Faith and Finding Strength through Fear by Kiersten

Faith and Finding Strength through Fear by Kiersten - March 2026 Scholarship Essay

Fairly recently, I underwent a rather terrifying experience that truly tested my strength emotionally. I had brought one of my very dear friends to church with me. When the service had ended, I was with this friend of mine as well as my brother, and the three of us were walking around the church property. It was then that I noticed a shift in how my friend was behaving. She informed me that her vision was going dark, and she began to sink to the ground while gripping onto my arm. Carrying her weight, she began to fall to the ground while I attempted to ask if she was okay. She became unresponsive, and I remember being filled with fear. In an effort to handle the situation, I told my brother to go get help inside the church and bring water. He ran, and I mustered up the strength to call 911. With a shaky voice, I informed emergency services of the situation while adults from my church ran out to help me.
I was terrified for my friend. I had to explain my witness to the police, as well as inform my friend's parents of the situation. I was so grateful to be surrounded by such a wonderful support system that ensured my friend was safe as well as myself. When she arrived at the hospital, I visited her to ensure her safety, and felt such a relief for her. Staying strong in that circumstance was without a doubt one of the most emotionally challenging situations I handled.