My Journey by Olivia

My Journey by Olivia - February 2025 Scholarship Essay

High School Course that Sparked My Journey - 11th-grade Career Exploration class

My Journey

Finding a job is challenging, but for me, navigating the process without disclosing my Autism and ADHD added another layer of complexity. I wanted to highlight my skills and strengths rather than my disabilities. My 11th-grade Career Exploration class taught me valuable lessons on presenting myself professionally, which helped shape my approach.

Preparing for the Job Search

The first step was crafting my resume and cover letter. I emphasized my attention to detail, creativity, and problem-solving skills while choosing not to disclose my neurodiversity. Instead, I highlighted my ability to manage tasks efficiently, adapt to new situations, and work both independently and in teams.
The interview process was where I felt the most pressure. My prospective employer, Crossmark, had a detailed hiring process, as they are a “hire on the spot” company. They provided a long list of required documents. My mom helped me organize everything into a notebook, including my work permit, tax information, and other necessary paperwork.

Facing the Interview Challenge

Social situations can be overwhelming for me, and high-stress environments make focusing difficult. To prepare, I practiced answering common interview questions, using deep breathing techniques, and rehearsed responses to help manage anxiety.
The interview was brief, mainly explaining the role, and I was hired on the spot. My notebook of information became invaluable as I immediately had to complete employment paperwork.

Gaining Independence and Experience

Adulting is still difficult for me as a 17-year-old high school student, but I am learning. There have been bumps in the road, but I am still working part-time as a product demonstrator at Sam’s Club. The job itself isn’t the most exciting, but its structured tasks help me stay successful.

I’ve realized that interviewing is hard, and completing employment paperwork online can be overwhelming. My mom’s organization helped, as did my manager’s guidance in navigating the process. Though I’m learning in small steps, I’m improving at setting up demos, handling clean-up, and submitting reports.
This experience getting a job and using what I learned in 11th-grade Career Exploration Class has shaped my goal of going to college.

After Graduating

Winning this scholarship would all me to be a part of a typical college school while exploring my selected program and with theater or dance as a minor would give me the opportunity to learn and be beneficial to my community. As I would no longer be in high school but moving into adulthood these activities give me great pleasure and confidence. With my disabilities, I do need to be able to live on my own and be a productive employee.

I also would love to help other Neurodivergent students or others with disabilities become a part of a community as they learn and grow. I would like to team up with others and grow our own support group to lead and have activities.

Winning this scholarship would help my family with the cost of college as in the fall of 2025. Me and my twin sister will be college freshmen. And our older twin sisters will be sophomores in college.