When I think about the future, I envision a world that is more peaceful, cooperative, and connected, a world where diplomacy triumphs over division, and where diverse cultures collaborate for mutual prosperity. My goal is to be a part of that vision by working at a U.S. embassy in a Spanish-speaking country, where I can help build stronger international ties, promote cultural understanding, and encourage peaceful and economically beneficial trade between nations. I want to be a force for good, helping to make the world better, not just for my country, but for everyone we touch through diplomacy. As a first-generation college student at the University of South Carolina, majoring in International Relations and Spanish, I carry not only my own hopes and dreams but also those of my entire family. My parents have sacrificed so much to get me here. We come from a humble background, one defined by love, resilience, and determination. I remember being just 11 years old, caring for my little brother and sister while both of our parents worked long hours to make ends meet. We couldn’t afford a babysitter, so I took on the responsibility of making sure they were fed, safe, and supported. I’ll never forget the year when all we could afford for meals were chips and cheese, cutting the mold off the cheese just so I could feed them something before school. It was one of the hardest times in our lives, but it taught me strength, responsibility, and the value of perseverance. Now, years later, we have all worked hard to reach a place of greater financial stability. But we are not out of the woods yet. This scholarship would mean more than just financial assistance, it would be a lifeline. It would help relieve the burden on my parents, who have already given so much. It would also allow me to focus on my studies, pursue internships, and continue on the path toward serving my country through international service. More importantly, it would be a step toward making sure my younger brother and sister also have the chance to go to college, just like I did. My passion for cultural exchange and diplomacy isn’t just academic, it’s deeply personal. I want to help make the United States a more culturally rich and economically stable country by fostering respectful relationships with our international partners. I believe that through understanding, language, and cooperation, we can solve problems, build bridges, and promote peace. I carry with me a deep sense of responsibility, not only to succeed for myself, but for my family, and for the future I believe in. I am determined to make them proud and to help them just as they have helped me. With this scholarship, I will be one step closer to realizing that dream.

My name is Lillian Friedl, and I am currently a college student majoring in International Relations with a 3.8 GPA. I’m honored to apply for the Kalia D. Davis Memorial Scholarship, a tribute to a remarkable young woman whose life reflected the values I strive to embody: excellence, resilience, service, and joy. From a young age, sports have played a central role in my personal development. I’ve participated in wrestling, competitive swimming, track and field, and golf. Each sport has taught me discipline, mental toughness, and how to lead by example. Wrestling challenged my endurance, swimming demanded consistency, track and field pushed my physical limits, and golf sharpened my focus and patience. Sports have helped shape who I am today, someone who understands the importance of pushing through setbacks, learning from failure, and showing up with heart every single day. Beyond athletics, I’ve always felt a strong calling to serve others. Growing up in a small town, I’ve been fortunate to be part of a tight-knit church community on the town’s edge, where I regularly volunteer my time helping with events, supporting youth groups, and assisting with food drives. These experiences have grounded me in humility and compassion and taught me how powerful small acts of kindness can be. Academically and professionally, I’m driven by a desire to make a lasting impact. My goal is to work at a U.S. Embassy, advocating for American interests while building bridges with other nations. I want to be part of a future where diplomacy is driven by empathy, cooperation, and mutual respect. By majoring in International Relations, I’m preparing myself to contribute to a better, more inclusive future for our country, one built on dialogue and understanding. This scholarship would be a tremendous help not only in supporting my educational journey but also in easing the financial burden on my family. I come from a household where I’ve been fortunate to have the love and support of my parents, but with two younger siblings, I know that every dollar matters. I don’t want to be a financial burden to them as I pursue my dreams. Being awarded this scholarship would help me pay off my student loans, continue my education without interruption, and help create more opportunities for my siblings to succeed as well. Kalia D. Davis’s story deeply resonates with me. Her excellence in academics, her leadership, her work ethic, and her love for others show the kind of person I aspire to be. Her ability to balance so many responsibilities, while still uplifting others and enjoying life, is inspiring. I am moved by her legacy and would be proud to honor her memory by living with the same commitment to learning, leading, and lifting others up. Thank you for considering my application. I hope to carry forward the values that made Kalia so loved, living fully, loving deeply, laughing often, and learning always.

When I first picked up a golf club, I didn’t expect it to become such an important part of my life. I was used to high-intensity sports, wrestling, competitive swimming, and track and field, where the pace is fast, and success often comes from explosive effort and endurance. Golf, on the other hand, was slow, precise, and deeply mental. At first, it was frustrating. But I had chosen golf for that very reason: I wanted to challenge myself in a completely new way. I started golfing in high school, not because it came naturally to me, but because I wanted to grow. I wanted to build patience, focus, and mental toughness, qualities I realized I needed both as an athlete and as a person. I spent hours outside of practice working on my swing, trying to understand the mechanics of the game, and most importantly, learning to control my mindset. Through consistent effort and discipline, I earned a spot on the varsity team in my very first year. As I grew more involved, I began to see that golf wasn’t just a challenge; it was also a joy. There’s something unique about the quiet of the course, the concentration required for each shot, and the personal accountability that the sport demands. It’s not just you against your opponent, often, it’s you against yourself. I learned how to manage pressure, how to stay composed through setbacks, and how to take pride in slow, steady progress. Even after I graduated high school, golf remained a key part of my life. I make time to play regularly, not just to improve my game but because of what the game gives back to me. It’s a space for reflection, growth, and connection. I often play with my brother, and more recently, I introduced my younger sister to the sport. She's now playing on her high school golf team. Sharing this experience has brought us closer together, not just as siblings, but as teammates and friends. Seeing her enjoy and improve in the sport has been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey so far. Learning about the life of Samuel D. Hartley has only deepened my appreciation for the game and for the values it represents. Mr. Hartley wasn’t just a lifelong golfer, he was a veteran, a professional, a community leader, and a role model. His service in the U.S. Air Force during the Cuban Missile Crisis, his career achievements, and his long-standing involvement in his community show that golf was more than a sport for him, it was part of a life built on discipline, integrity, and passion. The fact that he once caddied for President Eisenhower and was inducted into the Adams County Sports Hall of Fame speaks to his dedication and the impact he had through golf. I hope to honor that legacy. Golf has helped shape who I am today, and I know it will continue to guide me in the future. I plan to keep playing, to keep challenging myself, and to help others, especially young women, discover the same confidence and focus that golf has given me. Receiving the Samuel D. Hartley Memorial Scholarship would not only support me in my academic journey, but it would also allow me to carry forward Mr. Hartley’s values and passion for the sport.

Mental health is incredibly important to me as a student, but even more so as a person. It’s something I’ve grown up understanding on a personal level due to mental health challenges in my family, and it’s become a value I carry with me in everything I do. I believe that caring for our mental and emotional well-being is just as essential as caring for our physical health and that belief shapes how I live my life and how I show up for others. As a student, mental health influences every part of my success, my focus, motivation, energy, and relationships. I’ve worked hard to build habits that support my own mental wellness, from staying active by going to the gym daily, to keeping a clean and organized environment, to eating nutritious meals that keep me energized. But mental health isn’t just something I manage for myself, it’s something I advocate for in my community every day. One of the most important commitments I’ve made is to the people around me. I go out of my way to make sure my friends, family, coworkers, even strangers feel supported, heard, and loved. Whether I’m at work, school, or out in public, I try to be the kind of person others feel safe talking to. I listen without judgment and offer kindness even when I don’t know someone well. It doesn’t take much to make someone feel seen a genuine conversation, a kind word, or just being fully present can make a huge difference. I’ve had coworkers open up to me during busy shifts, and friends come to me just needing someone to care. I always make the time, because I know how much it can matter. Advocating for mental health doesn’t always mean leading a campaign or organizing events sometimes it means quietly, consistently showing up for the people around you. It means checking in with others, noticing when someone’s having a rough day, and being the kind of friend who lifts others up. I try to lead by example and create a space where people feel comfortable being real with me, whether that’s my best friend, someone at work, or someone I’ve just met. My goal is to help create a world where people don’t feel like they have to hide what they’re going through. I believe that everyone deserves to feel valued and supported, and I want to continue being a source of that support throughout my life, whether in college, at work, or in my broader community. Mental health is not just a personal priority, it’s a shared responsibility. I will always be someone who listens, who offers compassion, and who reminds others they are not alone. That’s the kind of impact I want to make, and it's what drives me every day as I prepare for my future.

Mental, emotional, and physical health have always been priorities in my life, not just when things get tough, but every single day. Growing up, I witnessed the impacts of mental health challenges within my family. That experience left a lasting impression on me. It taught me that maintaining mental wellness isn't something to push aside or ignore, it’s something to actively protect and nurture. Because of that, I’ve made a conscious decision to make my health the foundation of how I live, learn, and plan for my future. Mental health is something I guard carefully. I believe one of the most powerful things you can do for your well-being is to surround yourself with the right people. For me, that means friends who are positive, goal-oriented, and excited about life, people who challenge me to grow and encourage me to be the best version of myself. I’ve learned to walk away from environments and relationships that drain me. I’ve also learned that protecting your peace doesn’t mean isolating yourself, it means choosing to build a community that brings you energy, not anxiety. My commitment to physical health is just as strong. In high school, I was a multi-sport athlete, participating in wrestling, swimming, track and field, and golf. Each sport taught me something different: discipline, strength, endurance, and focus. Wrestling especially pushed me mentally and physically, helping me understand how strong I could be, even when things were uncomfortable or difficult. Now that I’ve graduated, I continue to prioritize movement by going to the gym every day. It keeps me focused, boosts my energy, and gives me a sense of accomplishment and routine. Nutrition plays a big part in my overall health, too. I’m mindful of what I put into my body, and I love eating healthy, whole foods. My family and I make our own bread and sauces, and we eat a lot of vegetables and fruits. Preparing our own food isn’t just healthier, it connects us to what we eat and reminds us to be intentional with the choices we make. What we fuel ourselves with matters, our energy, focus, and mood are all affected by how we treat our bodies. Staying organized is another way I take care of my mental and emotional well-being. Life gets busy, and I’ve learned that structure brings peace. I make daily to-do lists, keep a detailed calendar for weekly and long-term goals, and maintain a clean, organized space, especially my room and my car. I believe that the way we take care of our space reflects the way we take care of ourselves. When my surroundings are in order, my mind feels clear and focused. All of these habits, choosing healthy relationships, staying active, eating well, and keeping myself organized have helped me build a life where I feel in control, balanced, and ready to take on new challenges. They’ve shaped the way I approach school, work, and everyday life. I have big dreams, and I know that I won’t get there by chance, it takes effort, consistency, and a strong foundation. Putting my mental, emotional, and physical health first has taught me to be resilient. It’s taught me to value the small, daily decisions that shape who I am. As I move forward in my education and career, I’ll continue to carry those lessons with me. I’m excited for what lies ahead, and I know I’m prepared, not just because of what I’ve achieved, but because of the mindset and lifestyle I’ve built to support me along the way.

The Giles family motto, “the two most important things are to be nice and hard working”, resonates deeply with me. Not just because it reflects how I try to live, but because I’ve learned that being nice is only a starting point. Being loving, truly caring for others and sacrificing for their well-being, is what lasts. And being hard working isn’t just something I do when things are easy; it’s who I’ve had to become to survive and succeed. Taking advanced courses like AP Spanish, IB English, IB Spanish, and IB History has taught me more than just academics. These classes pushed me past what I thought I was capable of. They forced me to grow up in the best way possible; by managing time, staying committed, and giving my best even when I was exhausted or overwhelmed. IB History challenged my thinking and taught me to look deeper into the systems that shape people’s lives. IB English taught me how to analyze and empathize, how to read between the lines, not just in literature, but in real life, too. And AP and IB Spanish opened doors to connect with people in their own language, showing me the power of kindness and understanding across cultures. These classes made me work harder than I ever had before, but they also taught me to stay grounded in compassion. I couldn’t have succeeded in them without being both nice and loving to myself, my teachers, and my classmates. Working on projects with others, helping people who were struggling, and asking for help when I needed it reminded me that success isn’t just about personal achievement. It’s about lifting others up, too. Still, none of this came easily. I’ve been helping take care of my younger brother and sister for as long as I can remember. I’ve always tried to keep our family strong, especially when things felt uncertain. My mom wasn’t able to finish college because she had me. My dad never had the chance to go. They’ve both worked so hard, harder than I can explain, to give me the opportunity to do what they couldn’t. That’s why I owe them everything, and why I feel a deep responsibility to make their sacrifices worth it. I work every chance I get, weekends, summers, any free time I can find. I constantly worry about money. Not just for myself, but for my parents. I know that college is a huge investment, and I want to finish my education not just for me, but for them. I want to walk across that stage knowing I made it without leaving behind a mountain of debt that my parents will have to pay off for the rest of their lives. Despite the financial pressure, I refuse to give up. I want to serve others one day, through public service, government, or education. I want to be the kind of leader who remembers what it feels like to struggle, who works hard, and who loves people deeply. I want to be someone who changes things, not just with policies, but with kindness and determination. Nice is important. Hard working is essential. But loving, that’s what holds everything together. That’s what my parents taught me. That’s what my advanced classes helped me strengthen. And that’s what I plan to carry with me into every chapter of my life.

As the oldest child in a family of three, I’ve been a caregiver and emotional anchor for as long as I can remember. Growing up, I helped raise my younger brother and sister, not just physically but emotionally as well. My family has a long history of mental health challenges, and because of that, my parents always emphasized the importance of emotional strength, openness, and compassion. They taught us to be resilient, but also to talk about our feelings and listen to each other without judgment. After a painful incident involving a family member, I became even more conscious of the quiet battles people may be fighting. It was a wake-up call that reminded me how important it is to check in with the people we love, not just assume they’re okay. I talk regularly with my siblings, especially my sister, to make sure they feel heard, loved, and supported. I want my sister to grow into the strong woman I know she can be, and part of that is making sure she always knows she is not alone. With my brother, even though we’re different, we’ve built a strong emotional bond. When I’m away, he makes a point to call me and open up about his life and feelings. That kind of trust is something I value deeply. Because of my family’s experiences, I’ve become more aware of others’ emotions and more intentional in how I care for people’s mental well-being. I believe that mental health is just as important as physical health, and we all deserve to feel safe, valued, and heard. In my future career, ideally in public service or government, I want to bring emotional awareness into leadership. I hope to shape policies that reflect empathy, understanding, and support for mental health resources. No matter what position I hold, I want to create spaces where people feel seen and cared for, and to help build a culture that encourages emotional honesty, especially for young people. My goal has always been simple: help others feel loved, supported, and strong enough to keep going. That’s how I live my life, and that’s the energy I will carry into my future

Leadership, to me, is not about being the loudest voice in the room, it’s about being the most committed. It’s about stepping up when things get difficult, guiding others with care, and working together toward success. I’ve had many opportunities to lead, but one of my proudest moments was through my school’s Youth and Government program. My partner and I had spent weeks developing a bill, but when the time came to present, many of our classmates were unsure and overwhelmed about their own bills. That’s when I stepped in, not just for my own bill, but for our whole team. I reviewed bills with each group from my school, helped them refine their arguments, and practiced with them so they would be confident during debate. I took time after school to walk through procedures, give advice on tone and presence, and most importantly, encourage them. As a result, about 70% of our school’s bills passed, a success that only happened because we worked together. I didn’t just take charge, I made sure everyone felt ready to lead with me. That sense of leadership carries into every part of my life. Outside of school, I’ve worked as a nanny during the summers and volunteered at my small Catholic church in South Carolina. I’ve organized children’s liturgy programs, taken on responsibilities during services, and become someone the kids can trust, confide in, and look up to. Whether it’s calming a toddler or explaining a Bible story, I lead with patience, consistency, and love. I’ve learned that leadership often looks like quiet support, not flashy titles, but showing up, every time, for the people who need you. Academically, the International Baccalaureate (IB) program has challenged me to lead in different ways. I’ve helped classmates manage overwhelming group projects, led study sessions, and kept everyone focused when things felt chaotic. Leadership in the classroom means helping others succeed, not just aiming for your own grade. I’ve had to take initiative, stay organized, and keep myself and others on track through some of the toughest academic challenges. On top of school and service, I’ve taken the lead in my own life by putting myself through college. It’s been difficult, balancing work, studies, and financial stress, but I’ve stayed grounded by surrounding myself with people who push me to grow. I’ve learned how to plan, prioritize, and persevere. These are leadership lessons I’ll carry into my future career. I plan to work in government because I believe in service. I believe leaders should lift others up, just like I’ve done in my school, my church, and my community. I want to create policies that reflect compassion, integrity, and opportunity, values I’ve learned by living them every day. Leadership isn’t about control. It’s about impact. And I will continue to lead with purpose wherever life takes me.

I was raised in a Catholic family, first in Michigan and now in South Carolina, and from a young age I was taught to look for the good in all things. My parents taught me that every person has value, no matter their stage in life, background, or circumstances. That foundation, combined with my own lived experiences, has shaped my deeply personal and unwavering belief in the dignity of all human life, especially the unborn. I didn’t learn the value of life through textbooks or political debates, I learned it through family. When my younger brother and sister were born, I became a second parent in many ways. I helped raise them, feed them, calm them when they cried, and celebrate their smallest joys. Watching them grow taught me that life begins with more than a heartbeat, it begins with potential. Every giggle, every first word, every tiny milestone was a reminder that children are not a burden; they are a gift. My pro-life beliefs deepened as I began working as a nanny. For the past few summers, I’ve cared for children of all ages, each with their own personalities and dreams just starting to take shape. I’ve learned patience, compassion, and how much impact we can have when we nurture life with love. Being a nanny isn’t just a job for me, it’s a calling. It reminds me every day that every child matters, even the ones we haven’t met yet, even the ones still waiting to be born. In today’s world, politics and media often try to blur the lines of when life begins or what lives are “worth” protecting. I may not be a scientist, but I don’t need a degree to know what I feel in my heart. That feeling, that every life has meaning, is something I will live by, always. I believe in giving every human being a chance, not just the ones already outside the womb, but also the ones who haven’t had their first breath yet. My actions reflect my beliefs. I volunteer with children at my small Catholic church, organizing activities and being a positive presence in their lives. I help neighbors by babysitting and giving parents peace of mind knowing their children are loved and safe. I speak up for the unborn in conversations with my peers, and I support pro-life efforts in my community whenever I can. One day, I hope to have children of my own. But more importantly, I hope to raise them in a world that sees their life, and every life for that matter, as something sacred and worth protecting. That’s why I will continue to advocate for the unborn, not just through words but through the way I live, work, and care for others. Every child is a blessing. I’ve seen it in my siblings, I’ve felt it in my work, and I believe it with my whole heart.

My dream is to serve in the U.S. government, not for power or prestige, but to help build a nation that lives up to its potential: economically strong, socially connected, and culturally inclusive. I believe I am worth the dreams I aspire to achieve because I have never waited for change, I’ve worked for it. I’ve fought to create it in my own life and in the lives of others, no matter how small the opportunity seemed. As the oldest daughter of three, I grew up quickly. I’ve had to be a second parent, a role model, and sometimes even the glue that held things together. I’ve moved from Michigan to South Carolina and never stayed in one place too long, but I carried my determination with me through every transition. I’ve worked summer jobs from 10 AM to 10 PM, taken rigorous AP and IB classes, and pushed myself constantly because I know my dreams are bigger than any obstacle in front of me. Service has always been at the heart of who I am. At my small Catholic church in South Carolina—one that few know by name—I’ve volunteered with the children, creating activities to engage them and give them a sense of joy and community. I’ve helped teach little kids how to swim, knowing that confidence in the water can save lives and build self-esteem. I’ve mowed lawns for neighbors who couldn’t, babysat for families in need, cleaned homes, and even helped organize 5K runs that brought the community together and raised money for good causes. None of it was for recognition, it was simply the right thing to do. It was a way to show up for others the way I hope to one day show up for this country. I love working with kids, and one of my deepest dreams is to raise a family of my own someday. I want my children to grow up in a world where they’re supported, challenged, and empowered to become their best selves. That future doesn’t just happen, it’s built. And I want to be part of building it, from the ground up, through policy, compassion, and leadership. I’ve worked too hard and come too far to let “no” be the end of any road. I believe in persistence. I believe in people. And most of all, I believe in the future of this country and my ability to make a difference in it. This scholarship would not only support my education it would be an investment in a future public servant who is ready to work, lead, and never stop believing in what’s possible.

I first picked up a golf club during my senior year of high school. Until then, I had focused on sports like wrestling, swimming, and track and field, fast-paced and physically demanding activities that rewarded intensity and aggression. Golf was completely different. It wasn’t until I joined the varsity team and qualified for the state tournament that I realized I had found something truly special. That moment, standing on the green, feeling both the weight and the wonder of the game was when I discovered my love for golf. What I enjoy most about golf is its quiet challenge. Unlike other sports I’ve played, golf requires you to be calm, patient, and precise. It’s not about how fast or strong you are, but how focused and resilient you can be. The mental discipline it demands has taught me how to handle pressure in a way no other sport ever did. When you’re having a tough round, you can’t power through it by getting angrier or more aggressive. You have to pause, breathe, and move forward with a clear mind. This has changed not only the way I play sports but also the way I approach stress in everyday life. As a female golfer, one of the unique challenges I’ve faced is overcoming the expectation that girls don’t belong on the course or can’t compete at the same level. Starting golf late in high school meant I had to work harder and faster to catch up to players who had been swinging clubs since they were kids. I poured myself into practice, studied the game, and asked for guidance from anyone willing to help. By the end of that first season, I had made varsity and earned my spot at state, a personal victory that proved hard work could outmatch experience. Golf has also become a way for me to connect with my family. I introduced my younger sister to the game, and now she’s on the high school team training to qualify for state herself. We often play with our brother, enjoying the calm of the course and each other’s company. It’s brought us closer together in a way I never expected and given us a shared passion that continues to grow. I am proud of how far I’ve come in such a short time and excited for where golf will take me next. It has not only taught me patience, focus, and resilience—it has given me a sense of belonging and purpose. Being a female golfer comes with its challenges, but it also opens the door to growth, confidence, and community. I’m grateful for what this sport has taught me and eager to keep learning, both on and off the course.

My name is Lillian Friedl, and I am a 19-year-old aspiring international relations major with a passion for cross-cultural understanding and national development. As a fluent Spanish speaker and someone who has always been deeply interested in global affairs, I believe that true progress starts at home. My goal is to strengthen the United States socially, economically, and culturally, and in doing so, build a stronger bridge between our country and the rest of the world. One of the most important influences in shaping who I am today has been my role as an older sister. Growing up, I was responsible for caring for my two younger siblings, often stepping up in ways most children my age didn’t have to. From an early age, I was helping with homework, organizing daily routines, and making decisions that required maturity and foresight. Being put in a position of responsibility so young launched me into leadership roles that I now actively seek out and thrive in. I learned how to manage conflict, communicate clearly, and be the calm presence others could rely on. That experience not only shaped my confidence but also sparked my interest in leadership and service; qualities that are now central to my career aspirations. From a young age, I’ve been fascinated by the way nations interact, the power of diplomacy, and the role culture plays in shaping identity and policy. But alongside that curiosity has always been a deep love for my own country and a desire to see it live up to its greatest potential. Too often, I’ve seen international criticism paint America as static or divided, yet I see a nation filled with possibility, diversity, and innovation. I want to be a voice that shows the world what America truly has to offer; our resilience, creativity, and openness while also showing Americans the value of learning from others. By pursuing a degree in international relations, I hope to work in a field that allows me to both represent and reshape the United States. I want to engage with global partners, build more inclusive economic strategies, and promote cultural understanding that benefits not only foreign relations, but our communities at home. One of my biggest goals is to help America grow into a more self-aware and globally-minded nation; one that acknowledges its flaws, learns from them, and emerges stronger and more united. As a bilingual speaker, I already see how language connects people beyond borders. I plan to use that skill to engage with Spanish-speaking communities around the world and within the U.S., advocating for policies and programs that uplift marginalized voices. Economically, I want to support initiatives that create fairer opportunities for American workers while fostering international cooperation. Socially and culturally, I envision programs that celebrate America’s multicultural roots and promote respectful global exchanges, especially among youth. Ultimately, I want to become a policymaker or diplomat who brings both empathy and strategy to the table. The path ahead won’t be easy, but I’m motivated by a sense of purpose that has only grown stronger over time: to make a tangible, positive impact on the world by starting here, at home. Receiving this scholarship would help me continue my education and bring me one step closer to achieving that goal. Thank you for considering my application.

My name is Lillian, and I aspire to become an ambassador to Spain and serve my country through a meaningful career in government. I have always been drawn to the idea of making the world a better, more connected place—whether through community service, cultural understanding, or international cooperation. My dream of becoming a diplomat is deeply rooted in my desire to bridge differences, promote peace, and represent the values that make our nation strong. One of the most important reasons I’m pursuing this path is because I genuinely love working to improve both the world and my local community. I believe leadership should always begin with service and compassion. That belief has guided me throughout my academic and personal journey, and it fuels my passion for foreign service—a field where decisions can have meaningful, lasting impacts on people’s lives around the world. As someone who thrives in collaborative environments and who values empathy, diplomacy feels like the natural direction for my skills and interests. Another significant part of what makes this dream so personal to me is my deep love for language and culture. I am bilingual in English and Spanish—not as a native speaker, but as someone who has dedicated years of effort to mastering a second language. Ever since elementary school, I’ve been involved in Spanish language programs, cultural immersion activities, and study opportunities that have broadened my worldview and strengthened my understanding of Spanish-speaking communities. These experiences have not only improved my fluency, but have also shaped my respect for the power of communication and cultural exchange in building meaningful international relationships. The opportunity to become an ambassador to Spain would allow me to use both my language abilities and my passion for international relations in a powerful way—to foster diplomacy, encourage collaboration, and promote mutual respect between nations. The idea of standing at the intersection of culture, politics, and human connection is incredibly exciting to me. I want to be a voice for understanding in a world that often feels divided, and I believe diplomacy is one of the most effective tools we have to bring people together. In addition to my career goals, I am strongly committed to women’s empowerment. I’ve worked with younger girls in my school and community to encourage confidence, leadership, and active participation in public service. I believe deeply in lifting others as I climb, and I want to use my future role in government to advocate for policies that advance gender equality and expand opportunities for women, both in the United States and globally. This scholarship will help me take the next step in making my dream a reality. It will support my education and allow me to continue pursuing a life devoted to service, diplomacy, and empowerment. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to share my vision, and I sincerely thank you for your consideration.

I would never think of myself as a nice person. I believe that in being nice, you let many people walk all over you. Some sayings like, "She's too nice to say anything" makes me believe that you can be take advantage of as an individual. Being taken advantage of is something that still happens to me to this day, but I am more aware of situations form what happens in the past so I can apply them to the future. This is what makes a person strong, by being able to know your limits and by setting boundaries. By setting boundaries I can come across mean and insensitive, but I believe that by prioritizing your well being is way more important than abiding by someone else's wishes. Although I do not consider myself nice, I indeed consider myself to be kind. By seeing someone struggling speaking English, someone sitting alone, or by just doing something for someone for no reason at all, I believe that this is kindness. I demonstrate kindness in not just forms of action to others but also to myself. To be kind to my soul, I try to surround myself with happy people and by doing things I love. Being you as a person is the best gift you can receive and give to the world. Something I do consider myself to be, is a hard worker. Not only do I try hard inside of the classroom, I work hard outside of the classroom. Taking care of my siblings and by helping out my parents as much as I can (especially moving into new houses almost every 4 years) I have applied myself to be able to work hard manually and by putting my brain to the test. Especially Junior and Senior year I have been working non stop to sell myself to colleges and to prove to myself that I am worth it. I have joined 4 sports (captain of one of them), multiple clubs (president of one of them), and many other extracurriculars just to prove to everyone that I am smart and not just a dumb white girl / dumb blonde. Getting up at 6 in the morning to go to the gym, then getting all of my work done and learning new things in school, to working doubles or sometimes triples every weekend I push myself to the limit to be able to succeed in life. My IB classes and my AP Spanish class helped me tremulously by giving me hard deadlines and not putting up with my nonsense. By the teachers not telling me that I did "good" on my essay they rather say "work on it". This is the push I needed to be able to find what I need to accomplish and it showed me a new goal in life, to be a hard worker and to help others see the potential in themselves. From a house, to a camper, and back, my parents have worked so hard for the life they have given me. My dad owns his own business and works like a dog. I love my dad but most times he is too focused on paying the bills through work that he rarely ever gets to spend quality time with us. I will be a first generation college student, and by seeing how much my parents work I knew that I wanted something different. My mother has gotten a second job just so she can help me with my dreams. I want to make my parents proud without being a financial burden to them.