In The Spotlight by Lauren

In The Spotlight by Lauren - June 2016 Scholarship Essay

My thoughts are jumbled and I can feel my heart racing. I walk briskly to the plush green tee box and address the ball. My hands wind tightly around the leather grip of my driver. I know what I have to do: keep my head down, mind clear, and eyes open.

Inhale... exhale... remember to breathe.

Everyone watches as I sweep the club back. Though their eyes linger on me, the wave of fear breaks and
recedes. This is not the first time I have performed under pressure. As I reach the top of my swing, I remember standing in a crowded conference room inside the White House, and a faint smile crosses my face.

After weeks of preparation I had traveled to Washington D.C. to advocate for people with disabilities. My ultimate goal was to develop a persuasive presentation to convince my congressman to support the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Although my oration contained statistics and factual evidence, the most powerful aspect of my speech, I thought, was related to my personal struggle with a visual impairment. I had chosen to take a positive approach and discuss how my family, friends, and educators encouraged me and facilitated my success. Though I had never been denied an opportunity because of my disability, it was very upsetting to know that others had been disenfranchised.

The air was bitterly cold on February 10, 2014, but the sunny sky foreshadowed the great day ahead. After posing for a picture, I marched up the dozens of stairs and entered the White House. I was in awe of the detailed marble statues, lifelike portraits of our founding fathers, and the stunning neoclassical architecture. Great opportunities like lobbying to Congress are rare, so I was nervous. I took a seat at the head of a long mahogany table in a maroon armchair. My hands were quivering as I firmly grasped the white sheet of paper containing my speech. I reminded myself to speak with feeling and evoke empathy from the audience. The first few words were shaky and quiet, but as the speech progressed my confidence rose and my tone changed. I spoke passionately. After articulating my thoughts as to why this documentation was necessary, the congressman said he supported the legislation and was truly inspired by my speech. I shook his hand and exited the room with a radiant smile. This was an extraordinary experience.

Swish... I swing through the ball with full force. The ball sails over the creek and lands in the fairway. I walk proudly off the tee box as my coach pats me on the back.

Stressful situations force me to confront challenges. Performing under pressure is a valuable life skill that is difficult to master. Success or failure matters little, so as long as I learn from the experience. Obstacles and opportunities alike have built my character and have taught me resilience. I am eager to face the challenges that lie ahead.