Growing Inside and Out by Justice

Growing Inside and Out by Justice - January 2026 Scholarship Essay

One of the most defining moments when I discovered a new strength in myself came during my high school basketball career. As an introvert, I was often quiet and reserved, which caused some people to underestimate my abilities both on and off the court. I remember one season when I was competing for a leadership role on the team while also striving to improve my performance. Many assumed that my quiet demeanor meant I lacked confidence or the ability to lead, but I was determined to prove otherwise.

To rise to the challenge, I leaned on discipline and consistency. I committed to showing up every day—not just for practice, but also for extra workouts, studying plays, and encouraging my teammates. Even on days when I was tired, frustrated, or unsure of myself, I reminded myself that growth requires effort, patience, and focus. I started organizing small team workouts at our local community gym, helping my teammates practice plays and build chemistry. Slowly, I realized that my quiet leadership was just as powerful as someone who leads loudly—I could motivate, inspire, and influence others through action and example.

This experience revealed a new strength within me: resilience paired with self-confidence. I learned that my value isn’t defined by how loudly I speak or how others perceive me, but by how committed I am to showing up and putting in the work. This strength has influenced every area of my life. Academically, it has pushed me to stay disciplined in my classes and pursue my studies in Business Management and entrepreneurship while also exploring my passion for aesthetics. Professionally, it has taught me that perseverance and quiet determination can open doors, whether I’m gaining experience in a salon or building my own business.

Beyond personal success, this newfound strength has inspired me to serve and uplift others. I want to mentor younger students and teammates, especially those who feel underestimated or overlooked. I want them to know that discipline, consistency, and self-belief can turn doubt into achievement. By leaning into this strength, I’ve learned that leadership isn’t always about being the loudest person in the room; sometimes it’s about showing up, putting in the work, and helping others rise alongside you.

This moment in basketball taught me a lesson that extends far beyond sports. It gave me the confidence to tackle challenges, pursue my goals relentlessly, and approach life with determination and resilience. I now understand that every obstacle is an opportunity to discover inner strength, and every moment of doubt is a chance to prove to myself that I am capable of more than I imagined.