It has been four years since I took a dose of acetaminophen that was far beyond the safe limit for adults. While the maximum amount is four grams in one day, I took sixteen and a half grams. I was fully aware of what I was doing. I understood the danger, and I planned to call an ambulance afterward. I knew it could have ended my life. That moment was the lowest point I have ever faced, but it also began a journey of self-discovery and growth that changed how I see my life and the world around me. Before that day, I struggled with feelings I did not fully understand and kept my pain hidden. My action was not reckless but came from a deep place of loneliness and confusion. What followed were four years filled with healing and learning how to stand up for myself. My goals changed profoundly after I survived. Before, I was uncertain about my future and felt trapped by my struggles. Surviving that day made me realize how valuable life is and inspired me to help others facing their own battles. I want to work in healthcare, especially as a physician assistant, because I want to provide not just medical treatment but also compassion and support to those who need it most. My relationships with others have also been transformed. I learned that speaking honestly about my struggles is a sign of strength, not shame. Being open has brought me closer to family and friends and allowed me to form deeper connections. Avoiding acetaminophen has become more than just a medical choice—it is a symbol of my commitment to living fully and mindfully. This experience also changed how I understand the world. I no longer see mental health as something to hide but as an important part of human experience that requires understanding and care. I recognize that many people are isolated by social expectations and stigma. This awareness has made me question rules and norms rather than follow them blindly. This mindset carried over into other parts of my life. I do not accept rules just because they exist. I believe in challenging them, especially when they cause harm or exclude others. For example, in high school, I worked to create a safe space for queer students in a school that did not openly support them. Although it was difficult, I used my voice to fight for acceptance and inclusion. That experience showed me that real change requires courage and persistence. I continue to speak up when I see unfairness or abuse of power in my community. I understand that standing up for what is right can be uncomfortable but necessary. I want to be one of the people who challenge harmful systems and help build a more just world. Overall, my journey with mental health has made me stronger and more determined. It has taught me that life can be fragile yet resilient and that growth often comes from pain. Most importantly, it has shown me that courage and honesty are the keys to healing for both myself and those around me.

Some of the most fragile moments in life happen in the quiet, dimly lit halls of a neonatal intensive care unit—where hope and fear live side by side. If I could start a business with my deceased twin sister, Jade, it would be one that supports families going through those moments. Jade and I were born prematurely at just 30 weeks, and though I survived, she passed away after twelve days. Her short life has inspired everything I want to do in healthcare. Together, we would create a service that offers more than medical guidance—it would provide emotional support, education, and advocacy for parents overwhelmed by the complexity of the NICU experience. Many families feel lost and isolated, struggling to understand medical jargon and manage their hopes and worries. Our business would fill that gap by building a community where they can find clarity, comfort, and connection. Through counseling, resources, and peer support, we would help families navigate the system with confidence and feel truly heard during one of life’s most vulnerable times. I want to make sure no one faces those days alone, as my family did, and that every parent has access to compassionate care that extends beyond just treatment. Starting this business with Jade would be a way to honor her memory by turning grief into purpose. It reflects the gratitude I carry for the doctors and nurses who cared for me and supported my family in our darkest hours. Together, we would create something meaningful—a beacon of hope for families who need it most. Jade’s spirit would be at the heart of this mission, reminding me every day why empathy and understanding are as vital as medicine in healing.

My name is Alexa Sanders, and I’m currently in the process of transferring from the University of Toledo to Ohio University to major in Human Biology on a pre-physician assistant track. I was born and raised in Swanton, Ohio—a small, tight-knit community where I’ve always found meaning in helping others and contributing however I can. I'm someone who leads with empathy and curiosity, and I care deeply about making things better for people who often feel unheard or underserved. Growing up, I never imagined my path would be as complicated as it’s been. During high school, I made the decision to graduate early, joining the Class of 2023 as a junior. That choice wasn’t just about academics—it was a way for me to take more control over my future. I had spent years navigating the aftermath of my parents’ divorce, which left a lasting impact on my family dynamic and financial stability. While many of my classmates were thinking about prom or football games, I was working part-time as a barista at Starbucks and figuring out how to make college a reality. I didn’t have the luxury of waiting around. That’s not to say I didn’t make time for the things that mattered to me. While in high school, I attended St. Ursula Academy, where I was involved in Student Council and the Diversity Advisory Committee. It was through those roles that I helped establish a Gay-Straight Alliance, a support group that had been missing from the school community. That experience taught me a lot—not just about leadership, but about how necessary it is to create space for people to be fully themselves. That’s a value I carry with me in every environment I enter. After high school, I began my undergraduate journey at the University of Toledo. While I’m grateful for the start it gave me, I realized pretty quickly that it wasn’t the right long-term fit. I needed a school that aligned better with my goals in healthcare and offered a campus culture where I could grow. That led me to Ohio University, where I’ll be continuing my studies in Human Biology. Transferring wasn’t easy, especially with concerns about losing credits, financial aid, and scholarships—but I pushed through because I know what I want. I want to become a physician assistant who works in community-based healthcare, particularly in rural or underserved areas. I’ve seen how many barriers exist in healthcare—transportation, cost, language, even fear of judgment—and I want to be the kind of provider who helps remove those barriers. My motivation has always come from a mix of personal experience and the drive to make things better for others. Working at Starbucks may not seem like a big deal, but for me, it’s been a place to grow and give back. A project I’m especially proud of was helping organize a menstrual product drive in partnership with Period Toledo. We ended up collecting over 50 products to donate to people in need. It wasn’t a massive campaign, but it was real and it mattered. That’s the kind of work I want to continue doing—small acts that create a big impact over time. What draws me to STEM, and healthcare in particular, is how it offers both structure and purpose. Science gives us a framework to understand the world, but more importantly, it gives us the tools to improve it. Whether it’s through biology, technology, or public health, STEM gives us the chance to solve complex problems with real-world consequences. And while I’m focused on clinical care, I’m also fascinated by how information technology shapes healthcare behind the scenes—how electronic records, telemedicine, and accessible health apps can close gaps in access and equity. In a world where so many people are still falling through the cracks, I believe technology will play a major role in filling them. One of the biggest challenges I’ve had to face was navigating my family situation while trying to stay focused on school and my future. My parents’ divorce brought a lot of instability—emotionally and financially—and I had to learn to rely on myself a lot earlier than expected. There were moments where I felt overwhelmed and unsure, especially when it came to affording college or balancing work and school. But I kept going. I kept working, applied for every scholarship I could find, and made the decision to transfer schools even though it meant starting over in some ways. Through all of this, I’ve learned how to be resilient, how to advocate for myself, and how to find purpose even when things don’t go according to plan. These are the same qualities I believe will make me a strong healthcare provider—someone who listens, who adapts, and who cares deeply about the people they serve. If I could do anything with my life, it would be this: help people feel safe, seen, and supported—especially when they’re at their most vulnerable. I want to spend my career using science, empathy, and action to make people’s lives better. And I’m just getting started.

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.