Audrey H., Oakwood High School
The Path
“I want to become a doctor when I’m older!” Those are the words I spoke to my parents in first grade when I was only 5 years old. Since that moment, when everything just clicked for me, I’ve known I wanted to be a doctor: I wanted to find the cure for cancer. By then, two of my grandparents had already died from cancer, and I wanted to find a way to make sure no one else would suffer. At 13 years old, I still have the same goal to achieve, and I’m trying to find ways I can pave the path to success.
Four years ago, I took a test. It was to see if I could get into advanced courses at Johns Hopkins, which I passed. In December of 2019, I got the results of the test back, qualifying me to take the course. It was a science course, targeting all of what I wanted to do as an oncologist, and I was elated to find out I could attend the course. It was over the summer of 2020, which was only a few months after the COVID-19 pandemic started. Receiving the letter in the mail, knowing that the course was canceled, was like a blow to the chest. To some others, it might not seem like a big deal to have it canceled, but I was devastated. I felt as if it was a setback to becoming a doctor, but still, I persisted, building my self-esteem and confidence along the way.
After the course was canceled, I tried to join everything that would get me college credit, I did volunteer work, and I took the most challenging classes my school had to offer. I also did a biology course, online, to get into another science course, this time in genetics. Doing these, I have learned many valuable lessons along the way, including building up my confidence. I believe taking the course will build up my confidence in putting my science skills to the test and continue leading me on the path to success.
Another key part of my success is being supported throughout my journey, which I have certainly gotten. My parents have been a large part of my life, both inside and outside of school. They have supported me every step of the way and have helped me build my confidence. They have consistently aided me when I’m struggling over a bump or rocky segment in my path. Ever since I told them I wanted to become a doctor, all those years ago, they have helped me pave the path to my success, happiness, and confidence.
Everyone has their own path to take. What I have done and encountered along the way on my path has laid a foundation for my life and has strengthened and empowered me. Only you can decide what path you will take in life, and finding your path is key to success and bringing out the best in yourself.
