The Compound effect on How Showing Up Now Builds Tomorrow by Chioma

The Compound effect on How Showing Up Now Builds Tomorrow by Chioma - July 2025 Scholarship Essay

Life has a way of teaching its most profound lessons in hindsight. As time passes and experiences settle, we begin to see how even the smallest circumstances were shaping who we were becoming. Growing up in a bi-cultural home- composed of both Nigerian and American traditions- with parents who sacrificed everything for pursuit of better opportunities, rest never felt like an option, especially when it related to academics. Their desires became my foundation, and my siblings and I spent much of our youth chasing the next step, measuring our worth by productivity, and accolades. In doing this, I often denied myself of the simple pleasures of playing outside with friends, and engaging in delightful experiences of my youth.

Now, a decade later, I look back and recount how much I missed by always reaching for the next milestone and upholding specific standards. I wish I had dared to be expressive, open, and well, just me at all times; Allowing myself to be fully immersed in the present and daring to show up fully in the experiences placed in my path.

With age, and through personal and professional growth, I’ve realized true fulfillment doesn’t come from results alone, rather the journey and growth throughout the process. Since then, as a healthcare professional on her academic journey, I have found the most joy in learning that being intentional, authentic, and present are more powerful than any shortcut to success. Focusing on who I want to become, and focusing on showing up as that person consistently, will always compound into a better tomorrow.