Meg March - Little Women by Kylie

Meg March - Little Women by Kylie - October 2025 Scholarship Essay

An important lesson I’ve learned comes from Meg March, the oldest sister in Little Women by Louisa May Alcott. Growing up, I often struggled with insecurities about my appearance. I compared myself to classmates, celebrities, and people on social media, constantly worrying that I wasn’t pretty enough, thin enough, or stylish enough. Some days, it felt like no matter what I did—what I wore, how I styled my hair, or how I presented myself—I still didn’t measure up. Reading Meg’s story made me realize that these feelings are normal, but they don’t define who I am or my potential for happiness.

Meg struggles with similar pressures. She worries that she isn’t as elegant or fashionable as other girls and fears that her looks will determine her value. At first, she lets these worries control her life, constantly comparing herself to people who seem “perfect” in society’s eyes. I could relate so much to that. I remember spending hours wishing I could change my body or my features, believing that if I looked like someone else, I would finally feel confident and accepted. Meg’s story reminded me that self-worth doesn’t come from outward appearance—it comes from character, actions, and how you treat others.

What makes Meg inspiring is how she grows into her sense of self-worth. She learns that her value lies in her kindness, loyalty, and thoughtfulness, rather than her appearance. Watching her journey helped me reflect on my own strengths and the qualities I could be proud of. I realized that the aspects of myself that matter most—my creativity, compassion, humor, and resilience—are far more important than conforming to an arbitrary standard of beauty. Like Meg, I began to focus on how I interact with others and how I contribute to my community, rather than obsessing over perceived flaws.

Meg’s story also taught me that acceptance is a gradual process. She doesn’t magically stop worrying about her looks; she learns slowly to embrace her strengths and her individuality. Similarly, I’ve learned that self-confidence is something you develop over time. Some days are easier than others, and it’s normal to have moments of doubt. But each time I remind myself of what I bring to the table—my work ethic, my loyalty, my values—I feel more grounded in my own sense of worth.

Another key lesson from Meg is that love and connection are not based on physical perfection. She initially fears that she must be beautiful to be loved, but her relationship with John Brooke shows that meaningful relationships depend on mutual respect, understanding, and shared values—not appearances. This resonated with me because I often worried that others would only see me for how I look, rather than who I am. Meg’s experience helped me understand that confidence rooted in self-respect is far more powerful than any superficial standard.

Meg March taught me that real beauty comes from self-acceptance, courage, and the way you show up in life. Her journey reminded me that it’s okay to feel insecure, to doubt yourself, or to compare yourself to others—but it’s also important to focus on what you can control: your actions, your attitude, and the way you treat yourself and those around you. Your worth is not determined by your weight, your skin, or your features; it is determined by your values, your choices, and your integrity.

Now, I try to live by Meg’s example. I focus on my strengths, embrace my individuality, and challenge myself to let go of the pressure to meet unrealistic standards. The qualities that make me unique—my perspective, my creativity, my empathy—are what truly matter. Meg March showed me that self-love is not just an abstract idea; it is a daily practice and a conscious choice. Learning from her, I am beginning to understand that I am enough exactly as I am.