You have the Power by Maxine

You have the Power by Maxine - November 2014 Scholarship Essay

Everything is new: the school is new, the people are new, the teachers are new. But this place does not have to be intimidating, does not have to scare or overwhelm you. In this brand new place, you have the power to make your experience anything you want it to be. Make it what you want it to be: academically, socially, and politically; make it your home, your safe place, somewhere where you are comfortable being yourself. Create an environment and community that you are proud to be a part of. Stand out from the crowd, promote change, better your school and make it a place you want to spend four years of your life. Going to school does not have to be a chore; make it a joy. High school is truly what you make of it, so try and make it the absolute best.

High school is like its own nation, an independent ecosystem that operates differently than any other school. This is your school, it is unique, and unlike any other high school you will ever visit or attend. It has a personality, a reputation, a vibe that makes it what it is. As a student, you are part of this ecosystem, a citizen of the nation. This school is your home, something you want to be proud of. A healthy high school environment is one that can include everybody, no matter who they might be. Ensure that the community and nation that you are a part of makes you and your peers comfortable, welcomes you and your friends into its inner circle. Make your school the best it can be by making it the most welcoming, happy environment imaginable. To create the atmosphere that you want to be a part of, become an active participant in your school community. Take the lead, join clubs, become an active player at your school. As an effective part of the community, you have the power to create positive change in your school environment. Use that power to create a comfortable place for students to socialize and learn, giving students the ability to look back on their high school experience with fondness, with positive feelings toward a time which can be so hard. High school is not just about you. It is about the society that you are a part of. You have the influence and power to make high school better for yourself and for your peers. Speak up against hate and non-acceptance, not only making your high school experience better, but your peers around you.

Don’t underestimate the power you can have at your school, even during your freshman year. Leave a positive legacy, be remembered for your contributions to the school environment, and know that you made that school a better place to attend. Help promote a positive, healthy school climate, an atmosphere that will live on long after you are gone. High school only lasts for 4 years, a mere blip in the adventure of life, but you can do so much with this time. Believe me, high school will be over before you know it. Don’t be afraid of saying “yes” and opening yourself to the infinite opportunities that present themselves throughout your high school career.