Estrada 1

Christopher Estrada

Professor Tenorio

ENGL- 2120

April 18, 2024

The Struggles and Benefits of Growing Up

Hi, I'm Christopher Estrada, a 19-year-old student at the University of New Mexico. Born

on August 7, 2004, I find myself balancing academics with work as a car wash employee.

Outside of my studies and job, I enjoy a variety of hobbies that keep me active and engaged. I

am also a die-hard Chicago Cubs fan. Whether it's hitting the golf course, shooting pool with

friends, or spending a weekend camping and fishing in the great outdoors, I find joy in a diverse

range of activities. Bowling, playing baseball, and simply hanging out with friends also fill my

free time, adding excitement and fun to my days. In addition to my academic pursuits at the

University of New Mexico and my responsibilities as a car wash employee, my diverse set of

hobbies plays a significant role in shaping my daily experiences. Golfing, a sport that demands

precision and focus, allows me to unwind and challenge myself on the green. When I'm not

perfecting my swing, you can often find me at the pool table, strategizing and enjoying friendly

competition with my peers. However, my love for the outdoors truly comes alive during

weekends spent camping and fishing. The tranquility of nature and the thrill of reeling in a big

catch provide me with a sense of peace and adventure. On the other hand, activities like bowling

and playing baseball bring out my competitive spirit and foster camaraderie among friends.

These hobbies not only offer moments of relaxation and recreation but also serve as avenues for

personal growth, social connection, and lasting memories. I live with my mother and my sister

here in Albuquerque. I was born and raised here as well. I attended La Cueva and Eldorado high
 Estrada 2

school playing baseball throughout. That is just a little bit about me for some background

information.

Growing up has undoubtedly reshaped my childhood perspective in profound ways. As a

19-year-old student navigating the transition to adulthood while juggling academic studies and a

job at a car wash, I have come to appreciate the evolution of my views and beliefs over time.

Looking back on my childhood, I see a time filled with innocence, curiosity, and boundless

imagination. The world seemed simpler, and challenges appeared more manageable through the

lens of youthful optimism. The transition into adulthood seemed very challenging at first. As I

navigate the complexities of adulthood, the responsibilities of balancing academics and work

have reshaped my priorities and goals. Decision-making has become more critical, and the

consequences of my actions carry greater weight. When I was younger and less mature, I would

find myself only wanting to benefit and grow based on my successes but realizing that you can

learn from failures too really helped me transition into adulthood. Growing up has provided me

with a broader perspective on life. Experiences, challenges, and interactions have deepened my

understanding of the world around me. I now approach situations with a sense of maturity and a

willingness to learn from both successes and failures. With adulthood comes a new set of

responsibilities, from managing finances to making important life decisions. These obligations

have forced me to confront realities beyond the sheltered confines of childhood, fostering

independence and self-reliance. Despite the changes that come with growing up, I cherish the

memories of my childhood. The carefree days spent engaging in hobbies like golfing, pool,

camping, fishing, bowling, baseball, and spending time with friends hold a special place in my

heart. These activities not only offer relaxation but also serve as reminders of simpler times and
 Estrada 3

the importance of maintaining connections with loved ones. In conclusion, the journey from

childhood to adulthood is a transformative process that shapes one's perspective in profound

ways. Embracing change, learning from experiences, and cherishing childhood innocence while

embracing the wisdom gained in adulthood are essential elements of this evolution. Through

reflection and growth, I continue to navigate this transition with a newfound appreciation for the

past and a hopeful outlook toward the future.

Growing up has brought about numerous benefits and opportunities for personal growth

and development in my life. As a 19-year-old student at the University of New Mexico, being

raised by two women, and balancing academics with work at a car wash, I have experienced

firsthand the positive impact of maturing and evolving through various stages of life. Growing

up has broadened my perspectives and deepened my understanding of the world around me.

Through experiences, challenges, and interactions, I have gained insights that have shaped my

views and beliefs, allowing me to approach situations with a more mature and informed outlook.

Transitioning to adulthood has instilled a sense of independence and self-reliance in me. Taking

on responsibilities such as managing my studies, work, and personal interests has empowered me

to make decisions and navigate life's challenges with confidence. Personal growth is created by

engaging in a diverse range of hobbies, from golfing to camping and fishing, which has not only

provided moments of relaxation but has also offered avenues for exploration, skill development,

and the discovery of new passions. One of the benefits of growing up has been the opportunity to

foster meaningful social connections and build lasting relationships. Whether it's shooting pool

with friends or playing baseball, these activities have served as platforms for camaraderie, shared

experiences, and the cultivation of friendships that enrich my life. While growing up comes with
 Estrada 4

its own set of responsibilities and challenges, it has also allowed me to cherish the memories and

experiences of childhood. Reflecting on moments spent playing baseball in high school or simply

hanging out with friends serves as a reminder of the simplicity and joy of youth, instilling a sense

of nostalgia and appreciation for the past. The journey of growing up has brought about

numerous benefits that have contributed to my personal development, social connections, and

overall well-being. Embracing change, learning from experiences, and cherishing the lessons

learned along the way have been integral aspects of this transformative process, shaping me into

the person I am today.

Growing up under the care and guidance of strong, compassionate women has had a

profound impact on my development and perspectives as I navigate the journey of growing up. I

have witnessed firsthand the influence of being raised by women in shaping my character and

outlook on life. My mother and my older sister are my biggest role models and have always been

the two people I look up to and am most proud of. They are a huge reason why I am in college

and why I am as dedicated as I am. Being raised by women has instilled in me a deep sense of

empathy and compassion towards others. The nurturing environment provided by my mother and

other female role models has cultivated a sensitivity toward the emotions and needs of those

around me, shaping my ability to connect with and support others in meaningful ways. Growing

up surrounded by strong women has taught me valuable lessons in resilience and strength.

Witnessing their determination, perseverance, and ability to overcome challenges has inspired

me to approach obstacles with a similar mindset, fostering a sense of resilience and

determination in the face of adversity. The emphasis on open communication and emotional

expression within my upbringing has honed my communication skills and emotional intelligence.
 Estrada 5

Learning to articulate thoughts and feelings, as well as understand the emotions of others, has

been instrumental in building meaningful relationships and navigating complex social dynamics.

Being raised by women who embody principles of gender equality and empowerment has shaped

my beliefs and attitudes toward issues of equality and inclusivity. Witnessing their strength and

independence has instilled in me a deep respect for gender diversity and a commitment to

advocating for equal rights and opportunities for all individuals. Having strong female role

models in my life has provided me with a blueprint for success and personal growth. Their

guidance, wisdom, and unwavering support have been instrumental in shaping my values,

aspirations, and sense of self, empowering me to strive for excellence and make a positive

impact in the world.

In the summer of 2021, my father passed away and it was a dark and heartbreaking time

in my life. However, this experience helped me grow up and become more independent

tremendously. Losing a father at a young age can have a profound impact on a young adult's life,

shaping their experiences, perspectives, and emotional well-being in significant ways. As

someone who has navigated the challenges of growing up without a father figure, I have come to

understand the effects that this loss can have on personal development and relationships. The

absence of my father led to feelings of loss, grief, and emotional upheaval, requiring me to

cultivate a sense of emotional resilience and coping mechanisms to navigate these difficult

emotions. Learning to process grief and manage feelings of abandonment can be a significant

part of the healing process and it definitely was. Losing my father extends to the dynamics

within my family structure and relationships. Adjusting to the absence of a father figure can lead

to shifts in roles, responsibilities, and interactions among family members, potentially affecting
 Estrada 6

the dynamics and connections within the family unit. I felt that other men in my family were

trying to “step up” in a sense to look over me and make sure that I was doing okay. I understand

that they were just trying to help but sometimes it felt like they were trying to fill my father’s

shoes which I didn’t like. However, my big sister was there when I needed someone to guide me

and to also get emotional which honestly had the greatest impact on me growing up until this

point in my life. Seeing how strong she was and how she took care of me while also going

through the same grief made me realize how strong of a person she is. Losing a father as a young

adult is a complex and deeply personal experience that can influence emotional well-being,

identity formation, family relationships, mentorship seeking, and future interpersonal dynamics.

Navigating this loss requires emotional strength, self-awareness, and a willingness to seek

support and guidance from positive influences to foster healing, personal growth, and resilience

in the face of adversity.

Growing up as a kid has many wonderful aspects that contribute to personal growth and

development. One of the best parts is the opportunity to expand perspectives by exploring new

experiences and learning about the world around us. As a child, I had the chance to discover

different interests and hobbies, which helped me develop a sense of identity and passion for

various activities. Additionally, growing up provides increased independence as we learn to

make decisions, take on responsibilities, and navigate challenges on our own. This independence

fosters a sense of confidence and self-reliance that is crucial for success in adulthood. childhood

is a time for building social connections and friendships that can last a lifetime, creating a

support network and a sense of belonging. As we grow up, we gain a deeper appreciation for the
 Estrada 7

carefree and innocent moments of childhood, cherishing memories and experiences that shape

who we become as adults.

The journey of growing up is a transformative process that weaves together the threads of

our past experiences, present challenges, and future aspirations. I have embarked on a path of

self-discovery and personal growth, shaped by the unique blend of my upbringing, experiences,

and relationships. Reflecting on my childhood, I am reminded of the innocence, curiosity, and

boundless imagination that colored my younger years. The transition into adulthood was met

with initial challenges and uncertainties, but it also brought forth opportunities for growth,

resilience, and self-discovery. Balancing academics with work at a car wash and finding solace in

a diverse set of hobbies has not only enriched my daily experiences but has also provided

avenues for personal growth, social connections, and lasting memories. The loss of my father in

the summer of 2021 cast a shadow of grief and emotional turmoil over my life. This profound

loss tested my emotional resilience and forced me to navigate the complexities of grief,

abandonment, and adjusting to a new family dynamic without a paternal figure. While the

absence of my father brought forth feelings of loss and sorrow, it also catalyzed personal growth,

independence, and a deeper appreciation for the strength and support of my mother and sister.

Navigating the impact of losing a father during young adulthood has shaped my understanding of

resilience, identity formation, family relationships, mentorship seeking, and future interpersonal

dynamics. The experience has taught me the value of emotional strength, self-awareness, and

seeking support from positive influences to foster healing, growth, and resilience in the face of

adversity. As I continue to navigate the complexities of growing up, I carry with me the lessons

learned from both the joys of childhood and the challenges of loss. Embracing change, learning
 Estrada 8

from experiences, and cherishing connections with loved ones are pillars that guide my journey

from adolescence to adulthood. Through reflection, growth, and a commitment to personal

development, I strive to honor the past, embrace the present, and approach the future with

resilience, empathy, and a deep sense of appreciation for the transformative power of growing

up.