As we return to school following Thanksgiving break, we all have plenty to be thankful for. Personally, I am extremely thankful for being able to help out on a successful corn and soybean harvest on my family’s farm near Washburn, IL. Although I was only around to help out with harvest on the weekends, it was well worth the hour and fifteen-minute drive to work with my dad and 91-year-old grandpa who is still very much involved in the farming operations. My grandpa has been a great role model to me throughout my life. His commitment to faith and family, his work ethic, and his optimistic attitude have been a great example to follow. His longevity alone impresses me more and more. To witness a 91-year-old get up and put in 12 hour days, running a combine with a grin on his face the whole way is inspiring. He is a true testament to the importance of finding what you’re passionate about and pursuing that passion. My grandpa truly does love agriculture, and that love has led him to a long life of success in that field (no pun intended). 
Following his example, I understand the importance of finding a career that I am passionate about. The decision to attend the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign was a decision made with that in mind. My time at UIUC has helped me grow as an individual and discover my passions in my future career and life in general. Soon I will be graduating and moving on into a career that I hope to love as much as my grandpa loves farming. Through his example I know if I love what I do, I will be successful. For that, I am thankful.