Branch out by James

Branch out by James - April 2016 Scholarship Essay

If I could give younger students one piece of advice, it would definitely be to not be afraid to try things you're uncertain about, and branch out and get out of your comfort zone. I know if I could do high school over again, I would've tried more things. I would've played a different sport, I would've joined more clubs, and joined the club I'm in now two or three years sooner. I definitely would've gotten more social sooner than I did, and hang out with my friends as much as possible. Honestly, high school is a time for you to figure out what you like to do. And to do that, you should join clubs you're potentially interested in, you should take classes in areas that intrigue you, you should play the sports you enjoy. There is nothing wrong with being adventurous in high school. In fact, it can be very beneficial. If you take those classes you're interested in, you can find out whether or not you're suited to a certain field that you could potentially get a career in. If you join clubs you're interested in, you could make friendships that last forever, or lifetime hobbies . IF you play that sport you're thinking about joining, you can find a new favorite pastime.

I know when I joined DECA ( a club with a focus on business-oriented competition ), I was skeptical about competing. I had heard about the club my sophomore year, but waited until my senior year to join. The very first time I competed, I loved it. I also met some amazing people, and now have friendships that will hopefully last a lifetime. The only thing I regret about joining DECA is not joining a few years prior. If you're on the fence about joining a club or organization, you should join. The worst thing that could happen is you not like it, and if that is the case, you can elect to leave the club or organization. Give yourself an opportunity to like or dislike something, it could be the chance of a lifetime!

Joinng the track and field team my sophomore year was probably one of the best decisions I've ever made. Being an athlete who traditionally only played basketball, I was very uncertain if I wanted to be a thrower and take time away from my improving my game. After much consideration I decided to to join the team, and was very happy I did. I started liking track almost as much as I liked basketball. I met new people, made new friends and strengthened friendships I had prior to joining the team. I met one of my best friends through track, and also found a sport I could enjoy besides basketball. I will never forget the memories and friends I've made through track, and the only reason I have these things is because I decided to try something new. Don't be afraid to experience new things, I promise it has it's rewards.

In conclusion, all I'm saying is that you should be open to new things. Try new things out, meet new people, learn new things. Be able to get out of your comfort zone, and live your life to the fullest. Do the things you want to do, get what you want out of high school. Don't get to the end of your senior year and regret not taking advantages of some of the opportunities you had, make high school as enjoyable as possible. You'll miss it all one day!