Scholarship / What makes you unique and why do you deserve this honor? [4]

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, to be "unique" is to be without a like or an equal. What makes me so special that I can claim to be unlike any other though? I decided to poll my friends in order to come down to the basics of what makes me a unique person. The overwhelming response was what makes me unique is that I am unafraid to be unique. I don't allow peer or societal pressures to conform me to what a 21-year-old female "should" be like, instead I make my own path and try to set a positive example for those around me.

In classes, I am the girl sitting in the front of the room answering as many questions as possible. I value learning and an education above most things in life and I know the only thing that could stop me from reaching my goals is myself. When I asked one of my study groups what they thought made me unique, they said that my passion for learning sets me apart from my peers more than anything. I am a nerd and I'm not embarrassed to admit it. I know I could make a "B" on an exam and spend more time with friends, but that would be going against everything I believe in, it just wouldn't be me.

I value my financial independence a lot, so I've been working since my sophomore year of college. Having a job can be stressful at times and, lets face it, not exactly the most fun either, but I would rather sacrifice a few hours of my time than be in debt. My coworkers at UATV have always told me what sets me apart are my leadership skills, my attention to detail and my ability to motivate others. As a nightly news producer I am responsible for training and coordinating with volunteers, on-air talent and consulting with my fellow staff members to produce an award-winning newscast. I am very proud to say I always have the most volunteers because they know I will take control and calmly direct and lead the news without harsh words or criticisms. My attention to detail has made a profound impact on not only the product I put out each night but also the products of other staff members. My passion and drive for perfection in my work motivates others to reach a higher level with their projects as well. Being able to help and motivate others to succeed is one of my proudest achievements at the University.

I am not afraid, and that is what makes me unique. I don't shy away from obstacles instead I find creative ways to conquer them. I have no qualms with being the person everyone knows they can depend on to lead them through a tough situation. I don't care if people call me a perfectionist, because I am one and I love who I am. I believe I deserve the honor of being on the University of Arkansas Homecoming court because I am a positive role model for all students to embrace who they are and not feel forced to change. I want all students to know that it is possible to succeed by being who you are, developing your positive attributes and working hard to be a positive role model in the lives of others.