My Not-So-Academic-Achievement Story by Kristin

My Not-So-Academic-Achievement Story by Kristin - March 2014 Scholarship Essay

I’m not the valedictorian, nor am I a captain or star of any athletic team. I’m not a colossal school board leader, nor am I a naturally brilliant student who has made Principal’s List every semester throughout high school. Therefore, it’s been hard for most to see why I am so deserving of college acceptances and scholarship awards. That being said, I am an extremely involved and hard working young woman who has more determination to do well than most of my stellar peers.

What most people get effortlessly, I put my heart into to ensure that I have a chance of attaining the same results as them. First grades then standardized tests. I studied for hours and took six standardized tests, yet my results were still a lot shorter than most of my peers, who only took it once or twice. Standardized tests and GPA are the two main factors when being admitted into college, so I've always had constant worry if I was good enough. I’ve always had to work harder and longer for all the grades and scores I’ve received, while still maintaining a job and remaining active in school clubs.

After understanding all the concepts of college admission approval factors sophomore year, distinguishing myself from others became number one on my priority list. I have tried to follow this goal to the best of my ability. I am now thankful for having to work harder than my peers. I have learned persistence, determination, and willpower. All of my work has paid off as I have been admitted into the college of my dreams. These factors have motivated me and will continue to do so in my future endeavors.

Although it has felt unfair throughout high school and it may seem that I’m not as worthy as those students, I’m the one who has always worked hard, gone the extra mile, and never given up. Constantly following behind my peers for multiple years made me wish and persist on surpassing them in the future. Every year, my grades have improved, along with my school and community service involvement. I have gained confidence due to my grades increasing and being admitted into my dream college.

Whereas before, when I felt that my continual inferiority was a negative attribute to my life in education, I now judge it as my greatest academic achievement. This confidence has shown me that my dreams are possible. First, improving my grades significantly. Second, getting into my desired college. Hopefully, I will have a third- acquiring scholarship money even though some applicants might look better on a transcript. There is so much more to me than my average transcript, and I would love the chance to prove that. I will continue to work to rise above my peers who I’ve always followed behind. My success opened my eyes to the worthiness of working hard and a better yearning to do well, and that is why my story as a whole is a great academic achievement.