My 4 years by Zabdi

My 4 years by Zabdi - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

During high school, I encountered both challenges and opportunities that shaped my personal development. One of the most impactful experiences was being part of a team. This involvement allowed me to build strong relationships with my teammates, develop better communication skills, and overcome my natural shyness. Through teamwork, I learned the value of collaboration and how important it is to trust and rely on others.

Another major opportunity came from the support of my teachers, particularly during my sophomore year. Having teachers who genuinely cared about my progress provided me with guidance and motivation. Their encouragement not only helped me push past academic challenges but also fostered personal growth. Their belief in my potential made me realize the importance of having a strong support system.

My church also played a significant role in shaping who I am today. It taught me the importance of doing the right thing and striving to be the best version of myself. The values I learned through my church have guided me in making good decisions and staying true to my goals. This foundation has been an essential source of strength and motivation throughout high school.

However, not everything was easy. A significant challenge I faced was dealing with laziness and a lack of motivation early in my high school years. I regret not pushing myself to take Advanced Placement (AP) or Honors classes, as I now realize that those opportunities could have expanded my academic growth. This experience taught me the importance of challenging myself and being proactive in pursuing my goals.

Another challenge I faced was learning to accept critical feedback. Initially, I struggled with feeling defensive or discouraged when I received constructive criticism. However, with the support of my family, I learned to view feedback as an opportunity for growth. This shift in perspective helped me improve both academically and personally.

Over the past three years, I have grown significantly in leadership and confidence. Being a part of a team and mentoring younger teammates allowed me to tap into my leadership potential. These experiences taught me that leadership is not just about giving directions but also about inspiring and supporting others. By helping others, I gained confidence in my own abilities and discovered that growth comes through practice and commitment.

This journey of overcoming shyness, embracing feedback, and stepping into leadership roles has prepared me for future challenges. These skills will not only help me in college but also in my future career. I’m particularly interested in accounting because I enjoy working with numbers and solving problems. My high school experiences, along with the guidance from my church, have also prepared me to succeed in the workplace by helping me build confidence in social situations and improving my ability to collaborate effectively with others.

I am confident that the lessons I’ve learned during high school, with the support of my teachers, teammates, family, and church, will help me thrive in college and beyond. Whether it’s continuing to grow as a leader, building relationships, or excelling in my chosen career, I know these experiences have given me a strong foundation for success