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My Experience In High School

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I moved into residence at The University of Waterloo exactly 25 days ago. When I was starting High School, going to university was something I was sure I would never do; not because I thought I wouldn’t have adequate grades to get accepted, but because I thought it would be boring. This notion is rather atypical of a 12-year-old kid. As a high-schooler, it was ingrained into my mind at every possible opportunity that after High School I would go to university, and after graduating, I would start working for an employer. This is what everyone in my family, and everyone else that I grew up around did. Those around me who were successful made it there by getting an education. It’s what I believed I would do too, until I had a profound moment of realization on a family vacation in the 8th grade.

We were in Puerto Vallarta, on a small beach that was part of the resort we were staying at. I noticed a boy working at a nearby booth advertising a snorkelling excursion. He was beaming at everyone who came to his booth, playing music, and joking with his friends. I briefly spoke with him about his life and discovered he was 14 years old, didn’t go to school, and worked long days at this booth. He was paid very little, but in turn was allowed to use the resort’s amenities and board. I was absolutely struck with how much this boy enjoyed his life, despite having such limited opportunities and pay. I realized there truly is nothing stopping me from doing exactly what I want to with my

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