Learning Through Isolation by Brooklyn

Learning Through Isolation by Brooklyn - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

Is it possible to have a normal teenage life when the world you’re living in is everything but? When I entered middle school in August 2019, I was filled with excitement, eager to tackle new classes and a different atmosphere. Little did I know that just seven months later, my world would be turned upside down by a global pandemic, and the familiar halls of my school were replaced by the isolation of my bedroom. This disruption was overwhelming for my 13-year-old self, but my experience during the COVID-19 pandemic taught me invaluable life lessons, led me to confront my anxiety, and highlighted the necessity of having support systems.
My shift to virtual learning taught me adaptability and responsibility. Before the pandemic I had little discipline and motivation as a student, but this sudden change in my learning environment forced me to rethink my approach to my education. With my parents being front-line workers, they weren’t always around, so I developed a routine that kept me disciplined and structured. I aimed toward a goal to end the school year with all A’s. Through the habits I acquired, such as putting aside time to study, limiting my screen-time, and setting daily reminders for my assignments, I achieved my goal and gained crucial life skills. While this way of learning was a challenge, it has prepared me to manage the demands of college, where independence, self-motivation and discipline are the keys to success.
My experience compelled me to confront my anxiety, leading me to a deeper understanding of mental health and the need for awareness among teenagers. Though I wasn’t particularly outgoing, I never expected being isolated to amplify my anxiety. What I once thought would be a relief turned into a difficult period of depression, worsened by excessive screen time and disconnection from friends. The solitude turned into an overwhelming feeling of alienation, making my anxiety grow worse due to the feelings of loneliness and loss of control in my life. After several months of feeling trapped in this state, I realized how much it was really affecting me and I needed to take action. Getting the courage to reach out to a professional was very daunting, but sharing openly about my struggles was a pivotal moment in my journey. This instance also illustrated to me how important seeking out help is, especially for teenagers who face similar challenges. I would not have had the courage to reach out without the support from my family and friends, who showed me that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
I discovered the significance of having a support system like my family and friends, who became my rock as I navigated my mental health struggles. Going through this experience together strengthened my appreciation for them. My mother, always encouraging, motivated me to prioritize self-care, reminding me to eat healthier and get fresh air. My father took a more practical approach, driving me to counseling and lending me the tools to navigate my struggles more efficiently. My best friend also provided support by listening to me vent and validating my feelings during my low moments. Having them to rely on gave me emotional comfort as well as a foundation for coping with life’s challenges.
The challenges I faced fostered significant personal growth, shaping my aspirations to advocate for mental health awareness and also strengthening my relationships with those I care about. I went from a shy middle schooler to a confident senior taking on leadership roles in her community. Without the lessons learned through my experience of the COVID-19 pandemic, I would not have grown to be as resilient as I am today. Moving forward, I plan to continue to use what I have learned to make a positive impact on others around me as well.