When answering this prompt: "Describe a moment that changed your perspective on life. What did you learn and how will your newfound perception benefit you in the future?" I wanted to reply with a super compelling moment of realization and to be honest, the only moments I could think of were either too personal or not personal enough. Instead, the "moment" I would like to share with you isn't necessarily a brief time period, but a year-long enlightening conception that changed me tremendously. This would be the time I let go of my childhood best friend. I have known her for a little over nine years and we were close for eight of them. She had a huge impact on my childhood as she helped me get through countless domestic struggles, sexual and physical assaults, and traumatic bullying throughout junior high. She became a light that kept me going throughout my youth. Though we were close, we did not attend the same school for over three years. When I made a change between highschools to join hers, we found quickly that being around each other excessively created toxic arguments and eventually, it had ended our bond. Losing her was tough on me mentally because, at the time, I relied on her. Not only to get through difficult situations but since we were that close, I never thought to work on creating other friendships. She was my only light. This event was significant because the end of our friendship genuinely became the beginning of who I am today. After the break-up, I started in the dark. I had a very small support group and I had a lot of time to myself. During this, I was able to find personal interests and figure out what to pursue on my own. Hence, my dream of becoming a cybersecurity engineer. After a while, I began to make solid friends around the school. Building these relationships had also helped me find a style and really got me out of my shell. I am the happiest I have ever been. Within this period of growth, the pain of losing her remained difficult. But over time, sitting in the dark showed me I can be my own light. Our friendship was one like no other but becoming dependent suppressed individuality. I have now found a new perspective as I got back on my feet...Independence. This newfound perception will benefit me as it builds strength not only for my mentality but for finding out who I am on my own. To conclude, me and her are completely different souls now living separate lives. Strangers. Our personalities have matured over the year and I truly believe we both benefited from the decision we had dreaded most. In eight years, us two shared unforgettable memories and overcame many obstacles with the help of one another and if given the chance, I wouldn’t change a thing of the past as the friendship showed me a great deal of sustenance. But with that said, my perspective has changed forever. Become your own light.

When you think of the noun, failure, you think negativity. But, thinking of failing as “bad” will ruin your chances of success in the long run. Viewing it as part of a larger learning process creates perseverance and resilience and can influence and affect you in such a positive way. One reason I sought out to apply for this scholarship was simply that I see failure as a blessing. I believe to fail is part of succeeding. If you never flounder, you aren’t building on your intelligence. As embarrassing as it is, my list of defeats it quite lengthy. But, the greatest hindrance to influence me to this day is quite personal and hard to share. In my youth, I attempted to take my life. My failed attempt brought me to where I am today and I am beyond thankful for the second chance. Currently, I am in a stable household with the drive to see through an exceptional transcript and build a future. I'm involved in a broad social circle and succeeded in accomplishing countless public and personal goals. Lastly, I sincerely strive to make a mark on the world, and with financial help, I can do so. Now, why choose me over all the capable students submitting their inspiring stories? I believe determination is one of my more prominent traits. With the chance possibly given, I seek to accomplish future desires and necessities for many through the field of engineering. If I am not chosen for the scholarship, I will continue to persevere and put myself out there. Thank you so much for reviewing my application, I hope to hear from you.