Stay True, Stay You by Grace

Grace's entry into Varsity Tutor's July 2025 scholarship contest

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Stay True, Stay You by Grace - July 2025 Scholarship Essay

If I could give one piece of advice to my past self, it would: Stay true to your authentic self, no matter how much pressure there is to conform.

Growing up, especially in New York, I was surrounded by expectations as to how I should look, act, speak, and succeed. Society, the school board, and even well-meaning family members seemed to have a checklist of behaviors I had to display in order to be accepted or respected. I never thought I was transforming to fit in. I thought I was just doing what everyone else seemed to be doing, making it easier for me by basically melting into the crowd and steering clear of conflict. However, as time passed, I started noticing the fact that pieces of myself were being taken away—the creativity, my voice, my distinct viewpoint. I was conforming to an idea of "success" that didn't suit who I really was, and in doing so, I lost sight of my true self. In many ways, I felt like I was playing a role, one that I didn’t even like. I would try to fit into places that simply weren't made for me, picking up unwarranted traits and outlooks. Sometimes it would be about how to dress or how to speak or suppressing any hint of passion or opinion if it wouldn't be received as "cool" or "normal." Other times, it meant hiding elements of my background or culture for fear of ridicule or misunderstanding.

Looking back, I realize that this struggle to conform came at a cost. I missed out on fully experiencing who I am and what makes me unique. I missed out on opportunities to express my creativity and speak my truth because I was afraid of standing out or being vulnerable. This pressure to be “like everyone else” dulled my confidence and made me question my worth. I felt disconnected—from myself, from my dreams, and even from the people around me.
Yet, gradually, I began to remember. I started to get glimpses of who I really am—a soul that loves writing stories, whimsical about justice and fairness, that wants to be heard in uplifting others and world-moving changes. I started reconnecting with the value system, culture, and future outlooks. It has not been a walk in the park; some days are harder than others. But I am learning to embrace my individuality with pride and courage.

Many lessons have been acquired while walking back to authenticity. One of the major lessons is that to be true to yourself is not about comfort or convenience, it is about survival and thriving. It is about honoring your experiences, your heritage, and your perspective- especially when these do not fit into the dominant narrative. To be authentic requires courage to stand for what is right, even in moments of discomfort. It means holding true to that inner knowing, embracing your imperfections, and celebrating your strengths.

I have also learned that authenticity opens doors. When I let go of the need to force myself into a pseudo-mold and begin to show up as my unfettered self, I attract opportunities aligned with my core passions. Through my writing, my interests directed at law and storytelling, and advocacy on behalf of underserved voices, I have found that authenticity has made possible building sincere connections and allowed me to find places in communities where acceptance of my real self is given. This call to be authentic will now become ever more significant as I step into a career at the savage intersection between law, entertainment, and storytelling. It is in many situations a pressure cooker with expectations and preconceived notions on who genuinely belongs and what stories are real enough to worthy of telling. The future of media and law belongs to diverse voices, voices like mine that willayi be able to speak up against the archaic narratives and carve space for new perspectives. In order to execute this successfully, I must be well grounded in my authenticity. I want to give permission to my past self to be imperfect, to make mistakes, and to learn from them. For so long, I equated authenticity with perfection or being able to put everything out there. But this process is what it actually means to be authentic. It’s a journey of self-discovery, self-acceptance, and constant learning. It’s okay not to have all the answers or to feel uncertain sometimes. What matters is the commitment to be honest with yourself and others.
If I could speak to my past self, I would say: You are enough, just as you are. Your voice matters. Your story matters. Don’t be afraid to claim your space and share your truth, even if it feels scary or different. The world needs your unique perspective, your creativity, and your courage. Trust in yourself and keep moving forward.

In sharing this advice, I hope to inspire not only my past self but others who may feel pressured to hide parts of themselves. I want to encourage anyone who feels invisible or unheard to find strength in their authenticity. Your story is powerful. Your voice can change minds and hearts. And by being true to yourself, you are helping to build a more inclusive and compassionate world.

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