Strength in Boundaries by Dominique

Strength in Boundaries by Dominique - January 2026 Scholarship Essay

Since I was 13, filling out rental, loan, and my mom’s disability paperwork became a regular part of my life. “Domini, necesito que me hagas esto.” Across my room, my school bookbag lay untouched, replaced by forms that screamed “URGENT.” I had never learned how to say no. Everything I've done was me telling myself this was what good daughters did. Growing up in America meant I was the bridge between the American world and my Hispanic parents. I became the translator, the problem solver, and the person who navigated forms and websites my parents couldn't. Family and teachers praised me for being “so mature,” and as a result, everyone expected me to manage tasks most people struggle with. People had a single story of me, leading them to label me shy without understanding the exhaustion of carrying adult responsibilities at home and my own. Even now, people assume my leadership roles, President of the Latinx Club, Vice President of Film Club, co-manager of the AAU volleyball team, and Ambassador of the Young Global Leaders’ Summit, come easily. I struggled to set boundaries out of fear of failing others and a lack of trust in my voice. Hours slipped by as I tried to navigate the process, homework waiting under the weight of my role as their only daughter. Under the weight of responsibilities, I couldn't stretch myself thin enough to take on more. I'm overcoming this story as I redefine myself.
As my hand hovered over the computer, it dropped to my side. “No, papá, no te lo puedo hacer ahora.” A boundary formed. I was surprised at how steady my voice felt. I braced myself for frustration, even disappointment, but noticed his calmness and understanding. At that moment, the tightness in my ribs loosened, and a long exhale I hadn’t realized I’d been holding escaped my lungs. This small gesture marked the first step toward building new boundaries. Establishing boundaries was a strength that I desperately needed for myself.
By choosing how to respond, I have learned to set limits without guilt and care for others while caring for myself. I used to think being assertive meant always saying yes. Now I see that strength includes self-respect and limits. Boundaries have shaped me into someone who can handle life’s demands without losing sight of my own needs. Now, when a friend asks for help, or a project piles up, I pause and analyze what I can handle. I challenge the single story by showing a complete one. The one where I am not just the person who manages everything for others, but someone who can struggle on my own terms. I've learned that leadership isn't about saying yes, but about knowing when to stand firm with purpose. By setting clear boundaries, I will build mutual trust with those around me, prevent burnout, and keep showing up for others.