Its been 4 years 4 years ago I took over four times the safe dose of acetaminophen 4 grams is the limit for an adult to take within 24 hours I took 16.5 grams, not milligrams Grams I knew what I was doing I knew I was going to call the ambulance after I knew it could kill me Its been 4 years 4 years of advocating for myself 4 years experiencing what I would have missed I would’ve never been able drive, have a job, go to college, go to prom. I would never take back what I did But I would never do it again I avoid acetaminophen at all costs, Ibuprofen has reigned supreme for period cramps and migraines I learned how to speak up for myself, without being ashamed. Its not shameful. Its courageous. I hate following the rules. It is an imprudent act to blindly follow and subject ourselves to the established restrictions and standards, so I am in a constant search of loopholes and ways to escape the rules I am locked into; many call this defiance, but I prefer to view this rebelling as a force of change and advocacy. I was never happy with myself until I recognized the power of this so-called disobedience. It is not a mere rejection of common principles, but the appearance that the standard rejects me. The perceived societal rejection began as I compared my family dynamic to my peers, who mostly consisted of well-rounded nuclear families while I had a mom who was fifteen years younger than theirs and a dead father. My mother and I found refuge with the outliers of other teen moms and divorcees, igniting my refusal of normal before I learned how to ride a bike. The perception of my family dynamic was the catalyst of my irritability and occasional isolation from the status quo, but the desire to declare my issues with the standard. During my short time at St Ursula, I was very active in student government, while being nominated for both the student council and diversity advisory committee, I felt negligent to myself and other students by remaining idle on the issue of homophobia and the stemmed isolation within the school. I went against the Catholic values of the school and launched a petition to establish a gay-straight alliance; before gaining the traction of over nine hundred signatures, the vulnerability of repercussions shook me to my core; I was breaking more rules than I had before, both written and implicit. Nonetheless, I utilized my strong points to keep fighting for change, my stance within student government gave me the proper platform and resources to communicate with students and administration to successfully establish a space of inclusion for queer students within the Catholic institution. While I did not remain at St Ursula my skills of advocacy followed. I make an effort to take note and comment on the injustices found in casual conversations and on the misuse of power within the community. While I try my best not to get in trouble, I make an effort to get caught in the name of change. While rules allowing abuse, exploitation, and isolation of others will continue being created and upheld it is my hope there will always be another rulebreaker to compete against them.

Four years ago, I made a reckless decision that could have cost me my life. I took over four times the safe dose of acetaminophen, knowing the potential consequences. I understood that I would need to call an ambulance and that I was risking my life. The reality of my actions set in as I waited for the ambulance, fearing for my life. This experience has shaped my relationship with addiction and mental health, as well as my understanding of the impact it has on families and communities. In the aftermath of my own overdose, I have spent the past four years advocating for myself and experiencing all that life has to offer. I would have missed out on so many opportunities had I not been able to drive, work, go to college, or even attend prom. I learned how to speak up for myself and seek out the resources I needed, without feeling ashamed or stigmatized. I found the courage to face my struggles head-on, and that has made all the difference in my journey to recovery. This experience instilled in me a deep desire to pursue a career in medicine. I want to make a difference in the lives of those who are struggling with addiction and mental health issues, just as I once did. I want to help individuals and families navigate the complexities of these issues and provide them with the support and resources they need to heal and thrive. I believe that everyone deserves access to quality mental health care and support, regardless of their background or circumstances. My journey has not been without its challenges. I hate following the rules and find joy in searching for loopholes and ways to escape the restrictions and standards I am locked into. This rebellion is not just about rejecting common principles, but about feeling rejected by the standard. This perception began as I compared my family dynamic to my peers, who mostly consisted of well-rounded nuclear families while I had a younger mother and a deceased father. This comparison fueled my irritability and occasional isolation from the status quo. During my time at St. Ursula, I was active in student government, and I felt negligent in remaining idle on the issue of homophobia and the stemmed isolation within the school. I went against the Catholic values of the school and launched a petition to establish a gay-straight alliance. Before gaining traction with over 900 signatures, the vulnerability of repercussions shook me to my core. I was breaking more rules than ever before, both written and implicit. Nonetheless, I utilized my strong points to keep fighting for change, and my stance within student government gave me the proper platform and resources to communicate with students and administration to successfully establish a space of inclusion for queer students within the Catholic institution. My skills of advocacy have followed me since leaving St. Ursula. I make an effort to take note and comment on the injustices found in casual conversations and on the misuse of power within the community. While I try my best not to get in trouble, I make an effort to get caught in the name of change. While rules allowing abuse, exploitation, and isolation of others will continue being created and upheld, it is my hope that there will always be another rulebreaker to compete against them. Overcoming my struggles with addiction and mental health has not been easy, but it has made me the person I am today. I have learned the value of speaking up and advocating for myself

The United States was founded on principles of independence and freedom, and it is these principles that have been upheld and protected by the brave men and women who have served in the military. Veterans have demonstrated great courage in their fight for the overall safety and financial security of the country. They have made tremendous sacrifices, putting their lives on the line to defend the freedoms we all cherish. However, despite their bravery and dedication, many veterans are being mistreated and undervalued, particularly when it comes to mental health support and rehabilitation after their service. The statistics are alarming: according to the 2021 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report, veterans' suicide rates are 52.3% higher compared to non-veterans in the US adult population. This crisis is exacerbated by shame, stereotypes, and limited access to education. The obstacles that veterans face when seeking treatment for their mental health issues are a real and pressing issue that must be addressed. It is essential to recognize and validate veterans, and gestures of appreciation, such as providing free donuts and coffee on Veterans Day, do not suffice. The younger generation, who have not experienced the initial 9/11 tragedy firsthand, have been exposed to diverse forms of trauma and military violence, both domestically and internationally, leading to apathy and disregard for our veterans. This apathy is concerning, as it has become normal to expect protection from our military while offering them only symbolic appreciation. To truly honor our veterans and provide them with the support they require and deserve, the mental health crisis must be addressed. This necessitates changes in our healthcare systems and schools. Early advocacy efforts, combined with adequate preparation and education regarding the reality of mental health and the associated stigmas, can encourage veterans to seek help. The National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report from 2020 highlights that the highest age group for suicide is between 18-34, indicating that all veterans, including younger generations, require better support than is currently available. It is important to note that not all veterans have participated in combat or witnessed fatalities firsthand. However, all veterans deserve to be treated with the standard of care they put forth while in the military. To address this issue, society must recognize the sacrifices made by our veterans and make a concerted effort to support them in every way possible. This includes providing better access to mental health care, education, and job opportunities. In conclusion, the United States owes a debt of gratitude to our veterans, who have sacrificed so much to ensure our freedom and independence. It is our responsibility to recognize and validate their contributions, and provide them with the support they need to lead happy and fulfilling lives after their service. Mental health care is a critical area where we must do better, and it is time for society to take action and provide the support our veterans deserve.

Four years ago, I made a life-altering decision to take over four times the safe dose of acetaminophen. As I knew what I was doing, I also knew the potential consequences of my actions. The experience was an eye-opener, and it has completely transformed my perspective on addiction and mental health. It has also made me aware of the impact these issues have on families and communities. Growing up, addiction was a part of my life. My father died of an overdose when I was just two years old, and addiction-related issues claimed the lives of my grandmother and uncle. My stepfather has also been struggling with addiction and is currently seeking help. The impact of addiction on my family has been immense, leaving us all with lasting scars that we continue to grapple with. My mother even went to rehab after my twin sister passed away when she was only 18. Since my overdose, I have spent the past four years advocating for myself and experiencing everything life has to offer. I would have missed out on countless opportunities had I not been able to drive, work, go to college, or attend prom. My experiences have taught me how to speak up for myself and seek out the resources I needed, without feeling ashamed or stigmatized. Facing my struggles head-on with courage has been key to my journey of recovery. My experiences have instilled in me a deep desire to pursue a career in medicine. I am driven to make a difference in the lives of those who are struggling with addiction and mental health issues. I want to help individuals and families navigate the complexities of these issues and provide them with the support and resources they need to heal and thrive. I believe that everyone deserves access to quality mental health care and support, regardless of their background or circumstances. In my pursuit of this goal, I am keenly aware of the challenges that lie ahead. Addiction and mental health issues are multifaceted and complex, requiring a nuanced understanding of both the biological and environmental factors that contribute to them. As a student in the field of medicine, I am committed to developing the knowledge and skills necessary to meet these challenges head-on. I have already taken steps to prepare myself for this journey. I have enrolled in courses on addiction and mental health and have volunteered with organizations that provide support and resources to those in need. I have also sought out mentors in the field of medicine who have shared their insights and experiences with me. Ultimately, I am driven by a desire to make a positive impact in the world. Addiction and mental health issues affect millions of people, and I want to do my part to help them heal and overcome the challenges they face. I am grateful for the experiences I have had and the lessons they have taught me. And I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead as I pursue my goal of a career in medicine.

Four years ago, I made a life-altering decision to take over four times the safe dose of acetaminophen. As I knew what I was doing, I also knew the potential consequences of my actions. The experience was an eye-opener, and it has completely transformed my perspective on addiction and mental health. It has also made me aware of the impact these issues have on families and communities. Growing up, addiction was a part of my life. My father died of an overdose when I was just two years old, and addiction-related issues claimed the lives of my grandmother and uncle. My stepfather has also been struggling with addiction and is currently seeking help. The impact of addiction on my family has been immense, leaving us all with lasting scars that we continue to grapple with. My mother even went to rehab after my twin sister passed away when she was only 18. Since my overdose, I have spent the past four years advocating for myself and experiencing everything life has to offer. I would have missed out on countless opportunities had I not been able to drive, work, go to college, or attend prom. My experiences have taught me how to speak up for myself and seek out the resources I needed, without feeling ashamed or stigmatized. Facing my struggles head-on with courage has been key to my journey of recovery. My experiences have instilled in me a deep desire to pursue a career in medicine. I am driven to make a difference in the lives of those who are struggling with addiction and mental health issues. I want to help individuals and families navigate the complexities of these issues and provide them with the support and resources they need to heal and thrive. I believe that everyone deserves access to quality mental health care and support, regardless of their background or circumstances. In my pursuit of this goal, I am keenly aware of the challenges that lie ahead. Addiction and mental health issues are multifaceted and complex, requiring a nuanced understanding of both the biological and environmental factors that contribute to them. As a student in the field of medicine, I am committed to developing the knowledge and skills necessary to meet these challenges head-on. I have already taken steps to prepare myself for this journey. I have enrolled in courses on addiction and mental health and have volunteered with organizations that provide support and resources to those in need. I have also sought out mentors in the field of medicine who have shared their insights and experiences with me. Ultimately, I am driven by a desire to make a positive impact in the world. Addiction and mental health issues affect millions of people, and I want to do my part to help them heal and overcome the challenges they face. I am grateful for the experiences I have had and the lessons they have taught me. And I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead as I pursue my goal of a career in medicine.

Four years ago, I made a life-altering decision to take over four times the safe dose of acetaminophen. As I knew what I was doing, I also knew the potential consequences of my actions. The experience was an eye-opener, and it has completely transformed my perspective on addiction and mental health. It has also made me aware of the impact these issues have on families and communities. Growing up, addiction was a part of my life. My father died of an overdose when I was just two years old, and addiction-related issues claimed the lives of my grandmother and uncle. My stepfather has also been struggling with addiction and is currently seeking help. The impact of addiction on my family has been immense, leaving us all with lasting scars that we continue to grapple with. My mother even went to rehab after my twin sister passed away when she was only 18. Since my overdose, I have spent the past four years advocating for myself and experiencing everything life has to offer. I would have missed out on countless opportunities had I not been able to drive, work, go to college, or attend prom. My experiences have taught me how to speak up for myself and seek out the resources I needed, without feeling ashamed or stigmatized. Facing my struggles head-on with courage has been key to my journey of recovery. My experiences have instilled in me a deep desire to pursue a career in medicine. I am driven to make a difference in the lives of those who are struggling with addiction and mental health issues. I want to help individuals and families navigate the complexities of these issues and provide them with the support and resources they need to heal and thrive. I believe that everyone deserves access to quality mental health care and support, regardless of their background or circumstances. In my pursuit of this goal, I am keenly aware of the challenges that lie ahead. Addiction and mental health issues are multifaceted and complex, requiring a nuanced understanding of both the biological and environmental factors that contribute to them. As a student in the field of medicine, I am committed to developing the knowledge and skills necessary to meet these challenges head-on. I have already taken steps to prepare myself for this journey. I have enrolled in courses on addiction and mental health and have volunteered with organizations that provide support and resources to those in need. I have also sought out mentors in the field of medicine who have shared their insights and experiences with me. Ultimately, I am driven by a desire to make a positive impact in the world. Addiction and mental health issues affect millions of people, and I want to do my part to help them heal and overcome the challenges they face. I am grateful for the experiences I have had and the lessons they have taught me. And I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead as I pursue my goal of a career in medicine.

Four years ago, I made a life-altering decision to take over four times the safe dose of acetaminophen. As I knew what I was doing, I also knew the potential consequences of my actions. The experience was an eye-opener, and it has completely transformed my perspective on addiction and mental health. It has also made me aware of the impact these issues have on families and communities. Growing up, addiction was a part of my life. My father died of an overdose when I was just two years old, and addiction-related issues claimed the lives of my grandmother and uncle. My stepfather has also been struggling with addiction and is currently seeking help. The impact of addiction on my family has been immense, leaving us all with lasting scars that we continue to grapple with. My mother even went to rehab after my twin sister passed away when she was only 18. Since my overdose, I have spent the past four years advocating for myself and experiencing everything life has to offer. I would have missed out on countless opportunities had I not been able to drive, work, go to college, or attend prom. My experiences have taught me how to speak up for myself and seek out the resources I needed, without feeling ashamed or stigmatized. Facing my struggles head-on with courage has been key to my journey of recovery. My experiences have instilled in me a deep desire to pursue a career in medicine. I am driven to make a difference in the lives of those who are struggling with addiction and mental health issues. I want to help individuals and families navigate the complexities of these issues and provide them with the support and resources they need to heal and thrive. I believe that everyone deserves access to quality mental health care and support, regardless of their background or circumstances. In my pursuit of this goal, I am keenly aware of the challenges that lie ahead. Addiction and mental health issues are multifaceted and complex, requiring a nuanced understanding of both the biological and environmental factors that contribute to them. As a student in the field of medicine, I am committed to developing the knowledge and skills necessary to meet these challenges head-on. I have already taken steps to prepare myself for this journey. I have enrolled in courses on addiction and mental health and have volunteered with organizations that provide support and resources to those in need. I have also sought out mentors in the field of medicine who have shared their insights and experiences with me. Ultimately, I am driven by a desire to make a positive impact in the world. Addiction and mental health issues affect millions of people, and I want to do my part to help them heal and overcome the challenges they face. I am grateful for the experiences I have had and the lessons they have taught me. And I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead as I pursue my goal of a career in medicine.

Four years ago, I made a life-altering decision to take over four times the safe dose of acetaminophen. As I knew what I was doing, I also knew the potential consequences of my actions. The experience was an eye-opener, and it has completely transformed my perspective on addiction and mental health. It has also made me aware of the impact these issues have on families and communities. Growing up, addiction was a part of my life. My father died of an overdose when I was just two years old, and addiction-related issues claimed the lives of my grandmother and uncle. My stepfather has also been struggling with addiction and is currently seeking help. The impact of addiction on my family has been immense, leaving us all with lasting scars that we continue to grapple with. My mother even went to rehab after my twin sister passed away when she was only 18. Since my overdose, I have spent the past four years advocating for myself and experiencing everything life has to offer. I would have missed out on countless opportunities had I not been able to drive, work, go to college, or attend prom. My experiences have taught me how to speak up for myself and seek out the resources I needed, without feeling ashamed or stigmatized. Facing my struggles head-on with courage has been key to my journey of recovery. My experiences have instilled in me a deep desire to pursue a career in medicine. I am driven to make a difference in the lives of those who are struggling with addiction and mental health issues. I want to help individuals and families navigate the complexities of these issues and provide them with the support and resources they need to heal and thrive. I believe that everyone deserves access to quality mental health care and support, regardless of their background or circumstances. In my pursuit of this goal, I am keenly aware of the challenges that lie ahead. Addiction and mental health issues are multifaceted and complex, requiring a nuanced understanding of both the biological and environmental factors that contribute to them. As a student in the field of medicine, I am committed to developing the knowledge and skills necessary to meet these challenges head-on. I have already taken steps to prepare myself for this journey. I have enrolled in courses on addiction and mental health and have volunteered with organizations that provide support and resources to those in need. I have also sought out mentors in the field of medicine who have shared their insights and experiences with me. Ultimately, I am driven by a desire to make a positive impact in the world. Addiction and mental health issues affect millions of people, and I want to do my part to help them heal and overcome the challenges they face. I am grateful for the experiences I have had and the lessons they have taught me. And I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead as I pursue my goal of a career in medicine.

The United States was founded on principles of independence and freedom, and it is these principles that have been upheld and protected by the brave men and women who have served in the military. Veterans have demonstrated great courage in their fight for the overall safety and financial security of the country. They have made tremendous sacrifices, putting their lives on the line to defend the freedoms we all cherish. However, despite their bravery and dedication, many veterans are being mistreated and undervalued, particularly when it comes to mental health support and rehabilitation after their service. The statistics are alarming: according to the 2021 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report, veterans' suicide rates are 52.3% higher compared to non-veterans in the US adult population. This crisis is exacerbated by shame, stereotypes, and limited access to education. The obstacles that veterans face when seeking treatment for their mental health issues are a real and pressing issue that must be addressed. It is essential to recognize and validate veterans, and gestures of appreciation, such as providing free donuts and coffee on Veterans Day, do not suffice. The younger generation, who have not experienced the initial 9/11 tragedy firsthand, have been exposed to diverse forms of trauma and military violence, both domestically and internationally, leading to apathy and disregard for our veterans. This apathy is concerning, as it has become normal to expect protection from our military while offering them only symbolic appreciation. To truly honor our veterans and provide them with the support they require and deserve, the mental health crisis must be addressed. This necessitates changes in our healthcare systems and schools. Early advocacy efforts, combined with adequate preparation and education regarding the reality of mental health and the associated stigmas, can encourage veterans to seek help. The National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report from 2020 highlights that the highest age group for suicide is between 18-34, indicating that all veterans, including younger generations, require better support than is currently available. It is important to note that not all veterans have participated in combat or witnessed fatalities firsthand. However, all veterans deserve to be treated with the standard of care they put forth while in the military. To address this issue, society must recognize the sacrifices made by our veterans and make a concerted effort to support them in every way possible. This includes providing better access to mental health care, education, and job opportunities. In conclusion, the United States owes a debt of gratitude to our veterans, who have sacrificed so much to ensure our freedom and independence. It is our responsibility to recognize and validate their contributions, and provide them with the support they need to lead happy and fulfilling lives after their service. Mental health care is a critical area where we must do better, and it is time for society to take action and provide the support our veterans deserve.

I hate following the rules. It is an imprudent act to blindly follow and subject ourselves to the established restrictions and standards, so I am in a constant search of loopholes and ways to escape the rules I am locked into; many call this defiance, but I prefer to view this rebelling as a force of change and advocacy. I was never happy with myself until I recognized the power of this so-called disobedience. It is not a mere rejection of common principles, but the appearance that the standard rejects me. The perceived societal rejection began as I compared my family dynamic to my peers, who mostly consisted of well-rounded nuclear families while I had a mom who was fifteen years younger than theirs and a dead father. My mother and I found refuge with the outliers of other teen moms and divorcees, igniting my refusal of normal before I learned how to ride a bike. The perception of my family dynamic was the catalyst of my irritability and occasional isolation from the status quo, but the desire to declare my issues with the standard. During my short time at St Ursula, I was very active in student government, while being nominated for both the student council and diversity advisory committee, I felt negligent to myself and other students by remaining idle on the issue of homophobia and the stemmed isolation within the school. I went against the Catholic values of the school and launched a petition to establish a gay-straight alliance; before gaining the traction of over nine hundred signatures, the vulnerability of repercussions shook me to my core; I was breaking more rules than I had before, both written and implicit. Nonetheless, I utilized my strong points to keep fighting for change, my stance within student government gave me the proper platform and resources to communicate with students and administration to successfully establish a space of inclusion for queer students within the Catholic institution. While I did not remain at St Ursula my skills of advocacy followed. I make an effort to take note and comment on the injustices found in casual conversations and on the misuse of power within the community. While I try my best not to get in trouble, I make an effort to get caught in the name of change. While rules allowing abuse, exploitation, and isolation of others will continue being created and upheld it is my hope there will always be another rulebreaker to compete against them.

Clean by Taylor Swift is more than just a song to me; it is an anthem of hope, resilience, and the power of recovery. The song was released as part of Swift's 1989 album, and it marked a new sound for the artist. However, Clean stood out from the rest of the tracks with its lyricism and message. I first heard Clean when I was nine years old, and at the time, I didn't fully understand the concept of the song. As I grew older, I began to understand the true meaning behind the lyrics. The line "Ten months sober, I must admit, just because you're clean, don't mean you don't miss it" resonated with me deeply. Addiction has been a constant in my life, and I have seen its devastating effects firsthand. My father died from an overdose when I was just a child. His passing left a void in my life that has never been filled. My uncle also died from an overdose, and my grandmother was killed in an alcohol-related car accident. My mother struggled with depression after the passing of my sister and went to rehab to get the help she needed. Currently, my step-father is battling addiction, and it has been a constant source of worry for me and my family. Clean is a powerful reminder that just because someone is sober, it doesn't mean they don't miss the substance they were addicted to. It is a constant battle to stay clean, and it takes a tremendous amount of strength and courage to overcome addiction. The song's message is one of hope and resilience, and it has given me the strength to keep fighting even in the darkest moments. The beauty of Clean is that it acknowledges the struggles of addiction while also celebrating the strength and resilience of those who have overcome it. It reminds us that recovery is a journey, not a destination and that it takes time, effort, and support to overcome addiction. The line "The drought was the very worst when the flowers that we'd grown together died of thirst" is a powerful metaphor for the struggles of addiction and the pain that comes with it. In my own life, I have seen the impact of addiction on my family and friends. I have learned that addiction is a disease that affects not only the person struggling with it but also their loved ones. It is a cycle difficult to break, but with the right support and resources, recovery is possible. The beauty of Clean is that it acknowledges the struggles of addiction while also celebrating the strength and resilience of those who have overcome it. As a scholarship recipient, I hope to use my experiences to help others who are struggling with addiction. I want to be a voice for those who feel alone and to let them know that they are not alone in their struggles. Clean is a testament to the fact that recovery is possible, and with the right support, anyone can overcome addiction. Clean is a song that has touched my life in profound ways. It has helped me through some of the darkest moments in my life and given me hope when I needed it the most. The song's message of hope and resilience has inspired me to be a voice for those who are struggling with addiction and to work towards a future where addiction is no longer a taboo topic. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my story and to use my experiences to make a positive impact in the world.