± 10 years by Payson

± 10 years by Payson - March 2025 Scholarship Essay

Ten years in the future seems far off; after all, ten years ago, I was an elementary school student, and my only worry was whether or not my socks matched. At eight years old, my life was simple. Not having a care in the world about my future or the economy or global issues allowed for a less stressful and uncomplicated lifestyle. If I had been asked ten years ago where I thought I would be today, I would most likely have said I would be a professional lacrosse player. Now, I have many life experiences tucked under my belt that will influence me as I journey into, quite possibly, the most important part of my life. Ten years from now I see myself working at a law firm, happily married, and taking care of my parents.

The field of law had not always been my dream. As a rebellious child, I refused to follow in my mother's footsteps and decided to choose a career that got me as far from the courtroom as possible. Upon beginning high school, I decided that I wanted to be a neurosurgeon and help patients suffering from major brain damage. In spite of that, a growing child begins to have a growing sense of morality, and it did not sit right with me to charge people large sums for life-saving procedures that they can not afford. Instead, I have now decided that I want to pursue a Bachelor's of Arts and obtain a double major in Political Science and Psychology. With these degrees, earned at Vassar College in Poughkeepsie, I aspire to become a criminal lawyer, helping the innocent stay free and the guilty locked away.

Because I attend a Catholic high school, I had the opportunity to learn about the four aspects of Catholic Vocations: priesthood, religious life, single life, and married life. In this senior year Theology class, I was enabled to reflect upon my wants and desires as an adult beyond just my choice in career. Having a significant other is more to me than just having a spouse, it means having a partner in life that will support me in my employment and my journey.

Last summer, I was given the opportunity to attend Vassar College in Upstate New York to play lacrosse at the Division III level. Attending such a prestigious school has always been a goal for me and I am eternally thankful for my parents for allowing me to attend and paying even just a small portion of my tuition. When I am older, I hope to repay them for all they have done for me not just for my college. Having played club lacrosse for over ten years, my parents and siblings spent early mornings and late nights freezing or baking on the field. Their sacrifices, not only financial, have enabled me to play lacrosse at the next level and I will be forever grateful.

My life experiences, both good and bad, in the past ten years will hopefully influence the next ten years. My career, my family, and my home will reflect all I have learned and allow me to support my loved ones and help others in my community. I hope to be able to surround myself with those I care for and start a family of my own that will forever carry my memory even after I am gone.