Life is full of challenges, but wrestling has taught me that adversity is not something to fear—it is something to embrace. Before I stepped onto the mat, I saw adversity as an obstacle, something that held me back. But through years of training, competition, and personal battles, I have learned that adversity is the key to growth. Wrestling has not only changed the way I approach setbacks in my sport but has also shaped how I handle struggles in my personal life, including my battle with depression. Depression is a fight that does not take place under bright lights or in front of a crowd. It is a silent opponent that makes even the simplest tasks feel impossible. There are days when getting out of bed feels harder than any match I have ever wrestled. Some days, I question my worth, my strength, and whether I have what it takes to keep going. But wrestling has taught me that pushing through the pain—both physical and mental—is what builds resilience. Just like in a tough match where I might be down on points, I have learned that giving up is never an option. Every takedown, every grueling practice, and every moment of exhaustion has conditioned me to keep fighting, even when my mind tells me to stop. The lessons wrestling has taught me extend far beyond the mat. In every match, there are moments where I feel like I have nothing left to give, but I dig deep and keep fighting. That same mindset has helped me push through my darkest moments. I have learned that pain is temporary, and as long as I keep moving forward, I can overcome anything. Wrestling has shown me that adversity does not mean failure—it means growth. When I struggle with depression, I remind myself that just like in a match, I can fight my way back no matter how tough things get. Adversity in wrestling has also shaped my hopes for the future. I know that life will not always go my way. There will be setbacks, losses, and moments where I feel like I am not enough. But instead of fearing those moments, I now see them as opportunities to grow. Wrestling has shown me that the struggles I face today are building me into the person I need to become. Whether it is achieving my goal of winning a state championship, graduating with a 3.0 or higher GPA, or making a lot of money in the future, I know that nothing worth having comes easy. Adversity is not my enemy—it is my greatest teacher. Because of wrestling, I no longer see adversity as something that defines me in a negative way. Instead, I see it as proof that I am strong enough to handle whatever comes next. Wrestling has instilled in me a mindset of perseverance, teaching me that setbacks are temporary, but the lessons learned from them last forever. No matter how difficult things get, I know that as long as I keep fighting, I will never be defeated. Like my father once said, “If you can wrestle, you can do anything.”

High school is often described as the time when students discover their potential and set the foundation for their future. For me, it was a time of self-reflection and resilience. While I didn’t always perform at my best academically, the challenges I faced during those years became the catalysts for my determination to succeed as I prepare to enter college. One of the greatest hurdles I encountered in high school was finding my sense of purpose. Like many students, I struggled to juggle academics, extracurricular activities, and personal challenges. At times, it felt overwhelming to meet the expectations of teachers, peers, and family while figuring out what I truly wanted for myself. My grades often fluctuated, not because I lacked ability, but because I lacked focus. It was easy to let setbacks define my journey, but I eventually realized that every challenge could be an opportunity to learn and grow. One of the turning points came when I joined the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Club and became its Vice President. This role introduced me to the power of mentorship, accountability, and leadership. Being part of an organization that emphasizes education, responsibility, and character development helped me see beyond my struggles. I learned that my journey wasn’t just about academic success but about personal growth and the impact I could have on others. Working with mentors and younger members of the club showed me the importance of perseverance and self-discipline, qualities I began to apply to my schoolwork and personal life. Another challenge I faced was finding balance. Like many students, I had to learn how to prioritize my time and energy. Balancing academics with my responsibilities as a club leader and striving to excel in sports helped me understand the value of organization and time management. These skills didn’t come naturally, and I had to learn through trial and error. While I may not have always achieved perfect results, the process taught me resilience. Now, as I look ahead to college, I am filled with excitement and a renewed sense of purpose. College represents a fresh start, a chance to redefine myself and take control of my future. I am eager to embrace the challenges and opportunities that come with this new chapter. For me, college is not just about earning a degree; it is about developing the skills, knowledge, and experiences that will allow me to make a meaningful impact in the world. One of the reasons I am so excited about college is the opportunity to explore my interests in depth and discover new ones. In high school, I sometimes felt confined by the limitations of the curriculum. College offers a world of possibilities, from diverse courses to internships and networking opportunities. I plan to take full advantage of these resources, immersing myself in classes that challenge and inspire me while seeking mentorship from professors and professionals in my field of interest. Additionally, I am determined to make the most of college by getting involved in campus life. Whether it’s joining student organizations, taking on leadership roles, or volunteering in the community, I want to be an active participant in my college experience. I’ve seen firsthand through my high school involvement how meaningful connections can shape a person’s journey, and I am excited to build a network of peers and mentors who share my passion for growth and achievement. College also provides an opportunity to develop independence and responsibility. I am ready to embrace this challenge by setting clear goals for myself and holding myself accountable. Whether it’s maintaining strong grades, building professional skills, or stepping out of my comfort zone, I am committed to giving my best effort every step of the way. While my high school experience may not have been perfect, it has taught me valuable lessons about resilience, determination, and the power of a fresh start. I am grateful for the challenges I have faced because they have prepared me to succeed in college and beyond. I am ready to take this next step with an open mind, a hardworking spirit, and a commitment to becoming the best version of myself.

The Inspiring Journey of My Mother and My Dream of Nursing Growing up, I witnessed my mother exemplify resilience, compassion, and dedication. Her journey from a hardworking nurse to a respected teacher for nursing students in Florida has been a source of unending inspiration for me. It is her unwavering commitment to helping others that has ignited my desire to pursue a degree in nursing and dedicate my life to making a difference in my community. As a child, I often saw my mother come home late at night, visibly tired and exhausted after long shifts at the hospital. Her work demanded not only physical stamina but also an immense emotional strength. Despite the challenges, she never complained. Instead, she would spend her evenings ensuring that our family was cared for before finally allowing herself to rest. Watching her juggle the demands of work and home life taught me the value of perseverance and sacrifice. Over time, my mother’s career evolved. Determined to make a greater impact, she pursued further education and became a teacher for nursing students. Her transition from bedside care to education was awe-inspiring. She not only passed on her knowledge and skills but also her passion for nursing to the next generation. This transformation showed me that nursing is not just a job—it is a calling that requires a deep commitment to others and a lifelong willingness to grow. My mother’s dedication to her patients and students planted a seed of purpose within me. I realized that nursing is not just about administering treatments; it is about healing, comforting, and being a beacon of hope for those in need. Watching her balance strength and empathy has given me the determination to follow in her footsteps. I want to become a nurse so that I, too, can contribute to the well-being of my community. Like my mother, I aspire to help people during their most vulnerable moments and play a role in saving lives. Nursing offers an incredible opportunity to bridge gaps in healthcare, advocate for patients, and provide care with dignity and compassion. My mother’s journey has taught me that success is not just about personal achievement—it is about lifting others up and making a lasting impact. Her story fuels my ambition to pursue a nursing degree and, one day, perhaps even educate future nurses, as she has. Through her, I have learned the importance of resilience, empathy, and the transformative power of education. In honoring my mother’s legacy, I am motivated to carry forward her spirit of service and dedication. Nursing is more than a career; it is a chance to touch lives, just as my mother has touched mine. I am ready to embrace the challenges of this noble profession, knowing that, like her, I can rise above them to make a difference.