HOUSTON – When you listen Sarah Dow talk about graduating high school and her future, it's hard to believe what the 18-year-old has already gone through in life.
The senior from Conroe High School was a keynote speaker for this year's Junior Achievement gala.
A youth education organization she's been a part of for years teaches students how to prepare for tomorrow through education and the help of mentors.
Earl Hesterberg, the CEO of Group 1 Automotive said, "JA sent us her speech for tonight and we read this speech which is a summary of her life and it brought a tear to our eyes."
Rick Franke, the president of Junior Achievement of SE Texas explained, "Sarah is just incredible. She's hard working, extremely focused and has literally faced amazing tragedies in her childhood."
But more than just inspiring others about how she overcame physical abuse and extreme poverty, this day was all about Dow.
And a very special surprise.
Waiting for Dow outside the event was a brand new car donated by Group 1 Automotive, a local dealership.
Dow, who was surprised with a new car said, "Being a part of this event was absolutely phenomenal and receiving this gift was astonishing."
The teen who recently struggled to get a part-time job to earn money for college is now getting a helping hand to take the next step in life.
"This a blessing and I'm just truly at a lost for words," said Dow.