My new voice by Aria

My new voice by Aria - January 2026 Scholarship Essay

Discovering my strength through my voice became one of the most meaningful parts of my Miss Freshman campaign. When I first decided to run, I thought the experience would mostly be about appearances and confidence on stage. Instead, it challenged me to speak up in ways I had never done before. Public speaking had always made me nervous, and sharing my thoughts with large groups felt intimidating. However, the campaign required me to step outside my comfort zone and communicate my values clearly and honestly.

Throughout the campaign, I had many opportunities to speak with students, judges, and faculty members. Each conversation pushed me to find my voice and trust it. I learned how to express my ideas with purpose, whether I was talking about leadership, service, or my goals for the future. As I spoke more, I realized that my words carried weight. People listened, asked questions, and connected with what I had to say. That realization gave me confidence and helped me understand the power of communication.

The experience also taught me that my voice could be used to uplift others. I began to focus less on sounding perfect and more on being genuine. By sharing my experiences and beliefs, I was able to inspire and encourage those around me. This shift changed how I viewed myself,not just as a candidate, but as a leader.

By the end of my Miss Freshman campaign, I had discovered a strength I did not know I had. Finding confidence in my voice showed me that leadership starts with speaking up. That lesson continues to guide me in my academic life and beyond, reminding me that my voice matters and can create meaningful change.