Making Dreams Come True by Brianne

Making Dreams Come True by Brianne - August 2025 Scholarship Essay

When I opened my college decision letter from UC San Diego, I was both completely shocked and exhilarated. I couldn’t believe I got accepted for dance.

I knew my goal was to double major in dance and biology, but I knew it was going to be difficult to make such differing studies work together. My goal is to become a physician but I wanted to combine both of my passions as I began this next journey. The UC schools appealed to me for that reason. I knew the quarter system would greatly help with accommodating the requirements of each major. UCSD offered opportunities in research and dance that the other schools I was considering had.

The problem was when the preliminary financial aid letter came out. I got nothing. I spoke to many different members of the financial aid office and came to the same conclusion every time. Out of state students almost never get aid.

UCSD was my dream school. I wanted to go, but I had to consider the financial burden, especially considering the expenses of medical school to cover after. I was making pro/con lists trying to figure out which school to choose: my dream school across the country where I would face double the costs or an in-state school that has a lower cost but less opportunities.

After speaking to many experts who dedicate themselves to helping students afford college, I came to the conclusion that if I was going to make this work, I was going to have to make applying for scholarships a full time job.

My primary goal for this year is to make enough money to avoid taking out loans. I know that this school is expensive and that medical school will be even more costly, which has only increased my drive to make my education as inexpensive as possible.

I enjoy learning and I want to have as many opportunities to learn as possible, which I know I will have while attending UCSD. Through my effort in continuously applying to scholarships, it is my hope that I will earn enough money to make attending this school for the next 4 years possible.