Receiving the RCSF scholarship has validated my years of effort, whether in club sports, school activities, or volunteer work. It has filled me with gratitude, accomplishment, and the drive to continue giving back to my community. 

Like many high schoolers, I faced ups and downs. While no single event defined my journey, I often struggled with the daily grind and questioned the purpose of my hard work. Looking back, I now realize my lack of a clear “why” made it easy to lose motivation.

Since graduating, I’ve learned two valuable lessons. First, even without a clear reason for my diligence at the time, my present self is grateful for the hard work I put in. I live by the principle of doing today what tomorrow’s self will thank me for. Life is tough, so why not make it a bit easier by working harder today? As Cillian Murphy says in Oppenheimer, “It’s paradoxical, yet it works.” 

Second, every goal achieved reveals new challenges—another “rainbow” to pursue. Instead of feeling discouraged, I remind myself, “I’ve done it before, I can do it again.” This mindset applies to everything, from tackling last-minute papers to enduring tough soccer practices. 

To future seniors, I offer this advice: Have faith in God, faith in yourself, and maintain a positive attitude no matter what life throws your way.