The door that opened for me.
Scholar Essays

The door that opened for me.

A
Aisha M.
YACT Scholar
June 5, 2025 · 3 min read

Before I Was Ready, I Was Chosen

I still remember when I found out I was picked. At first I didn’t really believe it. I kept thinking maybe they made a mistake or chose the wrong person.

Before YACT, I didn’t think I was the kind of person who gets opportunities like this. I thought those things were for other people who were smarter or more confident than me.

But being picked made me start to see myself differently. It showed me that maybe I can do more than I thought. I don’t have to be perfect to start something new.

Since being given this opportunity, I’ve been trying to speak up more and not be scared to make mistakes. I’m still learning, but I feel proud that I was chosen.

Now I think being “picked” wasn’t the end. It was just the beginning of me believing in myself.

Key takeaways from our T.H.I.N.K.B.I.G framework

Embracing opportunity starts from within.

Every story here exists because someone chose to act.

Become Part of the Story →