The Year That Matters Most by Shana

The Year That Matters Most by Shana - August 2025 Scholarship Essay

“This is it.” That is my only thought running through my head as I get ready for my first day of senior year. I am excited for my last year of high school, and I want to make the most of it. I am determined to make this year both fun and productive. One of my biggest goals is to get straight A’s and stay on top of my classes--even while juggling two jobs. I plan to stay organized with all my homework and tests, and make sure I am ahead of the game as much as possible. Another goal of mine is to work hard through my school’s Key Club and earn at least ten more community service hours than I did last year. Whether I am tutoring elementary students or feeding the homeless, I love helping out the community and I strive to make a positive impact. It would be amazing to look back on my senior year and be proud of what I have accomplished. One of the only ways I will be able to get through this year is through motivation. My family and friends help motivate me, but the person that motivates me to persevere is myself--just the younger version of me. I hope to make her proud more than anyone else in this world. I have doubted myself before and questioned my future many times, but I have picked myself back up every single time. I want to prove to her that even through uncertainty, I am capable of achieving anything I set my mind to. So, this really is it. This year is my last chance to grow and finish strong before I move onto the next chapter of my life.