A particular experience that challenged my perseverance for intellectual growth was getting put down by those in high school and college due to my learning disability. I had been told I would not pass a class, should drop a class, would not attend college, and that I'm wasting my time. I believed in myself and knew I could prove them wrong as a result, I pushed myself to do so. In addition, by asserting myself with the drive to effectuate my aspirations, I cultivated various aspects in relation to myself and my capabilities. I learned I could take on things I did not deem I would be able to, both academically, creatively, and socially. Critical thinking has become a fortitude which therefore aids in further intellectual growth. I fell in love
