A Chain of Events by Kendall

A Chain of Events by Kendall - December 2016 Scholarship Essay

My greatest achievement is not one large project, but a succession of choices that led to the most impactful three weeks of my life. Long before freshman year approached, I set a plan to push myself to learn readily. My middle school offered an advanced math course in which I could take Algebra I in 7th grade. I excelled in this class and knew I would conquer the upcoming years.
Freshman year approached and I grew accustomed to rigorous schedules and the balancing act of school and fun. My dedication shone when I was permitted to bypass an entire year of French to pursue a more in depth understanding of the language. I took the most advanced courses I could, not only to test myself, but also to get the most out of my high school education. By the beginning of my sophomore year, I was ranked number one in my class.
The real challenge came December of sophomore year when my school adopted the ASPIRE test. This seemingly insignificant test was the stepping-stone into my future. While most students answered without a second thought, I contemplated every question. Little did I know that my focus would reap such benefits.
Months later I was called to the office. My underclassman mind whirled wildly with questions of what I could have possibly done as I sat nervously in front of a counselor I had never seen. The words she spoke were beyond what I could have imagined. I was congratulated for my outstanding achievements, both in class and on the Aspire test, and invited to take an IQ test to qualify to attend the Missouri Scholars Academy.
I passed the test with flying colors and the possibility of attending became concrete. I eagerly filled out my application, trusting that my achievements would set me apart from the other applicants. Once sealed and sent, I awaited anxiously for my acceptance.
I was not disappointed. My admission was confirmed and I was beyond excited to attend such a prestigious camp. My excitement followed throughout the rest of the school year until I was faced with the reality that I would be spending weeks away from home. I knew this was a once in a lifetime opportunity, but despite my attempted optimism, I was scared.
On the morning of June 7, I loaded my suitcases into the car and began my four-hour journey to the University of Missouri. I savored using my phone, as they were not allowed outside of the dorms. The minutes ticked by and my anxiety grew as I approached campus. I stepped out of my car and into my new reality.
In a flurry of suitcases and hasty introductions, I was whisked to my dorm. I swiped my key one… two… three times and sighed with resignation. How was I going to survive three weeks if I couldn’t even unlock the door? Just then, the door opened, revealing my roommate. “Hi! I’m Taylor,” she said. “It took me almost five minutes to get inside. I’ll show you the trick later.” She flashed her teeth in a bright smile and ushered me inside. I became accustomed to Taylor’s quirky personality and my attitude shifted to positivity.
After unpacking, we trekked to the opening ceremony and settled into seats with the other 328 scholars from across Missouri. A man appeared onstage and suddenly, the word “BOOMBA” burst from his throat. Confusion ensued, but we learned to respond “HEY” and cautiously answered back. We were welcomed with a spew of intellectual references, rushed out the doors to say goodbye to our families, and hurried back to our resident hall. A few hours of team building later and bedtime arrived.
My alarm came too early the next morning but I got up all the same. Half an hour later I was out the door and arrived shortly at my first class. I took my seat amongst my fellow scholars and began learning. We were introduced to Shakespeare and I finally felt like I belonged.
The next few weeks passed in a blur, each day a building block in my journey. I gained an in-depth knowledge of Shakespearean plays and brought them to life in choreographed readings. I examined cartoons to identify the underlying meanings in children’s media. Speakers like Kevin Wanzer, Tim Wise, and Hedy Epstein opened a door of knowledge to topics I had yet to discover. Evenings included dances and what a beautiful sight it is to see a group of self-proclaimed “nerds” dancing enthusiastically to the Macarena.
I had found myself a home where I could contribute my ideas readily without prejudice. I relished every minute until it was time to say goodbye. Goodbye to the bonds of friendship and the never-ending flow of knowledge. As I stared out the window at the campus I would leave behind, I realized a crucial chapter of my life was complete. Just as it was inevitable for Hermia and Lysander to end up together, MSA was part of my self-created destiny.
The truly unique experience of the Academy shaped every part of me. The lifelong bonds, deep thinking, and emotional development have me seeking to live each day to the fullest, all of which were discovered because of my drive throughout the years. Sometimes when I close my eyes, I can still hear the cheerful cry of “BOOMBA” and the overwhelming response of “HEY”.