Embracing Risk by Calyssa

Embracing Risk by Calyssa - July 2023 Scholarship Essay

Failure has a way of shining a light on our deepest fears and shortcomings. For me, my greatest failure in education was not realizing that the major I was pursuing was merely a safe option, rather than a true reflection of my passions. It took a year of struggling and failing classes before I finally acknowledged the truth. During a one-year break from school, a conversation with my cousin about the nature of education sparked a realization that changed the course of my academic journey.

In that introspective period, my cousin shared valuable wisdom with me that pursuing education is not always difficult, but it is time-consuming. However, if one is unwilling to invest time in something, it may not be the right path for them. These words struck a chord deep within me, resonating with my dissatisfaction with my current major in Psychology.

The revelation hit me like a lightning bolt. I had settled for the safe choice, opting for a major that only mildly interested me. I had failed to recognize my desires and passions. Motivated by this newfound understanding, I embarked on a research journey that led me to the field of diagnostic medical sonography (DMS).

The more I delved into the world of sonography, the more my passion grew. In just a few months, I felt more alive and excited than in the six years I had spent contemplating a future in psychology. The failure of that year in college was not reflected in my grades, it lay in my inability to take a risk and pursue what I truly loved.

Choosing to switch my field of study from psychology to DMS was a pivotal moment in my life. It was a leap of faith, a departure from the safety net I had clung to for too long. The decision marked a turning point, not only in my educational journey but also in my willingness to take risks in life.

This failure, far from being a setback, became a catalyst for growth and self-discovery. It shaped the person I am today, becoming the one who dares to step out of my comfort zone and embrace the unknown. Applying for this scholarship is a testament to my newfound willingness to take risks, even when the odds may seem against me.

I have come to understand that settling for something that merely makes me "okay" is not enough. Life is too short to settle for mediocrity. By embracing risk and pursuing what truly sets my soul on fire, I am taking a stance for my own happiness and fulfillment.

As I embark on the journey to enter a DMS program, I am filled with gratitude and excitement. This experience has taught me to embrace the risks that come with following my passions. I now understand that low odds are not a reason to avoid trying, they are the very reason to take a leap of faith. I am no longer content with settling and I am eager to pursue something that will make me feel amazing.

My failure to recognize my true passion for education was a valuable lesson that reshaped my perspective on life. Through this experience, I have learned the importance of taking risks and pursuing what truly ignites my soul. I am grateful for the opportunity to embark on a new educational path in diagnostic medical sonography, where my passion for healthcare will flourish.