Skating Toward Service by Jeffrey

Skating Toward Service by Jeffrey - May 2026 Scholarship Essay

A challenge I used to find really intimidating was stepping up as a leader on my hockey team during a losing season. At first, it felt impossible to keep everyone’s head in the game when we were losing and only had five seniors on the roster. It’s easy to lead when you’re winning, but when the scoreboard is against you every night, the pressure to keep the team from falling apart is heavy.

What changed for me was realizing that leadership isn't about being the most talented person on the ice; it’s about the work ethic you show when things are hard. I learned this most through coaching U10 hockey. Because I wasn't always a "natural" star player, I had to work twice as hard for my spot. I started applying that same grit to my varsity team. I stopped worrying about the "intimidating" task of winning every game and focused on the "manageable" task of being the hardest worker in the room.

Now, facing big challenges—like working a job to pay for my own hockey gear or preparing for a career as a JAG officer—doesn't feel as scary. I know that if I stay disciplined and lead by example, even the toughest situations become something I can handle.