My name is Emely, and I come from a low-income family. I live in a small, and humble home with my mother and father. My father works in a painting company, and is thankfully, still employed. During my interview, I said my mother doesn’t work. But in reality, she does the most work for us all. She is a stay-at-home mom. She cleans the house, makes sure we are well fed everyday, and looks out for us. I think that is the greatest work of all, and I’m thankful for having her look after me. She is my teacher and inspiration. Growing up as an only child, being the daughter of two non-English speaking parents, I had to learn from a very young age how to fend for myself.
My native language is Spanish, meaning learning English was my biggest obstacle. I was taught to speak Spanish at home as a form of respect towards both my parents, and home. This allows us to have a healthy sense of communication and not hide secrets, which I appreciate. But once I entered elementary, I didn’t know English. I had to be taken aside and practice. By first grade, it was as if I was born speaking English, which was a great accomplishment. In fourth grade, I received my English Proficiency diploma, and was able to translate for the teachers. I was their translator, since most of the other kids couldn’t translate from English to Spanish.
Since I could remember, my grades have always been straight A’s. I’ve only had one B, and that was in 6th grade for a very interesting reason. Having all A’s and maintaining them is no piece of cake, I must say. As mentioned before, both of my parents don’t speak very proficient English. So, I’ve had to do my homework on my own since first grade, without help. As the years pass by, I am receiving work from a high grade level, which I’m very proud of to have accomplished. The way I see it, all those sleepless nights figuring my homework out have paid off. Now, things will only get harder, I know. But, at least I won’t give up and will continue to work hard. I mentioned in my interview that I like all my school subjects. That is true, to an extent. I work hard in every class and make sure every assignment I turn in is proficient to the max. I know I need to do well in my classes to graduate, so whether I like a subject or not, I still do my best work possible.
Growing up, I have taken part in many activities. I practiced ballet, piano, violin, capoeira (music from Brazil), swimming, and self-defense classes. Right now, the one I just love SO much are my self-defense classes. Those include boxing and muay thai. I made the decision to start mostly for the fact that I have to take public transport to and from school. So in case of an emergency, I know how to defend and protect myself. But there is more to it. After a long and stressful day at school, there is nothing better than letting it all out punching a bag. I don’t mean to seem violent or anything, but it’s my escape from my mind, just like how swimming was too. I was on the swim team in the City Height recreation center, but the pool broke down. Once the pool fixes, I do wish to go back and take a swim whenever I have time.
Once again, to whom it may concern, thank you so much for taking the time to read this. It really means the world to me for being privileged enough to have received this opportunity. I’m deeply grateful and if I did get this wonderful opportunity, I would use the money to buy my uniforms for high school, an iPad with its accessories to do my work in, and if possible, to renew my monthly bus pass. Thank you very much and I hope you have a nice day!