Donald Mehall Memorial Scholarship

I became a single father at seventeen. While most of my classmates were thinking about prom and graduation, I was learning how to soothe a newborn at 3 a.m. and juggle diaper changes between homework assignments. It wasn’t part of the plan and wasn’t easy. But becoming a dad so young and suddenly was the challenge that transformed my life. At first, the weight of responsibility felt overwhelming. I was still a kid and was now tasked with raising one. There were nights I questioned whether I’d ever be able to pursue my dreams or provide the life my son deserved. But rather than let that fear paralyze me, I used it as fuel. I committed to showing up for my son in every way possible not just as a loving parent but as a role model who would rise above adversity. Balancing school, co-parenting, and part-time work quickly taught me discipline and time management. I learned to value every spare minute, plan, and adapt when things didn’t go as expected which they often didn’t. Over time, I discovered strengths I didn’t know I had resilience, patience, and a fierce determination to create a better future for my family. That mindset carried over into my academic and career goals. I began studying mechanical engineering through Fort Hays Tech Northwest, planning to transfer to Fort Hays State University. I aim to earn my bachelor’s degree and enlist in the U.S. Air Force to provide my son with long-term stability and substantial benefits. My ultimate goal is to use my education and military experience to support my family, serve my country, and inspire my son to believe that no setback is too significant to overcome. In my journey, I’ve learned that success doesn’t always follow a straight path. Some wait years to find their “why” mine arrived wrapped in a hospital blanket. That moment forced me to grow quickly, giving my life deep meaning and direction. I’ve faced judgment, exhaustion, and uncertainty, but I’ve never lost sight of my goals. Looking back, becoming a young father could have been a setback. Instead, it became the foundation of my success. It taught me that every obstacle is an opportunity to grow, and that the most potent motivation comes not from personal ambition but from our love for those who depend on us. I didn’t lose my future through fatherhood; I found my purpose. And with that, I’m ready to keep moving forward.