Meet the 2023 Scholars

"Write a letter to your younger self during a key moment in your life addressing one or more of the following: words of encouragement, lessons you have learned and/or challenges you have overcome."

Dear Grace as of May 2022, Senior year is almost over! I know you are so ready to be done with high school and to move on with your life, but take a step back. Take in the last month. This year has been a lot, with college applications, student body responsibilities, the newspaper, and all the other various things you are involved in, so I know you are ready to have a break from it all and to go to Chicago. I've learned, though, that the recognition and responsibility is what drives and motivates you, so enjoy it. I will be honest, the first few months of college aren't the easiest. You are searching for those places you belong, all of which seemed to come so easily to you in high school. Don't worry though, you will eventually find your place. Even though you are excited to graduate, I know you are also scared out of your mind to be on your own. College is very different from the social world of your high school experience. To be honest, your group of people is small, but it is good. Your random roommate will end up being the person you spend 90 percent of your time with. She's also the person you will cry in the airport with before leaving for summer break, even though you both promised you could keep it together. Also be thankful you didn't delete those stupid dating apps before going to college out of embarrassment, because one of those mind-numbing conversations will actually become something. One of the things I have learned since high school is the reality of the field you're going into. I know that right now, you think you will be a theatre major, audition for the shows and get cast, and be able to rest off the skills you have gained up to this point, but that is not true. Honestly, you were a big fish in a small pond for most of your life. In college, that goes out the window. You will have to learn to be okay with hearing the word "no". Not every show has a place for you. You live in a world full of talented people who have been working for this just as long as you, if not longer. It is all about growth and accepting that personal failure is inevitable at times. I know it is a hard pill to swallow, given your track record, but it is one that will help you through your freshman year. I also know you like to think you are independent, but deep down, you are so reliant on those around you to guide you. But, just know that you can fill your own prescriptions, call your own doctors, and advocate for your own health, all by yourself. All in all, don't worry about what is to come, focus on the moment. Live your life without fearing the future. You've got this, I promise. Much love, Grace