Celebrating Winners of the "Walk A Mile In My Shoes" Essay Contest

Arete Scholars is excited to announce the winners of our "Walk A Mile In My Shoes" essay contest. This contest allowed students to share their unique journeys and perspectives, and we are proud to highlight the stories of our three exceptional winners: Logan from Louisiana, and Nathan and Juan from Georgia.

Logan

Logan's submission shares his journey of resilience and personal growth. Raised primarily by his devoted single father, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Logan reflects on the emotional challenges of growing up without a maternal presence. Despite early difficulties, he found strength through the support of his family. With their guidance, he managed his emotions, improved his behavior, and built meaningful friendships.

Now an honor roll student, he is active in school clubs and is working to better his community. Logan credits his academic and personal success to the love and sacrifices of his family and the life lessons they’ve taught him. Grateful for the Arete scholarship, he sees every hardship as part of the path that shaped him into a better student, friend, and young man.

Logan's story is one of perseverance and determination. His essay reminds us of what it means to grow and improve, no matter your circumstances. Read his essay here.

Nathan

Nathan shares a heartfelt reflection on his life and education through his essay. As the oldest of five siblings, Nathan is deeply grateful for the opportunity to attend Eastside Christian School, which he has been part of since preschool. Thanks to the Arete Scholars program, he’s been able to stay in a nurturing, academically rigorous environment that has helped him grow not just intellectually, but spiritually. 

Nathan uses the metaphor of different pairs of shoes to describe the roles he takes on in life and how they bring out a different part of his personality. 

Nathan's story is one of growth and gratitude. His essay reminds us of the power of faith, hard work, and community in shaping a strong and humble leader. Read his essay here.

Juan

Juan shared his journey of moving to the United States in 2023 with his family and how he faced the challenge of not knowing any English upon arrival. Starting school was difficult and nerve-wracking, but being surrounded by English-speaking students helped him begin learning the language quickly.

Juan continued learning and adapting at his new school and credits their support and encouragement for his success.

Juan’s story is one of resilience. His journey reminds us of the courage it takes to start over, the determination to learn, and the impact of a supportive community in building confidence and connection. Watch his video here.

*One of Arete's original scholarship recipients and alumnae, Carlethia, presented Juan with his shoes as one of the Walk a Mile winners.

Honoring Their Journeys

Logan, Nathan, and Juan each offer powerful glimpses into their unique journeys, highlighting the strength, character, and determination that have shaped their lives. These stories celebrate not only personal achievement but also the vital role that encouragement, opportunity, and community play in a young person’s life.

As winners of the "Walk A Mile In My Shoes" essay contest, Logan, Nathan, and Juan will each receive a pair of limited edition custom Arete Scholars Vans sneakers. These sneakers symbolize their achievements and serve as a reminder of their remarkable journeys and the support from the Arete Scholars community.

We congratulate Logan, Nathan, and Juan on their well-deserved recognition and look forward to seeing how they continue to inspire and make a difference in their communities. Their essays are a powerful reminder of the diverse and profound experiences of Arete Scholars students and the incredible potential within each of them.