Motivated by Alexis

Motivated by Alexis - April 2024 Scholarship Essay

From the outset, allow me to introduce myself. I am Alexis Washington, a rising high school senior who garners passion for the artistic endeavor of photography and the versatile realm of academics. The beauty of life, as captured through my lens, mirrors my academic journey: intrinsic details, layers of depth, and every shadow illuminated by light. I have been consistently committed to my studies; my diligent efforts are reflected in my current high school GPA of 3.48. My ultimate aspiration is to further my photography studies at Spelman College, my dream institution.

What motivates me, you ask? It's the potent blend of the unwavering support from my mother and the raw passion for fulfilling my academic and personal dreams. My mother's belief in me drives a significant part of my motivation. Her unyielding faith in my abilities, no matter the rough terrain I navigate, acts as the ultimate wind beneath my wings. Each time I stumble or experience a setback, her voice comforts me, guiding me back to the path of resilience and tenacity. Because of her, I learned to view each failure as an opportunity for growth rather than cause for disheartenment.

Then, there's the fuel of my dreams, the incessant pulse pushing me to not only dream but to chase those dreams relentlessly. Spelman College symbolizes the realization of this dream. This prestigious institution will cater to my love for photography while also sharpening my intellect, delivering the perfect blend of my aspirations. My motivation lies in the countless nights I've spent daydreaming, envisioning myself walking down the hallowed halls of Spelman as a proud student taking strides towards her future.

How do I stay focused amidst the hustle and bustle of life? Two words: passion and priorities. My passion for photography works as a compass, always pointing me in the direction of my dreams. It is the thread that weaves through every obstacle, pulling me forward even on the cloudiest or stormiest days. It is my sanctuary, alleviating the strains of academic pressures
when needed most.

In managing my priorities, I have tailored an effective infrastructure to balance academic workloads while pursuing my photography passion. It involves a meticulously planned schedule, whereas I allot dedicated hours for studying, photography, and also for self-care. This system keeps me on track, ensuring I prioritize the tasks most pertinent to my academic and personal growth.

Passion and focus do not exist in isolation, just as shadows cannot exist without light. Without passion, there will be no fuel to propel forward, and without focus, the journey will risk veering off course.

My journey so far has been more than what is reflected in my grades. It is a testament of a young black woman, finding crucial pieces of herself amidst stacks of textbooks and snap-shots of life, on a relentless pursuit of her dreams. My motivation and focus, intertwined with my passion for photography and determination, make me an undeniable force, an apt candidate for the Varsity Tutors College Scholarship.

As I move forward, I hope to carry on the legacy of the trail-blazing African American alumnae of Spelman. I aspire to add my unique perspective to the community, embracing the joy of learning and inspiring other young black artists striving to make a difference through their art. This scholarship would not only bring me one step closer to my dream school but also contribute significantly towards my academic pursuits, shaping the artist and individual I aspire to be.