One issue I noticed in my community was the lack of opportunities and support for younger students, particularly when it came to academics, leadership development, and personal growth. Growing up, I saw that many students didn’t have access to programs that encouraged confidence, creativity, or learning outside of the classroom. I was motivated to tackle this problem because I know firsthand how important mentorship and guidance can be—having adults and peers who believe in you can completely change the way you see yourself and your potential. I wanted to create spaces where students could feel supported, valued, and empowered to grow. To address this, I became actively involved in 4-H, where I started creating tutoring programs and small leadership projects for younger students. I worked closely with children to help them improve in subjects they found challenging and encouraged them to explore their own leadership skills through hands-on activities. I also organized community health and wellness initiatives, teaching students about nutrition, exercise, and self-care. These efforts allowed students to gain confidence, improve academically, and even mentor their peers in turn. Watching them step out of their comfort zones and celebrate their achievements became one of the most rewarding parts of my work. My efforts didn’t stop at individual mentorship. I collaborated with other 4-H members and volunteers to design events and workshops that could reach more students in our community. We learned how to plan effectively, divide responsibilities, and adapt when unexpected challenges arose. These experiences taught me the importance of teamwork, communication, and creativity in creating meaningful change. Looking forward, I hope to expand these initiatives by partnering with local schools and community organizations to establish more structured and ongoing mentorship programs. My goal is to provide consistent opportunities for academic support, leadership development, and personal growth for students who might not otherwise have access to them. I want every child in my community to feel seen, supported, and capable of achieving their dreams, just as I have been encouraged to do in my own journey. By continuing this work, I hope to inspire the next generation to reach their full potential and pay it forward in ways that strengthen our community as a whole.

Being a first-generation student means walking a path my family never had the chance to travel, carrying both their dreams and my own. Neither of my parents attended college, so pursuing higher education isn’t just a goal—it’s a responsibility. It’s a way to honor their sacrifices, their hard work, and the lessons they’ve taught me about faith, integrity, and perseverance. At the same time, it means learning to navigate spaces where guidance isn’t always clear and where I have to advocate for myself every step of the way. Growing up biracial in West Virginia, I often felt like I existed in two worlds, never fully belonging to either. Spending time with my white mother in Kenna and my Black father in Charleston gave me unique perspectives, but it also came with challenges. In middle school, I got my first braids and felt excited and grown on the car ride home—but the moment I walked into my mom’s house, I immediately felt out of place. I pulled my hoodie over my head to hide them, embarrassed. Over time, I learned to embrace my heritage, letting it become a source of pride. When I was crowned Fair Queen—the first biracial queen in our fair’s history—I realized breaking barriers wasn’t just personal; it was a way to inspire others. I’ve faced challenges academically, socially, and personally, but I’ve always tried to turn them into opportunities for growth. Joining 4-H at six years old, volunteering at nursing homes, serving on Student Council, and being part of Honor Society and Rho Kappa taught me resilience, leadership, and empathy. Each experience reinforced my drive to serve others, lead with compassion, and push beyond the limitations I sometimes felt as a first-generation student. This scholarship would make a real difference in my journey. It would help cover the costs of college and nursing programs, allowing me to focus on my studies, gain hands-on experience, and pursue my dream of becoming a Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). I want to combine science, problem-solving, and compassion to care for patients in critical moments, while mentoring and advocating for communities that often lack access to quality healthcare. Being a first-generation student drives me to work harder, to be the first in my family to achieve a college degree, and to create opportunities for others to follow. It fuels my determination, my resilience, and my commitment to lifting others as I climb. This scholarship wouldn’t just help me continue my education—it would help me continue my journey of serving, inspiring, and making a meaningful impact in my community and beyond.

Growing up biracial in West Virginia, I often felt like I lived between two worlds. I spent time with my white mother in Kenna and my Black father in Charleston, navigating spaces where my identity didn’t always feel fully recognized. These experiences shaped my resilience, curiosity, and determination to create a meaningful impact in every space I enter. They also inspired my interest in STEM, particularly in healthcare, where knowledge, problem-solving, and compassion intersect to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. I have chosen to pursue a degree in STEM because I am passionate about using science and technology to solve real-world problems and improve lives. My interest in healthcare began while volunteering at a nursing home, where I witnessed nurses and medical staff combine scientific knowledge with empathy to care for residents. I remember sitting with an elderly patient who was nervous about an upcoming procedure and watching the nurses calmly explain the process while monitoring her vitals. I was fascinated by the precision, critical thinking, and problem-solving that went into every decision, and I realized that STEM wasn’t just about theory—it was about applying knowledge to make an immediate, positive impact. This experience solidified my goal of becoming a Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), where I can use science, technology, and clinical expertise to save lives and advocate for patients. Being a person of color has made me aware of the importance of representation in STEM. Growing up in a mostly white community, I rarely saw professionals who looked like me in healthcare or science fields. This reality motivates me to break barriers and serve as a role model for other young Black and biracial students who aspire to pursue STEM careers. I hope to show that your background does not limit your potential and that diversity in STEM is essential for innovation, problem-solving, and compassionate care. By sharing my experiences, mentoring others, and leading by example, I aim to make STEM spaces more inclusive and welcoming for underrepresented groups. Beyond individual representation, I also plan to use my STEM education to address disparities in healthcare access. Many rural and underserved communities face challenges in receiving proper care, and I want to use my skills and knowledge to improve outcomes for these populations. Whether through direct patient care, community health initiatives, or educational outreach programs, my goal is to combine scientific expertise with leadership and advocacy to create positive change. Ultimately, pursuing a degree in STEM is not just about achieving a career—it is about creating opportunities, fostering inclusion, and using knowledge to serve others. I am driven by the belief that science and technology can change lives, and I am determined to use my education to make a difference as both a healthcare professional and a mentor. By breaking barriers, advocating for equity, and applying STEM skills to solve real-world problems, I hope to inspire others and contribute to a future where innovation and diversity go hand in hand.

Growing up in West Virginia, I often felt like I lived between two worlds. I spent time with my white mother in Kenna and my Black father in Charleston, navigating spaces where my identity didn’t always feel fully visible. While these experiences shaped my resilience and leadership, they also inspired my curiosity about the world and my desire to pursue a career in a STEM field—specifically, nursing and healthcare. I am fascinated by how science and technology can be used to solve real-world problems, improve lives, and empower communities, and my experiences have shown me that STEM is not just about formulas or experiments—it’s about understanding people and applying knowledge to make a difference. One personal experience that solidified my interest in STEM occurred while volunteering at a nursing home. I remember sitting with an elderly resident who was nervous about an upcoming medical procedure. I watched the nurses calmly monitor her vitals, explain the process, and use advanced equipment to ensure her safety. I was amazed by how much knowledge, skill, and precision was involved. It wasn’t just science; it was problem-solving under pressure, critical thinking, and quick decision-making that directly impacted someone’s life. I realized then that STEM could be a way for me to help people, combine logic with compassion, and make a tangible difference in the world. This experience motivated me to explore STEM subjects in school more deeply. Biology, chemistry, and anatomy quickly became my favorite classes because they allowed me to understand how the human body works, how diseases develop, and how medical interventions save lives. I challenged myself with honors courses and joined programs like Rho Kappa to strengthen my research and analytical skills. Through these experiences, I discovered that STEM isn’t just about memorizing facts—it’s about asking questions, thinking critically, and innovating to improve outcomes. I also learned that creativity and leadership are essential in STEM, whether it’s designing a solution for a patient, leading a team, or mentoring others to understand complex concepts. Volunteering and leadership roles have also shaped my approach to STEM. In 4-H, I learned that problem-solving often requires innovative thinking and collaboration. I organized projects that combined education and community service, such as tutoring younger students or creating health awareness programs. These experiences taught me that STEM skills can be applied beyond the classroom to create meaningful change in the community. They also reinforced my commitment to pursuing a STEM career where I can use knowledge, innovation, and leadership to improve lives. Ultimately, my interest in STEM is deeply personal. It stems from my desire to help people, to understand how systems work, and to use that knowledge to create solutions. Nursing, and specifically becoming a Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), allows me to combine science, critical thinking, and problem-solving with empathy and leadership. STEM is not just my career path—it is a way to serve my community, empower others, and make a lasting impact on the world.

Growing up biracial in a mostly white community in West Virginia, I faced challenges that went beyond the classroom. I spent time with my white mother in Kenna and my Black father in Charleston, navigating spaces where I often felt invisible or out of place. In middle school, I got my first braids and was excited to embrace my heritage—but when I walked into my mom’s house, I felt self-conscious and pulled my hoodie over my head to hide them. Moments like this made me aware of the subtle obstacles that come with feeling different. Yet, instead of letting these experiences discourage me, I used them as motivation to pursue higher education and create opportunities for myself and others. School has not always been easy. Being one of the few students who looked like me meant I often had to work harder to feel seen and heard. I challenged myself academically by taking honors courses, joining Honor Society, and becoming the first in my family to be accepted into Rho Kappa. I also sought leadership roles, serving as Class Historian on Student Council, where I reimagined how student achievements and events were shared in ways that included and celebrated everyone. Each of these steps was a challenge, requiring resilience, determination, and creativity, but they taught me the value of perseverance and the power of using my voice to make a difference. My experiences with volunteering have also shaped my perspective on giving back. Through 4-H, I learned that leadership is rooted in action, and through volunteering at nursing homes, I saw firsthand how even small acts of care can change someone’s day—or life. These experiences inspired me to pursue a career in nursing, with the goal of becoming a Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). I want to combine my education with my passion for helping others, providing compassionate care to patients and advocating for communities that often lack access to healthcare. In the future, I plan to use my education to uplift my community in multiple ways. Beyond providing direct medical care, I hope to mentor young students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, showing them that their goals are achievable no matter the obstacles. I also want to create initiatives focused on health education and wellness in underserved areas, helping families access resources and support that can improve their lives. Higher education is not just a path for personal growth—it is a tool to make meaningful, lasting change in the world around me. By overcoming personal challenges and committing to education, I have learned that resilience and creativity can turn obstacles into opportunities. My goal is to use the knowledge and skills I gain through higher education to serve others, inspire future leaders, and ensure that more people in my community have the support and opportunities they deserve.

Leadership and science are two of the most powerful forces shaping our future because they work together to solve problems, inspire change, and improve lives. Science provides us with knowledge, innovation, and tools to understand the world and address challenges, from healthcare to climate change. Leadership ensures that these discoveries are applied responsibly, ethically, and effectively to benefit communities and society as a whole. Without strong leadership, scientific breakthroughs can be misused, misunderstood, or fail to reach the people who need them most. I have seen the impact of leadership and science in my own life through my experiences in school, volunteering, and personal growth. Participating in 4-H taught me that leadership is not about being the loudest voice—it’s about guiding others, setting an example, and taking action to make a difference. Similarly, science has sparked my curiosity and shaped my career goals. Learning about biology, chemistry, and human anatomy has inspired me to pursue nursing, where scientific knowledge and leadership skills intersect every day. In healthcare, science provides the tools to treat and heal patients, while leadership ensures that care is compassionate, organized, and accessible. Together, these skills allow nurses, doctors, and medical professionals to not only save lives but also educate, advocate, and lead communities toward better health outcomes. Looking toward the future, the combination of leadership and science is essential for progress. As technology advances and new challenges arise, we will need leaders who can understand scientific innovations, make informed decisions, and guide communities in ethical and effective ways. Whether it’s improving healthcare access, addressing environmental issues, or advancing medical research, the future will be shaped by people who can combine knowledge with action. For me, pursuing a career in nursing is a way to contribute to this future. As a nurse, I will rely on science to provide the best care for my patients and leadership to advocate for them, mentor others, and make a meaningful impact in my community. By blending knowledge with compassion and action, I hope to be part of a generation that uses science and leadership to create a healthier, smarter, and more equitable world

I remember sitting in my middle school classroom, looking around and realizing that I often felt invisible. Being biracial in a mostly white school, I struggled with my identity and my place in the world. I wanted to make a change—not just in my life, but in the way I approached challenges, education, and my future. I realized that I couldn’t wait for opportunities to come to me; I had to take control, set goals, and work relentlessly toward them. That moment sparked a determination in me to create a life where I could fully embrace who I am, pursue my dreams, and positively impact others. Since that realization, I have taken intentional steps to bring myself closer to my goals. Academically, I have challenged myself with honors courses and actively sought leadership roles. I became the first in my family to join Honor Society, serve on Student Council as Class Historian, and be accepted into Rho Kappa. Each accomplishment has been a stepping stone, teaching me discipline, time management, and the value of perseverance. Beyond academics, I have dedicated myself to volunteering and community service. Through 4-H, I learned that leadership is not about being the loudest voice in the room—it is about taking action, helping others, and setting an example. Volunteering at nursing homes has shown me the importance of compassion, patience, and the impact one person can have on another’s life. These experiences have prepared me to pursue my dream of becoming a Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) and have reinforced my commitment to giving back to others. Receiving this scholarship would be a transformative step toward achieving my goals. It would provide critical financial support for my college education, allowing me to focus on learning, gaining clinical experience, and preparing for a nursing program without the constant burden of financial stress. This support would bring me closer to my goal of becoming a CRNA, where I can combine my passion for helping people with the technical skills needed to provide life-saving care in high-pressure situations. Beyond the practical benefits, this scholarship would serve as a vote of confidence in my potential, encouraging me to continue striving for excellence and to fully embrace the responsibilities and opportunities ahead. I also see this scholarship as an opportunity to pay it forward. I hope to use my education, experiences, and future career to serve others in meaningful ways. Whether it is mentoring young students who feel invisible, volunteering in community health initiatives, or providing exceptional care as a nurse, I want to lift others up just as I have been supported. I want to show that with determination, perseverance, and guidance, challenges can be overcome and dreams can be achieved. My goal is to create a ripple effect—one act of service inspiring another—so that my journey not only changes my life but also opens doors for others. Making a change in my life has never been about personal gain alone. It is about creating a path where I can fully embrace who I am, achieve my dreams, and inspire and support others along the way. Every step I have taken—from leadership roles to volunteering—has been intentional, and this scholarship would provide the next step in my journey. By investing in me, it would empower me to continue striving, learning, and ultimately giving back to my community in ways that matter.

Growing up in West Virginia, I often felt like I lived in two worlds. I spent time with my white mother in Kenna and my Black father in Charleston, and navigating between these spaces shaped the person I am today. Being biracial in a mostly white community came with challenges. I was one of the few students who looked like me, and I often felt invisible or out of place. Middle school was especially difficult when I got my first braids. I was excited at first, feeling grown and proud of my heritage, but as soon as I walked into my mom’s house, I became self-conscious. I even pulled my hoodie over my head to hide them, embarrassed by how different I looked. That moment stuck with me, but over time, I learned to embrace my braids as a symbol of pride, identity, and resilience. By the time I became Fair Queen in high school—the first biracial queen in my fairground’s history—wearing my braids became a statement of confidence and a way to inspire other girls who might feel unseen. Education has always been my guide and my anchor. History has been my favorite subject because it helps me understand the struggles and victories of people who came before me, including my family. Learning about civil rights, segregation, and the resilience of past generations made me realize the power of perseverance and the importance of representation. My school experiences—joining Honor Society, serving on Student Council as Class Historian, and being accepted into Rho Kappa—taught me that hard work, leadership, and courage can open doors not just for me, but for others who come after me. These accomplishments reflect my commitment to breaking barriers, honoring my family’s legacy, and using the opportunities I’ve been given to inspire others. I am committed to pursuing higher education because I see it as the foundation for achieving my career goals and creating a meaningful life. My dream is to become a Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). I love helping people, and the operating room is where I feel both challenged and alive, combining focus, skill, and compassion in ways that directly impact someone’s life. Becoming a CRNA requires dedication, preparation, and advanced knowledge, which is why I am determined to complete my college degree and nursing program. Higher education will provide me not only with the technical skills I need but also with the confidence and credibility to make a real difference in the lives of patients and in my community. Beyond my career goals, I want to use my degree to serve others and give back to the community that shaped me. Volunteering at nursing homes and participating in 4-H taught me the importance of service, empathy, and leadership. I have learned that helping others isn’t just about completing tasks—it’s about connecting with people, listening to their needs, and being present for them in meaningful ways. As a nurse, I plan to continue these lessons, providing care to those who may not have easy access to healthcare, educating families about their health, and serving as a role model for young girls who might one day follow in my footsteps. Higher education represents more than a degree to me; it is an opportunity to transform my dreams into action. It will allow me to step fully into my identity, pursue my passions, and equip myself to make a lasting impact. Through nursing, I hope to combine compassion, skill, and leadership to improve lives, uplift my community, and show that with perseverance and dedication, challenges can be overcome and barriers can be broken.

The first time I held a patient’s hand while volunteering at a nursing home, I felt a mix of nervousness and purpose that I had never experienced before. That simple act of connection—just sitting with someone, listening, and offering comfort—taught me that healthcare is about more than medicine. It is about empathy, trust, and human connection. That moment cemented my dream of becoming a Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), a career where I can provide critical care while also supporting patients emotionally during some of the most vulnerable times of their lives. My goal as a nurse is to combine technical skill with compassion to make a real difference in people’s lives. I am drawn to the operating room because it is fast-paced, precise, and requires complete focus, but it also provides an opportunity to care for patients when they are most in need. Becoming a CRNA will allow me to make a direct, life-saving impact while also advocating for patients who may feel invisible in the healthcare system. Beyond the operating room, I want to mentor young people in my community, especially girls who look like me, to show them that a career in nursing is achievable and that they, too, can pursue their passions in fields where they are underrepresented. Education has been a key part of shaping this goal. Through my experiences at Ripley High School—joining Honor Society, Student Council, and Rho Kappa—I have learned to lead, break barriers, and take pride in accomplishments that reflect not only my hard work but the encouragement of my family. My great-grandfather, who faced segregation and overcame obstacles in West Virginia, instilled in me the importance of resilience, integrity, and service. His lessons inspire me to use my education and skills to uplift my community and advocate for those who may not have a voice. I plan to attend college, earn my RN, and enter a nursing program that prepares me for anesthesia school. My education will give me the knowledge, technical skill, and confidence to serve patients effectively and safely. I also plan to volunteer in community health initiatives and education programs to ensure that underserved populations have access to care and information that can improve their health outcomes. By combining my professional work with volunteer service, I hope to leave a lasting, positive impact on my community, demonstrating the importance of compassion, leadership, and persistence. While I do not have a direct connection to the military, my family has always emphasized discipline, responsibility, and service—values I see mirrored in both military service and nursing. These lessons have taught me the importance of showing up for others, committing to excellence, and remaining steadfast in challenging situations. I carry these values into my studies, volunteer work, and my career goals, knowing that they will guide me as I pursue my dream of becoming a CRNA. Ultimately, my career goal is more than a profession; it is a way to serve, inspire, and empower. I want to make a difference in the operating room, in my community, and in the lives of young people who need role models. Nursing is how I plan to combine my passion, education, and dedication to create a meaningful impact that extends far beyond the bedside.

My name is Adrianna Dalton, and I am a senior at Ripley High School in West Virginia. Growing up in two different worlds—spending time with my white mother in Kenna and my Black father in Charleston—has shaped who I am and how I see the world. Being biracial in a mostly white community has taught me resilience, empathy, and the importance of representing others who may feel invisible. These experiences have also fueled my passion for leadership, community service, and helping others. School has always been a place where I challenge myself to grow. History has been my favorite subject because it helps me understand the struggles and achievements of those who came before me, including my family and community. Learning about civil rights, segregation, and resilience has inspired me to use my education to make a difference. I have pursued opportunities like joining Honor Society, Student Council as Class Historian, and Rho Kappa, often becoming the first in my family to achieve these milestones. Each accomplishment reflects my dedication to leadership and my desire to break barriers for myself and others. Outside of academics, I have been deeply involved in 4-H since I was six years old. As one of only a few Black participants, I learned how to lead in spaces where I stood out. Through 4-H, I developed skills in organization, public speaking, and community service. Volunteering has always been a core part of who I am. I have spent time helping at nursing homes, assisting younger students in school programs, and participating in local community events. These experiences have taught me that service is not just about helping others—it’s about creating meaningful connections and uplifting those around you. After high school, I plan to attend college to pursue a career in nursing, with the goal of becoming a Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). I am drawn to this career because it combines my love for helping people with the precision, focus, and responsibility of working in critical healthcare settings. I want to provide compassionate care, advocate for patients, and inspire others—especially young girls like me who may not always see themselves represented in healthcare. If I could start my own charity, its mission would be to provide healthcare access and wellness education to underserved rural communities. Many families in areas like mine face challenges in accessing medical care due to distance, cost, or lack of local resources. My organization would serve children, the elderly, and families who often go without preventative care or treatment. Volunteers would perform a variety of services, including assisting with mobile health clinics, organizing wellness workshops, offering tutoring and mentorship, and helping families navigate healthcare resources. The goal would be to empower individuals to take control of their health, provide critical services to those in need, and foster a sense of hope and stability in communities that have historically been overlooked. Through my school experiences, community involvement, and future career in nursing, I hope to make a positive impact on the lives of others. I want to combine leadership, compassion, and education to serve my community, uplift those who feel unseen, and create opportunities for growth and empowerment.

The first time I realized I wanted a career in healthcare was the night I held my great-grandfather’s hand as he struggled to breathe. He was weak, frail, and scared, and I remember feeling completely powerless. I was just a child, but the memory is still so vivid—the sound of his labored breathing, the tension in the room, the hope that somehow everything would be okay. That moment shaped who I am and what I want to dedicate my life to. It showed me the importance of compassion, presence, and skill in caring for others, especially for patients who face serious medical challenges like lung disease or rare conditions. It wasn’t just about medicine; it was about helping someone feel safe when they felt most vulnerable. That night planted the seed for my dream of becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, or CRNA. I am drawn to this career because it combines technical skill with human connection. In the operating room, every second counts, and every decision matters. I love the idea of staying calm under pressure while ensuring patients are cared for with expertise and dignity. But what motivates me most is the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives. Patients with lung disease or rare medical conditions live with constant uncertainty. I want to help them breathe easier—not just physically, but emotionally. I want to give them confidence that they are in capable hands and that someone is advocating for their safety every step of the way. My experiences volunteering and serving others have prepared me to do just that. Growing up, I spent years in 4-H, learning leadership, responsibility, and the importance of showing up for others. I was often one of the only Black or biracial participants, which could have felt isolating, but instead it taught me empathy, patience, and how to make others feel seen. Serving through school clubs like Student Council and National Honor Society reinforced those lessons. Planning service projects, leading initiatives, and helping younger students gain confidence showed me that giving isn’t just about completing tasks—it’s about touching lives and lifting people up. These experiences shaped the person I am today: someone who listens, acts with purpose, and treats others with care. I plan to focus on patients with respiratory conditions because they face unique challenges, especially during surgery. I envision myself collaborating with pulmonologists, surgeons, and respiratory therapists to design anesthesia plans that prioritize safety, minimize complications, and provide peace of mind. I also hope to educate patients and families, especially in rural communities like my own, where specialized care is limited. Understanding a condition can empower patients to live fuller, healthier lives, and I want to be the person who bridges that gap. Becoming a CRNA is more than a career goal—it is a calling rooted in my personal experiences, my family, and my desire to serve others. I want to bring comfort, safety, and hope to patients and their families. Every breath I help someone take safely will remind me of the night I held my great-grandfather’s hand and promised myself I would be someone who makes a difference. Through skill, compassion, and dedication, I hope to improve lives—one patient, one moment, and one breath at a time.

Ever since I was a kid, the “Pie in the Sky” dream I always wanted was to have the sense of fitting in. Growing up in West Virginia with divorced parents made me feel like I lived two different lives. I stayed in Kenna with my white mother and Charleston with my Black father. As one of the few biracial students growing up in Jackson County, West Virginia, I have started to feel like I’m in a space where my identity is nearly invisible. According to U.S. News & World Report, our student body is 97.7% white, with only 0.4% Black students, and in all my years, Ripley has never had a Black teacher. Even though our country desegregated after the Brown vs Board of Education in 1954, the small Black population meant full integration never really existed. Education has always been more than just classrooms for me – it became the place where I had to figure out who I was and where I belonged. Trying to navigate those two different ethnic backgrounds all my life was not easy. In Charleston, I saw many black girls wearing braids, cornrows, and other bold hairstyles that were unfamiliar to my classmates in Ripley. By the time I was a junior in high school, I had grown more confident, and when I wore braids as Fair Queen-the first biracial queen in my fairground’s history-it was no longer just a hairstyle. It was a statement of pride and growth, both for myself and for the next generation of Black and biracial girls who one day stand where I stood. Much of my strength comes from the influence of my great-grandfather and the challenges of being different. At the age of six, I joined 4-H, where year after year I was one of only a handful of black participants. That experience taught me confidence in spaces where I stood out, and eventually, my true colors of leadership rooted in action rather than blending in. At Ripley High, I became the first on my mom’s side of the family to join the Honor Society, serve on the Student Council as Class Historian, and be accepted into Rho Kappa. All these accomplishments and the many more I continue to chase in my future go back to my grandfather’s constant encouragement. He made sure to always remind me that I should strive to “be the first” in anything I do. Believing these words over the years has shaped me into someone who not only breaks barriers but carries them forward for others. Now, I am finally ready to carry that strength into college and put it to work. That little girl often felt like she only belonged halfway, but I truly believe that college is where I know I’ll find that other half. The other half that makes me see the full diverse world not only through a white rural community lense. I’m not going to lie, this new chapter makes me nervous, but it gets overcome by the excitement even more! I’m ready to step forward as the full Adrianna, proud, confident, and whole.

Growing up in West Virginia with divorced parents made me feel like I lived two different lives. I stayed in Kenna with my white mother and Charleston with my Black father. As one of the few biracial students growing up in Jackson County, West Virginia, I have started to feel like I’m in a space where my identity is nearly invisible. According to U.S. News & World Report, our student body is 97.7% white, with only 0.4% Black students, and in all my years, Ripley has never had a Black teacher. Even though our country desegregated after the Brown vs Board of Education in 1954, the small Black population meant full integration never really existed. Education has always been more than just classrooms for me – it became the place where I had to figure out who I was and where I came belonged. Trying to navigate those two different ethnic backgrounds all my life was not easy. In Charleston, I saw many black girls wearing braids, cornrows, and other bold hairstyles that were unfamiliar to my classmates in Ripley. In middle school, I got braids for the first time and felt insecure and embarrassed, knowing how different I looked. On the car ride home, I excited, feeling grown-up and mature. But as soon as I walked into my mom’s house, the atmosphere shifted, and I started to become uncomfortable. They weren’t very common in our community, so immediately I felt insecure. I even pulled my hoodie up over my head to hide them, embarrassed by how different I looked. This moment left a mark I will never forget; it was a moment I realized there really was a difference in the two worlds I was growing up in. Over time, though, I learned to embrace my braids as a connection to my heritage. By the time I was a junior in high school, I had grown more confident, and when I wore braids as Fair Queen-the first biracial queen in my fairground’s history-it was no longer just a hairstyle. It was a statement of pride and growth, both for myself and for the next generation of Black and biracial girls who one day stand where I stood. Throughout all of this, education continued to be one of my strongest constants in life. School was more than a place I went every day – it was the uplifting environment that pushed my understanding of the world and my place in it. History has always been my favorites subject because it helped me make sense of the experiences I was living. I love learning about segregation, civil rights, and resilience. History didn’t just teach me facts and timelines; it showed me the deep reasoning for why these matters, why leadership, and telling our stories is a vital learning experience that every generation needs to understand. As I continue growing, education has pointed me in the right direction. It lit this spark that pushes me to be the first, break barriers, and use what I learn to build a future where students who look like me feel seen rather than invisible. Moments like these have shaped my goals by teaching me the importance of finding my identity and representing it with the best interests. Much of my strength comes from the influence of my great-grandfather and the challenges of being different. At the age of six, I joined 4-H, where year after year I was one of only a handful of black participants. That experience taught me confidence in spaces where I stood out, and eventually, my true colors of leadership rooted in action rather than blending in. At Ripley High, I became the first on my mom’s side of the family to join Honor Society, serve on the Student Council as Class Historian, and be accepted into Rho Kappa. All these accomplishments and the many more I continue to chase in my future go back to my grandfather’s constant encouragement. He made sure to always remind me that I should strive to “be the first” in anything I do. Believing these words over the years has shaped me into someone who not only breaks barriers but carries them forward for others. Education has given me the opportunity to use what I learned and build a better future for myself, along with the younger girls who felt unseen as well. Now, I am finally ready to carry that strength into college and put it to work. That little girl often felt like she only belonged halfway, but I truly believe that college is where I know I’ll find that other half. The other half that makes me see the full diverse world not only through a white rural community lense. I’m not going to lie, this new chapter makes me nervous, but it gets overcome by the excitement even more! I’m ready to step forward as the full Adrianna, proud, confident, and whole.

My decision to pursue nursing didn’t come from one moment — it came from a lifetime of moments that shaped who I am. I grew up surrounded by people who believed in resilience, faith, and lifting others up, and those values became the heartbeat of everything I do. But the person who inspired me most was my great-grandfather. He lived through segregation in West Virginia, worked in the mines with unimaginable strength, and still carried himself with grace, integrity, and unwavering faith. Being with him, especially in his final days, changed me. Holding his cold, weak hand and watching him take his last breaths showed me what true compassion looks like. It was painful, but it was also the moment I realized how powerful it is to simply be there for someone. That experience didn’t scare me away from caregiving — it pulled me closer to it. Nursing feels like the place where my heart naturally settles. I love helping people, listening to their stories, and showing them the type of care that treats the whole person, not just the illness. Getting my CRNA certification and volunteering in healthcare environments only made that passion stronger. It taught me that patients don’t just need medicine — they need comfort, reassurance, and someone who genuinely sees them. Giving back has always been a part of my life, not because it looks good on paper but because it’s how I was raised. Through 4-H, I learned that serving your community isn’t about titles or credit; it’s about kindness, leadership, and showing up. Whether I was volunteering at the nursing home, helping younger students, or supporting local projects, I learned how powerful it is to give your time and your heart to others. As a future nurse, I want to continue giving back — especially to the communities that often go unheard or underserved. Growing up as a young Black woman, inspired by generations who fought through barriers, I understand how meaningful it is to have someone who represents you in healthcare. I want to be that person for others — someone who advocates, educates, and brings comfort to families who may feel overlooked or misunderstood. I want to use my voice, my background, and my experiences to build trust and create change, even in small ways. My goal isn’t just to work in healthcare; it’s to be a source of support, compassion, and stability for the people who need it most. I want to show patients that they are valued, that they matter, and that someone is willing to stand beside them through the hardest moments of their lives. Nursing isn’t just a career I’m choosing — it’s a way for me to honor the people who shaped me, continue the legacy of strength and compassion I was raised with, and serve my community in the most meaningful way I know how.

Growing up in West Virginia with divorced parents made me feel like I lived two different lives. I stayed in Kenna with my white mother and Charleston with my Black father. As one of the few biracial students growing up in Jackson County, West Virginia, I have started to feel like I’m in a space where my identity is nearly invisible. According to U.S. News & World Report, our student body is 97.7% white, with only 0.4% Black students, and in all my years, Ripley has never had a Black teacher. Even though our country desegregated after Brown board of Education in 1954, the small Black population meant full integration never really existed. Trying to navigate those two different ethnic backgrounds all my life was not easy. In Charleston, I saw many black girls wearing braids, cornrows, and other bold hairstyles that were unfamiliar to my classmates in Ripley. In middle school, I got braids for the first time and felt insecure and embarrassed, knowing how different I looked. On the car ride home, I was so excited, feeling so grown and mature. But as soon as I walked into my mom’s house, the atmosphere shifted, and I started to become uncomfortable. They weren’t very common in our community, so immediately I felt insecure. I even pulled my hoodie up over my head to hide them, embarrassed by how different I looked. This moment left a mark I will never forget, it was a moment I realized there really was a difference in the two worlds I was growing up in. Over time, though, I learned to embrace my braids as a connection to my heritage. By the time I was a junior in high school, I had grown more confident, and when I wore braids as Fair Queen-the first biracial queen in my fairground’s history-it was no longer just a hairstyle. It was a statement of pride and growth, both for myself and for the next generation of Black and biracial girls who one day stand where I stood. Majority of my strength comes from the influence of my great-grandfather and the challenges of being different. At the age of six, I joined 4-H, where year after year I was one of only a handful of black participants. That experience taught me confidence in spaces where I stood out, and eventually my true colors of leadership rooted in action rather than blending in. At Ripley High, I became the first on my mom’s side of the family to join Honor Society, serve on Student Council as Class Historian, and be accepted into Rho Kappa. All these accomplishments and the many more I continue to chase in my future go back to my grandfather’s constant encouragement. He always made sure to always remind me that I should strive to “be the first” in anything I do. Believing these words over the years has shaped me into someone who not only breaks barriers but carries them forward for others. Now, I am finally ready to carry that strength into college and put it to work. That little girl often felt like she only belonged halfway, but I truly believe that college is where I know I’ll find that other half. The other half that makes me see the full diverse world not only through a white rural community lense. I’m not going to lie, this new chapter makes me nervous, but it gets overcome by the excitement even more! I’m ready to step forward as the full Adrianna, proud, confident, and whole.