College Essay: My Parents’ Sacrifice Makes Me Strong

Rosemary Santos

After living in Texas briefly, my mom moved in with my aunt in Minnesota, where she helped raise my cousins while my aunt and uncle worked. My mom still glances to the building where she first lived. I think it’s amazing how she first moved here, she lived in a small apartment and now owns a house. 

My dad’s family was poor. He dropped out of elementary school to work. My dad was the only son my grandpa had. My dad thought he was responsible to help his family out, so he decided to leave for Minnesota   because  of  many  work opportunities .   

My parents met working in cleaning at the IDS  C enter during night shifts. I am their only child, and their main priority was not leaving me alone while they worked. My mom left her cleaning job to work mornings at a warehouse. My dad continued his job in cleaning at night.   

My dad would get me ready for school and walked me to the bus stop while waiting in the cold. When I arrived home from school, my dad had dinner prepared and the house cleaned. I would eat with him at the table while watching TV, but he left after to pick up my mom from work.   

My mom would get home in the afternoon. Most memories of my mom are watching her lying down on the couch watching her  n ovelas  –  S panish soap operas  – a nd falling asleep in the living room. I knew her job was physically tiring, so I didn’t bother her.  

Seeing my parents work hard and challenge Mexican customs influence my values today as a person. As a child, my dad cooked and cleaned, to help out my mom, which is rare in Mexican culture. Conservative Mexicans believe men are superior to women; women are seen as housewives who cook, clean and obey their husbands. My parents constantly tell me I should get an education to never depend on a man. My family challenged  machismo , Mexican sexism, by creating their own values and future.  

My parents encouraged me to, “ ponte  las  pilas ” in school, which translates to “put on your batteries” in English. It means that I should put in effort and work into achieving my goal. I was taught that school is the key object in life. I stay up late to complete all my homework assignments, because of this I miss a good amount of sleep, but I’m willing to put in effort to have good grades that will benefit me. I have softball practice right after school, so I try to do nearly all of my homework ahead of time, so I won’t end up behind.  

My parents taught me to set high standards for myself. My school operates on a 4.0-scale. During lunch, my friends talked joyfully about earning a 3.25 on a test. When I earn less than a 4.25, I feel disappointed. My friends reacted with, “You should be happy. You’re extra . ” Hearing that phrase flashbacks to my parents seeing my grades. My mom would pressure me to do better when I don’t earn all 4.0s  

Every once in  awhile , I struggled with following their value of education. It can be difficult to balance school, sports and life. My parents think I’m too young to complain about life. They don’t think I’m tired, because I don’t physically work, but don’t understand that I’m mentally tired and stressed out. It’s hard for them to understand this because they didn’t have the experience of going to school.   

The way I could thank my parents for their sacrifice is accomplishing their American dream by going to college and graduating to have a professional career. I visualize the day I graduate college with my degree, so my  family  celebrates by having a carne  asada (BBQ) in the yard. All my friends, relatives, and family friends would be there to congratulate me on my accomplishments.  

As teenagers, my parents worked hard manual labor jobs to be able to provide for themselves and their family. Both of them woke up early in the morning to head to work. Staying up late to earn extra cash. As teenagers, my parents tried going to school here in the U.S .  but weren’t able to, so they continued to work. Early in the morning now, my dad arrives home from work at 2:30 a.m .,  wakes up to drop me off at school around 7:30 a.m . , so I can focus on studying hard to earn good grades. My parents want me to stay in school and not prefer work to  head on their  same path as them. Their struggle influences me to have a good work ethic in school and go against the odds.  

parents hard work essay

© 2024 ThreeSixty Journalism • Login

ThreeSixty Journalism,

a nonprofit program of the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of St. Thomas, uses the principles of strong writing and reporting to help diverse Minnesota youth tell the stories of their lives and communities.

10 Lessons My Parents Taught Me About The Value Of Working Hard

I am convinced that parents are hardworking superhumans. I’ve lived a great life thanks to my parents, and they’ve given me everything I could have dreamed of.

Now that I’m an adult, I realize the struggles they’ve faced to make sure my life was as good as possible.

Mom and Dad, please don’t think I haven’t noticed how much you’ve struggled.

Despite that, as parents, you’ve never failed me. You’ve done everything in your power to make a good life for me. Thank you for that.

I am a better person because of who you are.

Here are a few things I've learned from watching you two navigate your lives:

1. The value of a dollar.

You always made money come out of thin air, so I never had to wait for anything. Lunch money, reading books and a house over my head are all luxuries I had because of you.

I realize now how hard you had to work for this and it’s taught me to manage my finances and appreciate everything I have.

2. Every moment spent together is a gift.

You’ve worked ridiculous hours, weekends and holidays to support me. When you were home, you filled the house with love and fun.

Every time we read a book, watched a movie or sat in the same room together, it was the best time of my life.

3. How to manage a schedule.

Despite working exhausting hours, you never missed a school concert or teacher conference.

You were at every award ceremony and freezing cold tennis match you could possibly attend. Thank you for never missing the things that are important to me.

4. There’s no shame in struggling.

I’ve seen you at your worst, so I’m not embarrassed when you see me at mine. Whether I’m upset over something small or big, you take me seriously and treat me with nothing but respect.

I’m happy to share hard times with you because I know you’ve been there. Thank you for listening to my problems and offering honest advice.

5. The definition of strength.

Being a strong person doesn’t mean having no emotions. It’s okay to be tired and frustrated.

You’ve been tired and frustrated, yet continued on without a second thought. That’s real strength.

6. How to be self-sufficient.

Every time you showed me how to fix something on my car or stand up for myself, you gave me a little piece of confidence.

You’ve given me enough pieces to carry myself into adulthood with grace and dignity.

7. How to be selfless.

You’ve wiped my tears instead of your own, and that small act has taught me more than I could have ever imagined.

You’ve given so much of yourself to others. It’s just the way you are, and I hope to be the same way.

8. Laughter can fix most problems.

Thank you for sitting with me, listening to me vent and teaching me to have a sense of humor about it. You’ve taught me your favorite dirty jokes and childhood anecdotes.

Even though I’ve heard them a million times, they still make me laugh. Being able to laugh at a joke or at myself has made my life substantially easier.

9. Family isn’t defined by bloodlines.

You’ve taken your closest friends and turned them into a big family for me. I have this huge support system because of the bonds you’ve created.

I only hope that when I have kids, they feel the kind of love I’ve felt because of you.

10. Hard work pays off.

Whether it was learning to ride a bike, graduating high school or going to college, you never gave me the idea that I couldn’t do something if I tried as hard as possible.

Life isn’t always easy, but you worked hard and made it. All the odd jobs you’ve picked up because you had no choice didn’t go unnoticed.

Because of you, I’m not afraid of hard work; I embrace it.

Thank you for always supporting me and giving me everything I need to succeed.

Know that everything I accomplish for myself is also for you.

Every victory of mine is a victory for you, too. It’s the biggest compliment when I’m told I’m just like my parents. There’s no one better for me to be.

parents hard work essay

Logo

Essay on My Role Model My Parents

Students are often asked to write an essay on My Role Model My Parents in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on My Role Model My Parents

Introduction.

My parents are my role models as they inspire me every day. They guide me and teach me the right values.

Their Qualities

My parents are hardworking and dedicated. They balance work and family effectively, showing me the importance of responsibility.

Lessons from Them

From my parents, I’ve learned kindness, patience, and the value of education. They encourage me to always do my best.

In conclusion, my parents are my role models because they embody the characteristics and values I aspire to have.

250 Words Essay on My Role Model My Parents

My role models are none other than my parents. They are the epitome of love, perseverance, resilience, and patience. Their life’s journey inspires me to become a better person every day.

My Father: The Pillar of Strength

My father is a man of principle. His disciplined life is a testament to his strong character. He always emphasizes the importance of honesty, hard work, and integrity. His dedication to his profession is awe-inspiring. Despite his busy schedule, he always finds time to guide me and provide his valuable insights. His resilience in the face of adversity motivates me to face challenges with courage and determination.

My Mother: The Embodiment of Love

My mother, on the other hand, is the embodiment of love and compassion. Her selfless care for the family is unparalleled. She is a great listener and has a solution for every problem. Her ability to balance her professional and personal life is something I aspire to emulate. Her unwavering faith in me boosts my confidence and encourages me to pursue my dreams.

Their Combined Influence

The combined influence of my parents has shaped my personality and my worldview. They have taught me the importance of maintaining a balance in life, the value of relationships, and the significance of moral values. Their life is a live textbook, full of lessons to be learned and wisdom to be gleaned.

In conclusion, my parents are my role models because they possess qualities that I admire. Their life is a beacon guiding me through the journey of life. Their love, dedication, and values inspire me to be a better human being. They are not just my parents, but my heroes.

500 Words Essay on My Role Model My Parents

In life, we encounter a myriad of influences, but none are as impactful as our parents. They shape our character, beliefs, and values. As college students, we are at a critical juncture where the lessons imparted by our parents continue to guide us. My parents, with their unwavering dedication and love, are my role models, and their influence has been pivotal in my personal and academic growth.

The Embodiment of Perseverance

My parents are the embodiment of perseverance. They have faced countless adversities, yet their resolve has never faltered. They have taught me that success is not about never falling, but about getting up each time we fall. This lesson has been invaluable in my academic journey where setbacks are inevitable. Their example of resilience has instilled in me a determination to overcome challenges, turning them into stepping stones for success.

Advocates of Kindness and Empathy

My parents have always been advocates of kindness and empathy. They have consistently emphasized the importance of understanding and respecting others’ perspectives. This has significantly shaped my interactions with my peers, professors, and community at large. Their teachings have encouraged me to become an empathetic listener and a compassionate individual, qualities that are crucial in our increasingly diverse society.

Champions of Education

Education has always been paramount for my parents. They believe it to be the key to unlocking one’s potential and the foundation for a prosperous life. They have instilled in me a deep respect for knowledge and the pursuit of learning. Their unwavering support and encouragement have been instrumental in my academic achievements and have fostered a lifelong love for learning.

Exemplars of Integrity

Integrity is another virtue that my parents have consistently upheld. They have shown me that honesty and ethical behavior are not negotiable, even when faced with difficult situations. This principle has guided my actions and decisions in my personal and academic life, reinforcing the importance of maintaining a strong moral compass.

Role Models of Balance

Lastly, my parents have always demonstrated the importance of balance in life. They have shown me that while it is essential to work hard and strive for success, it is equally important to take care of one’s mental and physical health. This lesson has been particularly relevant in college, where the pressure to succeed can often lead to burnout.

In conclusion, my parents’ teachings and actions have shaped me into the person I am today. They have provided me with a blueprint for success, not just in terms of academic achievements, but also in developing a well-rounded, empathetic, and resilient character. As my role models, their influence extends far beyond my formative years and continues to guide me in my college journey and beyond. They have shown me that the true measure of success is not just what we achieve, but also the kind of person we become in the process.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

  • Essay on Parents Love
  • Essay on How I Help My Parents at Home
  • Essay on Importance of Parents

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

Happy studying!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

parents hard work essay

  • Let’s Celebrate 90 Years of Impact!
  • Become a $90-for-90 Supporter!
  • Become a print subscriber
  • Sign up for e-Newsletter

parents hard work essay

  • Black History Month
  • Women’s History Month
  • Perspectives From Within
  • Word on the Street
  • Reaching Out From Within
  • Mellaneous by Mel Reeves
  • Women’s Wellness
  • Parenting Today
  • Minnesota Cancer Alliance Breast Cancer Gaps Project
  • Timberwolves/NBA
  • MN Wild/NHL
  • Vikings/NFL
  • Small Business Month Celebration
  • Black Business Spotlight
  • Finances FYI
  • Arts + Culture
  • Photo of the Week
  • Announcements
  • MSR Legacy Archives
  • MSR Archives Search via MHS
  • Submit an event!
  • Join the Legacy Yacht Cruise on the Majestic Star
  • Sister Spokesman

parents hard work essay

I am grateful for my parents and the opportunities they’ve provided

parents hard work essay

Ananda White is a 2017 Cecil E. Newman Scholarship recipient. Below is her scholarship-winning essay.

The two most influential people to guide my life and education are my parents Angela and Brian White. It’s a cliché, but it is the truth. In fact, my parents will say they want me to have more opportunities than they had, meaning they’ll sacrifice in order for me to accomplish my goals.

Furthering my education will allow me give back to my parents, who have given me more than I can possibly give them. I am very thankful to have supporting parents in my life who listen and support me, because I know many people are not as lucky. They’ve given me multiple pep talks that would get through an assignment on a late night, but they have also reminded me to take a break from my homework and get something to eat.

Even though at times they might not be able to help me or understand some of the work I do for school, I still appreciate the time they take to pretend to understand the work I have to do in pre-calculus.

parents hard work essay

Growing up in the inner city public school system wasn’t easy, although rewarding. Attending for both elementary and middle school has shaped me into being the African American woman I am today.

At an early age, my parents sent me to Urban League Academy. There at Urban League Academy I saw excellence and educators that showed me a side of Black people the media doesn’t portray. I’m so grateful to my parents for choosing Urban League Academy during those earlier years of my life; even though, I probably wouldn’t feel the same way back then.

I now have a sense of gratitude for my time at that school, especially when my other Black friends tell me that they never had a Black teacher or that they’ve always been in the minority group at their school.

In sixth grade, I went to W.I.S.E Charter School where the entire school celebrated Kwanzaa. This is where I first learned about Historical Black Colleges and Universities. I wish more students of color could experience what it’s like to be surrounded by educators and peers that are of the same race as them. My parents have always supported other Black people which has strengthened my confidence. If it wasn’t for that experience I probably wouldn’t have the confidence to go to college.

Additionally, many people in my family haven’t gone to college. But, my parents have never made me feel as though that I wouldn’t be able to. My entire life they made me feel important and that I had the potential to go further in life than just a high school diploma. My dad, Brian, only got a high school diploma and has had a job ever since. My mom, Angela, tried to do some college but was never able to get very far between work and home.

Again, I’m grateful because they’ve given me the opportunity to do something. The support my parents gave me throughout my 18 years have been tremendous, including helping me on assignments, driving me to activities and events, and putting a smile on my face when I’m sad.

My mother has been the person to explain and help me through a difficult problem and my father has been the one to remedy any situation and helped me relaxed when I’m stressed. They have continued to go the extra mile, providing me with the chance to go far in life as long as I stay focus. Without realizing it, my parents have been the consistent keys to my success.

For a recap/photos from the 2017 Graduation Celebration, go here .

Support Black local news

Help amplify Black voices by donating to the MSR. Your contribution enables critical coverage of issues affecting the community and empowers authentic storytelling.

Donate Now!

Two women inspired me and showed me my potential, adversity can be a great teacher, msr news online.

Reach the MSR staff at [email protected] .

You Might Also Like

MN poised to establish standardized minimum wage

MN poised to establish standardized minimum wage

Remembering Juanita Simmons Barge

Remembering Juanita Simmons Barge

Jackson finds pro niche as relief pitcher

Jackson finds pro niche as relief pitcher

‘Beautiful: A Carole King Musical’ tells a generational story

‘Beautiful: A Carole King Musical’ tells a generational story

Detroit’s new all-Black sports talk station launches May 16

Detroit’s new all-Black sports talk station launches May 16

Allowing prisoners to bury their loved ones is important for healing 

Allowing prisoners to bury their loved ones is important for healing 

Adversity can be a great teacher

Read our latest e-Edition!

parents hard work essay

Blacklight on Sports w/Gabrielle Grier

  • Home/Office Delivery
  • Weekly e-newsletter
  • MSR Newsstand Locations
  • Send a news tip
  • Privacy Policy

© 2023 Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder

  • MN Cancer Alliance Breast Cancer Gaps Project
  • Submit an Event
  • Legacy Yacht Cruise on the Majestic Star
  • Become a $90-for-90 Supporter

Home / Essay Samples / Life / Life Lesson / Life Lessons I Learned from My Parents

Life Lessons I Learned from My Parents

  • Category: Life
  • Topic: Life Lesson , Parents

Pages: 2 (1013 words)

  • Downloads: -->

The Value of Hard Work

Resilience in adversity, the importance of kindness and compassion, the value of family and relationships, the pursuit of lifelong learning, conclusion: a legacy of life lessons.

--> ⚠️ Remember: This essay was written and uploaded by an--> click here.

Found a great essay sample but want a unique one?

are ready to help you with your essay

You won’t be charged yet!

Humanity Essays

Adversity Essays

Hope Essays

Empathy Essays

Inspiration Essays

Related Essays

We are glad that you like it, but you cannot copy from our website. Just insert your email and this sample will be sent to you.

By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service  and  Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.

Your essay sample has been sent.

In fact, there is a way to get an original essay! Turn to our writers and order a plagiarism-free paper.

samplius.com uses cookies to offer you the best service possible.By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .--> -->