I've always been "good" at school. It is a skill like any other. Sure, it takes some prerequisites, like a supportive family, the ability to focus, not only the capacity to learn, but the drive to do so, etc., but I believe most people have the potential to excel if they're willing to put in the effort. That's why I don't find it to be a particularly interesting fact about myself. Others beg to differ. So much so, it almost becomes offensive. For instance, when I mentioned to my high school biotechnology teacher that I intended to go to Lycoming College, a perfectly acceptable choice, he said, "I was too smart to go there." I was accepted into Penn State main campus as well as the University of Pittsburg. I suppose he deemed those options more reflective of my abilities. I resent that idea immensely. A college's prestige or notoriety does not determine its quality, and neither does its exorbitant price tag. I want an education, not glory, and certainly not at the expense of total financial ruin. To be quite honest, Lycoming College was the cheapest. It was local, so no need for room and board, and they offered me a very generous scholarship, that I'm beyond thankful for. Even with all of the help, college is still a daunting financial nightmare. One that is eased only in knowing you made the right choice. I know down the line, I won't regret choosing Lycoming College because I don't regret it now. Lycoming offers a unique learning experience because it is small. Not too small, lacking proper equipment and facilities- something that is very important for a biology major, but small enough that I know most of my classmates, and my professor knows my name! It feels like a proper community. Another reason I chose Lycoming is because, not in spite of, it being a liberal arts school. Again, many people where I've grown up resent liberal arts schools. They think it's a waste of time and money. And although it is tempting to speed through my degree as fast as possible, focusing only on biology, college offers so much more. I've always been a very curious person with interests in many fields. To put it simply, I love learning. In addition to this, I haven't always been sure of what I want to pursue and become. Lycoming lets me have a taste of everything, learning- and enjoying -subjects I never would have otherwise. It isn't all for naught! There is practicality in being informed in a vast range of fields. Specifically, the humanities, I feel will help me be a better physicians assistant, and just as a bonus, a better person. This career path recommendation first came from my dad, who I owe a whole lot. He recognized my desire to do good and to help others, a satisfaction I'm sure I could find nowhere else. Sometimes he knows me better than I know myself. And just as before, with the selection of my college, I've had people declare that I am too smart to be a PA. Which I also find absurd. Am I supposed to be the president of the united states because I have good grades? Being a PA is a perfectly admirable profession. One that I intend to pursue with heart and dignity. Becoming a PA is personal to me. I've always been a big girl. Because of this, doctors were scary. I always felt my problems were overlooked. I aspire to be a PA that listens, not one that clocks in for a paycheck.