What aspirations do you have for the upcoming school year and what motivates you to achieve them? by Cateya

What aspirations do you have for the upcoming school year and what motivates you to achieve them? by Cateya - August 2025 Scholarship Essay

As I prepare for the upcoming school year, my aspirations are rooted in personal growth, academic success, and becoming more involved in my campus and community. This year, I want to push myself to reach new levels—mentally, emotionally, and professionally—because I know that each step I take brings me closer to my ultimate goal of becoming a successful criminal justice professional.

Academically, one of my biggest aspirations is to maintain a strong GPA and take full advantage of every learning opportunity presented to me. I know college is more than just a place to get a degree—it’s a space to explore ideas, challenge myself, and build a foundation for my future career. I plan to stay organized, manage my time well, and never be afraid to ask for help when I need it. My education is one of the most powerful tools I have, and I’m determined not to take it for granted.

Beyond the classroom, I want to be more active on campus and in service opportunities. Whether it’s joining student organizations related to criminal justice or volunteering in the community, I believe that real growth happens when we step out of our comfort zones. I also want to build relationships with my professors and peers, because surrounding myself with driven, supportive individuals is key to staying focused and inspired.

What motivates me the most is my background and the challenges I’ve had to overcome to get here. I come from a place where opportunities weren’t always within reach, and where people often had to work twice as hard just to get half as far. Losing a close family member and dealing with personal setbacks like injuries during my school years taught me resilience. But no matter what I went through, I never gave up—I always came back stronger. That experience fuels my drive to succeed. I want to be the one in my family who breaks generational barriers, earns a degree, and builds a life that’s bigger than the one I was born into.

Another major source of motivation is the desire to help others. I’m passionate about criminal justice because I want to stand up for those who feel like they don’t have a voice. Whether I become a lawyer or work in another part of the justice system, I want to be part of the change that brings fairness, safety, and dignity to underserved communities. That purpose keeps me going even when things get hard.

In short, my aspirations for this school year are to stay focused, stay involved, and stay motivated. I want to grow in every way possible—academically, socially, and personally—because I believe in my future and everything I’m working toward. The obstacles I’ve faced have only made me more determined, and I’m ready to put in the effort it takes to make this year my best one yet.