Prepared, Polished, and Powerful by Tess

Prepared, Polished, and Powerful by Tess - August 2025 Scholarship Essay

In a world where silencing a woman—even around her own kitchen table—can cost her life, I refuse to be silent in boardrooms, business meetings, or the marketplace. While women in many countries are risking their voices—and their lives—for the most basic human rights, I’ve been given something powerful: the privilege of choice. And I choose to speak, to lead, and to succeed—not only for myself, but for every woman who cannot yet do so freely.
This upcoming school year, I have several clear aspirations. Academically, I intend to excel in my entrepreneurial and business courses at Montclair State University. These classes are more than just curriculum to me—they are stepping stones toward my larger goal of launching a woman-led business rooted in equity, innovation, and financial strength. I also plan to secure one or two internships within business development or marketing, ideally with organizations that support women in leadership or entrepreneurship. Beyond the classroom, I want to expand my professional network and actively seek out volunteer opportunities with foundations which provide resources and mentorship for aspiring female entrepreneurs.
But what motivates me isn’t just personal success—it’s a mission. From a young age, I’ve always been drawn to leadership, problem-solving, and helping others succeed. Whether it was participating in a team sport, lending a hand in a community project, or simply working alongside my mom, I was always ready to be involved. My drive isn’t just personality; it’s a compass that guides every decision I make. I love talking with people, hearing their stories, and finding common ground—this ability to connect has fueled my growth, both personally and professionally.
Still, being outgoing isn’t enough. To truly make a difference in business, especially as a woman, I understand that I need to combine passion with preparation. I need to walk into rooms prepared, polished, and powerful. This is why I’m dedicated to academic excellence and hands-on experience this year. I want to be as ready as possible when the time comes to start my own business—not just ready to compete, but ready to lead and redefine what leadership looks like.
The statistics that surround women in business are both sobering and motivating. In 2024, companies with gender-diverse leadership outperformed others by up to 47 percent in profitability (HR Observer, 2024), yet women still earn only about 82 cents for every dollar a man earns—and that gap grows over time (Harvard Business Review, 2024). Women-led startups earn significantly less per investment dollar than their male counterparts. Only 22 percent of women received promotions in 2024 compared to 34 percent of men (HiBob, 2025). These numbers aren’t just facts—they’re barriers I’m determined to dismantle through my education, action, and leadership.
One of the biggest motivations behind my aspirations is my family, especially my parents. All my life, they have shown me what unconditional love, support, and sacrifice look like. My biggest personal goal is to give them peace and comfort—retirement, security, and joy—because they have given me everything. Becoming a successful businesswoman isn’t just a dream for me; it’s a pathway to honoring their hard work and making sure they are finally able to rest.
At the same time, I’m fueled by a larger sense of duty. I feel a responsibility to do something meaningful with the privileges I’ve been given: access to education, safety, and freedom of choice. There are women around the world who will never have these things, and I refuse to waste the opportunities I’ve been handed. I see each class, each internship, and each professional connection as a brick in the foundation I’m building—not just for my own future, but for the women who will come after me.
I don’t yet know the exact type of business I’ll start. But I know it will reflect everything I value: excellence, opportunity, boldness, and fairness. I plan to observe industries, study strategies, and learn from the best leaders around me until I find the right fit—then create something groundbreaking. I will bring everything I’ve learned to the table: my vision, my voice, my grit, and my deep belief in women’s potential.
This school year is a critical chapter in that journey. Through academic growth, real-world experience, and intentional relationship-building, I will take tangible steps toward my future. I’ll rise to every challenge and stay grounded in my purpose: to elevate women, disrupt inequality, and succeed on my terms—with the power of my voice leading the way.
By awarding me this scholarship, you are not just helping a student afford college. You are investing in a woman determined to rewrite the narrative of what leadership can look like—and who it should include.