My major was chosen, ironically, while canvassing for Barack Obama in 2008. Basically, I would go door to door and speak to potential voters and try to convince them to vote for our current president. However, I was never politically astute, and would rely on campaign materials to convey talking points. This ended up being an impossible task since most voter interests are not confined to a couple sheets of paper, and one of my first days canvassing made that fact abundantly clear.
In speaking to a potential voter, an elderly gentleman, I was informed his main interest in the election was the protection of Social Security. Honestly, while I knew of Social Security, it was something I certainly could not discuss intelligently, and an issue the campaign materials did not address sufficiently. Walking away from his doorstep, I was upset with myself that I could not answer his concerns, let alone present myself as a fairly informed canvasser. At that point, I knew I was over my head.
Upon coming home that evening, and what is fairly obvious now, Social Security is basically the cornerstone of the democratic party, and if I had known such, I could have answered the previously mentioned concerns more succinctly. At that point, I decided to devote myself to a fuller understanding of my nation’s history. And I decided to do so not just out of being able to coherently discuss politics, but I felt it was my responsibility as an American citizen to understand our history. Long story made brief, American history has become a passion that consumes and interests me greatly. As a result, I’ve decided to make it my major, and look forward to teaching history upon the completion of my academic career.
As for the obstacles, I can’t say there were many. As my story and GPA attests, I’m studying what I enjoy and am having great success in the process. Furthermore, all of my classes up to this point have been at a community college, which has allowed me the opportunity to sharpen my skills at reasonable prices. However, I am transferring to Loyola in the fall, which creates a tremendous obstacle in regards to financing my education. And that is why I am here in hopes of some assistance in the form of a scholarship.
In regards to the significance of graduating with this degree, there’s many. Obviously, I am studying a subject I thoroughly enjoy, and I plan on teaching in the future. In turn, this degree will allow me the opportunity to give back to my community by living the purposeful life I’ve been searching for. Furthermore, I will be the first college graduate in my family, and I look forward to seeing my mother’s face as I walk across that stage. Finally, college itself and the pursuit of knowledge in itself is a rewarding endeavor.
JustJobs.com’s scholarship program is proud to announce David Walker as one of the seven finalists for its August 2012 application deadline. Vote for his essay (Facebook ‘Like’ and other social media sharing options in left column), and/or leave comments of support to help us with the selection process.