Daniel Egnor: A Blessing by Cassandra

Daniel Egnor: A Blessing by Cassandra - June 2021 Scholarship Essay

Mr. Egnor. When his name is mentioned, some would become haunted by the memory of the daily quizzes in his class. Others would recall the aching hands and strained wrists from writing endless outlines for individual chapters. A handful may have little to no recollection of his class as they were plagued with droopy eyes and inescapable cat naps. However, when I hear the name “Mr. Egnor”, one word comes to mind. Blessing.

Mr. Egnor was not just a teacher, he was a blessing. Mr. Egnor took pride in his responsibility to shape the lives of teenagers and was always sure to maintain a positive influence on his students. He would constantly strive to offer strong direction and counseling to those in his classes. I know many peers who felt more comfortable going to him for enlightenment on issues or support during rough times than their friends or counselors. He never failed to make learning creative whether it was his reenactment of events, his shockingly accurate accents, or eccentric puns and jokes. He truly was a gift that was taken from us too soon.

Throughout my education journey, I have interacted with what I believed at the time to be “Teachers.” It was not until I met Mr. Egnor that I realized I could not have been more inaccurate in my assumption. Teachers are not people who just reiterate the information clearly displayed on countless PowerPoint slides. Teachers are not those that view their students simply as numbers or a pass and fail grade. These are, in fact, the real substitute teachers. The instructors I had experienced all my life were substitutes just trying their best to fill the role. Mr. Egnor embodied the true spirit of teaching. Not only did he educate me in the required course material, but he constantly gifted me with unmatched knowledge and guidance, and for that, I am eternally grateful. Mr. Egnor never failed to provide me with real-world advice and lessons that would actually prepare me for my future. I will never forget the multiple class periods he could have spent doing essential instruction that he instead spent preparing us for upcoming course selection, college admissions, and future plans. All my teachers prior would just ask what my plans were. They would never actually sit down with me and outline a path I should take to ensure I achieve success. I have always been a firm believer that schools should offer instruction to better prepare individuals for milestones involving necessary real-world skills. Mr. Egnor was my wish come true.

421房间。北极苔原。艾格诺先生的课堂was notorious for being a frigid icebox. Upon entering his room, you could not help your teeth from chattering. Despite the freezing environment, there was always a warmth present. A flame that made the bitter chill almost bearable. Mr. Egnor was that flame. He possessed a gift that allowed him to always shine a radiant light upon others. His smile and cheery demeanor offered a sense of comfort to every individual that entered his room. The sub-zero environment of his class was always a stark contrast to Mr. Egnor’s presence. I think I finally realize why this was the case. Mr. Egnor was a human ray of sunshine able to warm the souls of everyone around him. Mr. Egnor drew upon the heat of the classroom to fuel his passion for teaching. He absorbed warmth from his surroundings in order to amplify his enthusiasm and affection for his students.

Mr. Egnor was a highlight of my stressful junior year and overall high school rollercoaster journey. When everything seemed bitter and the “senioritis” began to kick in, Mr. Egnor’s vibrant energy provided me with the extra push I needed to battle through. My future gleams brighter than ever before thanks to Mr. Egnor’s inspiration. It pains me to know that the younger generations and future classes will not be able to experience his unique knowledge and passion. Mr. Egnor’s class was a right of passage, and I am so fortunate to have completed his course. History was never a subject I gravitated towards. I will admit that I rolled my eyes having to analyze yet another historical document or learn every specific and precise detail of the Civil War. However, I am incredibly honored to be able to include Mr. Egnor as part of my history. It was an absolute privilege to meet Mr. Egnor, obtain a fraction of his wisdom, and cherish his presence throughout my high school years. His guidance and instruction have left a mark on me that will remain forever.