Building Beyond Limits by Nefertari

Building Beyond Limits by Nefertari - July 2025 Scholarship Essay

Growing up, my family struggled financially. I learned early on what it meant to go without, to watch my loved ones work tirelessly to get by. At times, it felt like my circumstances were setting limits on my potential. I saw opportunities, but I didn’t always believe they were meant for someone like me. I hesitated to apply for things, to speak up, and to chase after big goals because I thought success belonged to people who already had access, connections, or stability.
But now, as a 19-year-old college sophomore, I realize that while my financial situation shaped me, it didn’t define me. In fact, it gave me something powerful: perspective. I understand the value of hard work not in theory, but in practice. I’ve seen what sacrifice looks like. I know what it means to stretch a dollar, to juggle school and part-time jobs, and to study with worries weighing heavily on your mind. And because of that, I’ve developed grit, empathy, and a deep desire to create something better. Not only for myself, but for others facing the same uphill climb.
That’s why I want to become a CEO, not for the title, but for the impact. I want to lead with purpose, create opportunities, and give back to those who are often overlooked. I want to use my success to help others rise, just as I’ve worked to rise above my circumstances. Whether it’s mentoring youth, supporting under-resourced communities, or launching initiatives that close opportunity gaps, my dream is to build more than a company—I want to build a legacy of empowerment.
To my younger self, I’d say, You’re allowed to want more. Don’t be afraid to dream big, and don’t let fear of failure or fear of your circumstances hold you back. I would also tell myself that background isn’t a barrier; it’s a strength. Don’t be afraid to take that leap, apply for that program, raise your hand, or dream that impossible dream. Yes, there will be setbacks. There will be days when it feels like the odds are stacked against you. But those moments are part of your story, not the end of it.
If I had embraced that truth earlier, I would have spent less time questioning myself and more time building the life I now know is possible. Still, I’m grateful for the journey. The struggle gave me purpose. And today, every step I take toward my goals is not just for me but for everyone who’s ever been told that their dreams were too big for their reality.