Ever since I can remember, education has been a huge part of my life. I was always the kid excited to learn; I may not be the brightest or most impressive student, but my enthusiasm and tenacity have definitely made up for it.

All throughout high school I focused on school. I had a few close friends, a few relationships here and there, but I typically chose school and my best friends over going out. My mom and sister even had an intervention for me my senior year. I was in my room studying when they came in, telling me they were worried because I didn’t “get out enough” and should “have more fun.”

But the thing was, I was having fun. I enjoyed, and continue to enjoy, studying and learning. Most people find that weird, but I consider it a part of who I am.

Coming to college has been an enlightening experience which has continued to grow my love and appreciation for my education. I have been lucky enough to have parents who never fail to support me, both mentally and financially.

Ever since I found a major that I love, my tenacity and determination have grown tremendously. I continue to try and get the most out of my college experience With that, my education has continued to become more of a priority in my life, and in consequence, more of a part of who I am.

My education will one day become my career. Being successful now will help me to successful in the future. Don’t get me wrong, I’m all for dating and social lives. That is what part of the undergraduate “college experience” is all about. I was in a relationship for the first two years of my college tenure. But I’ve been developing a strong commitment to my studies my entire life.

I’m not sad that I will most likely be spending Valentine’s night with my comm law textbook and a cup of coffee. I absolutely LOVE what I’m studying. I get excited to do my readings and prepare for class. To me, that is something beautiful. That is what education should be; to be so enthralled by a subject that you invest yourself whole-heartedly in it. So, this Valentine’s Day I want to thank all my friends and family who have and continue to support me. Without them, I wouldn’t get to do what I love.