I was an average middle schooler: average in sports, academics, and in confidence. Being average caused me to doubt my abilities and have a negative view of myself. This took a turn, however, when I tested into Algebra a year early during the beginning of eighth grade. When this happened, I felt above average, like I was finally excelling at something. This didn’t last long because Algebra was a tough class that tested my abilities and my mind to their capacity. This class taught me how to be confident in my abilities and how to keep a positive attitude when things seem rough. At the beginning of the semester I started off well, but as things progressed that soon changed. About five weeks into the semester I missed school for three days because
