The Power of Influence by Sarah

The Power of Influence by Sarah - April 2023 Scholarship Essay

Sarah Osterhout
Varsity Tutors Essay Prompt 2023

Influence is a powerful tool that can make the most of a person or the least. Hartland high school made an impact on me that redirected my career goal, perspective, and thought process on many aspects of life. If I had unlimited amounts of time and money, my school has certainly prepared me to use it properly and make changes. To be more specific, the teachers have helped me mature into a responsible, socially aware, determined person through their helpful advice for any challenges I may face, and help see problems in the world that I could work to fix.
A sudden spark of grit overcame me when I got a job at 14 years old and dedicated my free time to buying materials such as books and folders for school, and studying to become the best student I could be. This sudden drive was inspired by my freshman year Biology teacher, Mrs. Martin, who always talked with me about “grown up” topics and treated me as an equal. She motivated me to learn beyond surface level studies, and gain knowledge that created a whole new world for me to see. I discovered many events I wanted to be a part of because of her recommendations towards such events. Any time I completed a task, did well on a test, or participated in any type of community service and volunteer work, she was consistently one of the first people I would tell. Mrs. Martin made me excited to form connections with teachers and come out of my shell and I learned there were other teachers just as admirable as her. I started relationships with teachers in all my classes and soon found they were building my confidence in my abilities in a powerful, positive way.
Teachers have been my closest companions and most efficient mentors in my life. As I am about to graduate high school and enter a new chapter in my life, my teachers have ensured that with infinite amounts of time and money I would do everything in my power to protect the environment and build equality within communities internationally. I recognize that I can have an impact, a voice, and guidance towards people even without money. If I had unlimited time and riches beyond imaginable, I would encourage even more people to rise with me in making a positive difference, inspired by my teachers. With or without money, my future will be dedicated towards helping the world in any way I can.