Personal Narrative: Brandeis University

Where I wanted to go to college, was a question that loomed over my head for most junior year and the summer before senior year. Deciding where you want to go to college is a major milestone decision, one which I carefully thought over. I knew I wanted to attend a liberal arts college, because I believe the mind is a garden that requires cultivation. I knew I wanted to be in an environment that really pushed me to think conceptually and without censor. When Brandeis University, in Waltham, Massachusetts, came up in my college search, I was immediately intrigued. Brandeis has a long history of promoting social justice and giving back to the community, so I was delighted when I got my acceptance letter in February!
In the fall, I will be attending
Brandeis University, there I will become active in the community and immerse myself in collegiate life. My plan at the moment is to double major in History and Philosophy. After I achieve my undergraduate degree I hope to go to law school and study constitutional law. My dream law school is Columbia University, and Brandeis has a partnership with their law school. Ever year they select outstanding juniors to apply to Columbia University Law School and if accepted they complete their undergraduate degree and their Juris Doctor degree simultaneously. My career goal is to become a constitutional or civil rights lawyer. I intend to either open my own firm or work for the United Nations or the American Civil Liberties Union.
I am applying for this scholarship because I value my education and seek the tools with which I can make the education I desire possible. As a first-generation college student from a blue-collar family, I know that a good education can take you far. I wish to remove any financial strain on my family. My parents did not have the opportunity to attend high school, but they are fervent about sending all four of their kids to college. My older sister is currently and junior at Appalachian State University, and my younger sister is currently a freshman in high school, and as I have experienced personally, she will soon be in my shoes applying to college and for scholarships. I were to receive this scholarship, it would not only benefit me but my siblings, and I would not have to worry about how I am going to pay for college and instead I can focus on college itself.