Achievement is awkward for me. First of all, the word just sounds weird. “Uh-cheev-ment.” Who decided to throw those sounds together? Plus, I’ve always had a really hard time coming to terms with it. I’ve done a lot of great things, but have I achieved anything? Are my accomplishments grand enough to be considered achievements? Or even accomplishments, for that matter? I find the concept tremendously confusing. Am I alone here?

There’s no questioning what I hope to achieve, though. I’ve had my mind set on it for years. Everything that I’ve “achieved” so far has been merely a step toward it. And if I do it, I’ll tattoo the word achievement across my forehead and own it forever. Actually, I think I’ll even change my middle name to Achievement while I’m at it.

But I’ve got to say, whatever that word means, I’m pretty sure I was feeling it when I learned I was a National College Match Finalist. I had to straight up pat myself on the back for that one. I did a little victory dance too, but that’s just between us.

I was proud because I knew that I was slowly inching towards living a life that has only existed in my imagination for years. This is important to me because a lot of people around me would rather settle for less than pursue their dreams. I’ve done everything I can to make sure I never do this. I’ve pushed myself to the ends of the earth in search of that magic word.

And so what if I can’t grasp it just yet? I’ll get there. It might be in five years, or even in 15 years, but I know I’ll be able to say it one day. Especially with the opportunity to become a QuestBridge Scholar. With QuestBridge on my side, “achievement” actually seems attainable.

As far as what it is that I’m working so hard for, I’m not sure I should reveal that kind of information just yet. It’s a bit personal, ya know? I’m warming up to you guys. I won’t keep you waiting for too long, though, I promise. Fifteen years at the most.

– by Rosalyn Huff, 2015 National College Match Finalist