The Unknown by Dorcas

The Unknown by Dorcas - May 2026 Scholarship Essay

The start of something new. A feeling that is hard to explain. You’re excited but the unknown lies ahead. Everything you’ve once known ceases to exist as you close one book and start another. The start of something new for me was college. Leaving behind the life I was so familiar with in high school to dive into a world in which I’d be a stranger. Knowing I’d have to build new friendships, meet new people, and start from scratch building a name for myself was scary. There was no blueprint, no 101, and no how to book for me to follow. I didn’t even know how I built the name I had for myself in high school. Everything I once knew ceased to exist as I closed one book and started another.

The start of something new can be intimidating and it was for me. I have now finished my first two semesters in college and I can now say that although it seems scary it’s a lot less scary knowing you’re not alone. Throughout my first two semesters I was able to connect with people and bond over this challenge of making friends and finding a place at college. I’ve come to learn that it’s all a process. One that takes time and requires effort. They say you got to put yourself out there, which is easier said than done, but I think it’s less about putting yourself out there and more about being available. Everything comes naturally. If you’re available someone’s bound to come speak with you and when they do, that’s your chance to show them who you are. Then the rest becomes history.