Accomplishments are More Than Awards

What is your greatest accomplishment? Is it an award you received? A milestone you reached? Or is it the little things you do every day?

For me, my greatest accomplishment to date came in high school. I know what you may be thinking... How can something from three years ago be so impacting on your life? Well, let me explain.

In high school, I was nerdy. I was weird. I was the kid people ignored but were nice to when they had to be. I tried blending into the crowd and was content with my small group of friends. My idea of fun was baking at friends' houses and attending show choir competitions on the weekend. Now, I'm not saying there is anything wrong with that, because there's not. However, I wanted more. This outgoing, loud girl inside me wanted to leave an impression on my school.

Senior year came, and I was ready for change. I broke up with my long-time boyfriend and considered transferring schools. For me though, I knew I needed to face this monster that was called "high school" and make it the final year I always wanted.

I remember walking into the first day of senior year, my head was held high, walking with confidence, ready for whatever life could throw at me.

At the end of September, auditions for the fall musical "All Shook Up" were announced. I thought, "Why not?" I've never done anything with theater before and being in the ensemble would be a great time! Although I had a lot of anxiety singing in front of a large group during auditions, I knew I needed to do it. To make matters worse, my 14-year-old dog was being put to sleep the same night.

Being the emotional wreck I was, I walked on stage in front of everyone else auditioning, and sang my heart out. By the end of the song, I was in tears. My emotions had overtaken me. When I was finished, the room was silent. Suddenly, everyone burst into applause.

The next day, the cast list was posted. I got one of the lead roles.

I was terrified. Not only was I going to have to sing multiple solos in front of large audiences, but it put me at the forefront. It made me stand out.

The next two months were a whirlwind. I was at practice all the time. Some of my biggest challenges included running across stage in 6-inch heels, standing on a 6-foot high moving platform (in those same heels), and kissing my best friend's boyfriend. (Awkward!)

But, I transformed on stage. I didn't think about who was in the crowd, what they were doing, or how I sounded. I became Miss Sandra, a sassy young woman who doesn't need to impress anyone. She is nothing but herself.

And during that final pose during the final show, I was so overwhelmed with pride. I had faced so many fears and squished them. After that, I owned high school. I took on every challenge I could face and became a more confident woman. I was finally the person I wanted to be.

And THAT is my greatest accomplishment.

PS- I also won the senior superlative "Most Changed", which I thought was one last little accomplishment in my high school career!