Hard Work by Samantha

Hard Work by Samantha - July 2013 Scholarship Essay

Malcom Gladwell’s Outliers has an ironic title as success is broken down and put in a very common, attainable perspective. For those who haven’t read it, Gladwell explains why we shouldn’t take shortcuts to success, how hard work can really pay off, and how our legacy and social environment can affect our success.  I cherish this AP Statistics summer assignment, as it explains the cards life deals us and how to play the game with the hand we’ve been dealt. The biggest thing that Gladwell continuously re-emphasizes is that success isn’t achieved alone. Truly successful people have a habit of working hard and seizing opportunity.
There’s a saying among athletes, “Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.” Outliers explains how you don’t have to be born with talent to be a talent. You don’t have to have originated from the wealthy to be wealthy. You don’t have to be the smartest to be the most successful. Certain things in life can increase your chances for success, such as birthdate, height, or cultural upbringing. Gladwell admits that these factors have their advantages; but by understanding and comprehending your individual situation, you can easily work towards success.
This understanding really helped me through my hectic senior year and continues to help me through college as I take on not only the academic rigor but also the expenses it entails. The college degree is quickly replacing the high school diploma as the minimum educational requirement for most occupations; it’s also much more costly than a high school diploma or GED. After reading Outliers, I have a renewed diligence and work ethic as I apply for scholarships, such as this one and as I work a few part time jobs, thus working towards my success. I realize I can’t do it alone, which is why I need your vote for my essay! I also encourage everyone to read Outliers! It’s such a benefit to those who read it; you’ll definitely take something from it if not good tips for success, then great success stories of famous athletes, billionaires, and celebrities alike.