Owning My Power from a Demigod by Niyati
Niyati's entry into Varsity Tutor's October 2025 scholarship contest
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Owning My Power from a Demigod by Niyati - October 2025 Scholarship Essay
In the Percy Jackson and Olympians series by Rick Riordan, Percy Jackson is the main protagonist who taught me that being different isn't a weakness but a superpower. As a demigod who has ADHD and dyslexia, Percy has a hard time trying to fit into the world he lives in. Instead of letting those challenges define him, he learns to adopt them as part of his strength and his character. This lesson hits me hard because as a student there are so many intense demands I have to manage of being a full IB Diploma student, extracurriculars, and my own responsibility as a sister and person. Like Percy Jackson, I myself have had moments where I have felt overwhelmed, out of place, and unsure of what I'm doing. However, Percy's story reminded me that there are things in life that make us different which are often the very things that prepare us to lead.
In the series, Percy doesn't start off confident but sarcastic, impulsive, and constantly questioning himself. Then, there are battles, betrayals, and quests that push him to the rim where he discovered that leadership isn't about being the perfect guy, it's about being there for others, protecting them, showing up, and most importantly staying true to one's values. This is a lesson I value and listen to every day. Whether I'm taking on a tough assignment or managing IB deadlines, I remind myself that perfection looses with persistence.
One of the most powerful moments in Percy's journey is when he chooses loyalty over glory. Percy doesn't fight for fame or popularity but he fights for his friends, his mom, the people he loves and the world he believes in. This is the leadership which inspires me to think beyond just my grades and achievements. It's about the impact of using your voice to stand up to others even when it's hard. I'm reminded by Percy's loyalty how success isn't just personal but united.
Percy also teacher how humor and being modest is important. Even when Percy is faced against monsters and the Gods, he never loses his sense of self which is balancing being brave without arrogance, something I try for. In a world where loud confidence is rewarded, Percy shows that even small quiet strength, empathy, and wit can be just as powerful.
In conclusion, Percy Jackson has taught me that being a hero doesn't mean knowing all the answers. It means being able to have the will power to learn, grow, and most importantly, fight for what's right even when everything seems against you. Percy's story helped me see that my own challenges are not problems but somethings that build strength. Just like him, I'm learning to own my power and embracing the things that make me different, leading with a purpose.