Turn Your No into a Yes by Halley

Turn Your No into a Yes by Halley - July 2025 Scholarship Essay

If I could give any advice to my past self, it would be to not allow a “no” to keep me from continuing to put my best foot forward in the world of scholarships. I’d tell myself to put more effort into applying to as many scholarships as possible during my junior and senior years of high school. During the school year, I was more focused on my academics and hanging out with friends rather than making time to apply for more scholarships. There were times when I felt so overwhelmed by the weight of academic stressors during my last year of high school that I allowed myself to drift away from making my first year of college easier. Since college is already a rough transition in itself, I know that handling my heavy financial obligations will add to that transition in a way that is negatively challenging. As the release date for my university bill approaches, I’m becoming increasingly more stressed and anxious. My parents and I have done the rough calculations, and my gap is currently $10,000. I know that if I had just sat down at my computer researching and filling out applications, that number might be significantly lower.
As I look back on my time in school and think about the times when I would apply for scholarships and receive decisions back, it was always a no. I allowed the no’s to discourage me and keep me from applying for additional opportunities. Additionally, I would tell my past self to listen to the adults around me who warned me about the expenses of college — and not wait for the reality of the hefty bill to set in before making real efforts to cover costs during summer vacation. I’m proud of myself for the number of scholarships I’ve applied for this summer. However, I wish I had this same motivation and had put forth the same amount of time into applying during the last two years as I have in the past two months.
My scholarship journey has been an emotional roller coaster. However, I have learned a valuable life lesson that I wish my past self not only knew but truly realized: Do not give up the moment you are given one no; instead, turn that disappointment into drive and try again elsewhere.
I know that in the real world I will be turned away and rejected from other opportunities, but I can’t allow that to keep me from achieving my goals. In the future, I know I cannot wait until the last minute, as neither my mental health nor my bank account can afford it.I have learned to lessen my procrastination habits, continue to be disciplined in moments when motivation is not present, and, last but not least, not give up. I know how cliché each of these things may sound, but they are repeated for a reason. I have found purpose and joy in reflecting on my life experiences through my college and scholarship essays, and I will continue to use this fuel throughout my college journey to decrease my financial burdens.