Undergraduate / I have seen my father's struggle to give me the best education; UC Personal Statement [2]

Personal Statement #1
Describe the world you come from - for example, your family, community or school - and tell us how your world has shaped your dreams and aspirations.

From an early age, I have seen my father struggle to give me the best education possible. He has always encouraged me to be persistent and dedicated in every goal I set. His hard work and perseverance inspired me to pursue a political science degree and to strive for success in all aspects of my life.

For most of my life, I was raised in Mexicali, Mexico. Due to the lack of opportunities in Mexico, I decided to move to California for a better chance of a prosperous future. At first, my parents were not ecstatic about the idea, but I persuaded them until they finally agreed. Once I made that decision, there were no limitations; there were no barriers to keep me from making my own choices. From then on, I began a new chapter of my life.

I never imagined that migrating to a different country could drastically shape my world. The first few months were tough, due to the completely new environment. Adjusting to this new life was a challenge because I was no longer living with my parents. They would no longer be beside me to encourage and support me through difficult times. Many times I felt like giving up. However, when I felt discouraged I recalled what my father had told me before I left Mexico; he urged me to never give up and to remember that money doesn't bring happiness.

Although I knew I wanted to go to college and pursue a profession, I highly desired to study something that would allow me to reach my full potential. I have always had an interest in becoming a leader, but I wasn't sure what path I wanted to follow. Coming from a country where the lack of opportunities and the odds of going to an institution of higher education are slim, has inspired me to do something for the people who are going through similar circumstances. For that reason, I have decided to pursue a major in political science.

One thing that really changed my mentality about what major I wanted to pursue was the fact that when I saw my dad coming back from work, he would tell me to never despair and to persist in achieving my goals despite the hard circumstances in life. Every time I feel discouraged, I look back at the time when I was living in Mexico and I think about being successful in the future.

In consideration of the profession I want to follow, I have joined several clubs at my high school. Being involved in clubs such as Senior Council and being the secretary of the club, has triggered my interest in becoming a leader not only at school but in my community as well. I know it will take a lot of effort and commitment, but I am willing to do whatever it takes to achieve the goal of becoming a political scientist.

I have learned from my experiences that it is important to not lose focus on an objective and to be ambitious in my dreams. Furthermore, I have assimilated the idea that achieving the "American Dream" will not be easy. Although the circumstances were not easy and I had to sacrifice being with my family, I can say I have learned to be more independent and to push through any adverse situation.

As I move forward in my life, it is my wish to go back to Mexico and show to my father that all his hard work, tenacity, and sacrifice was worth it. I will continue to do everything I need to do in order to reach all my goals and grow as an outstanding professional. I won't settle for the bare minimum, I will always be looking for different ways to excel in everything.