How I Became the Best I Could Be by Tyla

How I Became the Best I Could Be by Tyla - December 2016 Scholarship Essay

My whole life I have been an athlete bouncing from sport to sport, until I stumbled upon tennis. I loved the satisfaction of hitting a volley down the line or watching an ace fly by an opponent. The courts were my home until I suffered an injury and had to leave the sport that I loved.

I wanted another activity to immerse myself in, so I joined the mock trial team at my school. Instead of improving my stroke, I was learning case theory and how to properly object. All of my work paid off when I was offered the position of a prosecuting lawyer. I was elated because I had a large role on our team and would be involved in the most important aspects of the trial.

I was pushed off of cloud nine when I received an email from the team captain saying my position had been changed to a witness. My part had been given to a senior member of the team, who I later found out had complained about his role. I was heartbroken.

I quickly had to change my state of mind to become a first-rate witness. I’d memorize the fact stipulation, know how my lawyer wanted me to respond to questions, and portray an authentic forensic analyst. When stuck in traffic, I started quizzing myself and ran through my direct-examination questions in my head. I wouldn’t stop until my goal of being the best I could be was achieved.

In our championship trial I was the highest scoring witness. At the state competition, I was recognized as the best witness in two out of three of our trials.

Although I didn’t set out to be a witness, I knew I wanted to contribute to the team. This year I will be a part of the mock trial team again, and I know that no matter where I am placed, I will embrace my role and deliver for my team.