I chose to write about an experience that significantly influenced my academic interests.

Mr. Sheehan, my sophomore year global studies teacher truly made me realize the value

of education. As far as academics were concerned, I believed I had always tried my best

in reaching my full potential. That is, until I met Mr. Sheehan he made me understand

that I was not trying as hard in school as I was capable of . Mr. Sheehan offered to help

me out on a couple of problems I had been experiencing with global studies and after a

short while he became not only a tutor, but a true friend. I cannot even begin to imagine

how many hours I spent in his classroom after the last school bell had rung. Posters of

music legends and helpful inspirational quotes covered his walls. It was a very spirited

room for the lively man he stood to be. He went over global studies in great detail while

also informing me of how eminently important it was for academics to be my top priority.

As an average football player I was greatly dedicated to the sport and my social

surroundings, but Mr. Sheehan would always be there to tell me to slow down and repeat

his key phrase, "Studying always comes first." Although Mr. Sheehan's main purpose was

to perfect my work ethic, he did so much more that he was unaware of doing. He

convinced me into believing that anything was possible if I put my mind to it and had a

brain-full of determination. If I said that I wanted to be in the NFL , he would say "Hey,

the sky's the limit." After the year ended, my goals had changed for the better. I believed

in myself and my capability in accomplishing anything as though the world was an open

door to endless possibilities. I did not just want to be a computer programmer, my desire

was to be a successful businessman as well.

Since Pace University ranks as having one of the best academic curriculums in the

nation, being accepted in such a prestigious school will challenge me to the best of my

ability, probably more than anything ever will.

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