Learning to Lead, Leading to Serve by Joy

Learning to Lead, Leading to Serve by Joy - May 2025 Scholarship Essay

If I had unlimited time and money, I would use what I’ve learned in school to create opportunities for others—especially young people—to discover the power of education, technology, and creativity. Through my studies in engineering and my involvement in creative activities like theatre and student organizations, I’ve seen how education can change lives and open minds. My goal would be to build programs and spaces that allow others to grow, learn, and become problem-solvers in their own communities.

One of the first things I would do is create community learning centers around the world. These centers would offer free access to educational tools, internet, books, and hands-on learning kits in subjects like science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM). Many children and teens don’t have access to quality education, or the resources needed to explore their interests. I would make sure these centers were fully equipped with computers, labs, and mentors who could teach coding, robotics, design, and more connecting what I’ve learned in school to real-life applications that anyone could understand and use.

Along with education, I believe in the importance of creativity. I would also use my experience in theatre and student-led groups to offer performing arts programs, where students could express themselves through acting, music, and writing. These programs would help build confidence, teamwork, and communication skills—traits I’ve developed through extracurricular activities that have helped me grow as a student and a leader. In many places, creativity is often overlooked in education, but I believe it’s just as powerful as any academic subject.

Another major focus would be creating programs that support women and underrepresented students in STEM. During my journey in engineering, I’ve seen how challenging it can be for some to find support, especially in fields where they don’t often see people who look like them. I would create mentorship programs, scholarships, and workshops specifically for girls and minority students to help them believe in themselves and explore careers in science and technology.

With unlimited resources, I would also fund innovation challenges for students to solve problems in their own communities. Whether it’s building clean water systems, improving internet access, or designing simple machines that make life easier, I would give students the tools and funding to turn their ideas into reality. This would not only build confidence but also help create real solutions that impact daily life.

Finally, I would use what I’ve learned about leadership, service, and compassion to bring people together. I’ve learned that making a difference isn’t about doing everything alone—it’s about building strong communities where people support and inspire each other. Whether through group projects, outreach events, or student organizations, I’ve seen how powerful it can be when people work together with a common purpose. I would use this knowledge to help build global partnerships focused on education, innovation, and kindness.

In the end, everything I’ve learned—from solving equations to writing scripts, from teamwork in clubs to personal growth—has taught me that education is not just about grades. It’s about understanding the world, learning how to help others, and using your knowledge to make life better for someone else. With unlimited time and money, I would create spaces and programs where every person, no matter where they’re from, has the chance to learn, dream, and make a difference.

That is how I would use what I’ve learned in school to create a positive impact on the world.