Connection by Tayla

Connection by Tayla - August 2025 Scholarship Essay

Making connections is one of my aspirations for the upcoming school year, and this is needed in a time of uncertainty. Going into my first year of graduate school is me taking a leap of faith, especially at a school out of state for me. What can I do to motivate myself to find these connections? Stepping out of my comfort zone. Connection can mean several things, but it is never an accident. I believe each connection serves a purpose, whether it's a connection that will help me land my first internship or a long-term friend. This belief keeps me motivated to strive to make genuine connections. If I stayed within my comfort zone and kept limiting beliefs, I would not be an AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America). I remember when I first started my service year, I had a belief that stepping into something different would open doors for me and bring new connections that would bring meaning to my life. Over the past year, my network has expanded with several amazing individuals. As I am in a new state, starting a new endeavor, I can stay on track with my aspiration: making connections that lead me to grow professionally, in addition to pursuing my education.