Making a Difference by Dusstyn

Making a Difference by Dusstyn - January 2017 Scholarship Essay

I think that the definition of an outstanding individual is different for each person. It would differ based on what qualities are important to each individual. For me personally, I think an outstanding individual is one who is grateful for what they’ve been given and chooses to give back to their community. It is important to me to not only advocate for a better community but to also take action and be part of the solution for a better community. With my history of involvement in my local community and my success in the classroom, I would like to challenge myself to the rigorous curriculum and the high expectations in college. I would also like to have even greater involvement in the community, and continue to develop my skills with volunteer work, school, and leadership.
I consider myself a successful student at Wooster High School; this is in no small part due to being an involved member of my community. As a girl scout, I was introduced to community service at a young age. I have learned to value the benefits of and embrace being involved in my community. I have been a girl scout for twelve years and I can proudly state that I have collectively served over five-hundred community service hours. I have earned numerous awards in my scouting years, such as the Bronze Award, the Silver Award, the Gold Award, the Presidential Award, and the Medal of Honor.
Some of the more memorable projects I have participated in include, collaborating with the Wooster Parks and Recreation Services to paint over one hundred picnic tables at different local parks in my city. I organized and carried out a drive thru donation day to collect items and needs for the Closet of Hope (Children Services) which provides clothing to children in foster care situations. The biggest project I have undertaken was for a local rescue farm, I wrote a small grant, and used that funding to transform a shed into a much needed poultry habitat. The shed needed many modification such as complete interior reinforcement with galvanized wood, wall and fencing interior dividers for chickens and ducks, windows and doors cut and installed, and poultry accommodations made with wood. I spent over 100 hours on this project alone.
I have also organized and participated in making and donating blankets, canned food drives, clothing drives, providing entertainment for children at various Hope Center and elementary school activities, as well as creating and collaborating a magazine collection service with a local grocery store that resulted in over 2,000 magazines that I was able to send overseas to American military. As an active member of my community, I enjoy volunteer work and giving back to others. The impact we have on others can define us as individuals.