Ever since I was old enough to be allowed into my grandfather’s workshop, I have loved building new things, and the process that leads to it. I love the mental exercise in problem-solving it provides. I love the sense of satisfaction and achievement upon completion of something that is my own. More than anything, I want to continue this love affair throughout the rest of my life.
With each project I completed with my grandfather at his worn workbench, my resolution and quest for greatness increased. Every new undertaking created a new challenge, and he and I were never content until the job was finished the right way. The experiences we have shared have taught me that if one commits to something, he must give it everything he has, and make sure that it is done to the best of his ability. I have come to the realization that the only way to accomplish my goals in life is through my own hard work, dedication, and a belief that anything is possible.
Consequently, I have worked determinedly throughout my entire education. I have placed all of my focus on the subjects of math, science, and visual art in pursuit this dream. With the help of the motivation (and slight perfectionism) that I inherited from my grandfather, I treat each new assignment with equal care and consideration;
and once my mind is set, I will not rest until I have conquered it. The only thing that remained to be done was to find the career that would allow me to use these skills I have developed in combination with this passion for creation and hard work.
Through much searching, job shadowing, and consideration, I have found that profession: architecture. Architecture is the ideal blend of the “black and white” answers and inventiveness; practicality and artistry. It allows one the opportunity to use several different approaches to reach a goal, and I believe it will be perfect for me. I recently finished my first year in the Iowa State University Architecture Program, in the pursuit of a degree in this glorious profession. The trend of hard work has been carried out into college. Thus far, higher education has been full of new experiences, both exciting and exhausting. Yet through the adjustments I have persevered, and learned much about myself along the way.
Through the years, my grandfather and I have taken on and finished countless projects in his workshop. One day, I will inherit the tools lining those sawdust-covered walls. But the tools I carry with me everyday are of more value than any of these. I know the knowledge I have gained from my time with my grandfather will provide motivation and bring me success with any situation I face throughout my pursuit and realization of a career in architecture. It is my promise to uphold his high standards of quality and work ethic in everything I do.
JustJobs.com’s scholarship program is proud to announce Caleb Spiegel 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.