At a young age, I showed interest in business. From selling homemade cookies at our family’s annual garage sale to mowing my neighbors' lawns, I always looked for ways to create value for others. As I grew older, I became increasingly aware of a significant issue: financial illiteracy. An overwhelming 47% of adults in the United States do not know how to manage their money, perpetuating a cycle of economic inequality and widening the wealth gap. With a passion for business and identity as a Ukrainian American, my desired career path is a blend of finance and international relations. The war in Ukraine has profoundly impacted my life, with my entire extended family residing in Kyiv. Witnessing the current conflicts has strengthened my devotion to working in global affairs and advocating for peace. When the war escalated in 2022, I could not believe that a country so full of culture and beauty was torn apart. Despite being 7,863 kilometers away, I did everything I could to help. Calling family daily, sending money for survival essentials, assisting refugees in my hometown, and praying with other Ukrainians were all small but influential changes to my routine. I organized bake sales and fundraisers, raising awareness and resources for humanitarian aid. I also collaborated with the local radio station, hosting a segment inviting other Ukrainians living in Ukraine to hear about their first-hand experiences and perspectives on the war. My life has a purpose—to honor the 31,000 (and counting) lives that were forcefully ripped away. Each of these statistics represents a person who had a family, personal values, a life goal, and now, a forever unfinished story. My purpose is to live my life and share my story for all who heroically lost theirs. I envision a future where I can work with international organizations, governments, and non-profits to promote financial literacy on a global scale. I have already begun taking concrete steps to achieve these professional aspirations, starting with serving my local community. I am a certified tax preparer, providing free tax services to low-income residents in Philadelphia and helping them receive the refund they deserve. This role allows me to help individuals understand their financial situation and make informed tax decisions. Additionally, I teach a high school summer program called "Essentials of Finance," where I educate students about personal and corporate finance. By reaching students at a young age, I aim to instill financial literacy early, empowering them to make sound financial decisions throughout their lives. While I am proud of my impact so far, I am determined to expand the number of people I can reach. My current efforts are just the beginning. I want to contribute to creating a world where peace prevails, and nations can collaborate to address challenges. By pursuing finance and international relations, I will be equipped with the knowledge necessary to navigate complex global landscapes and implement effective financial education programs. Life is temporary, but my impact on the world can be permanent.

The word people love hearing most is their own name. Why? Because it makes them feel seen. In our rapidly moving world saturated with noise, acknowledging someone's identity can make all the impact. This understanding shaped my approach to leadership, which is about making people feel valued. Apart from fundamental leadership skills like organization, communication, and accountability, a leader must be selfless. A leader must be kind. A leader must empower others. A leader must serve. My ability to understand the needs of others and actively support them in reaching their goals, all while promoting peace, inclusivity, and kindness, is what makes me a leader. The opportunities to experience servant leadership truly started in February of 2022, when Russia began a full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The war has impacted my entire family, with all my extended relatives residing in Kyiv, the heart of all the turmoil. I could not believe that a country so full of culture and beauty was being torn apart. Despite being 7,863 kilometers away, I took the initiative and did everything possible to help. Calling family daily, sending money for survival essentials, assisting refugees in my hometown, and praying with other Ukrainians were all small but influential changes to my routine. I organized bake sales and fundraisers, raising awareness and resources for humanitarian aid. I also collaborated with the local radio station, hosting a segment inviting other Ukrainians living in Ukraine to hear about their first-hand experiences and perspectives of the war. At the time, I didn't recognize that my efforts made me a leader. I was doing what I knew was right. I had absolutely nothing to gain for myself. Instilled in me was a sense of responsibility and commitment to giving back to a country, inseparable from my identity. My purpose is to live my life and lead with integrity in honor of all the people who heroically lost theirs. My passion for financial education also drives my leadership efforts. Financial literacy should be a right, not a privilege only accessible to the rich. I currently teach an Essentials of Finance program for high school students from all over the globe. My goal is to introduce personal finance concepts like saving and budgeting to equip them with the tools to make financially sound decisions in the future. Throughout the program, I build trust with each student and provide them with the personalized support they need to be successful. I prove my competence in financial concepts; in return, the students trust my expertise and utilize my advice. I've learned that a leadership "status" has to be earned. My dedication to improving myself daily and giving back that knowledge to make others better makes me a leader. With a passion for business and identity as a Ukrainian American, my desired career path is a blend of finance and international relations. I envision a future where I can work with international organizations, governments, and non-profits to promote financial literacy on a global scale. As I pursue these ambitious goals, I will continue to foster genuine connections and create an environment where individuals feel heard and appreciated. And when someone tells me their name, I remember.

After enduring two ACL surgeries, making a comeback, and then facing the reality of ending my gymnastics career, I understand the struggle of returning to a sport that once defined me. That’s why Suni Lee’s story hits so close to home. She’s more than an athlete. She’s a warrior and role model for what true grit looks like. Suni’s emergence as an Olympic champion came at a time when the world was watching, and the stakes were incredibly high. When Simone Biles, the indomitable leader of the U.S. gymnastics team, withdrew from several events during the 2021 Olympic Games to prioritize her mental health, the spotlight shifted to Suni. At a mere 18 years of age, she rose to the occasion with grace, showcasing her immense talent and determination. Her stunning performances led her to win the all-around gold medal, forever cementing her place in Olympic history. In 2019, her father, John Lee, suffered a life-altering accident that left him paralyzed from the chest down. This tragedy occurred just as Suni was gearing up for her Olympic journey. Balancing the emotional turmoil at home with the rigorous demands of elite gymnastics is a testament to her strength. Following her Olympic triumph, Suni faced another challenge: being diagnosed with a rare, incurable kidney condition. As someone who has navigated the arduous path of rehabilitation, I can only imagine the physical and emotional resilience required to bounce back from such severe health setbacks. Yet, Suni battled through, demonstrating the same spirit that had carried her through her previous trials. Watching Suni return to gymnastics, stronger and more determined than ever, has been nothing short of inspirational. Her radiant smile and success on the mat are a powerful reminder that setbacks are part of the journey and can be overcome with perseverance and a positive mindset. Suni’s journey is personal to me. Her story of triumph over adversity embodies the essence of what it means to be a true champion. I will be her loudest cheerleader at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, wishing her and the rest of Team USA the best health. Go continue being amazing, Suni; you’ve earned it.

From South Africa to Finland, Egypt to Dubai, and Brazil to Israel, my closest friends span the globe. Despite our diverse backgrounds, we share a common thread—similar humor, values, and a deep sense of connection. This network of friendships has opened my eyes to the universal aspects of human nature that unite us all. Traveling can change you in ways you never imagined. It involves all five senses—seeing new places, tasting foreign cuisine, hearing unfamiliar languages, smelling various scents, and greeting diverse groups of people. As a Ukrainian American, my background and culture are the foundation of my identity. Ukraine is full of meaningful traditions, hospitable people, and heroic history, all of which have given me a deep sense of self and an appreciation for diversity. Growing up, our family didn't have the financial capability to travel. However, being able to attend a university where 15% of the student body is international has been like traveling without leaving home. Every day, I am surrounded by different nationalities, languages, and viewpoints. I’ve expanded my worldview through the friendships I’ve made, like taking blinders off a horse. My friend from South Africa has educated me about the complexities of a post-apartheid society and the country’s unfathomable wealth inequality. I’ve deepened my understanding of systemic racism, realizing how life is never black and white but an intricate motherboard where everything is connected. Similarly, I’ve had many discussions with my friend from Dubai about gender roles, economic development, and this rapidly developing city-state's global impact. Countries are like people; we are better off together, learning and growing to become our best selves. Last spring, I had the opportunity to travel abroad to the beautiful São Paulo, Brazil. It was a life-changing experience, and I realized that diversity is society’s greatest superpower. In São Paulo, I met and spoke with individuals whose lives were shaped by various cultural influences, from the indigenous roots of Brazil to the legacies of African, European, and Asian immigrants. I saw how diversity of thought, culture, and experience can be a powerful force that drives innovation and progress. My love for learning about other cultures has inspired me to study international relations. I aim to understand how countries can collaborate effectively to address global challenges such as poverty, climate change, and world conflict. I want to contribute my insights to policies and initiatives that promote peace and equitable development. As I continue working towards my future career, I know that travel will be a significant part of my life, and I’m really looking forward to it. Each new travel experience will create new neural pathways in my brain, expanding what I know and how I live my life.

Growing up, I realized I had a passion for business and finance. From selling homemade cookies at our family’s annual garage sale to mowing my neighbor's lawns, I always looked for ways to create value for others. As I grew older, I delved deeper into the financial world, becoming increasingly aware of a significant issue: financial illiteracy. An overwhelming 47% of adults in the United States do not know how to manage their money, perpetuating a cycle of economic inequality and widening the wealth gap. I firmly believe financial literacy should be a right and available to all. With a passion for business and identity as a Ukrainian American, my desired career path is a blend of finance and international relations. I envision a future where I can work with international organizations, governments, and non-profits to promote financial literacy on a global scale. I have already begun taking concrete steps to achieve these professional aspirations, starting with serving my local community. I am a certified tax preparer, providing free tax services to low-income residents in Philadelphia, helping them receive the refund they deserve, and educating them on budgeting and saving. This role allows me to help individuals understand their financial situation and make informed tax decisions. Additionally, I teach a high school summer program called "Essentials of Finance," where I educate students about personal and corporate finance. By reaching students at a young age, I hope to instill financial literacy early, empowering them to make sound financial decisions throughout their lives. As a Ukrainian, I am deeply passionate about global affairs and the pursuit of peace. Witnessing the current conflicts has strengthened my desire to work in international relations. When the war escalated in 2022, I could not believe that a country so full of culture and beauty was torn apart. Despite being 7,863 kilometers away, I did everything I could to help. Calling family daily, sending money for survival essentials, assisting refugees in my hometown, and praying with other Ukrainians were all small but influential changes to my routine. I organized bake sales and fundraisers, raising awareness and resources for humanitarian aid. I also collaborated with the local radio station, hosting a segment inviting other Ukrainians living in Ukraine to hear about their first-hand experiences and perspectives on the war. My life has a purpose—to honor the 31,000 (and counting) lives that were forcefully ripped away. Each of these statistics represents a person who had a family, personal values, a life goal, and now, a forever unfinished story. My purpose is to live my life and share my story for all who lost theirs. While I am proud of my impact so far, I am determined to expand the number of people I can reach. My current efforts are just the beginning. I want to contribute to creating a world where peace prevails, and nations can collaborate to address challenges. By pursuing finance and international relations, I will be equipped with the knowledge necessary to navigate complex global landscapes and implement effective financial education programs. Life is temporary, but my impact on the world can be permanent. With hard work and selfless intentions, I know I can make a difference.

When people become successful, they often forget the source of their gifts and talents. I am deeply grateful for the abilities God has given me and the opportunities to explore and develop them. Life is pointless if I'm not using my talents to serve and enrich the lives of others. My purpose on this Earth is to spread the Good News and glorify the Lord through my actions. This inspires me to serve my community and give back meaningfully. As an American Ukrainian, I am blessed to reside in a country where war is not infiltrating every aspect of my life, unlike my extended family's reality. It's not fair that I'm here, able to pursue my hobbies and passions, while my cousin, the same age as me, has to take care of her two siblings in Kiyv, Ukraine, with the threat of bombings every second of every day. When the war in Ukraine escalated, I could not believe that a country so full of culture and beauty was torn apart. Despite being 7,863 kilometers away, I did everything I could to help. Calling family daily, sending money for survival essentials, assisting refugees in my hometown, and praying with other Ukrainians were all small but influential changes to my routine. I organized bake sales and fundraisers, raising awareness and resources for humanitarian aid. I also collaborated with the local radio station, hosting a segment inviting other Ukrainians living in Ukraine to hear about their first-hand experiences and perspectives on the war. My life has a purpose—to honor the 31,000 (and counting) lives that were forcefully ripped away. Each of these statistics represents a person who had a family, personal values, a life goal, and now, a forever unfinished story. My purpose is to live my life and share my story for all who lost theirs. I have worked to influence change in my community by sharing the knowledge I've gained through my ongoing education in finance. By providing free tax preparation services for low-income families in Philadelphia, I help citizens receive the refunds they deserve and make more financially sound decisions through concepts like saving and budgeting. Financial literacy is not just about managing money; it's about empowering individuals to take control of their lives and secure a better future for themselves and their families. Additionally, I have mentored younger middle and high school students, helping them navigate the challenges of academics and life. Mentoring has taught me the importance of patience, empathy, and the power of encouragement. I hope I inspire them to pursue their dreams and overcome any obstacles they may face. Giving back to the community is my expression of gratitude and a means to honor the sacrifices of Ukrainians. My commitment to giving has taught me that true success is measured not by personal achievements but by the positive impact we have on the lives of others. As I continue my academic and professional pursuits, I will continue developing my knowledge and skills to create a more equitable world. My dedication to community service, driven by my faith and a deep connection to Ukraine, will always guide my actions and aspirations.

Nobody is going to do anything for you. When I realized that my life was fully in my hands and I was in control, I truly understood what accountability was. Every decision I make, from getting out of bed to applying for this scholarship, represents a conscious step toward bettering myself. I’m a student pursuing a business degree at the University of Pennsylvania. I’m a Ukrainian, daughter, athlete, musician, teacher, and coach. Each role I embrace requires a high level of responsibility, and my journey has been defined by my ability to hold myself accountable in all aspects of my life. Understanding accountability began with recognizing that my actions directly impact my outcomes. This realization hit home during my early years as a gymnast. Training for gymnastics demanded a rigorous schedule, self-discipline, and resilience. There were countless mornings when the comfort of my bed seemed more appealing than the early hours of practice. But the drive to improve and achieve my goals pushed me to get up and train. Every fall, every injury, and every setback was a lesson in perseverance. I learned that success in gymnastics, like in life, was not about avoiding failure but how I responded to it. Pursuing a business degree has been both a privilege and a challenge. The rigorous academic environment requires determination and a strong work ethic. In a career trajectory that is dominated by men, I also have a responsibility to be a role model to young women who hope to succeed in the corporate world. Beyond academics, my commitment to accountability extends to my extracurricular activities. As a musician, teacher, and coach, I understand the importance of dedication and reliability. Teaching students and leading a team requires leadership and putting the success of others before my own. As I continue my education and career journey, my goal is to develop innovative solutions that address financial challenges faced by underserved populations. I aspire to create programs that provide ongoing support and resources, helping individuals achieve long-term financial success. I also aim to bring ethical behavior and integrity to the corporate world. In an industry often criticized for its lack of transparency and moral conduct, I want to lead change. I hope to contribute to a more equitable and trustworthy business environment by upholding high ethical standards and promoting accountability. Accountability has been the foundation of my success. It has taught me the value of responsibility, perseverance, and integrity. So, I get up every day and give my 100% to create a future that I’m proud of.

Participating in the Distinguished Young Women (DYW) Nationals was a dream come true, and the moment I won the Self-Expression award will forever be etched in my memory. However, my greatest achievement was not the award itself but the decision to persevere and stand on that stage after tearing my ACL the previous day. The DYW program is a national scholarship competition that recognizes high school senior girls for their achievements in scholarship, leadership, and talent. The five categories of competition are Scholastics, Interview, Fitness, Talent, and Self-Expression. I competed and won my state program, qualifying me for the 2023 DYW Nationals. At Nationals, during the talent portion of the competition, I performed a gymnastics routine. It was a routine I had practiced countless times, but in the middle of my performance, I landed awkwardly and felt a sharp pain in my knee. At that moment, a type of deja vu came over me as the pain was identical to the one I experienced two years ago when I tore my ACL during a gymnastics competition. The injury was devastating. The pain was immense, both physically and emotionally, and I felt an overwhelming urge to quit. I still had the Self-Expression category ahead of me, and the prospect of continuing in a leg brace with crutches on either side was daunting. At that moment, my parents' unwavering support was crucial. They told me, "It’s your decision, and we will support you no matter what you decide." Their words gave me the strength to choose resilience over retreat. I realized that the true essence of the competition was not just about winning but about demonstrating inner strength, courage, and determination. Standing on that stage, knowing I wouldn't continue to the finals, was a moment of clarity. My response to the question, "How do you serve and give back to your community?" was heartfelt and sincere. But the real victory was my decision to be there, to show up despite the odds, and to face my fears head-on. This experience taught me invaluable lessons about myself. I learned that my strength is not just physical but deeply rooted in my spirit and determination. I discovered the power of resilience and that true achievement lies in the journey and the courage to keep going. Looking to the future, in my career, I plan to enter the corporate business world, where I will bring the values of courage and resilience that guided me through my experience at DYW. As I enter a field dominated by men, I hope to become a role model for women who are passionate but intimidated by the current landscape. Beyond my professional aspirations, I am committed to giving back to my community. I hope to create programs and initiatives that provide financial education and resources to underserved populations. By empowering these groups with the knowledge and tools to manage their finances effectively, together, we can battle the wealth gap and achieve economic stability for more individuals. One day, I hope to return to the Distinguished Young Women program, not as a contestant but as a judge. By sharing my experiences and insights, I hope to inspire the next generation of young women to believe in themselves and strive for greatness, no matter what obstacles they may face. So my greatest achievement is not a trophy or an award but the decision to stand tall in the face of adversity. It is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of resilience. This experience has shaped who I am today and will continue to inspire me as I strive to achieve my future goals. Through my career and community efforts, I aim to make a lasting impact by empowering others and creating a more financially literate and ethically driven society.

Growing up, I was constantly inspired by stories of people who dedicated their lives to service—whether they were fighting for civil rights or providing resources for underprivileged individuals—I felt only certain people could accomplish such impressive feats. However, it wasn’t until I formulated my approach to making a difference that I felt empowered. The key lies in the three W’s: Work, Wisdom, and Wealth. The three W’s are simple yet profound principles that guide my actions. Work involves dedicating my time and effort to meaningful causes. Wisdom encompasses the knowledge and insights I can share to educate others. Wealth represents the financial resources I can offer to support various initiatives. The balance among these three W’s may shift throughout different stages of my life, but the potential to make an impact remains constant. Through work, wisdom, and wealth, I aim to transform my passion for finance into a tool for societal change. From a young age, I was drawn to business and constantly looked for ways to create value for others. As I delved deeper into the world of finance, I became increasingly aware of a significant issue: financial illiteracy. An overwhelming 47% of adults in the United States do not know how to manage their money. This lack of understanding perpetuates a cycle of financial inequality, widening the already absurd wealth gap. Financial illiteracy leaves individuals vulnerable to exploitation and limits their opportunities for economic mobility. It is unacceptable that 1 in 6 families struggle to afford their next meal while billionaires flaunt their wealth to the world. I realized that with the education and skills (wisdom) I was acquiring, I could empower others with the financial knowledge they need to take control of their lives. I am currently increasing financial literacy in my community through multiple means. As a certified tax preparer, I provide free tax services to low-income residents in Philadelphia. During the tax season, I volunteer all across Philadelphia and aid individuals and families in accurately filling out their tax returns. This role allows me to help individuals understand their financial situation and make informed tax decisions. I also teach a high school summer program called "Essentials of Finance," educating students about personal and corporate finance. By reaching students at a young age, I aim to instill financial literacy early, empowering them to make sound financial decisions throughout their lives. While I am proud of my impact so far, I am determined to expand the number of people I can reach. My current efforts are just the beginning. As I continue my education and career, I will broaden my influence and help more people achieve financial literacy. My long-term vision is to become a public accountant. In this role, I will have the expertise to assist a wider audience, empower individuals to make informed decisions, and ultimately reduce the wealth gap. I envision a future where financial literacy is not a privilege but a fundamental right. A future where individuals have the knowledge and confidence to manage their finances, leading to greater economic equality and stability. By sharing my passion for finance and leveraging the three W’s, I am committed to impacting the world, one financially empowered individual at a time.

I’ve always been a daddy’s girl. There’s something so special about the bond between a father and daughter—a relationship built on love, trust, and an unspoken promise of unwavering support. My father has always been my protector, caretaker, and the epitome of what a family man should be. My dad’s accolades STEM further than just a father. He’s a brilliant mechanical engineering professor, and his sharp mind never ceases to amaze me. I inherited my love for all things nerdy from him, a badge I proudly wear. His sharp intellect is matched only by his sense of humor—with dad jokes that make me groan and laugh in equal measure. Yet, beyond his brilliance and wit, he is a deeply loving husband and father. The past nine years have tested our family in ways we never imagined. My dad’s job required him to move across the country, and we were left to navigate the aching distance that separated us. We only saw him a few times a year, and those moments together became precious and treasured more than words can convey. Despite the physical distance, my father’s heart remained close. His love and support have been a constant source of strength for me, my sister, and my mother. He has always put us first, his actions quietly reminding us that we are his priority. He’s been my teacher in more ways than one. He taught me to drive, guiding me through my nerves and mistakes. I still remember the late nights at the kitchen table, where he helped me conquer multiplication and wouldn’t let me quit until I learned what nine times seven was. He taught me to ride my bike, picking me up after every fall until I could balance on my own. He even showed me how to calibrate an infrared camera, blending his professional expertise with our father-daughter moments. More than anything, my father taught me to lead a life rooted in faith and integrity. He showed me the importance of thinking for myself, standing up for my beliefs, and seeking the right qualities in a future partner. He is not perfect, but who is? One thing he does have in abundance is grit. Immigrating to the U.S. from Ukraine with my mother, barely understanding English and carrying only two suitcases and a couple hundred dollars, they built a loving and financially stable family from scratch. Their determination and perseverance created opportunities for my sister and me that they never had. Thanks to his unwavering support and guidance, I am pursuing higher education at one of the top business schools, a dream that was beyond their reach. I’ve only now realized the number of sacrifices my father had to make for me to be where I am in life. He is a special person I never deserved but was blessed to have. Each lesson, each laugh, and each moment of support has shaped me into the person I am today. My father's love and guidance have been the bedrock of my life, and I carry his wisdom with me every step of the way. Always and forever a daddy’s girl.

Underestimation is a superpower. This invisible force propels the underestimated forward, giving them the tenacity to overcome obstacles and the creativity to conquer new paths. As a woman in finance, I have embraced this superpower, using it to fuel my passion and drive. At the Wharton School, I am not just pursuing an education, I am on a mission to change the financial services industry and empower women in my community. From a young age, I was drawn to business and constantly looked for ways to create value for others. Whether mowing lawns for my neighbors or selling cookies at our annual garage sale, I sought new opportunities to turn my passions into profit. As I have grown, my aspirations in this field have become ambitious: I aim to lead innovative international finance ventures, create inclusive economic opportunities, and break down barriers that have long kept women on the periphery of the financial world. At Wharton, I am proud to hold a leadership role in the finance committee of Wharton Women. This organization is more than a student group; it is a powerful network that champions the advancement of women in business. As a leader, I influence the next generation of female finance professionals, by organizing events, workshops, and mentorship programs that equip women with the skills and confidence they need to succeed in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Through my role, I am not only advocating for gender equality but also demonstrating that women can excel and lead in finance. Additionally, this summer I have the privilege of serving as a teaching assistant for the Essentials of Finance Wharton Global Youth Program. Teaching is my passion and in this role, I am directly impacting the education of young women, showing them that business and finance are not exclusive domains. By guiding them through complex financial concepts and fostering an inclusive learning environment, I am helping to demystify the world of finance and make it accessible to all. There is no better feeling than seeing the student's eyes light up when they start understanding amortization or financial statements, knowing that I had a direct impact on their learning. Empowering women in finance is not just about providing education; it is about changing mindsets and dismantling stereotypes. Women have long been underestimated in the financial services industry, but this underestimation can be turned into a superpower. By proving our capabilities and achieving excellence, we challenge the status quo and pave the way for others to follow. My lifelong goal is to revolutionize the financial services industry and empower women in my community. My current efforts are mighty, and I’m determined to reach the minds and hearts of thousands of women in the future. Financial knowledge is power, and women have proven they can do great things with such power.

A complete tear to the anterior cruciate ligament is what hit me dead on in Daytona Beach, Florida at the Level 10 Gymnastics National Championships. May 15th, 2022, 7:47 pm. The dreaded injury every athlete fears and prays will stay away. I knew it from the moment I felt the infamous “pop” of my right knee breaking down as I unsuccessfully landed my uneven bars dismount. As the medical staff rushed to my aid, I couldn't help but feel a sense of despair wash over me. A thousand times done perfectly in practice means nothing when your worst nightmare occurs on the stage you’ve always dreamed of competing on. After undergoing surgery, I was told my knee would never be the same again and I may have to say goodbye to gymnastics, the sport that gave me freedom, hope, and a will to live. They were right about one thing: my knee would never be the same again. But I told myself that I would do anything and everything to compete next year at the same National Championships. Rehabilitation was not easy for one second. There were days when I would feel frustrated and demotivated and other days when I would push myself too hard and end up in even more pain. The months trudged on and the light at the end of my tunnel seemed dim. I worked and I prayed, and I never gave up, mentally and physically. The experience of tearing my ACL taught me many valuable lessons. Firstly, I learned to appreciate the little victories along the way. Every small improvement I made, such as being able to walk without crutches, was a cause for celebration. Secondly, I learned that having a positive attitude is critical when facing setbacks. By maintaining a positive mindset and focusing on what I need to do to reach my goals, I was able to stay motivated and ultimately overcome this challenge. And finally, the support I received from my loved ones, coaches, and teammates, was a game-changer for me. My coaches and teammates were there for me every step of the way. They pushed me to work hard in physical therapy and helped me to find new ways to stay involved in the gym. Their unwavering support helped me to realize that I was not alone in my struggles and that I had a community of people who were there for me, no matter what. Throughout rehabilitation, I had moments where I doubted myself. But the perseverance cemented in me and the inner voice that gave me strength is what ultimately led me back to the big stage. Landing my uneven bars dismount at the 2023 National Championships is a moment I will never forget and made the whole journey worth it. I have learned to never take anything for granted as life can change in an instant. One day we may be healthy, and the next day we may receive a devasting diagnosis. One day we may be surrounded by loved ones, and the next they may be gone. By recognizing the fragility of life, I have learned to appreciate everything I have and make the most of all the opportunities and experiences that come my way. Tearing my ACL was a difficult experience that forced me to confront my limits. Although it was a setback in my journey as a gymnast, it ultimately helped me grow and become a more patient, empathetic, and determined individual, who can face obstacles head-on and overcome them. With persistence, anything is possible. And my story is proof of that.