Advice For Younger Students by Raisa

Advice For Younger Students by Raisa - April 2016 Scholarship Essay

I have been a student for a decade now, and I plan on further pursuing my studies for a good ten to twelve years. Since academics define a major segment of my life, I am able to identify a key piece of wisdom that I apply in my day to day study habits. To all the younger students I advise not to go after success, but rather excellence. By doing so, success will follow you instead.
I was able to gain this life-hack by a personal experience. In freshman year for my Inquiry Skills class, I had an over looming project on any topic regarding world affairs. I chose to present research on eating disorders. The teacher had outlined standards to achieve that golden perfect score. Interestingly, while devoting my time in creating a presentation that would, in my mind, help me grab that beautiful taste of success that I craved, I found myself slavishly following guidelines with no touch of creativity whatsoever. I agree that guidelines are essential to follow, however, solely meeting the standard is not enough to be triumphant. When I practiced in front of my parents, their complaint was that I sounded mechanic like a robot, for I was doing what was required of me with no passion. It was obvious that I had a serious case of tunnel-vision. All I could see is that glorious “A” and everything I was doing was in greed of that “A.” What I needed to do instead was direct all my brainpower and potential into making the presentation incorporate my topic in an intelligent way. The ideas were flowing in my head as I tirelessly worked on fixing the critique that I received from my parents. The project requirements mentioned at least five pictures, but I will include seven because that will make my presentation more clear. The teacher didn’t mention the need of any videos, but what if I add an extremely informative yet succinct video so my project blossoms even more? I needed to ensure that whatever I speak of, I speak of it with vigor and liveliness so that my audience is engaged. In that way, my presentation would be excellent instead of standard. I made a drastic change of putting my energy towards excellence for the sake of quality instead of for the sake of a good grade. Fortunately, the day of the presentation, my efforts shone through. It was evident that I took the presentation as more than another grade to add in the grade book, but instead as something that is worthy of my best work and full attention. The teacher was able to recognize my strive for excellence and was impressed by my work. I got the success that I so wanted.
Therefore, success in academics comes from the desire to reach greatness. One should not limit their capability by solely thinking about the end result, but rather should expand his or her possibilities by striving for supremacy along the way.