Ward Green Scholarship for the Arts & Sciences

A degree that blends both the arts and science is one you may not think of first: Interior Design. I am currently an undergraduate at the University of North Texas and I am applying for the Interior Design program. It is one of the most competitive programs to get into for the field, however UNT's College of Visual Arts and Design (CVAD) is one of the top ranked for Interior Design in the country. It blends designer's creativity when envisioning a space that tailors to their clients needs with real-world mathematic and physics application. First year students learn to hand draft construction documents where you grow an appreciation for both aspects of the career. And while Interior Design can be an amazing field to progress innovation in design and sustainability, it is also one that can be used to give back to the community. There are countless programs and non-profit organizations that utilize volunteer experience and help to build, furnish, and bring homes and spaces to life for those that struggle. Some of these organizations include Dwell With Dignity, a Dallas-based nonprofit that focuses on aiding struggling families with self-sufficiency and peace of mind when furnishing and turning their houses into homes, and Savvy Giving By Design, a national non-profit that connects professional interior designers to families with a child facing a medical crisis to transform their homes completely free. There are plenty more organizations such as the ones listed above and they all have in common the desire for people of various backgrounds, communities, and situations to have access to safe, sustainable, and comfortable living spaces. Life can be full of many unexpected surprises and twists. Some are great, and some are life-altering in ways we can never imagine or fully prepare for. And the idea of being able to alleviate at least a fraction of the stress and pain any of the families face that find themselves partaking in these programs and organizations is one that appeals to me. I want to be able to be a part of something that combines my passion for design and creating spaces that feel like comfort and home with making a positive change in the lives of those both in my community as well as across the world. In my own life I've faced a lot of changes and hardships, and the kindness of my friends and mentors as well as strangers, even if it was as simple as a smile on the bus, has led me to continue my journey to make my dreams come true. And the idea of being that person that makes an impact on someone else's life, whether big or small, is one that I want to bring to light time and time again. Thank you for taking the time to read my essay, and thank you for this opportunity.

I am passionate about pursuing a degree in culinary arts because cooking has always been an integral part of my life. From a young age, I found joy and creativity in the kitchen, experimenting with flavors, techniques, and ingredients. I believe that food has the power to bring people together, evoke emotions, and create memorable experiences. My culinary goals encompass both personal and community-oriented aspirations. On a personal level, I aim to refine my skills, expand my culinary knowledge, and master various cuisines. I want to continually challenge myself to create innovative and visually stunning dishes that not only taste amazing but also tell a story. I aspire to become a recognized chef, earning accolades and opportunities to showcase my culinary expertise on a larger scale. However, my ambitions extend beyond personal success. I am committed to making a positive impact on my community through my culinary pursuits. I believe that food can be a catalyst for social change and unity. With this in mind, I plan to establish initiatives that address food insecurity, promote healthy eating habits, and provide culinary education to underserved communities. To achieve my culinary goals, I intend to enroll in a reputable culinary school that provides a comprehensive education in both the technical and creative aspects of cooking. I will immerse myself in various culinary techniques, cuisines, and ingredients, honing my skills under the guidance of experienced chefs. Furthermore, I plan to gain practical experience by working in diverse culinary environments such as restaurants, catering companies, and even food startups. This will allow me to expand my knowledge, develop my palate, and learn to adapt to different culinary styles and demands. In terms of community contributions, I have actively volunteered at local soup kitchens and food banks, helping to prepare and distribute meals to those in need. Additionally, I have conducted cooking workshops at community centers, teaching basic culinary skills to individuals who have limited access to resources. These efforts have reinforced my belief in the transformative power of food and have fueled my determination to uplift and support my community. By combining my passion for culinary arts with my commitment to community service, I strongly believe that I can make a lasting impact. I am dedicated to using my culinary skills to advocate for positive change, promote inclusivity, and create opportunities for those who face adversity. I sincerely believe that I should be awarded this scholarship because it would enable me to further my culinary education, expand my community outreach efforts, and ultimately contribute to a more vibrant and empowered society through the medium of food.