Proving that different isn’t bad by Mary

Proving that different isn’t bad by Mary - April 2024 Scholarship Essay

I am Mary Tallent, a rising freshman at Houston Christian University, poised to major in Psychology. My motivation to pursue an academic career in psychology was ignited from the belief in my ability to transcend personal limitations, proving that disability is not inability. The naysayers who told me I couldn't succeed in psychology due to the constant presence of my service dog, Carolina, have fueled my motivation to prove them wrong.

My journey to this point has been colored by challenges. As a differently-abled woman, the road less traveled has been my frequent path, highlighting my tenacity and grit. I have always defied the odds, harboring an unwavering belief that my academic ambitions, dedicated to understanding human psychology, should not be hindered by my physical limitations. My commitment to this journey is evident in my respectable high school GPA of 3.55.

The novel experience of proving naysayers wrong has been a profound force that drives my academic pursuit. Within their skepticism lies my motivation, turning every 'can't' into a 'will'. It's this resilience, a mix of doggedness and ambition that fuels my passion for psychology, a field that intrigued me with its study of the human mind, behavior, and relationships.

Living with a disability has bestowed upon me a unique perspective of life, making me particularly sensitive to those experiencing their psychological struggles. Working with Carolina, my service dog, has nurtured empathy and patience, attributes that I believe embody a good psychologist. Carolina has been much more than a service dog-- she is my friend, my motivation, and my grounding force. Thus, debunking the theory that she is a hindrance to my academic success but rather, she is an integral part of my journey.

Maintaining focus amidst challenges is crucial to achieving my academic goals. Schedules and lists are my lifelines. I have cultivated habits of organization and routine, programs designed to keep me on the straight and narrow of my academic pursuit. I invest substantial time in strategic planning, managing workload with prioritization, and delineating a clear path to efficient academic growth.

My identity as a white woman also enriches my perspective in the realm of psychology. Growing in diversity, psychology requires individuals familiar with varied backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. My thought process, inherent in my identity, holds a potential contribution to a broader understanding of mental health diversity.

In conclusion, it is my belief that the Varsity Tutors College Scholarship Contest would greatly aid my aim of further proving to the world, and more importantly, proving to myself, that my capabilities are not overshadowed by my disability. It would afford me the great opportunity to embark on this journey to help people navigate the complex waters of their minds, potentially bringing about a transformative change in their lives.