This week’s blog was written by Esther, an Ursids alum. Esther began her Academy journey as a student in 2023 and has been a part of the program ever since. She returned to field school as a Youth Mentor, and most recently, an Apprentice. Esther aspires to be a lifelong learner and would like to pursue a career in research.
The Greek philosopher Aristotle once wrote, “knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” For the longest time, I have been searching for a passion to put my entire heart and soul into. I believed that in order to begin to find my path in life, I needed a specific idea of what drove me. I have embraced opportunities in many forms, never allowing a chance for growth to pass me by. At different times, I have led quietly from behind and stood decisively at the forefront. My interests span a wide range from travel, wildlife, cooking, science, mechanical work, construction, literature, writing, art, photography, theatre, hiking, and countless others. Each pursuit offers a new window into the world and into myself.
On a tour of one of the Western PA Conservancy with the Director of Community Greening
Though I never uncovered one defining passion, I realized that this breadth of curiosity is my passion. I’ve discovered that knowing oneself does not have to lead towards narrowing down a path. Sometimes, it means embracing the curiosity that drives you toward a hundred different passions, and realizing that every experience adds another layer to who you are. Life is not meant to be lived in hesitation or fear of choosing the wrong door. It’s meant to be explored, to be tested, to be tried in every way possible.
On a historical trip to the Outer Bank with Student Historians.
Some of the most formative experiences arise from the ventures that initially seem unfamiliar or intimidating. As an eighth grader, I joined a student-led organization called FCCLA, founded upon the Family and Consumer Sciences curriculum. What began as uncertainty evolved into one of the most defining chapters of my life. I became a five-time national qualifier and later served as Pennsylvania’s First Vice President and Secretary. Through organizing conferences that gathered hundreds of participants, I identified a love for public speaking, leadership, and service.
FCCLA State Leadership Conference medal ceremony for national qualifiers.
Today, I am an active member of more than fifteen clubs and initiatives, each shaping my growth, broadening my perspective, and deepening my understanding of both the world and myself. I have learned that life is richest when we embrace every opportunity, stepping forward with curiosity and courage, rather than holding back in hesitation. So, I encourage each of you to Carpe Diem (seize the day) and pursue every chance to learn, grow, and discover who you are.
Carpe Diem (Seize the day)
Posted: December 6, 2025 by Program Assistant
This week’s blog was written by Esther, an Ursids alum. Esther began her Academy journey as a student in 2023 and has been a part of the program ever since. She returned to field school as a Youth Mentor, and most recently, an Apprentice. Esther aspires to be a lifelong learner and would like to pursue a career in research.
The Greek philosopher Aristotle once wrote, “knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” For the longest time, I have been searching for a passion to put my entire heart and soul into. I believed that in order to begin to find my path in life, I needed a specific idea of what drove me. I have embraced opportunities in many forms, never allowing a chance for growth to pass me by. At different times, I have led quietly from behind and stood decisively at the forefront. My interests span a wide range from travel, wildlife, cooking, science, mechanical work, construction, literature, writing, art, photography, theatre, hiking, and countless others. Each pursuit offers a new window into the world and into myself.
Though I never uncovered one defining passion, I realized that this breadth of curiosity is my passion. I’ve discovered that knowing oneself does not have to lead towards narrowing down a path. Sometimes, it means embracing the curiosity that drives you toward a hundred different passions, and realizing that every experience adds another layer to who you are. Life is not meant to be lived in hesitation or fear of choosing the wrong door. It’s meant to be explored, to be tested, to be tried in every way possible.
Some of the most formative experiences arise from the ventures that initially seem unfamiliar or intimidating. As an eighth grader, I joined a student-led organization called FCCLA, founded upon the Family and Consumer Sciences curriculum. What began as uncertainty evolved into one of the most defining chapters of my life. I became a five-time national qualifier and later served as Pennsylvania’s First Vice President and Secretary. Through organizing conferences that gathered hundreds of participants, I identified a love for public speaking, leadership, and service.
Today, I am an active member of more than fifteen clubs and initiatives, each shaping my growth, broadening my perspective, and deepening my understanding of both the world and myself. I have learned that life is richest when we embrace every opportunity, stepping forward with curiosity and courage, rather than holding back in hesitation. So, I encourage each of you to Carpe Diem (seize the day) and pursue every chance to learn, grow, and discover who you are.
Category: Youth Blog Tags: education, featured, youth