Dinner with a Legend by Kaitlyn

Dinner with a Legend by Kaitlyn - February 2016 Scholarship Essay

A historical figure is someone who has made an impact on history. Although she is only 18 years old, I believe this person is definitely someone that will be remembered. She is humble, brave and an advocate of peace. At such a young age, this person has already made an impact on the world. Her name is Malala Yousafzai.

Born in Northwest Pakistan, Malala grew up in a world in which girls did not have the privilege of being educated. At an early age she began speaking about the basic right of education for all. She was an advocate for both human and women’s rights. After Malala’s criticism of the Taliban in 2012, an assassination attempt was made on her life. Following months of recovery and some permanent damage, she still holds no anger towards them. The worldwide attention to this awful event, led to the Right to Education bill in Pakistan. Malala said you can choose to be silent, or stand up for your beliefs. She chose to stand.

As an activist, Malala continues to speak today with one of her many goals being education for every child. She is on the list of TIME’s 100 Most Influential people, is a National Bestselling author, and is the youngest recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize (2014). Amidst all of this, she insists she is just a simple teenager.

When I heard the story of Malala, I was quite moved to learn of the impact such a young person could have on the world. Although my work is on a much smaller scale, I do believe that even a tiny change, impacting just one person, can start a chain reaction. The compassion Malala shows for others is an inspiration to me.

Over the past four years I’ve been both a tutor and mentor for our school district, and have found the work to be very rewarding. My plan is to major in Secondary Education with a goal of motivating our youth to reach their maximum potential. My hope is to build lasting relationships with my students, enhance their lives and inspire them to do great things. Being a charismatic leader, I believe I have the potential to make a huge impact on the youth of tomorrow.

I’ve also been a summer camp counselor for the past three years. The campers come from many different backgrounds and as a counselor it is my intent each summer to make every child feel special and accepted for who they are. As a leader, I always work to create a circle of acceptance that will include everyone, regardless of their status. Teaching the kids to have an open mind and heart, ensures that they will find the goodness in everyone and accept others’ differences.

Through this work as both a counselor and mentor, I’ve realized that the more one gives of him or herself, the more that person receives in return. I motivate the children to be true to themselves and always put forth their maximum effort. In return, they inspire me to continue doing what I love, teaching others.
If I had the opportunity to meet with Malala for dinner, I would be interested in knowing about her future goals and aspirations. What are her dreams? She has accomplished so much already in just a short time span. I’m looking forward to hearing what is next to come for this inspirational young lady.

In a speech to the United Nations in July 2013, a 16 year old Malala said, “One teacher, one book, one pen can change the world”. I couldn’t agree more.