Just try by Grace

Just try by Grace - February 2025 Scholarship Essay

From a young age, my parents taught me the power of trying new things, a lesson that has shaped every part of my life. Whether it was stepping onto the soccer field for the first time, discovering new foods, or taking on the challenge of water sports or skiing, I learned that uncertainty shouldn’t hold me back. "You don't know until you try it out for yourself," they would remind me. That advice became especially true one summer day at Sebago Lake, ME when my cousin Nick, who has special needs, wanted to try tubing for the first time. His face lit up with excitement, though I could sense he was still nervous. Remembering the lessons my parents taught me, I encouraged Nick, joining him for the boat ride. As the boat sped up, his hesitation turned into pure joy. The next day, he was eager to try again—this time, a little faster. That moment stayed with me and became a foundation for my commitment to being inclusive and helping others step outside their comfort zones, just as I had done.
In my early high school years, the phrase I grew up knowing stayed with me as I started at a new school, joined clubs, played sports, and found my circle of friends. During those first overwhelming days, I leaned on that phrase for guidance, which helped me open up to people I might not have connected with otherwise. By broadening my friendships and surrounding myself with kind, trustworthy individuals, I found a strong support system. I got involved in soccer, lacrosse, and clubs like ECOS and Buddy Systems, which encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone. This newfound confidence led me to give a speech in front of my entire class of 2025, explaining why I deserved to be a student council member. If I hadn’t taken that leap, I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to serve as a four-year Student Council member and secretary.
This confidence in stepping up and connecting with others didn’t just impact my involvement in clubs and sports—it also transformed the way I approached challenges and fostered team spirit. One Unified Basketball game in particular, against our rivals from Gorham, Maine, stands out. The tension between the teams was visible, especially since they had beaten us before. I knew how important it was for our special needs athletes to not only aim for a win; but to have fun and each enjoy their moment in the spotlight. At halftime, with the score neck and neck, music began to play. Sensing the need to lighten the mood, I suggested we go out onto the court and dance. Some of my teammates were hesitant; but I convinced them to give it a try—just for a few seconds—and then they could decide whether to keep dancing or go back to the bench. Almost everyone who joined in ended up having a great time, and soon even the opposing team joined us, turning it into an impromptu dance battle. That moment, filled with laughter and joy, is one I’ll never forget. It taught me that stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to unexpected, positive experiences.
Throughout my life, the lesson my parents instilled in me—"you don't know until you try it"—has guided me to embrace new experiences. Whether it was trying a new sport, giving a speech in front of my class, or helping others through Unified Basketball, this mindset has shaped my growth and strengthened my commitment for inclusion. These experiences have taught me the importance of leadership, empathy, and pushing through uncertainty. I’ve come to understand that true growth happens when we take risks. My dedication to helping others do the same will continue to inspire my path forward. By encouraging those around me to step into the unknown, just as I have, I hope to continue fostering a more inclusive and supportive community wherever I go.