has shaped the future of my success. Throughout my life, my parents have sacrificed so much for me and have advocated to give me every opportunity they possibly could. They have shown me that no matter what obstacle is in my way, hard work and determination will pave the way to my goals. They taught me that I was more than a label, and that I could overcome any obstacle. It has taken a long time, and a lot of self-acceptance, but they have made me believe in myself. I know there will be “bumps in the road,” but I also know that I can achieve whatever I’m willing to work for. There is no doubt, that I will strive to achieve my goals and contribute positively to my community. I have an amazing support system who has instilled in me the importance of grit, determination, and hard work! I will do my best to make them proud!