My Journey to Black Belt by Iqra

My Journey to Black Belt by Iqra - December 2019 Scholarship Essay

It was the summer before my sophomore year of highschool and I needed something to do with my time. When my mom suggested Taekwondo, I was a little reserved about the idea but still interested. However, when I was told how long the journey to getting a black belt would take, I wasn't sure if I wanted to begin the journey or even if I would like Taekwondo. The stamina, strength, and skills required to kick high and even just participate in the classes seemed like an unattainable feat to me. And I always felt out of place, not just because I was older than the other white belts at the time, but also because of the hijab I wore upon my head.

I still remember how every muscle in my body seemed to ache after my first class at the old dojang. Disheartened, I went home and questioned whether I still wanted to take part in Taekwondo. The first couple of months were a bit of a challenge. To be honest, I was kind of quiet and I hated kihap-ing which made it harder for me. I was keenly aware of everyone watching me while I was testing and would make simple mistakes. But as I began to participate in more classes, I became more confident and I realized that I actually did love the art of Taekwondo.

I admired the agility, speed, and power of the black belts from a distance. I knew that getting a black belt required a lot of effort and commitment and as I transitioned to my junior year of high school, I was unsure if I had the time to regularly attend classes. Junior year meant the arrival of PSAT and SAT tests and a lot of responsibilities on my shoulders. By this time, I was already a blue belt and I felt like I shouldn’t quit when I was already halfway through my journey. Staying in Taekwondo actually forced me to prioritize my responsibilities and helped me with my time management skills.
While it was never my strong suit, I even began to enjoy sparring as long as my opponent didn’t beat me up too badly. I learned how to do my required poomsaes, the 14th movements, hand basic technique, and so much more I didn’t know I was capable of. I even faced my fears and went to a competition this year and did my poomsae in front of a lot of people. Even though my kihaps still aren’t that loud, I’m sure the masters can say they can at least hear me now.

The journey to black belt has been a long one and sometimes bumpy, but Taekwondo has been an amazing experience. I know that I’ve grown in my capabilities, not only in the dojang, but outside of it too. The values I have learned from Taekwondo continue to impact me at school, at home, and in the world. I can now kick above waist length, there is more power in everything I do, and I have met amazing people through Taekwondo. I can definitely say that I am a different person and that I am glad I started Taekwondo.