Influential_Person_College_Essay

  I squeezed Grandma Renda's hand as the nurse placed an IV drip into her arm and explained that the chemo treatment will last three hours. Hoping to cheer her up, I suggested a game of checkers.  My grandma smiled at me as we both remembered back to second grade.  I broke my arm and because of my injury had to spend recess and lunch in the school office. Everyday my grandmother would meet me there and we would play checkers together.  That was my first memory of true compassion. I felt pride in myself as now the roles were reversed. I was there for my grandmother caring for her, as she had always been there for me.       The summer after my sophomore year was definitely a life changer.  My Grandma Renda was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. When my parents told me, I was overwhelmed with fear and disbelief. Knowing how close we are, my dad asked me how I would feel about spending some time with Grandma Renda to help her while she continued to battle her disease.  Without hesitation, I decided to spend a month in Michigan to be by my Grandma's side, as she has always been there for me.     Nothing prepared me for what I faced with when I arrived at my grandma's house.  I expected her to be as elegantly dressed and perfectly coiffed as always- instead what I saw was a shock.  Due to the chemo, she had lost her beautiful hair, was nauseous, and could barely walk on her numb feet.  I tried my best to appear unphased and upbeat.  I spent those weeks doing her grocery shopping, driving her on errands, and spending quality time with her.  I matured during that time more than I ever could have imagined.     My grandma was an amazing woman. Everyone would always tell me that I look like her.  Over the years, though, I have learned of her true inner beauty- her caring and compassion towards others. As the rabbi's wife for 25 years, she endlessly volunteered at hospitals and nursing homes to help those in need.  I often think of my grandmother and all the values she has instilled in me when I volunteer at our local senior home or while I "shadow" and care for an autistic boy at summer camp.  I get so much satisfaction helping others, and I realize that my Grandma and I clearly share that unique quality of compassion.  Now when people tell me I look like her, I feel so good to know that our similarities don't end there.     My Grandma Renda passed away this summer.  Her funeral was attended by over 400 people from all walks of life.  The outpouring of love and appreciation towards her was a testament to the impact simple acts of kindness can have on others.  I am proud of my decision to help my Grandma in her time of need.  I feel blessed to have had her as a positive driving force in my life and am confident that my compassionate nature will serve me well in life.