Stay True by Jorge

Stay True by Jorge - November 2014 Scholarship Essay

The transition from middle school to high school is a crucial time in a person’s life. It is during this time that we, as humans, are at our most susceptible. We are easily influenced by what we see, what we hear, who we are with, and what we do. Throughout high school, you will be introduced to many new people who will try to influence you to be like them. There are the good influences, those who make you want to succeed and become a better person; and there are the bad influences, those who force their dangerous lifestyle onto you. During your high school career, you must decide who you side with. If there was one piece of advice that I would give you is to be yourself throughout it all. Come to high school with a plan and follow through with it.

As you finally make the transition to high school, you'll notice the difference between the students who you are surrounded by. People change during this stage of their life. Friends who used to behave well in middle school may now change and become deviants. It is natural to change personalities as you mature. However, you should change for the better. Because it is during this age that we are easily influenced by others, you may be tempted to follow the dangerous advice of others. Though you may be tempted, I advice you to stay true to yourself. Arriving at high school with a morally sound plan will give you a sense of guidance. By following this plan of yours, you will be able to remain true to your morals.

Though your transition from middle school to high school may seem frightening, you must not lose sight of your goal. My only piece of advice to you parallels what Polonius said to his son in the Shakespearian play Hamlet, "...to thine own self be true, And it must follow, as the night the day, Thou canst not then be false to any man." Even though being yourself may be cliché advice, it is advice that will aid you in your adventure through high school.