Let's Make the World Smile by Michaela

Let's Make the World Smile by Michaela - April 2023 Scholarship Essay

Seeing kids (and adults) faces light up when I hand them their shaved ice at my job, hearing the three and four-year-olds laugh on a Sunday morning when I make a joke or act silly with them while volunteering at church, or seeing anyone smile because of something I did gives me such joy. Helping people is something that makes my blood rush and gives me energy. It is such a good feeling to help people, especially when they didn’t ask for it.
Many people have said I was born to help. I volunteer at my church with the children's ministry and youth ministry. I also help at my dance studio. I help with things all the time. Most of the time, I help behind the scenes. One of my favorite things to do is clean at our church and sort music or organize the storage room without anyone knowing. When our youth pastor enters the room and sees what happened, I love to stand back and watch. It makes me smile.
Making an impact and helping is one thing I want to do for the rest of my life. I do not need any recognition. Let me do it behind the scenes. I have learned many things through my high school years, including many things about money. If I had unlimited money, I would help any family, people who have debt, and people who have trouble affording the medications they need or who have difficulty paying hospital bills.
I have a strong passion for helping girls and young women who have been abused. If I had unlimited money and time, I could help so many girls. I want to start a home and a place where they can feel safe and loved. The money would help start that in so many ways. Also working with kids, especially those that do not have homes, is something I am passionate about. If I could help kids gain homes and a good education, the time and money would be put to good use.
I have learned much about what people go through, how people struggle, and what it takes to help in certain situations. I believe I could help people and make an impact on the world by giving people hope and happiness. If I could put a smile on the face of every person, I would. To see people smile or laugh is one of the best things. I want all people to be able to smile and laugh and be happy.