If you could give one piece of advice to your past self, what would it be and why? by Cameron

If you could give one piece of advice to your past self, what would it be and why? by Cameron - July 2025 Scholarship Essay

For much of my life, I believed that being hardworking meant doing everything on my own. I saw asking for help as a sign of weakness—as if needing support somehow canceled out the effort I was putting in. Whether it was a confusing assignment, a personal struggle, or even a simple question in class, I convinced myself that I had to figure it out alone. I didn’t want to be seen as incapable or dependent, so I stayed silent and pushed through.

Looking back, I realize how much I limited myself with that mindset. I made things harder than they needed to be and carried unnecessary stress. When I finally allowed myself to ask for help—whether from a teacher, a friend, or even a family member—I discovered something important: people actually want to help. And not only does asking for help lead to better results, but it also creates stronger connections with others.

Help doesn’t always come in the form of answers; sometimes it’s encouragement, clarity, or just knowing someone is on your side. I’ve learned that being strong isn’t about never needing others—it’s about knowing when to reach out and understanding that growth often comes from collaboration and support.

If I could go back, I’d tell myself that hard work and independence are valuable, but they’re even more powerful when combined with humility and openness. No one expects you to do everything alone. Asking for help isn’t a weakness—it’s a tool, a strength, and often, the smartest thing you can do.