More then Just a Counselor by Stross

More then Just a Counselor by Stross - January 2025 Scholarship Essay

Someone who has had a significant impact on shaping me into the person I am today is my middle school counselor, Mr. McGee. Moving to America opened my eyes to a different perspective of myself and the world. At the age of 12, I experienced racism and discrimination for the first time due to the color of my skin. Growing up in Haiti, skin color was never an issue as we all looked the same and treated each other equally. However, upon arriving in the United States, my aunt would constantly use a lotion on me, claiming that I was "too dark" and that black people were not liked in the US. She would make me shower multiple times a day and scrub my skin until it turned red. It wasn't until I attended middle school that I truly understood the impact of racism. Being one of the few black students in a predominantly white school, I mostly had white friends. However, during a Halloween party, I was told by the photo booth attendant that I made the picture too dark and should take one by myself. This experience left me feeling hurt and excluded, as I had wanted to have the picture as a memory and to show my mom. When I explained the situation to my mom, she tried to explain the reason, but I still didn't fully understand the depth of racism until my 8th grade year when an African American counselor, Mr. McGee, joined our school. He was the only counselor who looked like me, and I instantly felt comfortable talking to him about racial issues. Mr. McGee not only guided me, but he also taught me what it means to be black in America. He was more than just a counselor to me; he was a mentor and a leader. He helped me understand and navigate the complexities of society, and he shaped me into the leader I am today. I am forever grateful for his guidance and support. Many people are natural-born leaders, but in my case, I was not. I was always the shy girl behind the scenes, never taking credit for my ideas or speaking up for myself. However, seeing Mr. McGee's impact on the school and how his leadership influenced others inspired me to become more of a leader. He often said, "A leader is a risk-taker, someone who doesn't take no for an answer and finds loopholes." These words stayed with me during my sophomore year of high school when I decided to start a fashion club. When I first proposed the idea, it was rejected, but I didn't give up. I wrote numerous essays to the administrators and principal, and I worked tirelessly to gain approval for my club. Even though it took a long time for my voice to be heard, I never gave up. I strive to be the kind of person Mr. McGee was for me a guide, an inspiration, and a leader. I want to make a difference in this world and be remembered for my contributions. As a girl from a poor and corrupt country, I have worked hard and made sacrifices to get to where I am today. Though I may not be making a big impact in the world yet, I know that I am a masterpiece in the making.