No Growth Without Discomfort by Katlyn

No Growth Without Discomfort by Katlyn - May 2026 Scholarship Essay

Change is something that has always been scary to me. There is a comfort in doing what you know and not branching out. But without discomfort, growth is not possible.
For four years I bartended. It was what I knew and I was good at it. For a long time I never saw a need for any kind of change. I made good money and I had so many regulars that I looked forward to seeing every day. Why would I want anything to change?
It wasn't until I began to feel unfulfilled with the work I was doing. The late nights and rotating schedule were difficult, but I was used to it, so it was comfortable. It wasn't until the position of Case Manager at a Probation Office basically fell into my lap that I really considered leaving.
I sent my resume in, not expecting much. From there it happened so quick. I got an interview and a second interview and shortly after I was offered the job. It was starting to feel real.
I told all of my regulars about my opportunity and they were all so happy for me. I was constantly encouraged to take the position and being told I was "here to be more than a bartender." A part of me was afraid to leave bartending because I had formed a family within the establishment I worked. With their support and kind words, I knew that family would always be there.
I took the leap and accepted the position. It was like nothing I had ever done before, but it was a step in the right direction of what I had always wanted to do which is help people. I showed up every day and worked harder than I ever had to prove I deserved to be there. To prove to myself that change can be amazing. Since making that leap I have now decided to go back to school to earn my Bachelors degree and further help people.
Change will never not be scary, but I have learned that you cannot make your dreams happen without it. The biggest thing that has helped me is the support of those around me. It truly does take a village, no matter the age, and I could not be more thankful for mine.