The contribution of loss by Kamryn

The contribution of loss by Kamryn - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

Standing here at the intersection of all my experiences, I've been pulled violently out of comfort this semester alone. This school year has been incredibly taxing. from the loss of my cousin to the loss of my uncle, and even my great grandmother, my mental health has been depleted on numerous occasions. Taking my time and racking up my absences for the starting semester and almost costing my diploma through credit loss during what was supposed to be the least stressful year of my high school career. Often, I've found it difficult to get out of bed on days when I must, and impossible to get out up on days when I don't have to. But there's something that's been pushing me, driving me to continue on despite all of these incredibly painful losses: The desire to succeed, the guilt of not making anything of my life, and the hope I've put in faith, for a future in which I am mentally stable —at least— and thriving at best.

These experiences have taught me resilience in ways I'd never have anticipated - partially from
their nature and partially from the unexpected nature of these losses. In the abyss of my grief, I found comforts not just in studies I particularly enjoy such as reading, but in art, in conversation, and in people, using them as a distraction and a source of motivation. Through these uses I've begun to see education not just as a means to an end but as an honor, one of which I'm blessed to receive in a country that allows me to learn and create as I please - within Its reason. Each assignment completed and each artistic piece whether painted, drawn, sculpted, has become a tribute to my loved ones and my faith, is reminding me that the pursuit of happiness and purpose is found through those tough experiences and those life-shaping moments.

As I envision the future, I am relentlessly determined to channel my familial and interpersonal experiences into the pursuit of artistic and psychology-based teaching . I want to help others navigate their own journeys through grief , substance abuse, and mental health challenges. I envision creating a space where people feel safe to not only share their stories but do so without fear of judgement or persecution, regardless of insurance or work schedule, much like the ones I'd wished I'd had access to during my times of need.