Who Am I?

For many, college is a turning point. Over these next four years, many of my peers will be transformed from young adults into engineers, lawyers, and doctors. With this knowledge comes maturity. Maturity is learned, and it is something that many of my peers do not yet possess. Most of them will learn, others will not. I, however, have already learned this valuable skill. In order to get the most out of my college education, I knew that I had to enter with a mature mindset.

The COVID-19 pandemic affected everyone in different ways. For me, it cost me the latter half of my senior year in high school. It also cost me a trip to Washington D.C. to compete nationally for the Business Professionals of America. My senior prom was canceled and I had a socially distanced graduation ceremony. By the end of my senior year, I decided that I was not going to let this pandemic take anything else away from me. I did not want to start college in 2020. I did not want to have to wear a mask, be forced to take virtual classes, and miss social/networking events. In order to have a complete college experience, I waited two years before I finally became an Aggie.

I did not plan to take a gap year, but I am better for it. I used my time to study my passion, computer science. I spent most of my time reading and writing code. I managed my time, set goals for myself, and expanded my skills. Most importantly, I decided that I was sure that this is what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. I was dedicated and independent as I explored different learning methods. I used this unique opportunity to better myself and completely prepare myself for the rest of my educational journey.

Many people become adults before they discover who they are. Others never figure that out. I acknowledge that I am not finished yet, but I have formed the values that will remain at the core of my being. I am proud of who I am, and I am excited to take on the world.