Finding My Voice Through Literature by Leah

Finding My Voice Through Literature by Leah - July 2026 Scholarship Essay

When I first entered the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program, I believed success meant finding the correct answer and proving that I was capable of achieving at a high level. I was used to studying for tests, memorizing information, and completing assignments with the goal of receiving a good grade. However, IB English challenged this mindset by teaching me that learning was not always about discovering one answer. Sometimes, it was about questioning, analyzing, and understanding different perspectives.

The academic topic that challenged me the most was literary analysis. At first, I struggled to understand how a single piece of writing could have multiple interpretations. I would often read a passage and search for the “right” meaning instead of considering the author’s choices, historical context, and the perspectives of different readers. I found it frustrating because I wanted certainty, but literature required me to embrace complexity.

My perspective began to change while studying Their Eyes Were Watching God. During a class discussion, my classmates confidently shared their interpretations of the novel. I had my own ideas about the characters, themes, and messages within the story, but I hesitated to speak because I questioned whether my thoughts were insightful enough. I sat at my desk rehearsing my response, changing my words repeatedly, and wondering if my interpretation was valuable. Before I could find the courage to share, the conversation moved in another direction.

That moment made me realize that my biggest challenge was not understanding literature; it was trusting my ability to analyze it. I learned that critical thinking was not about having the most impressive answer in the room. It was about being able to develop a perspective, support it with evidence, and remain open to learning from others.

As I continued through IB English, I became more comfortable examining ideas beyond the surface level. I learned to ask deeper questions: Why did the author make this choice? How does the historical background influence the message? Why might two people interpret the same text differently? These questions strengthened my ability to evaluate information and form thoughtful conclusions instead of simply accepting what I was told.

The skills I developed through literary analysis extend beyond the classroom. As a future Registered Nurse, I will need to think critically when understanding patients’ needs, making decisions, and considering different perspectives. Healthcare is not only about knowing medical information; it requires analyzing situations and understanding the experiences of the people I serve.

Although IB English challenged me at first, it transformed the way I approach learning. I no longer view difficult topics as obstacles that prove my limitations. Instead, I see them as opportunities to grow, question, and develop a deeper understanding of the world around me. Through literature, I discovered the importance of having a voice—and the confidence to use it.