Freedom by Raey

Freedom by Raey - March 2026 Scholarship Essay

My whole family knows I love to ride roller coasters. I love the feeling of adrenaline when you reach the top and then, your heart sinks as you hurl downward at impossible speeds. The light hearted feeling that leaves you airy and wanting to hop right back in for round two. That was me until I was faced with the Slingshot. Someone pointed, “what about that ride?” My fingers, mindlessly twirling my curly hair, began to shake and my heart raced. Even though I knew it would be just like any other roller coaster, fear clawed its way into my head. I didn’t want to admit to my family and friends that I was too scared to ride the Slingshot - after all I was known for my fearlessness. Year after year I found a reason to avoid the slingshot: “I just ate,” “no one will go with me,” “it's too expensive and not worth it.” I claimed I would ride it as long as one of my cousins did it with me.

Looking back, admitting my fear out loud was the toughest part. By facing the slingshot, I came to realize that everyone struggles with fear, that’s what makes us authentic humans. I now live unashamed of the things I fear since they bring forth an opportunity for growth. I apply this lesson to any situation I feel anxious about, whether it is public speaking, fear of making mistakes, or fear of disappointing others. This summer, I was strapped in by three separate seatbelts and a lap bar before the controller yelled our 3, 2, 1. My fears of the Slingshot are conquered and I am ready for the next big thing.