Help with essay?

Findlay essay
Prompt: Write a personal essay about yourself, your interests, and your plans for the future. (<500 words)

Is the intro too cheesy?
Does the end paragraph sound too unsure?
Any grammer mistakes?
Any suggestions to make it better?

"I Am a Story"
I am different. I am unique. I am driven and passionate. But there is so much more to me than simple words. I am a story.

Raised in central Mississippi suburbia, I was brought up in an ideal atmosphere. A large group of loving family surrounded me from my first moments of life. Despite a flawless childhood, pressure began to mount as I progressed into my *** years at Saint Andrew’s Episcopal School, known as the most academically challenging college preparatory institute in the state of Mississippi. The added stress of the intense curriculum launched me into a severe state of emotional recession, and at the age of twelve I was diagnosed with clinical depression. I became socially withdrawn and quiet, living within my own mind. I began spending an inordinate amount of time alone in my room studying in order to keep exceptional grades: the one thing that I felt that I could control. The once active softball and basketball player with a giggly personality diminished. At thirteen, I saw my life as hopeless. I felt that any potential that I had ever possessed disappeared with my happiness. Little did I know that hope would revitalize from an unconventional source.

On September 18, 2006, I received an early Christmas gift that changed my life for the better: a small, gorgeous buckskin colored mare with a silky black mane and tail. Apart from the ponies at the state fair, I had never ridden a horse before, but from the moment I stepped into the stirrup it seemed as if I had an innate talent, a destiny, of sorts. I pin this memory as the beginning of a lifelong journey to concentrate on not only my efforts as an equestrian, but also the health and welfare of all animals.

Before I began my journey as a rider I was convinced that Veterinary Science was the right profession for me. Throughout my high school career, I toggled with my plans for the future. I shadowed various veterinarians, volunteered with multiple rescue associations, as well as a therapeutic riding center, and worked with a well-respected AQHA Professional Horseman. However, after the experience of working with such well respected horsemen, I now know that horses must also have a place in my career. At the current time, I plan to double major in both Western Equestrian Studies and Pre-Vet programs. I am aware of the many challenges I face in choosing to double major in such intensive programs, but I am confident in my own abilities to accomplish what I desire. I am convinced that the University of Findlay has the capability to help me accomplish remarkable achievements.