Meet the Scholars Class of 2008

“College will be a whole new environment with many different people and experiences. Though it will seem difficult being independent, I know that I will overcome. While living in South Baltimore, I have seen many people throw their lives away. My whole life I’ve watched people all around me slip and it makes me want to hold on tight. This has taught me that life is too short and inspired me to set goals for myself. I have worked hard at everything I’ve done, so that I can enjoy the little things in life, which I hold closest to my heart.”

“For some reason, I have gone through many challenges that have pushed me to the edge, but I imagine nothing less than great things in my future. My father has taught me to never settle for mediocrity, so every day I reach further than I did the day before. My environment and life at home has been my motivation to do astonishing things with my life. Things are finally going right and I thank God everyday for keeping me here. I am so excited about the opportunity of becoming a Terrapin, “fear the turtle”.”

“I strongly believe that everything in life happens for a reason. I am not here by chance or by accident, but I am here to make a difference. God has blessed me thus far and he continues to bless me in everything I do. I am committed to achieving excellence and no matter what, I will never give up. I know there is something better for me out there and I am determined to get it. For I believe you can work through any situation in life, you just have to be focused and determined.”

“Between my rigorous workload and involvement in high school and taking care of several responsibilities at home, it has seemed like I’ve had no time to enjoy what others call their “wonder years”. Yes, this has taken a lot of time from my schedule, but it is great to know I am making a difference in the lives of those people who have helped me to become the person that I am today. Going to college is more than just getting an education; it is finally being rewarded for prevailing through years and years of struggle and never giving up hope.”

“With great privilege comes great responsibility. So, I live by the mantra of “work hard, play hard”. I know that I am a leader and one of the reasons why I enjoy this position of influence is because it gives me a chance to guide those who need help and make them feel more comfortable in a new setting. When I look at the things that I’ve gone through, I know it has made me a stronger person. It has taught me to never take things for granted and to keep my head up to stand all and come back for more. More importantly, it has taught me that no matter what happens, Don’t Quit!”

“There are many things that can define a leader that does not include school, work, and athletics. It is going above and beyond all expectations to make sure that everything you commit to will be a success. The main lesson that I try to teach others is that you will be judged by the way you portray yourself. Being a leader in all areas of life means allowing people to see your flaws and letting them know that it’s okay to strive for the brightest star. I learned a long time ago some leaders evolve and they are born with something special. I believe I am one of those people who is destined to lead.”

“I expect to face a number of challenges in college, such as learning difficult material, improving my time management skills, and coping with stress. However, this is a task that I must complete for my ultimate goal is to earn my bachelors degree. I know my source of motivation will come from my family who means a lot to me. Over the past few years, I’ve realized just how important it is to utilize all the resources around you. As I embark on this new journey, I am looking forward to meeting new people and expanding my horizons.”

“It is human nature to grow up with problems, but it is up to the person to decide their fate in life. Through difficult circumstances, you can develop character and leadership and use your disadvantages to your advantage. Whenever problems have tried to consume me, I have used that as a fuel to consume myself with learning. School is a passion of mine and a portal to opportunities. In the future, I see myself helping hundreds and thousands of people everyday following my interest in science and becoming a doctor.”

“I believe my future is full of promises. I envision that I will do more than anyone has ever expected of me. I exhibit leadership as much as I can for I know it is better to lead than to follow. It is my goal to try to make positive changes in life that will impact the world. I love to give a lending hand to others because it only makes me a better person. I have a dream of becoming a certified nurse-midwife and I will not give up until I make this dream a reality.”

“I am a strong leader and when asked to perform a task, whether individually or with a group, I execute. I have the confidence, wit, intelligence and charm that have shaped my leadership abilities. To achieve my goals, I plan to utilize all of my experiences and achievements to have the most productive future obtainable. In life, I have learned that if you put in little to no effort, than little to nothing is what you will receive. For me, adversity is a word that I do not hear often because I choose not to use it. Instead, I call my experiences unique additions to my life story.”

“I am motivated to fully live every day because I want to show other people that no matter how traumatizing a situation may be, one may still overcome it and accomplish all the goals they set for themselves. My family has taught me a number of lessons, but one in particular has molded me into the young lady that I am today, which is to reach out to those in need. To me, leadership means assuming the role of taking charge and being able to handle the responsibilities that are given. Part of reaching out and being a role model will require me to embrace this kind of leadership.”

“I envision my life full of success and endless possibilities. Challenges will be inevitable for they arise many times in life. However, it is how one battles through their challenges which determines their character and success. I’ve now learned that struggles only come to make us stronger. Thankfully, this chapter of struggle for me is only a vague memory overshadowed by hope, determination, strength and purpose. I’ve realized that no matter what circumstance I am faced with, God will be there to supply every last one of my needs. Today and always, I choose me. I choose freedom. I choose rebirth. I choose life.”

“For a long time I have felt as if I were a passenger of my own life; always giving in, always passed by and over. However, I have refused to be a passenger of my life. Now, I am the navigator, the driving force of my existence. I consider myself to be a trendsetter and I am not easily swallowed by problems because I know that if I am not resilient and strong, I cannot reach my goals. Indeed, I may still run into obstacles, but life has given me the tools to face them. Eccentric, serious, and thankful I, Octavia Sykes, feel deserving of this opportunity.”

“I like to think of myself as a positive, determined, and optimistic person, which helps create gateways of opportunity for myself and allows me to make the best of certain situations. Being outgoing and friendly really gives me the ability to meet new people and try new things. I definitely place a high value on my family and friends. Knowing that I can make a positive impact on others is a source of my motivation and what I strive to accomplish in life. To be able to make someone’s day brighter are moments that I cherish forever!”

Amy Hume

Digital Harbor High School