Weakness and Strength by Kelly

Weakness and Strength by Kelly - November 2013 Scholarship Essay

Reflecting upon my high school experience, I believe the most valuable lesson was this: What other students see as a weakness can truly be a strength. In order to explain this, it must be made clear that I did not fit in in high school; when everyone else was partying, I was studying. When everyone else was attending school functions, I was working. Other students saw me as "too uptight" or "smart, but in need of a chill pill." I merely saw myself as determined and in need of a challenge that could not be offered through wasting my time doing what was considered cool to others. They saw me as socially awkward, as unable to connect with others. Yet I graduated at the top of my class with an Associates Degree on top of my High School Diploma. I was accepted to each university that I applied for, and adjusted to the rigorous coursework with ease. Meanwhile, many of those who mocked me found themselves asking for my help in applying to schools, which I did happily - without any awkwardness at all.

Of course, this is not to say that students who are social, popular or "cool" are unworthy of the same success I have achieved. Everyone has their own type of intelligence; mine just happened to be academic. Some may think that socializing too much is a weakness; yet I admire that in others, as it teaches them to be strong in their communication skills. Likewise, I have learned to embrace what others call "too uptight" and awkward. I crave success and knowledge above all else, and will share both with anyone who asks. Just as in high school, have no desire to be like everyone else. Rather, I enjoy being myself - a student who loves to read, hates to party, and will help others regardless of who they are.