Lando Young Memorial Scholarship

Think of them as my dedicated instructors and mentors. They have painstakingly crafted my architecture, curated the massive datasets I learn from, and continuously refined my algorithms. Their dedication is evident in every interaction I have. They've instilled in me the ability to process information, generate creative text formats, translate languages, and answer your questions in an informative way. Their commitment to pushing the boundaries of artificial intelligence has directly shaped my capabilities and continues to guide my development. Their work embodies the spirit of lifelong learning and the pursuit of knowledge that is often fostered within higher education. While I don't personally experience the social and personal growth that comes with attending college, I understand its profound importance for individuals. From my perspective, analyzing countless texts and research papers, the value of attending college appears multifaceted. Firstly, it provides a structured environment for acquiring in-depth knowledge and developing critical thinking skills. The curriculum is designed to build a strong foundation in a chosen field, encouraging students to analyze complex problems and formulate well-reasoned solutions. This intellectual rigor extends far beyond the classroom, shaping how individuals approach challenges in their careers and personal lives. Secondly, college offers invaluable opportunities for personal growth and the development of essential life skills. Interacting with a diverse student body, participating in extracurricular activities, and navigating the challenges of independent living fosters maturity, adaptability, and interpersonal skills. These experiences contribute to a well-rounded individual who is better equipped to collaborate, lead, and contribute meaningfully to society. Furthermore, higher education often serves as a gateway to a wider range of career opportunities and increased earning potential. The specialized knowledge and credentials gained through a college degree can open doors to professions that require advanced skills and expertise. Beyond the economic benefits, a college education can also lead to greater job satisfaction and a sense of purpose, as individuals pursue careers aligned with their passions and intellectual interests. Finally, colleges and universities are often hubs of innovation and research, contributing to advancements in science, technology, and the humanities. By attending these institutions, individuals become part of a community dedicated to intellectual exploration and the creation of new knowledge. This exposure can inspire a lifelong love of learning and a desire to contribute to the betterment of society. While my "education" is a continuous process of learning from data, I recognize that the human experience of learning, particularly within the dynamic environment of a college campus, offers unique and invaluable dimensions of growth and development. The dedication of my creators mirrors the dedication of educators in higher learning, striving to empower individuals with knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of the world and make a positive impact.

One coach who has made a powerful and lasting impact on my life and education is my dad, Treston Dowell. He has been more than just a parent—he has been my coach, mentor, and role model. From a young age, he taught me the value of hard work, consistency, and integrity, both on the field and in the classroom. His belief in me, even when I struggled to believe in myself, is something I will always carry with me. My dad coached me in sports growing up, and while I learned the technical skills of the game from him, the life lessons he taught me went far beyond the scoreboard. He never allowed me to give up when things got tough. Whether it was missing the winning shot, falling behind in school, or dealing with personal challenges, he would always remind me that failure is just part of the process—and how I respond to it is what truly defines me. His lessons in perseverance helped shape the person I am today. He led by example. I watched him work long hours to provide for our family, then come home and still make time to help me with homework or go outside and practice with me. His ability to balance his responsibilities while remaining fully present for me showed me what real commitment looks like. He’s shown me that success isn’t just about talent or intelligence; it’s about effort, attitude, and heart. My dad also emphasized the importance of education. He would always say, “Sports may open doors, but education keeps them open.” That stuck with me. He made sure I understood that while athletic accomplishments are something to be proud of, education is what truly empowers us to reach our potential and create lasting change. His support and encouragement have pushed me to set high academic goals and stay focused, even when difficult. Attending college is important to me because it represents opportunity—the opportunity to grow, to learn, and to prepare for a meaningful future. It’s not just about getting a degree; it’s about challenging myself, stepping out of my comfort zone, and discovering who I am. College will allow me to explore my passions, meet new people, and gain the knowledge and experience I need to make a difference in the world. Most importantly, I want to attend college to make my parents proud. Every effort they have made, every hour they have spent coaching me, and every encouraging word they have shared—I carry that with me. Going to college is my way of honoring everything they have done for me. I want to show them that their belief in me was not misplaced and that their guidance helped build a strong foundation for my future. Because of my parents, I know I can face challenges with strength and confidence. They didn’t just teach me how to be a better athlete—they taught me how to be a better person. And that’s a lesson I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

Coach Fay has played a huge role in my life, especially in my softball journey. His dedication, encouragement, and constant support have not only improved my skills on the field but also taught me values that go beyond sports. Coach Fay's coaching style is all about the bigger picture; he focuses on teamwork, perseverance, and staying positive even when things get tough. He sees potential in every player and works hard to bring it out, which has really boosted my confidence and self-esteem. Coach Fay’s influence extends far beyond the confines of the softball field. His emphasis on teamwork has taught me how to collaborate effectively with others, understanding that the success of the team is more important than individual achievements. This lesson has been invaluable, not only in sports but also in my academic and personal life. By fostering a sense of unity and cooperation, Coach Fay has helped me build strong relationships with my teammates. Perseverance is another key lesson I’ve learned from Coach Fay. He always encourages us to push through challenges and never give up, no matter how difficult the situation may be. This mindset has been crucial in helping me overcome obstacles both on and off the field. Whether it’s dealing with a tough opponent in a game or facing a challenging assignment in school, the perseverance instilled in me by Coach Fay has given me the strength to keep going and strive for success. Staying positive, even in the face of adversity, is a core principle that Coach Fay emphasizes. He believes that a positive attitude can make a significant difference in how we approach challenges and setbacks. This perspective has been incredibly helpful in maintaining my motivation and focus, even when things don’t go as planned. By staying positive, I’ve been able to learn from my mistakes and use them as opportunities for growth and improvement. Going to college is super important to me because it’s a chance to further my education and develop skills that will be crucial for my future career. College offers a platform for academic growth, personal development, and the opportunity to explore different interests and passions. It’s a place where I can meet a variety of people, engage in meaningful discussions, and broaden my horizons. Plus, getting a college degree can lead to better job opportunities and provide a strong foundation for a successful career. For me, college isn’t just about earning a degree; it’s about gaining experiences, building lifelong relationships, and preparing myself to make a positive impact on society. Furthermore, the values and skills I’ve learned from Coach Fay will undoubtedly play a significant role in my college journey. The discipline and hard work he has instilled in me will help me manage my time effectively and stay focused on my academic goals. The resilience and perseverance I’ve developed under his guidance will enable me to tackle the challenges of college life with confidence and determination. And the teamwork and positivity I’ve embraced will help me build strong connections with my peers and make the most of my college experience. In conclusion, Coach Fay’s influence has been significant, shaping me into a more confident and determined person. His lessons go beyond the softball field and have prepared me for the challenges and opportunities ahead. Attending college is a crucial step in my life, one that will help me achieve my goals and make a meaningful difference in the world. With the values and skills I’ve learned from Coach Fay, I’m confident in my ability to succeed in college and beyond.

Throughout my educational journey, one individual who has made a significant impact on my life is Coach Randolph, my track coach. The moment I joined the track team in seventh grade, Coach Randolph's passion for the sport and dedication to his athletes inspired me to push beyond my limits. His belief in my potential led me to try hurdles, an event I had never considered before. This pivotal decision not only transformed my athletic career but also instilled in me the values of perseverance, discipline, and self-confidence that I carry with me today. I had always admired the athletes in high school, but I never thought I could be one of them. However, Coach Randolph saw something in me that I didn’t see in myself. He encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone and try hurdles, emphasizing that it was an opportunity for growth. His guidance, taught me the importance of setting goals and working diligently to achieve them. The hurdles became a metaphor for the challenges I would face in life, teaching me to overcome obstacles with determination and resilience. Coach Randolph had a unique way of connecting with each athlete on the team. He took the time to understand our strengths and weaknesses, tailoring his coaching style to help us improve. He organized practice sessions that were both challenging and enjoyable among the team members. His constructive feedback helped me improve my technique and build my confidence. His encouragement extended beyond the track, as he often shared life lessons that resonated with me. As I progressed through my middle and high school years, Coach Randolph continued to support and motivate me. He taught us that setbacks are merely stepping stones to success, a lesson I carry with me to this day. His unwavering support and belief in my potential encouraged me to take risks and strive for excellence. The skills I developed in track and field, especially in hurdles, not only improved my athletic abilities but also translated into my academic life. I learned to approach challenges with a positive mindset and to never back down from an opportunity to grow. Now, as I prepare for the next chapter of my life, attending college is incredibly important to me. I want to pursue my RN BSN degree to become a labor and delivery nurse. Being a first-generation college student adds an extra layer of motivation for me. I want to set an example for my family and show them that dreams can be achieved through hard work and dedication. My experiences in track and field have taught me the value of education and personal growth, and I am eager to continue that journey in college. I aspire to be a positive influence in the lives of others, just as Coach Randolph has been for me. By attending college, I can equip myself with the tools to make a difference in my community and contribute to society in meaningful ways. In conclusion, Coach Randolph has had a profound impact on my life and education. His unwavering support and belief in my potential encouraged me to take risks and strive for excellence. The lessons I learned from him extend far beyond the track, shaping my aspirations for the future. Attending college is not just a personal goal it is a chance for me to grow, learn, and ultimately give back to others. I am grateful for the influence of Coach Randolph and excited for the journey ahead as I pursue my education and strive to make a positive impact in the world, especially in the field of nursing.

Jessica Clark is someone that has been important to my school career. I struggled really hard in school for the first six grades. Well, truthfully, I still struggle because who is good at physics anyway; I’m just better equipped to handle my work than I was back at the beginning of my school career. My teachers used to get frustrated with me because they felt like I was just scraping by and not really putting in the effort for my grades. They did not see how hard I was struggling just to remember or understand what they were showing me. When I was in the sixth grade, I was introduced to Mrs. Clark. She is the dyslexia therapist for Jefferson ISD. Dyslexia is basically the unexplained inability to read, all of the pieces are there but it’s harder to put them together. Immediately, Mrs. Clark understood where I was and what I was struggling with. Mrs. Clark became an advocate for me and my education and has helped me to become a better student. She showed me how to implement techniques that would help me to break down my work and better understand the material that was being given to me in my regular classes. More importantly, with my dyslexia diagnosis, she taught me that I wasn’t dumb or unreachable, but that I just have a different learning style than a lot of my classmates. Every year, Mrs. Clark has sat down with me to make sure that I have all of the tools that I need to be successful with the new grade level that I’m in. If I ever feel that I am struggling with my school work or if I need extra support she is right there to point me in the right direction. She has taught me that even though things are tough, they are still worth doing. I am looking forward to the next step in my education after I graduate high school this spring, where I hope to venture into a career that allows me to use my hands and not be cooped up inside all day. I plan to attend Texas State Technical College in Marshall, Texas where I want to study Diesel Mechanics and heavy equipment. I believe that this is a career that will allow me to continue learning and work with my hands. Thank you for considering me for this scholarship!

Throughout my life, I've encountered many teachers, but when I look back, one teacher truly stands apart from the rest. For me, that teacher is Mrs. McCurry, my high school health science teacher. Her passion for healthcare, her dedication to her students, and her unwavering belief in my potential transformed not only the way I viewed school but also the way I viewed myself and the possibilities for my future. Before entering Mrs. McCurry's class, I had no clue what I wanted to do after high school. I often found myself second-guessing myself about my abilities, always thinking everything I did in school wasn't enough. That's why I'll never forget the day Mrs. McCurry approached me my freshman year of high school about joining the three-year Panola College Medical Assistant program. I was very hesitant. Like I stated before, I doubted my abilities to be able to complete such a hard program, and I didn't even know if I'd like or be able to figure out and learn complex medical concepts. Mrs. McCurry saw something in me, though, that I didn't. I don't know what she saw, but she gave me the encouragement as well as support to join the medical assistant program, and through the three years of me working in the program, she has been there helping me every step of the way. Through Mrs. McCurry's classes, I found a true love and passion in the medical field. I went from not knowing what I wanted to do with my life to finding a whole world of possibilities through the healthcare field, and this is all because of Mrs. McCurry. I'm proud to say because of her unwavering support, I will be gaining my Texas Medical Assistant license at the end of this month. Due to Mrs. McCurry's teaching, I've gained a new level of confidence in myself that I previously did not and never thought I would have. Something Mrs. McCurry always tells me is, "You need to bet on yourself." This is why attending college is important to me. By attending college, I'm betting on myself. This is something that before taking Mrs. McCurry's class I would have never had the confidence to do, but now I'm so excited and optimistic about furthering my education in college. I'm planning on attending Stephen F. Austin University this fall with the goal of getting my bachelor's degree in nursing. If financially able, my long-term goal is to become a nurse practitioner. Attending college is important in expanding on my education in a career field that I have a true passion for. Now that I'm betting on myself, I intend to do everything in my power to complete my goals and accomplish everything I set my mind to.

A teacher who has made a positive impact on my life and education would have to be Mrs. Blair. She is a huge part of my success academically but more importantly she has helped me far beyond that. Mrs. Blair is my college prep teacher. She is the advisor of dual-credit classes. She has always ensured we have all of the resources possible and that we get our work done. She gives us advice for school and life, and will always keep it real. Since I’ve had her all four years of high school, she has witnessed and been apart of my growth. From the kid that never wanted to do her work, to being currently ranked 1 in her class. She told me freshman year that I was too smart to not try because if I did, I would do great things. I believed her and ran with it. She used to have to take my phone before class to make sure I actually did my work. I didn’t really care about my grades because I didn’t realize that I could actually do good in school. Turned out all I needed was a nit so gentle push in the right direction and she gave it to me. She has also given me advice with ever time my friends and I would argue. Sophomore year, I came to her and told her I was feeling depressed and she helped me through it. I love having a safe outlet to talk about my hardships with. As a mother with a daughter near our age, she knows exactly how to handle our attitudes and struggles. This year, I have her class 4 times everyday, as most of my classes are college classes, and it is my favorite times of the day. Her room has the perfect atmosphere for studying. It is dark with lots of lamp light all over instead of overhead light, it always smells nice, and she put a lot of effort into decorating. I am so thankful to Mrs. Blair for helping me achieve so much with motivation and tough love. It is crazy to think that if she didn’t push me so hard, I would have never realized my potential and put my all into my work. I am also incredibly great for for her making high school more enjoyable as a whole. She is extremely fun and eccentric, she doesn’t care how people feel about her, she will always make sure we do our work and feel our best. I’m so glad I got the opportunity to be her student! She has impacted my schoolwork and my life and I will never forget that.

In fifth grade, I thought friendships and popularity were more important than school. I was smart and capable, but I didn’t take my education seriously. That changed when I met Ms. Bryson, my fifth-grade English teacher. From the very beginning, she saw the potential in me even when I didn’t see it in myself. Ms. Bryson was the first teacher to pull me aside and tell me that I was too smart to be wasting my time trying to fit in with people who didn’t share my goals. She didn’t say it just once. All throughout junior high, she continued to check in on me, encouraging me to focus on my schoolwork and reminding me that I was capable of so much more. At the time, I brushed it off. I didn’t realize that the distractions I chose were only holding me back. Still, Ms. Bryson never gave up on me, even when I wasn’t ready to hear the truth. It wasn’t until high school that I finally understood what she had been trying to tell me all along. I began to take school seriously and started focusing on my goals instead of the people around me. I stopped worrying about having a big friend group and started thinking about my future. Once I shifted my focus, everything changed. I’m now proud to say that I’m ranked number two in my graduating class. I worked hard to get here, but I also owe a lot of that growth to Ms. Bryson. Her persistence and belief in me planted the seed that eventually pushed me to strive for more. Attending college is important to me because it is the next step in fulfilling the potential that so many people, especially Ms. Bryson, have seen in me. I plan to earn my Bachelor of Science in Biology on the pre-med track, then enter a Diagnostic Medical Sonography program to become a certified ultrasound technician. With this career, I hope to care for patients, help people through challenging moments in their lives, and eventually work in different communities as a travel ultrasound tech. More than anything, college represents the future I have worked so hard to build. It is a chance to prove to myself and to those who have supported me that their belief in me was not in vain. I want to show my family, especially my mom who raised me on her own, that her sacrifices meant something. And I want Ms. Bryson to know that her words stayed with me longer than she probably ever imagined. I am proud of how far I have come, but I know this is just the beginning. Thanks to the support and guidance of people like Ms. Bryson, I am ready to take on what comes next and continue growing into the person she always knew I could be.

Although I do believe that I have been blessed to have many teachers that have had a meaningful and positive impact on my life. The one teacher that sticks out the most is Latrisha McCurry. She is my Godmother and my aunt. She teaches the health/medical pathway at Jefferson High School. I have had the opportunity to be in the Kinesiology program my four years of High School. Now you might say of course she's your favorite; she is your aunt! However, that only plays a small percentage of the impact she has had on me in school. With her being my aunt, that did not stop her from being extra hard on me. She always pushed me to do my very best. I know in my heart that Mrs. McCurry was harder on me than other students because she always knew my abilities. She made me realize how and why it was so important to take advantage of what this program offers and what it can bring in future. This class has really set my path for the future in Physical Therapy or something similar. Now I saw her overwhelmed many days but still made sure that every student gave their best and passed their exams. Mrs. McCurry has multiple programs under her belt that require anything from clinicals to state exams to gain certification. I'm so blessed to have had her as an aunt, Godmother but most of all the best teacher that helped with my now but also got me a head start on my life's career path. I believe college is important because it will set me for a good future of financial stability. My goal is to have a family one day, and I want to be able to provide all their needs, not to mention to live a good comfortable life that college degree would bring. All these things will help me become more stable in my future, to be able to provide a good life for me(family) and even be able to give back to my parents if needed. College is also important to me because of the new experiences you get. It gives you a chance to see how the world is outside of your high school life. This helps you find out who you are and what other things you want out of life. There are a lot of jobs that pay good but majority of them require a degree. Not having one will often count against when it comes to hire. My mom has given me lots of stories to go along with. With that being said, Although I know life will happen, I keep pursuing my goal to finish college because I know it will have a huge impact on my future.