Seek Discomfort by Nolan
Nolan's entry into Varsity Tutor's April 2021 scholarship contest
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Seek Discomfort by Nolan - April 2021 Scholarship Essay
I have always been someone who is hesitant to try new things, always preferring to “look before I leap”. From new foods to new experiences, I thoroughly investigate from every angle before diving in. Likewise, I’m a self-proclaimed routine-oriented homebody; happiest staying the course inside my four cozy walls. Within the last year, two events have forced me out of my comfort zone: the IB programme and COVID-19.
The rigorous classes and coursework required as a full IB Diploma Programme candidate have been my biggest challenge to date. If I’m being honest, I entered the program in the fall of my junior year with confidence, backed by my years of top grades in honors and AP classes, as well as familiarity with the requirements, having attended IB schools since kindergarten. Just a couple months into classes, I soon realized this program was not like anything I had done before. I thought I was organized, prepared, great with time management… but the sheer amount of homework the classes required, coupled with studying for endless quizzes and tests, researching and writing papers, not to mention all of my after-school extra-curriculars and sports left me with little time to sleep, let alone socialize. I was drowning in notebook paper before the end of the first semester, and seriously considered dropping out as a full candidate.
Fortunately, I reached out for help instead. My IB coordinator and teachers were instrumental in helping me develop new study strategies, and to provide support and guidance. My parents were always available for extra assistance or if I just needed to unwind or vent. I learned that it’s impossible to navigate life without sometimes asking for help when you need it. I truly wished I had asked sooner. The experience definitely changed me, and is what ignited my enthusiasm for life balance and promoting positive mental health. I’m thrilled that I stuck with the program. With this specialized IB education, I have gained excellent breadth and depth of knowledge, allowing me to excel in traditional academic subjects. I have flourished physically, intellectually, emotionally and ethically.
COVID-19 affected my family and I in all of the ways similar to most people: for me and my brother, everything was cancelled, and for my parents, my dad entered an 8-week mandatory furlough and my mom’s graphic design business stalled. Despite these setbacks, we chose to stay optimistic.
Our neighborhood is small, just 26 homes, and my family decided to turn our positive outlook into a random acts of kindness initiative. We started small, picking up trash in common areas. We then ventured into driveway chalk art, with the hopes of cheering up delivery drivers and neighbors out walking. As walking became popular, we turned to painting rocks and hiding them with quarters underneath for kids to find. We also baked “coronabread men” and dropped them off with homemade bath bombs and thank-yous to essential workers in our neighborhood. But my favorite activity, even better than the drive-by birthday parades, was leaving daily “gifts” for the three little girls next door. Every day we would hunt around the house for fun surprises we could leave for them to find in a secret spot. Sometimes they would leave us treats too, with a text of #checkthespot.
COVID-19 may have taken many things from me, but it gave me one unexpected gift: the gift of time. Time to spend with family, learning new interests, exploring creativity, discovering passions, and most importantly getting to know my neighbors and boosting community morale.
What I’ve realized from these two events is that I actually enjoy stepping out of that comfort zone. The IB programme has made me more open-minded and confident to assume leadership roles. I’ve mastered advocating for myself and have strengthened my communication skills with peers and adults. COVID-19 has taught me to focus on the positive, to be resilient and grateful and to just roll with things. I learned to cherish the people around me and take advantage of the opportunities to assist others. So, the advice I would have given myself five years ago is don’t be afraid to seek discomfort. By embracing this, you will become the best and most fulfilled version of yourself.