Knowledge for the Past by Tram

Knowledge for the Past by Tram - July 2025 Scholarship Essay

In order for me to communicate with my former self, I would need a way of communication first. I would send a letter to an adolescent Tram as a way to deliver my advice to her. I would tell her that there's absolutely nothing to fear, especially rejection, in all of its forms. She unknowingly trapped herself with her fear of rejection from authority and society. I would tell her that she's stronger than she thinks, she is able to withstand any roadblocks that prevent her from succession. Because succession, to me, is when you're able to unapologetically be yourself; being able to live with yourself will be the best thing you could do in life. It's an overlooked yet common internal issue to be uncomfortable with yourself (prone to self-loathing), and the toughest challenge is overcoming it. The mind itself can be a home and a prison, you could turn comfortable in those bad habit thoughts, and these thoughts could consume your entire wellbeing. "But, I'm here to tell you that you can and you will overcome your struggles, because you will always be a strong and determined person." These are my last words in my bit of advice.

Tram Nguyen
15 July, 2025