Discovering Strength Through Uncertainty by Joslynn

Discovering Strength Through Uncertainty by Joslynn - January 2026 Scholarship Essay

Imagine this. The gym is silent, its glaring lights slightly blinding my view. The score was tied, the championship winning point hanging in the air, and the ball was coming straight towards me. Months earlier, I would've panicked. Instead, I trusted my own instincts, and watched the ball shake up my opponent, hitting the floor. At that moment, I didn't just win a championship, I realized how much I had truly grown.
That moment was the result of months of uncertainty, self-doubt, and perseverance that began during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. When the world felt paused and normal daily routines disappeared, I decided to try something completely new: volleyball. With limited practices, social distancing, and constant changes, learning a new sport felt like a daunting task. I questioned whether starting something unfamiliar during such an unstable season was the right choice, but stepping onto the court became my way of pushing forward despite uncertainty.

In the beginning, volleyball challenged me in every way possible. I struggled with the fundamentals, often missing passes or even avoiding the ball altogether. Progress felt slow, and the isolation caused by the pandemic made it even harder to stay motivated. There were moments when frustration and self-doubt clouded my judgement and almost tempted me to quit, especially when others seemed to be improving way faster than I was. However, I committed to showing up, even when my confidence was low. I stayed after practice, repeated drills, and learned to accept mistakes as part of growth rather than failure.
Over time, confidence replaced doubt. I began to trust my preparation and learned how to remain calm under pressure. Volleyball taught me that improvement does not come from instant success, but from persistence and patience. Each small improvement built confidence, while each game strengthened my determination. What once felt intimidating became an opportunity to grow.

That growth was put to the test during the championship game. The pressure was intense, and every point mattered. Yet, instead of fear, I strangely felt composed. When the final play came, I relied on the resilience I had developed throughout the season. Scoring the winning point symbolized far more than a victory; it represented the journey from uncertainty to confidence and from self-doubt to self-belief.
The strength I discovered through volleyball extends far beyond the court. Resilience now shapes how I approach academic challenges, new leadership roles, and unfamiliar situations. The pandemic taught me that uncertainty is unavoidable, but how I respond to it defines my growth. What began as a daunting decision during one of the most uncertain times in my life became a defining moment that I use to continue to grow myself today. Through volleyball, I discovered resilience within myself, a strength that continues to guide me as I face future challenges with confidence and determination.