As a first-generation high school graduate and now a first-generation college student, I have learned the value of hard work and perseverance. Growing up in a rural farming community in Minnesota, I became acutely aware of the importance of education and its ability to transform lives. Despite the challenges and obstacles I've faced, I have always remained dedicated to excellence, and I am now pursuing a career in the STEM field to follow my dream of becoming a public health dental provider. One of the most important aspects of my education has been my curiosity and passion for science. This passion has been fostered by my experiences growing up on a farm, where I learned first-hand about the intricate relationship between science and agriculture. I have always been fascinated by the mechanics of the natural world, and I am constantly seeking to better understand the underlying principles that govern it. For me, science is not just a subject to be studied, but a way of life. In order to encourage science education for myself and others like me, I believe that it is important to provide opportunities for hands-on learning. This can be accomplished through programs that promote experiential learning, such as science camps, internships, and research opportunities. By engaging students in hands-on projects, we can help to foster a love of science that will stay with them for a lifetime. Another important factor in promoting science education is the availability of resources. Many students in rural areas, like the one where I grew up, do not have access to the same resources as those in more urban areas. This can include everything from textbooks and lab equipment to internet access and transportation. By providing resources to underserved populations, we can help to level the playing field and ensure that all students have access to the same opportunities. In addition to resources, it is also important to provide mentorship and support to students who are interested in science. This can be accomplished through mentorship programs that pair students with professionals in their field of interest, as well as through community outreach programs that provide support and encouragement to students who may be struggling. By offering guidance and support, we can help to ensure that students have the tools they need to succeed. Finally, I believe that it is important to promote diversity and inclusion in the field of science. This can be accomplished by actively seeking out and supporting students from underrepresented groups, including women and people of color. By promoting diversity and inclusion, we can help to create a more equitable and just society, while also fostering a more vibrant and dynamic scientific community.

1.) What skilled trade are you planning to study or are currently studying and why have you chosen it? I am in a dental hygiene program. I chose this non-traditional trade program because it is a fulfilling and rewarding job that allows me to work with my hands while helping people with their oral health. I believe that trade programs like dental hygiene provide some of our country’s most essential services. Tradespeople keep our communities running smoothly, whether they are installing and maintaining infrastructure, building and maintaining homes, repairing or servicing vehicles, or cleaning teeth — each person plays a vital role in our country! 2.) Why do you plan/have you planned a career in this chosen trade? Growing up, I knew I was born to work with my hands. Oftentimes my hardworking family struggled to afford many things. It is my goal with my career to better their lives and my own. Providing care, education, and resources to my patients is my passion. 3.) Why will you be successful in your trade? I will be successful in my trade because I know the meaning of hard work and dedication. Growing up on my family’s farm, we were taught to keep trying, working, and persisting long after everyone else had gone home for the day. I worked rain or shine. I learned to never give up, and never quit. All the qualities that are part of our strong working class are a big part of who I am today. I will continue to be successful because no matter what the obstacle, I will overcome it. The values that were set in place in my childhood have allowed me to be successful. My circumstances do not dictate who I become, I do! Knowing this is knowing that I can do anything. I represent the people in our country that can no matter their circumstances. My life is a result of the seeds I’ve planted. What I do today affects what grows tomorrow. I reap what I sow but what that really means is that I get results from each of my actions. Perseverance is my secret to success and a big reason why I will be successful. 4.) In general, what does a successful life look like and why will you be successful? To me, a successful life is defined by personal fulfillment, professional success, good physical and mental health, financial stability, and most importantly — making a positive impact on my community. I will be successful because I take action with my goals, I continuously learn and grow, I stay disciplined and I always stay positive and persevere through my life. Success is a journey, not a destination. It requires dedication, hard work, and commitment. I believe my career will give me continued success throughout my life.

From the peaks of the Himalayas to the lush rainforests of the Amazon, our planet is home to some pretty incredible landscapes and environments. From the air we breathe to the soil beneath our feet, the Earth delicately balances each of its ecosystems to sustain all of its inhabitants. Unfortunately, human activities put pressure on our beautiful planet, leading to pollution, deforestation, and climate change. I believe that anyone can have a positive impact on our planet, from the products they use to the food that they eat. Combating climate change is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires change at all levels. By working together as individuals we can reduce our carbon footprint and promote sustainable practices that make significant changes to our greenhouse gas emissions. The daily choices that we make individually, can have an incredible impact on our environment. I strive to live an environmentally conscious life, by reducing my waste, conserving energy, supporting sustainable agriculture and products, and using alternative transportation when I can. I believe that reducing waste can help conserve resources on our planet as well as reduce pollution. I think it is important to choose to use reusable products, such as water bottles and shopping bags. I often avoid single-use products and find time in my busy life to properly recycle all materials. Conserving energy is very important to me because it helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and conserve our country's resources. I like to turn off lights, use energy-efficient light bulbs, and turn off appliances when they are not in use. I enjoy looking for and using sustainably produced and eco-friendly materials. I find it important to support companies that prioritize sustainability in their business practices. Choosing alternative modes of transportation is another great way I like to positively impact our environment. Walking, taking public transit, or riding a bike can also help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and conserve resources. With our daily choices, we can all have a significant impact on the environment. I strive to live a sustainable life by making conscious choices that reduce my environmental footprint. By reducing waste, conserving energy, eating a plant-based diet, supporting sustainable products, and choosing alternative transportation, we can all make a positive impact on the environment and help build a sustainable future for a healthier planet. Thank you for reading my scholarship application. I hope you consider me for the SmartSolar Sustainability Scholarship.

She is found at the heart of every family. Her love is a powerful force that shapes us. From the moment we are born, she is there to protect us, care for us, and nurture us. Oftentimes, our mothers are a source of inspiration, love, and support. They share their kindness, wisdom, and strength to make us all better people. The following essay is a tribute to my loving mother. When I think of my mom, I think of this verse: "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres." - 1 Corinthians 13:4-7. While this verse is not specifically about a mother, it perfectly describes the exact nature of my mom. My mom is selfless, patient, and kind in everything that she does. She puts the needs of others before the needs of her own. This verse truly embodies my mother’s enduring spirit. One of the things I admire most about my mother is her kindness and compassion. She has a heart for others, and she always goes out of her way to help those in need. Whether it's volunteering in our community, cooking a meal for someone in need, or simply kindness to those who are struggling. My mom is always looking for ways to make a positive impact on the world around her. I am struck by my mother’s wisdom and grace. My mother is a strong woman who has overcome many challenges in her life. She has taught me the value of perseverance, and she leads by example in everything she does. She has instilled in me a sense of responsibility and a desire to make a positive impact on the world, and I am inspired to live a life like her. My mom has such a deep understanding of life, and she approaches situations with empathy and kindness. Her words of wisdom have guided me through many tough moments in my life, and I am grateful for her unwavering support. My mom is the most important person in my life, and I am grateful for her every day. She has taught me the value of hard work, perseverance, kindness, and she continues to inspire me to be the best version of myself. I am blessed to have such a wonderful role model and friend, and I will always cherish the memories and lessons she has shared with me. Thank you for allowing me to write this tribute to my mother. I hope you will consider me for the Ginny Biada Memorial Scholarship!

“Tough times do not last, tough people do.” This quote is simple, yet very powerful. This quote is an accurate description of who I am personally. I truly believe no matter how tough something may be at the time, I will always hold the power to rise above it and to be tougher. Life is not always easy. Life can have its many hurdles and some moments are much more difficult than others. In some of my toughest moments, I pushed myself to stay positive, face my fears, and have strength. You learn how to overcome many adversities as an athlete. When you are thrown a “curveball” you learn how to bounce back and be resilient. You learn self-discipline and determination when you get up after being knocked down. You learn to persevere, no matter how difficult the skill level may be. You learn the strength of a team and how there is no success without teamwork. Most importantly, you learn to dream big and that anything is possible with a little determination. Some of the best lessons in life are taught outside of the classroom and they are taught by our most beloved coaches. I was born and raised in a rural farming community in Southeastern Minnesota. I am a first-generation high school graduate and now a first-generation college student. I’m living proof of no matter your circumstance if you want something bad enough, there is a way to achieve it. Growing up, I was taught how to be resilient and work hard no matter what situation I was in. My family struggled to access affordable dental care in my area. As an adult, I had a humbling experience that made me finally realize the importance of regular dental care. My experiences throughout my childhood and early adulthood inspired my career in dentistry. The struggles I endured have helped me understand the needs of my community and the needs throughout my State. I am now a public healthcare advocate, who is passionate about making a difference for people in my community. I will make dental care accessible and affordable to all. I plan to become an Advanced Dental Therapist which is a mid-level practitioner who is unique to the State of Minnesota. As an Advanced Dental Therapist, I will be able to provide preventative dental care for low-income or underserved people across the State of Minnesota in a public health setting. This will help prevent disease but also improve the quality of life for people throughout our State. I've always been taught to work passionately and work fiercely to achieve my goals. Without discipline, no one starts anything and without perseverance, nobody finishes anything. Being a part of a team didn't just teach me how to play a game, they taught me how to live my life. Thank you for considering me for the Peter T. Buecher Memorial Scholarship, I won't let you down!