Describe a moment when you discovered a new strength in yourself and how it has influenced your growth. by Abigail

Describe a moment when you discovered a new strength in yourself and how it has influenced your growth. by Abigail - January 2026 Scholarship Essay

There are moments in life that don’t feel big at the time, but later you realize they changed you. For me, that moment happened during a semester when everything felt heavy. I had just switched my major from nursing to computer science, and even though I was excited about the change, I was also scared. At the same time, my family was going through a lot after my parents separated. I felt like I was trying to stay steady while the ground kept shifting under me.

The class that really tested me was one I had already failed once. Retaking it felt embarrassing, and honestly, I doubted myself every step of the way. Every assignment reminded me of the first time I struggled. Every quiz made me wonder if I had made a mistake choosing this major. But instead of letting that fear take over, I decided to approach the class differently. I slowed down, broke things into smaller pieces, asked questions even when I felt unsure, and kept showing up for myself.

Little by little, things started to click. Concepts that once felt impossible began to make sense. The day I passed the class—this time with confidence—was the moment I realized something important about myself. I discovered that I’m stronger than I thought. Not because everything suddenly became easy, but because I kept going even when it was hard. I learned that resilience isn’t always loud or dramatic. Sometimes it’s quiet, steady, and built through small choices to keep trying.

That moment changed the way I see myself. Now, when I face challenges—whether in school, at home, or in life—I remind myself of what I’ve already overcome. I don’t panic the way I used to. I trust that I can figure things out, even if it takes time. That confidence has helped me grow not just as a student, but as a person. It’s helped me stay committed to my goals, take on new opportunities, and believe in my ability to adapt.

Most of all, I’ve learned that growth isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being persistent. It’s about showing up for yourself even when you’re unsure. Passing that class didn’t just give me a grade—it gave me a new understanding of who I am. And that strength continues to guide me as I work toward my future in computer science and beyond.