I’m the kind of kid who would always talk to her friends in class. I’m the kind of kid who was scared when no one knew the answer, the teacher would call on me. I’m the kind of kid that tries hard in school to get good grades. I always have my homework done and or turned it in on time, and never once had a late assignment. Ever since I got a 4.0 GPA, in my second semester of my Freshman year, my dad expects me to get that every year/semester.

 I felt like I’d never lived up to my parent's expectations because I quit volleyball and tried multiple extracurricular activities or sports like ballet, art, golf, and basketball, but never got anywhere with them. I was a quitter to my dad and was never gonna be great like my two older brothers. My brother, Nate, who is a senior at Arrowhead Union High School is continuing his academic and athletic career at the University of La Crosse. My other brother, Andrew, who is 26 years old is in the Union and makes more money than my parents; therefore, they have lived up to my parent's expectations, nevertheless my dad. 

Do I try so hard in school because I care or because my dad cares? I feel as if I am the middleman in a fight that I can’t win. Throughout the years of high school, I’ve learned that I am my own person and no one can control my actions or grades other than myself. The reason for getting my grades is due to the time and effort I’ve put into studying and asking for help, not because of the constant voice in my head saying “Why didn’t you get 100% or study more next time”. 

My dads' words don’t only encourage me to do better, but overall make me a better student. He has greatly influenced me physically and mentally. I succeed for myself and not others. So yes! I am the kind of kid that tries hard in school every year not because of my dad, but for myself.