The Experience that Lives On: College Admission Essay Sample

"Can I touch you there?" As an 8-year-old, I didn't know what to say. I was obedient. I was shy. I was afraid of speaking up and being judged. So instead of answering the question, I stayed silent and was sexually abused by a family member. He took advantage of my innocence and timidity. When my aunt found out and confronted me upon the matter, I burst into tears because I knew that this was going to spread like forest fire to everyone in the family tree, and I was going to be humiliated as being the victim of an assault. Unfortunately, things went in a different direction.

My family members were appalled and in disbelief because this was not “like him” and thought that I was just a naïve and young girl who did not fully comprehend the situation. But I understood everything; this frustration created my epiphany for the development of my ongoing drive to success.

At first, the questions of “what ifs” and “why didn’t I” popped up; I wanted to regret all of it, but instead, I spun it around.

This experience has given me the strength to persevere and present me with more of a profound outlook on life. Weakness was not my option anymore. My mindset was to lead and be informed and up-to-date with everything. Holding multiple leadership positions gives me the power for my voice to be heard and not be overshadowed. I always try to be that servant leader and put others first for their well-being. My strong desire is to further my education because, this time, I believe in myself. I believe that I can help the people around me through my determination and inspiration to aspire others to become the person they always wanted to be. Knowledge is the key, and I will keep trying my best to obtain it.

I am thankful that this experience stopped where it needed to be stopped. It has made an impact to motivate me for the rest of my life. Because of this, I strive to be a better person and aid those around me to do the same as well. I am hard-working. I lead. I am not submissive. And I make known beyond reasonable doubt for what I deem to be the right choice or judgment. I follow through with what I say and stay committed when placed on the task. Expectations are not my boundaries because I know the horizons that I can reach extend much farther than that. I will reach that full potential I have always hoped for.