"NOLI TIMERE" by Kojo

"NOLI TIMERE" by Kojo - July 2025 Scholarship Essay

Looking back on my life, if I could chat with my younger self, I’d have a ton of advice to share. It's wild how the lessons we pick up often come from experiences we’d never wish on anyone, especially the kid version of ourselves. I’d want to give him some solid tips to help navigate the chaos of growing up, which can feel super overwhelming.

Growing up, I often felt confused and kind of aimless. There were plenty of times when I felt lost, trying to make sense of all the emotional stuff happening around me. As a kid, I had big dreams, but the ups and downs of life—plus the whole lack of emotional education—left me feeling pretty adrift. I’d tell my younger self that it’s okay to feel that way; dealing with emotions can be tough, and it’s super important to face those feelings instead of pushing them down.

I’d warn him against building up emotional walls. It can be so tempting to distance yourself when you’re trying to avoid pain or disappointment, but that just leads to isolation. I’d explain how shutting yourself off can lead to feeling pretty low. Instead, reaching out to friends, family, or a mentor can be freeing.

Another big piece of advice I’d share is about being brave and living life to the fullest. Fear has a sneaky way of creeping in and making us hesitate to try new things. I’d urge my younger self not to let fear make his choices for him. Sure, it’s cozy in the familiar, but some of the best moments in life happen when we step out of our comfort zones. Adulthood comes with its challenges and can feel even more complicated, so it’s important to realize that tough days aren’t just a kid's problem.

I’d also talk about self-compassion. As kids, we can be hard on ourselves, thinking we have to hit certain standards. I’d remind him to be kind and patient with himself. Mistakes are part of life; they don’t define your worth, and instead, they’re chances to learn and grow. It’s important not to compare yourself to others—everyone’s journey is unique.

Finally, I’d emphasize the importance of chasing your passions and interests. I struggled to find what really made me happy when I was younger. I’d encourage him to explore different hobbies without the pressure to be great at them. Just doing things for fun can bring a sense of fulfillment that spreads into other areas of life.

So, if I could sit down with my younger self, the chat would be packed with advice. I’d remind him that emotional struggles are normal and that reaching out for help is crucial. Fear shouldn’t stop you from growing; stepping into the discomfort can lead to the best lessons. Taking care of yourself, setting boundaries, and pursuing what you love are super important for a good life. Life can be tough, but it can also be beautiful, and embracing every moment—both good and bad—leads to a richer experience. I’d reassure him that he has what it takes to navigate through life’s ups and downs, grow, and thrive.