Public service means doing the right thing for others because it’s the right thing to do. I believe that if you have time or a skill that can help someone, you should use it. Being part of a community means looking out for one another. I’ve learned through my own experiences that helping others not only makes a difference for them, but it also helps you grow as a person. Most of the ways I’ve served my community have been through the arts. I’ve spent a lot of time volunteering at Rabbit Run Theater. I usher for performances, help with setting up and tearing down sets, and assist with cleaning and preparing the theater for different seasons. Rabbit Run is special to me because it’s where I first found my voice. When I was seven years old, I had my first acting role in a play there. That experience gave me confidence and showed me that even I, the strange kid, had a place. It helped shape who I am today, and I volunteer there now because I want to give that same opportunity to others. Besides Rabbit Run, I also volunteer as a junior teacher with the Rockola Twirlers. I help younger kids learn routines and build their skills. It feels good to encourage them and help them grow in something they enjoy. I’ve also worked the sound board for the Fine Arts Association during performances. It’s behind-the-scenes work, but it’s important, and I’ve learned how every role matters in making something successful. Through the National Honor Society, I’ve been involved in even more service. I’ve tutored classmates and younger students who needed help in different subjects. I’ve helped with community holiday events, like creating Christmas cards for senior citizens and filling Easter eggs. These experiences have helped me see how much work goes into building a strong and connected community. All of these things have made me realize that service isn’t always about doing something big or being recognized. It’s about showing up, being reliable, and doing what needs to be done. Whether it’s helping backstage at a play or explaining a chemistry problem to someone, it matters. Looking ahead, I want to continue serving others through a career in medicine. I plan to study medicine in college and eventually become a doctor. I know this will take a lot of time and effort, but I’m motivated by the chance to help people in a meaningful way. With a medical background, I’ll be able to volunteer at health clinics, work in communities with less access to care, and support people during some of the most difficult times in their lives. I want to use my knowledge and skills to make people’s lives better. Public service has already been a big part of my life, and I want it to stay that way. I want to give back, whether that is helping to set up stages or giving immunizations. Helping others makes me feel connected to my community. That’s what public service me.