Clearing my mind by Myles

Clearing my mind by Myles - February 2026 Scholarship Essay

High school can be rigorous and demanding. We can be high achievers, pushing ourselves to limits that become stressful. It is good to find ways to manage that stress and pressure so that we can lead successful and happy lives.

When my studies get intense, I find that taking a break and enjoying a mountain bike ride with my friends can clear my mind and help me come back to my school work with new focus and perspective. I have been a member of Taft Bike Club for 3 years, serving in a leadership role for one of those years. Having an outlet to physical exercise and socialization has been important to me to keep balance with school and life. There is something about being outdoors, going fast on my mountain bike, and laughing with my friends that makes me temporarily forget about my challenges with my school work. By the time I get back home, I feel positive and ready to tackle those challenges with a new point of view.

This will be a tool that I will take with me for life, knowing that when school or career or life get challenging, exercise, friends, and outdoors can help clear my mind.