Challenges & Personal Growth by Dez

Challenges & Personal Growth by Dez - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

Change has been a constant factor in my life. I've spent my entire life moving across the country due to my father's career. My father served in the United States Air Force for as long as I could remember. I've lived in multiple states like Florida, Tennessee, Utah, and Nevada. Once I started high school I had moved several times, switched multiple schools, and left behind lots of friends and family. Although this experience has brought along plenty of unfamiliar situations, It has taught me to be adaptable and resilient when facing challenges.

One of my hardest challenges was during my junior year of high school. Once again, I was moving, leaving me at a new school and trying to adjust while everything felt foreign. I had gotten used to starting over again and again, but this time felt different. The new school I moved to was much larger than my old one, making me feel overwhelmed and struggling to find my place. I started to question if I would ever end up adjusting or always be "the new kid," but then, I began to realize that each time I moved, it wasn't perfect in the beginning. Every time I felt out of place, I found a way to adapt, so this time should be no different.

Despite nervousness, I pushed myself to be more outgoing and connect with others. I started building more friendships and contacting my teachers for academic help when needed. I began to set goals like joining the football and track teams while continuing to maintain an above 4.0 GPA. I contributed to my track team's district championship as a sprinter and was honored with the Track & Field Newcomer's Award at the end of the season. Being on the football team became a lifestyle; it taught me the importance of hard work and helped me build discipline, sportsmanship, and resilience. I was rewarded with the Student Athletic Academic Award, which recognized my successful balance between being a student and an athlete. While it wasn't ideal to be removed from the comfort of my close-knit school to a large public school, I had made what was once an obstacle into an opportunity for personal growth.

Throughout this experience, I have learned that resilience is not about never feeling defeated; it's about getting back up when you do. After moving so many times, it has taught me that even when I'm not in the ideal situation, I can adapt and thrive. Looking back at each time I had to move, I realize it was more than just a relocation; it was a great opportunity for personal growth. I now know that any time I have to face the uncertainty of change I can rely on my adaptability and determination to navigate me through it. All of these lessons throughout my life have prepared me for my future, which is certain of many changes and challenges, but rather than fear them, I will face them head-on, knowing that each is another chance for growth.