As we reflect on the year 2020, there's no doubt that it's been strange. However, it is important to focus on the positives, as the pros always outweigh the cons. This is why I decided to write a "Things I'm Thankful For" essay. Personally, I am grateful for my education, my surroundings, and staying safe during the pandemic. I believe we should always take the time to appreciate what we have, as there are people out there who don't have the same privileges as us. Being grateful allows us to appreciate the little things in our daily lives. No matter how big or small the moment, it gives us a message that motivates us to become better people. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay As a college student, I am grateful to have the opportunity to be able to continue my education and beyond. I was initially rejected from my dream college, but rejection means redirection. Although I understood that we shouldn't go to a school just for the title and do what makes us feel comfortable. After high school, I started community college and transferring to San Jose State University as a sociology major was the best decision I ever made and I don't regret it one bit. It's been a tough journey, but you take every opportunity that comes your way. Often, high stress at school makes us forget that we have the privilege of studying. In elementary school you have the opportunity to study for free, but in university you have to take your studies seriously since you pay for your education when you get a degree. As a matter of fact, I've learned that using your energy, effort, and creativity really pays off in the end if you put in the work. For this to happen, we need to be realistic with ourselves by setting long-term goals. In this case, long-term goals help us keep our life well organized in the process. For this reason, education can help us open doors to new opportunities in our lives. For me, I'm a first-generation college student from an immigrant family. Of note, I am extremely grateful for my parents' commitment to taking time out of their day to support me on a daily basis even when life gets difficult at times. My parents couldn't attend university in their home country when they were my age because they couldn't afford it and had to start working to support the family in their twenties. They also count on me to do well in school. In particular, they want me to set a good example for my younger sister by excelling in getting good grades, earning a college degree, and finding a job with a bright future. In fact, I want to make my parents proud as they are the ones who raised me to be the person I have become today. Along with the blessings of friends and family, they are definitely at the top of my list, the ones who were there for me from day one. Despite the long distance, no matter how busy they are, we all have each other's support as our backbone. As a matter of fact, I am grateful to live in a healthy family. Family is always a priority as they are the ones who take care of us as we as children need it for emotional support and for our mental health. On the contrary, I have friends who come from broken homes, divorced parents or who have not had a healthy relationship with their parents, they have made me realize how lucky I am to still have both of my parents and it really strikes me in understanding why the personalities of the people behave in a certain way"..