Ryan changed my life. by Zahier

Ryan changed my life. by Zahier - January 2025 Scholarship Essay

Ryan was more than just a mentor to me; he became a beacon of hope and resilience during one of the most challenging periods of my life. Although he no longer works at New Jersey City University (NJCU), his influence on my academic and personal journey is undeniable. Ryan’s belief in my potential and unwavering support have been pivotal in shaping who I am today. In many ways, I owe my current progress and perseverance to his encouragement and guidance.

To fully understand the impact Ryan had on my life, it’s important to acknowledge the circumstances I was navigating when I first met him. Dealing with the loss of my parents, I lacked the kind of familial support that many others take for granted. My journey was riddled with obstacles, from managing academic responsibilities to confronting the emotional toll of feeling alone. On top of that, I faced constant negativity and judgment from those around me, which felt like an invisible weight I carried daily. It was in this difficult space that Ryan entered my life and offered me a sense of stability and hope.

Ryan never let me give up on myself. There were moments when the stress felt insurmountable, and I doubted whether I had the strength to keep going. Yet, Ryan’s words always seemed to find me at the right time. He spoke life into me, reminding me of my worth and the potential I carried within. His belief in me was so profound that it started to shift my own perception of myself. Where I once saw limitations and failures, Ryan helped me recognize opportunities and strengths.

One of the most remarkable qualities about Ryan was his ability to stay consistent in his support. Unlike some people in my life who only offered conditional or fleeting encouragement, Ryan was steadfast. He stayed on top of my academic plans, constantly checking in to make sure I was meeting deadlines, attending classes, and staying focused on my goals. His involvement wasn’t overbearing but intentional. He genuinely cared about my success and made sure I knew it.

What set Ryan apart was his capacity to see beyond my circumstances. He understood that my struggles weren’t just academic but deeply personal. Ryan took the time to listen—really listen—to my concerns, fears, and aspirations. He created a safe space where I could express myself without fear of judgment. In a world where I often felt like an outsider, Ryan made me feel seen and valued. That sense of validation was transformative for me, as it gave me the courage to push forward even when the odds felt stacked against me.

There were countless times when I wanted to give up, especially when the negativity from others began to seep into my own thoughts. My family, instead of being a source of encouragement, often doubted my abilities and criticized my decisions. The weight of their disapproval was crushing, and it would have been easy to let their words define me. But Ryan’s voice became louder than theirs. He reminded me that I was capable of achieving great things, regardless of what others believed. He instilled in me a resilience that I didn’t know I had, and for that, I’m eternally grateful.

One specific instance that stands out was during a particularly tough semester when I was juggling multiple responsibilities and felt completely overwhelmed. I confided in Ryan about how I was struggling to keep up and how I feared failing. Instead of offering empty reassurances, Ryan helped me create a tangible plan to get back on track. He broke down my challenges into manageable steps and encouraged me to tackle them one at a time. That practical approach, combined with his emotional support, made all the difference. By the end of that semester, I not onlyonly passed my classes but also gained a renewed sense of confidence in my ability to overcome adversity.

Ryan’s impact wasn’t limited to academics. He also taught me valuable life lessons that continue to guide me today. He emphasized the importance of perseverance, reminding me that setbacks are a natural part of the journey and not a reflection of my worth. He encouraged me to celebrate my victories, no matter how small, and to always strive for growth. These lessons have become foundational in how I approach challenges, both in school and in life.