Past Weaknesses Becoming Future Strengths by Kaleigh

Past Weaknesses Becoming Future Strengths by Kaleigh - May 2026 Scholarship Essay

In my life, I have encountered many obstacles that I thought were going to get the best of me. Wanting to keep living in a world that feels like it is continuously crumbling and trying to make yourself fit in when you feel no sense of belonging, makes life feel dreading and intimidating.
Last year I was a junior in high school, and I was faced with the biggest infliction of intimidation. After being bullied every year of my life and getting told that my problems shouldn't exist, it made me begin tunneling down a dark path. In the past I felt ashamed of this period in my life; not being able to properly handle situations, having a breakdown in every situation, and staying hidden in my outer shell. It got to the point last year where I couldn't contain my thoughts anymore. Being a crab in a shell wasn't going to be the safest option at this point in time of my life.
Instead of letting the negative thoughts win in my head, I chose to continue living and so I spoke up to a trusted adult and they lead me in the right direction to get further help. After a weekend of hospitalization and counseling sessions, I now can look back on this time in my life. Not view it as a weakness, but view it as a time where I overcame my deepest fear and use that time to strengthen my future. Not thinking of this time as a time full of embarrassment and regret, but as a time where I was strong enough to continue with my everyday life.
Now to manage my mental health, I have adapted to new "healthy" coping skills that will help me prevent and get through the dark episodes. Instead of locking myself in a closed space and isolating from those who care, I speak whatever is on my mind and get the weight off of my chest.
I would be lying if I said I wasn't slightly worried about my next chapter of life (college). This is because my last four years of high school, I found a place where I can feel safe and secure. I don't have to worry about adults trying to shut me down, but instead lift me back up onto my feet. My most trusted adults in my life are those that I have created a relationship with during my time at Allen East. However, I can't let this unknown fear get in the way of overcoming my enemy. I will use the skills I have learned through the last two years and learn to trust more people that are worth trusting.