Becoming Jacob by Jacob

Becoming Jacob by Jacob - August 2025 Scholarship Essay

As I head into my senior year, my biggest aspiration is to show up as the person I've been quietly becoming over the past few years. I want to finish high school strong, not just academically but as someone who is confident, visible and impactful in my school community. For the first few years of high school, I stayed in the background. I did my work, stayed out of trouble, and didn't make much noise. I didn't want to draw attention to myself but looking back I also didn't give myself permission to stand out. This year all that changes.

Over the last few years, I've grown up - physically, mentally and emotionally. I've taken on more responsibility and through that I've discovered a version of myself that I really respect. Whether it was leading my basketball team on and off the court, helping train my peers at my part-time job, or stepping up in group projects, I've started to see myself as a leader. I've learned that leadership isn't about being the loudest person in the room, it's about consistency, patience and the ability to inspire.

In school, my goal is to maintain my GPA and stay on track for National Honor Society consideration. But beyond that, I want to contribute so much more. I want to take initiative in class discussions, support my friends when they need help and be someone teachers and students can count on. I want to leave behind a legacy of quiet leadership where people may not have expected me to speak up, but when I do it matters.

I also plan to enjoy my final year. That might sound simple, but it's important. High school can be stressful, and for the past three years, I've focused so hard on doing things the right way that I haven't always taken time to enjoy the experience. This year, I want to be present. I want to go to school events, support friends, take part in new experiences and make memories I can look back on with pride.

What motivates me most is knowing how far I've come. This school year is my chance to bring everything I've learned together and finish strong. Not just for college applications, but for myself. I'm motivated by the belief that I still haven't reached my full potential in high school. And this year, I'm ready to close that gap.