Realizing perfection doesn't equate excellence by Noah

Realizing perfection doesn't equate excellence by Noah - July 2025 Scholarship Essay

Achieving perfection is not the same as achieving excellence, these are completely different mindsets that I have learned to distinguish. The thought of being perfect, getting the perfect grades, having my peers or other adults I look up to see me as perfect has always felt burdensome and overbearing. It has created insecurities, self-doubt, and not allowed me to be present in the moment. It has, at times, obstructed my ability to learn as I grow.

As the older brother in my family, my parents rely on me to be a great example to my younger brother. He’s 2 years younger and constantly gets the “You need to be on Dean’s list, just like Noah” speech. That constant reminder and pressure of earning Dean’s List status for every marking period has made me slightly disappointed whenever the marking period was over and I had only reached First Honors status. Although First Honors is directly below Dean’s list, it didn’t allow me to truly celebrate that recognition. Instead, I felt like a failure who could’ve done more during the marking period.

I have discovered that excellence is about doing my best with the resources I have available. It’s about having purpose and allowing myself the room for improvement. Shifting my mindset from aiming for perfection to striving for excellence, has significantly changed the way I carry myself as a student, a friend, and a role model. I have learned to acknowledge setbacks and receive feedback as help, not as criticism. As a result, I have untapped my creativity and allowed myself to be curious and passionate. I celebrate all my wins, regardless of what they are, and I enjoy the process of my accomplishment, not just the outcome.

In conclusion, I realized I can convert my feelings of anxiety and judgement into confidence and drive. Trying to be perfect felt unrealistic and critical. I now have a healthier relationship with many aspects of my life and understand I’m still developing as an individual. Will I make mistakes in the future? Absolutely. I understand life is about adapting and changing. I accept that new experiences awaiting me will continue to challenge me and I look forward to welcoming the journey with positivity.