Embracing Change by Aloni

Embracing Change by Aloni - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

Sunflowers, with their vibrant yellow petals and warm brown centers, not only flourish in the sunlight but also evoke joyful memories for me. As my little brother would give me a sunflower as a good luck charm before each softball game, reminding me to stay bright and confident.
Having attended three different high schools in four years, I had a brutal time in high school. While some may consider transition easy, that wasn’t the case for me. It was hard always being the new student, always having to make new friends and adjust to a new environment. I wasn’t a very outgoing person, so I avoided every school event except for playing softball. I had a pretty harsh few years trying to find myself. My sophomore softball season was especially emotionally and mentally rough. The coach was overly harsh and judgmental hence, causing me to doubt myself and my abilities as a player.
That all changed when I entered my junior year at my third high school. I had finally built up the courage to just give myself a chance. I told myself this year was going to be different. I wasn’t going to sit back and allow life to continue on. As my favorite quote from Rosa Parks states “To bring about change, you must not be afraid to take the first step. We will fall when we fail to try”. Keeping this in mind I began to flourish and grow immensely. Thus, bringing me to the best day of my life (so far).
The day I became a softball state champ will forever be engraved in my head. As the final out was made, I ran into the pitcher's mound while throwing my glove up in the air. My team met and huddled together jumping up and down while family and friends stormed the field. I remember running up to my mom and giving her a big hug. It was one of the most exhilarating moments of my life; we stayed at the field for hours. During the car ride home I reflected on how much I had grown within my years of high school. Like how a sunflower grows with assistance from the sun, I overcame my mental struggles with immense help and support from my family. I made All Region for softball, as well as keeping all A’s and B’s. I became more involved in my community and gained numerous volunteer hours allowing me to receive a National Beta Merit Award and National Community Service Award.
Through my experiences, I have learned it may be difficult at first but never be afraid to take a chance. You’ll never know what could happen if you don’t. I’m so glad I took a chance and got out of my comfort zone. It led me to numerous opportunities that I am extremely grateful for. As I continue in life I will forever live by the motto you have to be comfortable with being uncomfortable.