A Chance to Give Back by Ethan

A Chance to Give Back by Ethan - December 2023 Scholarship Essay

My chosen major, psychology, benefits society due to the fact that it provides a service that allows people to give themselves an opportunity. An opportunity to obtain the tools to heal their mental wounds. It is no secret to anybody that mental health is crucial for every human being to be able to live a regular life; free from the pressure of their personal problems, as well as having methods and techniques to handle their emotions, thoughts, and actions whenever facing an uncomfortable situation. Despite its importance, it breaks my heart to see how unavailable it was during the pandemic. Practically no one was able to get any sort of help unless they waited for long and unpredictable waiting lists. I unfortunately experienced it, as well as witnessed it myself. Three years ago, I was told I needed to wait for over three months in order to be able to talk to someone, without even being certain of whether it would be in person or not. That phone call opened my eyes. I knew that despite the desire to find some sort of guidance to my problems, the circumstances would not permit it. Many questions I was left to figure out on my own, and I did not enjoy being left with doubts and a lack of professional assistance to be able to resolve, therefore I want to prevent that from happening to anyone else. Not all of us are as fortunate to be able to find someone to help us deal with our mental burdens, as well as the patience or will to endure difficult things on our own. And of course, that is not to claim that our inability to power through every obstacle without assistance makes us weak. It simply shows us that there is always a benefit from working together and leaning on others to improve and feel better. This major would allow me to be qualified to do that, as well as to be another member of the many who every day work to see a happier world. Forming connections, and allowing individuals to be heard provides comfort due to an understanding and sense of security. Just like a parent comforting a crying child, or two friends sitting and talking about their concerns. The simple fact of being listened to, and engaging in a conversation is a great way to make others look forward to tomorrow.

Unfortunately, that does not work with everyone. All of us are different, and an inexperienced person can only do so much for large groups of people. My major takes what an individual can do, and upgrades it with knowledge of behavior as well as emotions. Essentially, I would be able to improve upon efficiency, as well as effectiveness; having a greater reach to the public. Emotional burdens may not represent a physical disability, or even make us squirm due to physical pain; but they can have just as big of an impact in our lives. A bruise and cut will eventually fade on its own, requiring assistance only if our bodies are incapable of handling it on their own. A mental wound on the other hand, is always at a risk of never getting to heal in such a way. Leaving people affected by traumatic events in their lives, those who lack a sense of self and purpose, or even someone who might want to get the words off of their chest unattended can be a fatal mistake. My major is capable of saving lives and tackling issues within communities, families, friendships, or individuals.

I am more than fascinated and willing to work hard towards making my ambitions a reality. After all, helping others when I myself could not be helped is a way of giving back. Back to those who prayed, and hoped for my prosperity, my friends who made me feel accepted, as well as my family for loving me for who I am. By helping people, I can honor all of the good things and people that I have met throughout my life. I may not be helping them directly, but the thought itself is what provides me a sense of fulfillment. As a matter of fact, I can go as far as to say major benefits to society by allowing me to stay healthy and happy. Of course, my own happiness may not represent that of the public. However, I am part of a society, and every single one of us is valuable, including myself. Regardless of how many people there might be beyond just ourselves, each and every single one of us contributes and adds onto what we know as our society. Individuality is a beautiful thing, and by protecting people psychologically, I can ensure that it never ceases to exist as well. There are many wonderful things that this major can do for our society on all sorts of scales, and while I myself am very far away from being a psychologist, I definitely do feel like all the possibilities and benefits it has for countless individuals makes me believe in its utility.

Thank you kindly for taking the time to read my essay, it was my pleasure to express my thoughts as sincerely as possible.