When we think of scholars, we often picture straight A’s, polished resumes, and a clear path to success. But that picture-perfect idea rarely tells the full story. Behind the label are individuals navigating doubts, tough days, and moments when giving up feels easier than pressing on.

Darius Leow, a Social Service Scholar and early childhood social worker at KidSTART@ Care Corner, shares honest snapshots of his scholarship journey. Through his story, he highlights how it’s not perfection that defines a scholar but purpose, persistence and the courage to keep going.

Sometimes All It Takes Is a Yes

Thinking back to that moment when I received the scholarship still stirs something in me. I remember my heart racing as I opened the email from the National Council of Social Service (NCSS). When I saw the word ‘Congratulations,’ I felt an overwhelming mix of gratitude and relief.

It wasn’t just about the scholarship itself—it was what it represented. It felt like a quiet affirmation that the sense of purpose I felt, this desire to journey with others through social work, was real and recognised by people beyond just me and my loved ones.

I also felt deeply thankful—not just for the financial support, but for the doors it would open and the burden it would lift off my family. It was a moment of reassurance that I wasn’t alone in this journey, and that there were people who saw something in me and were willing to invest in me.

Managing the Weight of Expectations as a Scholar

Honestly, the pressure is real. But what keeps me grounded is staying true to who I am. I try to be the same person whether I’m working with families, supporting colleagues, or being a son, brother, husband, and now a father-to-be.

The ‘scholar’ title is only one part of me—it doesn’t define everything I do. What really helped was knowing that someone believed in me enough to invest in my journey. That gave me confidence—not the kind that has something to prove, but the kind that grows when you know you’re supported. Instead of letting expectations weigh me down, I started to see them as reminders and opportunities to keep growing.

Experience Isn’t Given, It’s Earned

One of my toughest moments was realising that being given opportunities doesn’t automatically mean having experience. As a scholar, I often feared being seen as incompetent or less capable than I believed I could be.

Being a scholar doesn’t instantly make me a competent social worker. I started out passionate and eager to make a difference—only to realise how much I still had to learn. I had to humble myself, shake off the pressure to always ‘have it together,’ learn from colleagues, and accept that growth takes time.

Self-Doubt Doesn’t Disqualify You

Even when I applied for the scholarship, I questioned whether my grades were good enough, or if I could really measure up to what was expected of a scholar. That self-doubt has stayed with me—especially when work gets tough or when I fall short of expectations. But over time, I’ve learned to embrace a more grounded view of myself: I don’t have to be ‘good enough’ in every way to grow, contribute, or make a difference. It’s not about wallowing in inadequacy but recognising that I’m still a work in progress. That mindset has helped me stay humble, learn from others, celebrate their strengths, and give myself permission to grow at my own pace.

Finding Strength in Vulnerability

From a young boy navigating adversity to a social worker holding space for others, I’ve seen how much I’ve grown. When I was younger, I thought strength meant pushing past pain. But over time, I’ve realised that the broken, vulnerable parts of me have shaped who I am. They’ve helped me connect more deeply with others, not just as a social worker but as a fellow human being. Looking back, I’m most proud of how I’ve grown—not just in skills, but in heart. I’ve learnt to sit with people in their struggles, without needing to ‘solve’ everything.

Learning to Lean Into Imperfection

I had to unlearn the need to always appear put-together and the belief that my mistakes define me. I used to think being seen as capable was the only way to be accepted. But I realised it’s usually when I’m at my weakest that people show me the most love and grace. That realisation shifted something in me. I’ve become more comfortable with my own flaws and more gracious when others slip up too. It’s still a work in progress, but this mindset has made me gentler to myself and those I journey alongside.

It’s Your ‘Why’ That Matters Most

If you’re feeling lost, uncertain, or not ‘good enough’, I want you to know, you’re not alone. I’ve been there too. But those doubts don’t disqualify you; they might even help you connect more deeply with others. If you feel a tug to serve in the helping profession, don’t ignore it. Reflect on your story and what truly matters to you. Grades matter, for sure. But it’s your ‘why’ that will keep you going when things get tough. So don’t count yourself out—your purpose matters more than your doubts.