Describe a volunteer experience you've been involved in, and a lesson you learned from it. by Sydney

Describe a volunteer experience you've been involved in, and a lesson you learned from it. by Sydney - April 2022 Scholarship Essay

During my High School years, one of the most memorable experiences I was privileged to be a part of, was Prom. This was not just a typical prom; this was a very special prom. My friends and I were chaperones for a group of individuals who would not otherwise have been able to have a typical high school experience. This prom was for disadvantaged adults. I was able to meet so many wonderful people. My personal buddy was amazing. He wanted to dance all night. He laughed and smiled and enjoyed every minute of the night. Watching this group of young adults having the time of their lives, all dressed up in their beautiful dresses and suits, brought home to me how special some events are. I had a wonderful time with them, and I was thrilled they included my friends and me on sharing their special evening.

This experience came to mean even more in my senior year of high school. Due to covid, I did not have a prom my junior year. But now that the opportunity has come for me to enjoy my senior year prom, I intend to enjoy the evening with the same joy and happiness I experienced years earlier. Experiences should not be taken for granted but cherished as a future memory you can carry with you.

Whenever I have the opportunity to "do something different", I plan on taking advantage of those opportunities. How much I would have missed with these special adults if I would have told my friends I was too busy, wasn't interested...any manner of excuses not to attend! You never know what surprises might be in store for you if you are just willing to take a chance and share your time with others. You may take more away from the moment than you personally gave. It's worth finding out!