Life's Lessons Outside of the Classroom by Justin

Life's Lessons Outside of the Classroom by Justin - September 2015 Scholarship Essay

During high school, I excelled academically in the classroom. I demanded excellence from myself in my dual enrollment studies, earning my high school diploma as well as my Associate of Arts and Science degree from Southside Virginia Community College with Highest Honors. I also devoted many hours to extracurricular activities which have greatly enhanced my educational experience and taught me to be a better student. Golf, baseball, and marching band have taught me lessons that I will use to bring motivation, to spark encouragement, and to lead by example in all situations I encounter. My time as a musician for both the school and with a local band has developed within me a deep love of music—and its ability to bring people together. My time volunteering for charities has taught me the importance of human connection and cooperation for a common goal.
Today I do what I can, in all activities, to bring individuals together to accomplish common goals. Determined to discover the best methods to complete tasks, I have learned that to fulfill a shared purpose multiple people must work together. Discord and disharmony mar the final product. I have witnessed the results of failed communication. Sensitive to the particular flaws in personal interactions that lead to arguments, I strive to mediate resolutions while guiding those involved.
To every experience I will bring the lessons I have learned as a collaborative leader who intends to better the world by strengthening the bond among people. First, I understand the importance of what has been provided by others. Second, I believe in the use of incentives—concrete rewards or personal satisfaction—that can be shared among the majority of workers, allowing them to unify for the same cause. Third, I plan to improve my communication skills to minimize verbal conflict and maximize work efficiency towards a final product. I am confident I can take the first steps toward achieving my idea of a more unified and forthcoming world.
I have made mistakes and endured failures along my journey toward adulthood, but I have learned to persevere always. I better understand the characteristics of a great leader and, if selected for this scholarship, plan to pay it forward by utilizing my military, educational, and extracurricular experiences to better all outcomes. I have learned that a musician/athlete striving for excellence and pushing others to do the same improves a marching band/athletic team; thus, a person striving for excellence and pushing others to do the same can improve the entire world.
I possess the ability to become successful; more importantly, I possess the will and the drive to succeed. I understand the significance of committing to a goal and putting forth the additional effort in order to reach that goal. Since my family will not qualify for any government financial aid, I plan to use merit-based scholarships, loans, and college work-study to fund my college expenses. I would consider it an honor to be a recipient of the Varsity Tutors Scholarship, as it would help shape my goals in life into reality.