Focused on the Finish Line by Aden

Focused on the Finish Line by Aden - August 2025 Scholarship Essay

As I enter my senior year of high school, my aspirations are clearer than ever. I want to finish strong academically, grow as a student-athlete, secure college opportunities through scholarships, and become a leader in both my school and community. These goals are driven by a mix of personal ambition, the desire to honor my family's sacrifices, and the future I envision for myself in college and beyond.

One of my biggest goals this year is to raise my GPA and leave no doubts about my work ethic when I apply to colleges. I’m taking advanced courses and working hard to balance a demanding academic schedule with my other responsibilities. I know that every test, project, and assignment contributes to the bigger picture. I want to prove to myself, and to the colleges reviewing my applications, that I’m a dedicated student who’s always improving.

I’m also focused on making my final year as a track and field athlete my best yet. I’ve set ambitious time goals in the 100m and 200m sprints, and I’m committed to the training, nutrition, and recovery required to reach them. What motivates me most is the idea of earning a track scholarship and competing at the collegiate level. I know that talent alone isn’t enough, it takes consistency, discipline, and mental toughness. Every early morning workout and every tough practice is a step closer to that goal.

Leadership is another aspiration I’m taking seriously this year. My girlfriend and I are working to bring a mental health awareness club, Our Minds Matter, to our school. We want to create a safe space for students to talk about their challenges and support one another. If we’re successful, I hope to serve as a co-president or vice president, helping lead events and grow the impact of the club. This goal means a lot to me because I know how powerful it is when young people speak up and support each other, especially in a time when mental health is often overlooked.

Beyond academics, sports, and leadership, I’m also motivated by my family. My parents have worked hard to give me opportunities they didn’t have, and I feel a responsibility to make the most of them. As someone with Nigerian and Virgin Islands roots, I carry the pride of my culture with me in everything I do. I want to be an example to my younger relatives, showing them that discipline and vision can take you far. That motivation keeps me going, especially when things get difficult.

My goals for this school year are not about perfection, they’re about progress. I want to grow, stretch, and challenge myself. I want to look back and know I didn’t waste a single opportunity. Whether it’s in the classroom, on the track, or in my community, I’m striving to be better every day. Senior year isn’t just the end of high school, it’s the beginning of something bigger. And I’m ready for it.