Pick me by David

Pick me by David - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is David Tello, and I am currently a sophomore at the University of the Incarnate Word, majoring in Fashion. As a Hispanic student, I have always been passionate about expressing my culture and identity through fashion. However, my academic journey has not been without its challenges. One particular experience stands out as a defining moment in my education.

During my freshman year, I faced a challenging academic experience in my Introduction to Fashion Design class. The course demanded a level of creativity and technical skill that I had not anticipated. I was excited to learn and eager to succeed, but I quickly discovered that I was struggling to keep up with the pace of the class. The assignments were complex, requiring not only creativity but also a deep understanding of design principles and technical skills in using design software. I felt overwhelmed and began to doubt my abilities.

The most difficult part was a major project that involved creating a complete fashion collection. This project was a significant portion of our grade, and I was determined to do well. However, as the deadline approached, I realized that my designs were not coming together as I had hoped. My sketches were not translating well into digital designs, and I was having trouble mastering the software tools we were using. I felt stuck and unsure of how to move forward.

At first, I tried to handle everything on my own, spending long hours in the computer lab and poring over design tutorials online. Despite my efforts, I was not making the progress I needed. It was a frustrating and demoralizing time, and I began to worry about my future in the fashion program.

Realizing that I could not do it alone, I decided to seek help. I reached out to my professor and explained my struggles. To my surprise, she was incredibly supportive and offered to meet with me outside of class to go over my designs and help me improve my skills. Her encouragement and guidance were invaluable, and I began to feel more confident in my abilities.

In addition to working with my professor, I also formed a study group with some of my classmates. We met regularly to share ideas, critique each other's work, and offer support. This collaborative environment was incredibly helpful, as it allowed me to see different perspectives and learn from my peers. I discovered that many of them were facing similar challenges, and together, we were able to overcome them.

I also took advantage of the resources available at my university, such as workshops and tutorials offered by the design department. These sessions provided me with additional skills and knowledge that I was able to apply to my project. Slowly but surely, I began to make progress. My designs improved, and I became more comfortable with the software.

The experience taught me the importance of seeking help and working collaboratively. It was a humbling lesson, but it also showed me that I am capable of overcoming challenges if I am willing to put in the effort and ask for support when needed. By the time the project was due, I was proud of the collection I had created. It was not perfect, but it was a reflection of my growth and determination.

This challenging academic experience has had a lasting impact on me. It has strengthened my resolve to succeed in the fashion industry and has reinforced my belief in the power of collaboration and community. I have learned that it is okay to struggle and that reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

As I continue my studies, I carry these lessons with me. I am more confident in my abilities and more open to seeking and offering support. I am committed to using my education to express my cultural heritage and contribute to the fashion world in meaningful ways.

Receiving this scholarship would provide me with the financial support I need to continue pursuing my passion for fashion. It would allow me to focus on my studies and further develop my skills without the added stress of financial burdens. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my story and hope to inspire others who may be facing similar challenges.

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to continue my journey and make a positive impact in the world of fashion.