Opportunity comes through action by Jacques

Opportunity comes through action by Jacques - February 2024 Scholarship Essay

Business and the art of management had something I’ve always been keen about even at an early age. I’ve watched as my parents grew their own small business from the start, as they marketed to new and old customers, managed a team of skilled workers, and even the end of their ownership. I often stayed overnight on school nights helping my parents set up for the next day and spending weekends getting supplies from distributors for the week’s forward and even learned the term, “management”.
What “management” meant to me wasn’t about being the boss but being in lead and more importantly being able to bring the best out of my team. Being able to recognize values and instruct others effectively didn’t come overnight but being willing to take chances did. I watched as my parents tried something new with their salon; although huge success wasn’t instantaneous, it worked over time, and it reflected their adversity to the traditional standard which became an unforgettable lesson I would apply throughout my life.
One of my greatest accomplishments during my high school career was being given the opportunity to manage a team as a part of the first Multicultural Event for our school. Amid diverse approaches to our shared goal, I took chances toward a unified and meaningful theme. I led one of the four committees comprising the event, a collaborative effort among cultural clubs. When we opened to the public, the positive feedback and large turnout of over 150 attendees was unexpected but exciting. Though my ability to lead was imperfect, the experience laid a foundation for future years to come both for me and others involved. Making an impact in the community ignited a passion for leadership, driving me to aspire to might even surpass my parents.