Do More by Christina

Do More by Christina - April 2016 Scholarship Essay

Do more. As all do, I realized I was wrong, particularly about doing more in school. I thought I didn't need to do everything, or even a little, in school. Extracurricular activities outside of my immediate interests (which were limited) and abilities (which were nonexistent) seemed unnecessary for my future and outside my comfort zone. Now in my senior year, I have come to the realization that I should have gone above and beyond to not only improve myself but also my chances at more opportunities.
Throughout high school, I was unaware of the potential benefits extracurricular activities could provide for my character and journey into college. Clubs and physical activities seemed fruitless to my academic career. For the most part, I dedicated my time either studying or leisure until the end of junior and beginning of senior year when I began applying to colleges. The moment I first read a scholarship essay prompt asking about any significant point when I applied myself or volunteered outside of school, I regretted my lack of effort. The biggest mistake a student can make is assuming that exceptional grades are the best accomplishments one can make while in school. In my case, not only did I not see how my indolence made me unqualified for a multitude of scholarships and grants, I didn’t see how that reflected on my personality in general. I was too uncertain of what might’ve happened if I stepped into unfamiliar territory, and that fear only continued to be a hindrance. If I did not see myself as a student that could contribute to a community, colleges would only see someone who could study.
Participating in after- school activities as well as maintaining proper grades develops oneself as a well-rounded person and, in turn, gives colleges more to admire. When a student continuously participates in a plethora of activities, he proves to colleges and other institutions that provide scholarships he is capable of multiple responsibilities and discipline. Volunteering and active school participation show dedication and an eagerness to learn new skills and knowledge. Looking at what my college has to offer in regards to club activities, I regret my hesitance. What now could have been an opportunity to extend my knowledge beyond what I learned in middle or high school is now a late attempt at joining a community that is already informed and involved on a certain interest. It is because of this crucial mistake that I now want to implore students who show little to no desire to become actively involved in school or a community to do more, to try and, in trying, you improve.
Staying in my own bubble was my own mistake. I hindered myself and my future. Not only should I have considered how it would have helped finance my pursuit of a degree, it would have bettered myself as an individual as well. Do not do more to help with college but to help yourself.