Makayla Files

Makayla’s Story

Water droplets propelled in the air from the splashing in the standard backyard pool. Laughter and hollers were heard throughout the space. The sun beamed on my face as I splashed around twirling in the shallow end. “Hey look at me!” . My cousin front flipped into the deep end of the pool. Claps, cheers, and praises were thrown at her. Excitement filled my body as I climbed out of the water and wandered towards the spot she once stood. “I can do it too!” I screamed. A splash was heard as I began to struggle. “Oh my gosh!” was faintly heard before my world slowly turned black and my body began to falter. Suddenly, I awoke sitting up and struggling to breathe in my mom’s arms. “Bam! Bam! Bam!” was the sound heard as my mom patted my back while I coughed up water. “I told you not to go to the deep end!” “What were you thinking!” were just some lines yelled at me. At that moment I realized I couldn't swim. 

Ever since a child I wanted nothing more than to be like my mom. She's a charming and resourceful lady with a friendly and kindhearted aura that floats around her everywhere she goes. It’s constantly people wanting to socialize or approach her, trying to periodically dive into her life. I used to get bothered by people regularly distracting her while she was with me. However, I always knew that I had her complete attention and she’s always there for me. It was her life’s mission to grant me the best life possible.

I had a phenomenal childhood. My family and friends were very loving and fun to be around. School was fun and was for the most part easy since I was such a great student. I thank my mom for all of that. She did everything for me. Academics? She made sure I understood and stepped in if it was a problem. Extracurriculars? She signed me up for band, sports, clubs, anything that would seem good for me. Programs? I attended all the STEM and art programs that she could sign me up for. As I got older, the more accomplishments and recognition I received from my academics and involvement, the more opportunities came. My mom began investing herself into my life, which caused the authority I once had to drown.

I was so eager to begin my high school career. The thought of making new friends and preparing for college was all so exciting. As time went by during high school, it was time to fill out applications for jobs and programs. I tried to find things to do for myself, but my mom took over. I started questioning my capabilities for earning achievements or opportunities on my own. That's when I came to the conclusion that I wouldn't receive anything without her help. I started depending on my mom to get my tasks done while I did nothing. This caused me to become shy and have anxiety when it comes to doing things on my own.  This only guided me further into the deep end with no intention of doing things for myself. My friends were doing things for themselves which caused me to feel childlike. That's when I decided it was time to do stuff on my own. I needed to gain the confidence in myself to believe that I could do things for myself without the help of my mom. 

 Doing things for myself is only the beginning of my journey to becoming an independent, mature adult. I know my mom is a little upset about her only child growing up but it's time to let me grow.  I'm beyond excited for college, and the experience of what it's like to flourish and achieve on my own. Thanks for the swimming lessons mom, I’m ready to go to the deep end. 

Education

School: Ramsay High School

Expected Graduation: May 2021

GPA: 4.14