I see myself as both a student of Information Technology (IT) and of Business Management (BM). I knew that I would have to make a decision between the two. I wanted schools that would offer me opportunities that would help me decide.
After some introspection, I decided to pursue both IT and BM. I realized that I was constantly asking questions in class as student in high school and needed a college that provided close access to my teachers. I also needed a location where I could take courses at other colleges and easily find internships. I considered both universities and colleges that met all these needs.
In truth, I was sure that I would be going to a Historic Black College or University (HBCU). I loved the fact that it was so many to choose from. I thought it would be perfect for studying both IT and BM. This would permit me to have a great minor to fall back on. I would be so thrilled to receive a half-ride scholarship as a foster child. To be honest, HBCU were not all the schools that pulled me in. I thought I have worked too hard in high school to flounder academically. In the end, however, I realized colleges and universities located away from home offered many opportunities, such as cross-registering if I decided to go to MIT courses. I was also won over by colleges with small classes. I want to feel comfortable voicing my thoughts and asking questions. The fact that college is intimidating at first, but I realized that, after putting my best foot forward it could be done, I would be coming back to my foster family during breaks where I would feel at home and completely relaxed.
Another factor was campus visits. Visiting several colleges helped me visualize myself at the school and ended up being extremely helpful. I am looking forward to college as a fresh start to rejuvenate my enthusiasm for understanding people and the world around us. I know that I am going to meet so many people from different walks of life who all have a story to share. I want the relationships I form in college to make me a better person so I can give back to the world all it has given to me so far.
In the past, I underestimated myself. Prior to being placed in foster care, I did not take my education seriously and my grades suffered. I found myself having to go to summer school to make “A’s” in courses I could have done during the school year. I could have broadened my horizons, trusted my abilities and applied myself more in school. I played it a little safe, and I wish I hadn't. My foster father instilled in me the confidence that I lacked. I began to study harder and found myself making the honor roll and received recognition for the most improved student.
The academic process seems hard while you're in the middle of it, but it flies by. I began to plan early, find out what I might want to do, get an idea of who I am as a person, figure out what kind of student I am, and view the academic process as just a way for a better life. No matter what, I am determined to do everything it takes to succeed.
I also received significant advice from my foster father who graduated from college in three and a half years at the top of his class, and relatives who had gone “from rags to riches” and truly knew the pathway to success through academics. They said that the most important thing is not just learning the material, but learning that a mind is a terrible thing to waste and how to learn the importance of having a passion for discovering my own future.
Finances are still a factor and I hope to receive grant money, scholarships and work-study. I want to avoid applying for student loans based on the horrifying stories I have heard of being in debt after graduation before my career even begins, a debt that my foster parent and myself will be paying. My foster father’s plans for retirement will be even harder in this time of economic hardship; I wanted to make a fiscally responsible choice. However, I believe that with hard work and receipt of a scholarship it can truly pay off for me in the future.
•
I see myself as both a student of Information Technology (IT) and of Business Management (BM). I knew that I would have to make a decision between the two. I wanted schools that would offer me opportunities that would help me decide.
After some introspection, I decided to pursue both IT and BM. I realized that I was constantly asking questions in class as student in high school and needed a college that provided close access to my teachers. I also needed a location where I could take courses at other colleges and easily find internships. I considered both universities and colleges that met all these needs.
In truth, I was sure that I would be going to a Historic Black College or University (HBCU). I loved the fact that it was so many to choose from. I thought it would be perfect for studying both IT and BM. This would permit me to have a great minor to fall back on. I would be so thrilled to receive a half-ride scholarship as a foster child. To be honest, HBCU were not all the schools that pulled me in. I thought I have worked too hard in high school to flounder academically. In the end, however, I realized colleges and universities located away from home offered many opportunities, such as cross-registering if I decided to go to MIT courses. I was also won over by colleges with small classes. I want to feel comfortable voicing my thoughts and asking questions. The fact that college is intimidating at first, but I realized that, after putting my best foot forward it could be done, I would be coming back to my foster family during breaks where I would feel at home and completely relaxed.
Another factor was campus visits. Visiting several colleges helped me visualize myself at the school and ended up being extremely helpful. I am looking forward to college as a fresh start to rejuvenate my enthusiasm for understanding people and the world around us. I know that I am going to meet so many people from different walks of life who all have a story to share. I want the relationships I form in college to make me a better person so I can give back to the world all it has given to me so far.
In the past, I underestimated myself. Prior to being placed in foster care, I did not take my education seriously and my grades suffered. I found myself having to go to summer school to make “A’s” in courses I could have done during the school year. I could have broadened my horizons, trusted my abilities and applied myself more in school. I played it a little safe, and I wish I hadn't. My foster father instilled in me the confidence that I lacked. I began to study harder and found myself making the honor roll and received recognition for the most improved student.
The academic process seems hard while you're in the middle of it, but it flies by. I began to plan early, find out what I might want to do, get an idea of who I am as a person, figure out what kind of student I am, and view the academic process as just a way for a better life. No matter what, I am determined to do everything it takes to succeed.
I also received significant advice from my foster father who graduated from college in three and a half years at the top of his class, and relatives who had gone “from rags to riches” and truly knew the pathway to success through academics. They said that the most important thing is not just learning the material, but learning that a mind is a terrible thing to waste and how to learn the importance of having a passion for discovering my own future.
Finances are still a factor and I hope to receive grant money, scholarships and work-study. I want to avoid applying for student loans based on the horrifying stories I have heard of being in debt after graduation before my career even begins, a debt that my foster parent and myself will be paying. My foster father’s plans for retirement will be even harder in this time of economic hardship; I wanted to make a fiscally responsible choice. However, I believe that with hard work and receipt of a scholarship it can truly pay off for me in the future.
High School: Dr. Henry Wise Jr. in Upper Marlboro, MD
class of 2013
Activities & Accomplishments:
Accomplishments and Achievements of Daniel Walker:
• Made the Honor Roll and Wise High School Wall of Fame.
• Interviewed with the Department of Energy and shadowed a manager in
the area of Inf
