Challenges and Adversity Makes Us Stronger by Abigail

Challenges and Adversity Makes Us Stronger by Abigail - January 2026 Scholarship Essay

Growing up in a military family has shown me diversity, dedication and great work ethic. I have been employed since I was 14 between childcare, animal care, food service boat and with VyStar Credit Union. Going to college for nursing has been my dream for several years now. I am in my senior year at West Nassau High School. This year I am attending classes to be a Certified Nursing Assistant before I graduate in May. I will also be completing my second year with the VyStar Student Internship Program which has been an amazing opportunity this past year. Since being in high school and prior I have joined multiple clubs, all of which are dedicated to community service and leadership. I have dedicated over 1,300 volunteer hours among various community opportunities and plan to continue to serve during and beyond college. One of my most memorable volunteer services included a dental mission trip with Great Shape 1,000 smiles.

There are three major life happenings that I feel have shaped who I am today and who I plan to become in life. Although many steps along the way create my path, obstacles become large stepping stones that teach and guide my path to who I will become. First, I am a military dependent, which may sound great. Great benefits, great travel, but what you don’t see is that it does not come easily. Secondly, I am part of a blended family. My parents separated and divorced prior to me turning 4. Although they have done a great job managing co-parenting on their end this still is very difficult as a child and student over the years. And last, but certainly not least, I am a first generation student. Both of my parents had some college education and trade school, but neither of them were able to complete their degree and this weighs heavily on me. The most significant impact I received is from my family. My family has taught me Sacrifice, Commitment, Respect, Diversity and Honor.

     The respect and honor are both things I have heard and learned all my life. Although I am young and have barely begun, I have been taught since I can remember respect and honor. Yes, the military should always be given and received with respect and honor, but also the same goes for ourselves, our family, and so many more. My family has taught me to respect my parents, teachers, peers, employers, and so many more. I have also been taught to honor our military current and especially the fallen. 

     As a military dependent and part of a blended family I am so very grateful for the life lessons the military has taught me. I have personally learned patience, discipline, loss and advantages. I personally in my 17 years have been apart from one or more family members due to deployments, trainings, etc. more than 10 years. This has taught me patience, many days and nights of waiting on phone calls, emails, and if I were really lucky a special souvenir from different countries. I have been taught discipline with my chores, schooling and day to day life. My employers, coaches and teachers often say how reliable and dependable I am. For my family we are fortunate that our military advantages, such as stability and benefits outweigh the losses such as time away from family and disabilities.

I have always been very close to my community and while being close comes the things I have done for it throughout the years. Since being in highschool I have joined multiple clubs, all of which are dedicated to community service. I have joined and been an active member of Key Club, FBLA, Beta Club, NHS, Women of Influence, Tri-M, Student Council, Chick Fil A Club, Band/Color Guard, Vystar Internship, and University of US. These clubs have taught me to be an active member in the community. I like to help others in dance, school, color guard, church, and so much more.  Not only have I been  helping out with these clubs but I have also been volunteering at the local dance studio for many years now. I believe that becoming a nurse will provide me with the chance to continue the tradition of helping those in need.

Overall, I truly believe my life would be very different without learning these many qualities. I am very grateful I have had the opportunity to learn diversity, great work ethic, dedication and commitment.