Finding My Voice by Helping Someone Else Find Hers by Olivia

Finding My Voice by Helping Someone Else Find Hers by Olivia - March 2026 Scholarship Essay

When I first became a section leader in the highest choir at my school, I thought the role mostly meant helping people learn their music. I quickly realized it meant something much more important—supporting people when they needed encouragement the most.

During one rehearsal earlier this year, I noticed a younger student in my section who seemed unusually quiet. Normally she sang confidently, but that day she barely sang at all and avoided making eye contact. After rehearsal, I asked if she was doing okay. At first she said everything was fine, but after talking for a few minutes she admitted she was feeling overwhelmed and doubting whether she belonged in the choir.

I remember how vulnerable she seemed in that moment. I also remembered feeling that same kind of self-doubt when I first joined advanced choir and began performing in theatre productions. Being surrounded by talented people can sometimes make you question yourself. I told her that many of us had felt that way before, including me. We talked about how growth often comes from pushing through those uncomfortable moments.

Over the next few rehearsals, I made a point to check in with her, practice sections together, and encourage her when she seemed unsure. Slowly, I noticed her confidence returning. She started singing more fully again, participating in rehearsals, and even volunteering to sing a difficult section during practice. Watching her rediscover her confidence was incredibly rewarding.

That experience taught me that leadership is not about being the loudest voice or having the most experience. Real leadership often happens in small, quiet moments—when you take the time to listen, support someone, and remind them of their own strengths. I learned that I have the ability to encourage others and help create an environment where people feel safe to grow.

Helping her also helped me understand more about myself. I realized that one of the things I value most is lifting others up and helping them see their potential. Whether it’s through music, theatre, or everyday interactions, I want to continue being the kind of person who makes others feel supported and capable.

This experience showed me that sometimes the most meaningful help we can give someone is simply believing in them when they are struggling to believe in themselves.