One of the characteristics I value most in myself is my strive to work hard and complete every task I encounter. Growing up, I was always the kid in the classroom doing work or reading a book rather than playing with toys and messing around during class. I stuck to learning about new topics and ways to enhance my schooling experience. I used this to the best of my ability, and this allowed me to test into the Gifted and Talented Program at my school in 1st grade. This work ethic stayed with me all through high school, and now into college. During my junior year in high school, I chose to take on the challenge of graduating a whole year early. I had many different obstacles that I had to overcome. An example of this was that my principal, teachers, and one of my parents would not allow me to go into the class required for me to graduate early. So, instead of letting this affect me, I took it into my own hands and got the credit elsewhere. I researched classes that I could take that would count for the credit. I found a course through a community college, so I applied to take a class from them. Whenever I was accepted, I went to my principal and parents about it and they could not stop me from there. I completed the class within the period of time I was given, and I got an A in the class! Now that it was completed, I submitted the transcript to my principal, and he allowed me to walk at graduation. After I spoke to him about this, he explained that he was against it because no one else has ever done that before at our school. My high school had high rates of dropouts and students who were on the edge of failing out. He also explained that although I was at the top of both classes, I would not be recognized as Valedictorian because it was not fair to the others. I did not let that stop me, it was just a title to me. Fast forward to graduation, I was recognized and congratulated. Now, in nursing school, this characteristic of being hardworking is helping me through these tough courses. Many students have already dropped out because of how difficult it is for them, but I will not let that stop me. Having this quality will help me in so many ways for the rest of my life journey. I will not back down from challenges that deal with money issues, school issues, or family issues. I will look toward the bright side and work hard no matter the journey.