Propelled by Passion, Guided by Discipline by Gariella

Propelled by Passion, Guided by Discipline by Gariella - April 2024 Scholarship Essay

The innate sense of duty to my family and friends has always been a powerful motivating factor driving me towards my academic goals. In my mind, it represents not just a desire to do well personally, but to make a difference and instigate change in the wider world. Residing in a community that is abundantly generous with accolades for achievements often prompts an urge to reciprocate - to contribute back to it in a relevant way. As rising freshman, I find myself at the precipice of a journey in academia that would allow me to reshape my own destiny and also positively influence the lives of those around me.

Venturing to major in Game Design and Studio Arts has been an intuitive choice for me. It beautifully amalgamates two of my strongest assets: a voracious creative streak and a penchant for innovative technology. Together, I believe they form the vehicle that would transport my envisioned contributions from dreams to reality. From SUNY Buffalo State College to the California College of the Arts, the multitude of academic institutions I'm considering for this noble pursuit are equipped to enhance my vision with their expansive curriculum, diverse student bodies, and revered faculty.

Being a black woman, I am aware that I stand upon the shoulders of a multitude of giants who have walked down this path before me. They have barreled through barriers, shattered glass ceilings, and forged the path I now tread with commitment. My race and my gender are not just identifiers—they are reminders of a legacy that I am motivated to uphold and extend, particularly in fields like mine where we are often underrepresented.

Though my motivation is often fuelled by external factors, I maintain a steady resolve and focus through rigorous internal discipline. Ensuring accountability to myself has been my most consistent strategy, a sacred pact that I stick to no matter the situation. It involves maintaining a disciplined schedule inclusive of periods dedicated to regimented study, creative brainstorming, and mindful relaxation. It's this methodical approach that helps me keep my eyes on the goal and not get derailed off my path.

Despite carrying a modest GPA score of 2.6 in high school, each fraction of the score holds a story of perseverance, resilience, and growing maturity, which have become mainstays in my approach towards higher education. The score doesn’t depict a student struggling to keep up, but rather an ambitious individual ready to take on new academic challenges and readily turning obstacles into stepping stones.

In a world that is progressively growing digital and is reliant on technological advancements, I aim to leave an impact through creating value in the field of Game Design and Studio Arts. My intention is to blend my creativity with innovation to bring about games that are not only enjoyable but also socially relevant and cause an individual to ponder over important issues while having fun.

The drive to excel in my chosen field stems from my community but the implementation is all my own. With motivation from my family and friends, I aim not just to dream but to achieve, for their faith fuels my ambition. It is a symbiosis where my progress becomes the community's achievement, and it's an endeavor I persevere in with pride. Winning this scholarship would be a testament to this interconnected success narrative, lightening the financial burden of my education and amplifying my commitment to academic excellence.

In essence, my pursuit of higher education stems from a place of passion and is geared towards the service of the community that has nurtured me. As I embark on this exciting chapter of life, I carry the dreams of many in my heart, the knowledge of giants in my mind, and the discipline to forge forward in my spirit. I remain dedicated to my personal development and determined to make my mark on the world as a game designer and studio artist.