If I Could Give My Past Self One Piece of Advice by Julissa

If I Could Give My Past Self One Piece of Advice by Julissa - July 2025 Scholarship Essay

If I could go back in time and give my younger self one piece of advice, it would be this: Don’t be afraid to use your voice. For much of my early life, I let fear, self-doubt, and shyness hold me back. I sat quietly in classrooms, too nervous to raise my hand. I avoided group activities, worried I’d say something wrong or be judged. I had ideas, opinions, and dreams, but I kept them to myself, convinced they didn’t matter. Looking back, I wish I had known that my voice mattered just as much as anyone else’s.
Growing up, I often admired others who spoke confidently, led conversations, or stood up for what they believed in. I thought they were just born that way—outgoing and fearless—while I was meant to remain in the background. But over time, I realized that confidence isn’t something you’re born with. It’s something you build, little by little, by taking small steps outside your comfort zone. I learned this lesson the first time I volunteered to help with a children’s program at the zoo. I was nervous, unsure if I could speak in front of a group of kids, but I did it anyway. And something amazing happened—I connected with them. They listened, laughed, asked questions, and looked to me for guidance. For the first time, I felt like a leader.
That moment sparked a change in me. I began volunteering more, speaking up in class, and taking part in extracurricular activities. I joined the book club and became involved with the Texas Association of Future Educators (TAFE), where I gained leadership skills and confidence. Each experience taught me that my voice had power—not just to express my thoughts, but to inspire, teach, and make a difference. I wish I could tell my younger self that being quiet isn’t a weakness, but letting fear silence you is. Speaking up doesn't mean being loud; it means being brave enough to share who you are.
Using my voice has helped me find my purpose. I want to become an elementary school teacher, not only because I love working with children, but because I want to be the kind of role model I needed when I was younger. I want to help students believe in themselves, especially those who are quiet or unsure. I want them to know their thoughts matter, their ideas are important, and their voices deserve to be heard.
If I could give my past self one piece of advice, I wouldn’t try to change who I was. I’d just remind myself of who I had the potential to become. I’d say, Speak up. Ask questions. Share your ideas. You are enough, and your voice can change your world.