What could be improved:

Pick one to two areas in the writing where you felt confused, wanted more detail, or didn't see the writing fulfill the assignment requirements. Share these areas with the writer and give them one to two concrete suggestions for how they might revise.

Introduction

"Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that count." -Winston Churchill. The above quote reminds me so much of my journey in college, a story of resilience. For me, it has always represented what is most important about moving forward, even in the face of failure. Each one of the obstacles that lay along my academic path put my will to the test, but each step built me stronger for the experience. All these experiences at college, from hurdles with academics to the loss of someone remarkably close finally gave me the necessary skills required for a career in public service. Overall, deciding to return to college did not necessarily harden my determination; it prepared me with certain useful skills, thereby reconfirming my commitment to making a difference in yet another community.

Summary

My initial goal for college was to develop a more profound understanding of political science and campaign management to give valuable service to the public effectively. It had always been a dream to attend Florida State University, FSU; however, circumstances took me to other areas, and I had to be contented with first attending Miami-Dade College, J. Sargeant Reynolds, and finally Indiana Wesleyan University, IWU. Each of the unique learning experiences further developed my knowledge and resilience at each respective institution. One of those formative experiences was being selected as a Community Trust building Fellow with Initiatives of Change, which allowed me to work with diverse groups, develop facilitation skills, and build my network things that prove helpful in a career serving the public. The first day of college was exciting, yet challenging because it was all a balancing act between academics and emotional weight over the loss of my twin brother.

At times, financial and logistical challenges prevailed, which obstructed staying on track. Nevertheless, these experiences have taught me the importance of gritting my teeth, and I have found my organizational skills shaping up eventually. Some of the notable learning experiences I have had included the Alchemy of Facilitation Course, which taught me some unbelievably valuable skills that aligned very well with my professional aspiration.

Analysis

I chose IWU for its commitment to fostering faith-based education that aligns with my values. Here, I find both the theoretical and practical insights into the management of a political campaign so important for my goals. My time working in the Community Trust building Fellowship taught me the value of empathy and active listening skills that have reshaped my approach to public service and personal relationships.

This became my redefinition of what college entailed: it was a foundational space for personal and professional development. The challenges, particularly in maneuvering through the financial constraints and balancing family responsibilities, have taught me resilience and adaptability-skills always needed in the fields of politics and community service since setbacks lurk everywhere. The organizational skills I have developed have translated into a real effect in my college experience, enabling me to manage assignments, work responsibilities, and extracurricular activities more effectively. Each of the above lessons and skills helps shape the way I approach my future goals and instills purpose in service to the public.

Application

I will strive to keep perfecting my time-management strategies in college, allocating appropriate time for studying, working, and self-cultivation. Later, in further studies and working prospects, I plan to apply the facilitation and teamwork skills I have learned in courses such as Alchemy of Facilitation, especially when facing group work or occupying a leading position. Other than classroom uses, this skill will be priceless in managing campaigns and organizing communities, since these projects require a great level of teamwork and effective communication. If I could say one thing to the entering college student, it would be to say that one must be prepared to face challenges and find a good support system early. Community and steady support would mean a lot in moving through the difficulties of college life.

I feel this will help me learn to balance responsibilities while maintaining a focus on long-term goals, serving me both for the remainder of my time at IWU and beyond in my professional life.

Conclusion

All-in-all, this journey has been one of persistence, adaptability, and growth. Coming back to college was a life-altering opportunity that prepared me with the tools and talents that would allow me to execute my goals in public service. Every obstacle and achievement are the building blocks of greater realization of my purpose while developing me into a career that fits my passion-community impact. I firmly believe that with persistence and hard work, I will be able to contribute significantly to society.

References

Churchill, W.(2023, October 14)."Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that count."[Status update]. Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/share/p/RT56CRVURMzEqoZp/