Building credit early is important to me because it lays the foundation for independence. At twenty years old, I know the financial choices I make now will affect what I can do later, renting an apartment, buying a car, or even purchasing a home. I don’t want to wait until after graduation to start learning these lessons. For me, credit isn’t about debt, it’s about discipline and proving that I can manage money responsibly. One of the smartest financial decisions I’ve made was choosing to live at home during my second year at Michigan State University. My first year in the dorms was a great experience, but also expensive. Living at home helped me save a significant amount of money, which I can now put toward my apartment this year. Making that choice showed me the value of thinking long-term, even when the short-term option might seem easier. I’ve also worked consistently since starting college. My jobs have ranged from the golf course to the State of Michigan’s DTMB Office of Continuous Improvement, the Eli Broad Dean’s Office, and most recently an internship with SpartanNash. Balancing work with school hasn’t always been easy, but it has taught me how to manage my time, prioritize, and value every paycheck. Earning my own money has given me confidence and control over my financial decisions. Of course, I’ve made mistakes too. Like most students, I’ve spent money on things I didn’t really need, only to realize later how fast small purchases add up. Those lessons taught me to budget, ask myself if something is worth it, and focus on long-term goals instead of quick rewards. Now, as a junior supply chain management major, I am motivated by the idea of building a future where I am financially stable, successful in my career, and able to give back to others. Supply chain appeals to me because it’s about problem-solving and efficiency, skills I also use when managing my finances. I know that the habits I build now, whether it’s saving, budgeting, or establishing credit, will shape the opportunities I have later. That’s why Qwik’s mission resonates with me. Giving students the ability to build credit without fees, debt, or rejections levels the playing field and allows us to start strong. Credit really is a modern-day superpower, and I want to take control of mine now. This scholarship would help me continue building that foundation and move one step closer to the future I’m working toward.

I am currently a junior at Michigan State University, majoring in Supply Chain Management and a member of the MSU Honors College. What drew me to this major is its unique blend of strategy, efficiency, and service—it’s a discipline that not only powers business but also directly impacts the daily lives of people across the world. For me, supply chain is more than moving goods; it’s about building responsible systems that serve communities, uphold ethical standards, and create long-term value. My academic focus is on sustainable and ethical supply chain practices. I am passionate about learning how businesses can reduce waste, source responsibly, and operate with transparency. These issues are no longer optional in today’s world—they are essential to building resilient organizations and stronger communities. As I continue through my program, I’ve been taking courses in operations, logistics, procurement, and data analytics, all of which are helping me build a solid foundation for a career in this fast-paced and evolving industry. Outside of the classroom, I am deeply involved in several student organizations that help me stay connected, motivated, and engaged with current industry trends. I’m a proud member of the Supply Chain Management Association, where I network with peers and professionals and attend events that expand my understanding of real-world applications. I also participate in the Women in Business organization, which supports women pursuing careers in business leadership, and the Sustainable Business Association, where I collaborate with like-minded students who care about integrating environmental and social responsibility into business strategies. To complement my academic learning, I’m also gaining hands-on experience in the field. I currently work for SpartanNash, where I’ve been offered a continuous position throughout the academic year. This role has given me direct insight into how supply chain operations support essential services like food distribution, and how companies can positively influence the communities they serve. Prior to this, I worked with the State of Michigan in the Office of Continuous Improvement, where I helped identify efficiencies in state-level programs. Both experiences have strengthened my interest in process improvement and reinforced my desire to use supply chain strategies for public good. In addition to my academic and professional pursuits, I make it a priority to serve my community through volunteer work. Over the past year, I’ve spent time with seniors at an elderly living center, helped care for rescue animals at Happy Feet Pet Rescue, volunteered with SpartanNash at community events, and regularly assist elderly neighbors with seasonal yardwork and household chores. These acts of service have grounded me and reminded me that no matter how far I go professionally, staying connected to my community is essential. My ultimate goal is to work in a purpose-driven organization where I can lead ethical supply chain strategies that benefit both business and society. The Brandon Repola Memorial Scholarship would support me in continuing this journey—helping me complete my education while staying focused on the values that matter most: service, integrity, and impact. I am truly honored to be considered for this opportunity.

The first time I saw Wicked was with my grandma, and it’s a memory I’ll never forget. She surprised me with tickets, and we made a whole day of it, getting dressed up, eating dinner downtown, and settling into our seats at the theater with so much excitement. As soon as the curtain rose, I was hooked. The costumes, the music, the powerful message, it felt like pure magic. My grandma held my hand during For Good, and I remember us both crying. That moment lives in my heart, especially now that she’s passed away. Wicked was more than a show for us, it was a bond. Now, seeing Wicked brought to life on the big screen fills me with a mix of joy and nostalgia. Watching the movie reminded me of being next to my grandma in that theater, and I couldn’t help but feel like she was watching it with me. The movie opened the world of Oz even wider, visually stunning, emotionally rich, and with the same themes that first moved me: staying true to yourself, challenging what people think they know, and embracing what makes you different. Elphaba’s story continues to inspire me. I’ve faced moments in life where I felt misunderstood or out of place, and her strength reminds me that doing the right thing, even when it’s hard, is what truly defines someone. The friendship between Elphaba and Glinda also taught me that people who are different can still change each other’s lives, for good. Winning the Wicked Fan Scholarship would mean more than financial help, it would be honoring my grandma, our shared love for this story, and everything it taught me about bravery, love, and believing in yourself. I want to carry those lessons with me in my education and in the impact I hope to make in the world, just like Elphaba did.

What drives me to pursue a degree in Supply Chain Management at Michigan State University is the opportunity to make meaningful, lasting change in an industry that affects nearly every part of our daily lives. Supply chains are the backbone of global commerce, but they’re also at the center of some of today’s biggest challenges—rising costs, environmental impact, supply disruptions, and increasing consumer demands for transparency and sustainability. I chose supply chain management because it combines strategy, data, innovation, and impact—and I knew MSU would give me the tools, connections, and credibility to thrive in this complex, high-stakes environment. Michigan State’s supply chain program is renowned for its balance of academic excellence and industry integration. The experiential learning opportunities, corporate partnerships, and emphasis on continuous improvement align perfectly with my career goals. I’ve already had the chance to apply what I’ve learned in real-world roles. While working in supply chain analytics at SpartanNash, I helped optimize logistics processes to improve efficiency while lowering emissions. At the Office of Continuous Improvement for the State of Michigan’s Department of Management and Budget, I supported Lean initiatives aimed at reducing government waste, improving resource allocation, and streamlining services. These experiences showed me how supply chain decisions directly affect people, budgets, and the environment—and they reinforced my passion for this field. My long-term vision is to become a leader in sustainable supply chain transformation. I want to be part of building smarter, greener, and more resilient systems—whether that’s through developing ethical sourcing strategies, using data analytics to minimize inventory waste, or creating more energy-efficient transportation models. I believe supply chains can be both high-performing and environmentally responsible, and I want to help lead that evolution. The values that guide me are integrity, accountability, service, and sustainability. I’ve cultivated these values through my education, volunteer work, and involvement in the Supply Chain Management and Sustainability Clubs at MSU. I believe true leadership comes not just from expertise, but from a strong ethical foundation and a willingness to listen, learn, and lead by example. To stand out as a future leader in my field, I plan to bring a unique combination of technical skill, emotional intelligence, and a forward-thinking mindset. I want to be someone who doesn't just adapt to change—but drives it. This scholarship would help me continue my growth and further my mission to be a leader who empowers progress through sustainable and efficient supply chain solutions.

Sustainability must be a core priority in supply chain management because supply chains touch every part of the product lifecycle—from raw material extraction to manufacturing, transportation, and final delivery. Each of these stages has environmental consequences: carbon emissions, excessive packaging, resource depletion, and waste. By embedding sustainable practices into supply chain strategies, companies can drastically reduce their environmental impact while also improving long-term efficiency, risk management, and brand integrity. In short, a sustainable supply chain is not just good for the planet—it’s good business. My passion for this intersection of environmental responsibility and operational excellence has shaped both my academic and professional journey. I am currently pursuing a degree in supply chain management at Michigan State University, but I’ve made it a point to go beyond the classroom. Through active membership in the Supply Chain Management Club and the Sustainability Club, I’ve gained a broad understanding of sustainable procurement, circular economy models, and green logistics. These clubs introduced me to the challenges and opportunities involved in transitioning global supply chains toward more sustainable practices. My internship in supply chain analytics at SpartanNash helped me see how data can be a powerful tool for sustainability. For example, I helped analyze transportation routes to identify inefficiencies that, when corrected, not only reduced costs but also lowered fuel consumption and carbon emissions. At the Office of Continuous Improvement for the Department of Management and Budget for the State of Michigan, I applied Lean Six Sigma methodologies to improve state-level operational systems—identifying and eliminating process waste. These experiences solidified my belief that sustainable improvement is both measurable and achievable, especially when guided by the right tools and mindset. Looking forward, I want to become a leader who helps businesses build supply chains that are not only profitable but also ethical and environmentally responsible. I envision myself driving initiatives to integrate sustainable sourcing, supplier collaboration on environmental goals, reduction of packaging waste, and the use of predictive analytics to minimize overproduction and excess inventory. I am particularly interested in advancing closed-loop systems where materials are reused or recycled instead of discarded—reducing landfill waste and conserving resources. Receiving the Future Green Leaders Scholarship would be a vital step toward achieving these goals. It would allow me to continue developing the technical knowledge, leadership skills, and real-world experience needed to become a sustainability-focused supply chain professional. More importantly, it would support my commitment to being part of the next generation of change-makers—leaders who don’t just talk about sustainability, but who build it into the very infrastructure of how we work, produce, and consume. I want to be a green leader who not only contributes to organizational success but also helps solve some of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. With this scholarship, I will be empowered to pursue that path with greater focus, deeper education, and a broader impact.

Receiving a scholarship for my studies in supply chain management at Michigan State University would have a profound impact on both my education and my future career, opening up a wealth of opportunities and possibilities. Firstly, the financial relief provided by the scholarship would significantly alleviate the burden of tuition and related expenses. This assistance would allow me to focus more intently on my studies, which is crucial in a rigorous program such as supply chain management. Rather than juggling multiple part-time jobs or worrying about accumulating student debt, I would have the freedom to dedicate my energy to my academic pursuits. This means not only engaging deeply with coursework but also immersing myself in the learning process, absorbing information and collaborating with peers and faculty members in ways that enrich my understanding and skills. Additionally, this financial support would enable me to participate in internships and other hands-on experiences that are vital for practical learning. Internships are a key component in supply chain management education, offering real-world scenarios where theoretical knowledge can be applied. With the scholarship, I could take on unpaid or low-paid internships that are often more aligned with my career goals, rather than being limited to those that provide immediate financial compensation. This would enhance my resume and give me a competitive edge when I enter the job market. Networking opportunities are another critical aspect of studying at Michigan State. This scholarship would likely facilitate my involvement in events, seminars, and workshops that bring together students and industry professionals. Establishing relationships with alumni and current professionals in the supply chain sector can be invaluable. It offers insights into industry trends, best practices, and potential job openings. Cultivating these connections might lead to mentorship opportunities and could directly influence my career trajectory, paving the way for internships and job placements that I might not have accessed otherwise. In addition to immediate benefits, the impact of a scholarship would resonate throughout my professional journey. Receiving this award is a significant recognition of my commitment to my field and dedication to excellence. It serves as a powerful testament to my determination and hard work, qualities that are highly valued by employers in any industry. This endorsement could enhance my credibility when applying for positions post-graduation, signaling to potential employers that I am motivated and equipped with the necessary skills to contribute meaningfully to their organizations. Furthermore, the sense of community and support that comes from being a scholarship recipient is invaluable. Engaging with fellow scholarship recipients can foster collaboration, sharing of ideas, and mutual encouragement. Overall, a scholarship would be instrumental in shaping my academic experience and professional trajectory. It would not only provide financial support but also cultivate an environment conducive to learning, networking, and growth. This opportunity would empower me to immerse myself in all aspects of the supply chain management program at MSU, equipping me with the knowledge, skills, and connections I need to achieve my career goals and make a meaningful impact in the field.

As a fan of Sabrina Carpenter, there are several reasons why her music and acting resonate with me. First and foremost, her authenticity truly stands out. She speaks candidly about her experiences, which makes her relatable. Whether it’s through her lyrics or her interviews, you can sense her genuine personality. Sabrina’s versatility as an artist is another factor that draws me in. She seamlessly transitions between pop music and acting, showcasing her talents in various roles, from her breakout in "Girl Meets World" to more mature projects like "Emergency." Each new release feels like an evolution of her artistry, allowing fans like me to grow alongside her. Her commitment to promoting positive messages, particularly around self-acceptance and empowerment, has also had a significant impact on me. Songs like “Skinny Dipping” and her more recent work often explore themes of resilience and finding one’s voice, which inspire me to embrace my individuality and strive for confidence in my own life. Moreover, Sabrina’s work ethic and dedication are incredibly motivating. Watching her pursue her passions with such determination encourages me to follow my own dreams and not shy away from hard work. Her ability to tackle challenges head-on inspires me to face my own obstacles with courage and creativity. Overall, being a fan of Sabrina Carpenter has not only enriched my appreciation for pop culture but has also influenced my personal journey, reminding me of the importance of being true to myself and nurturing my creative spirit.

Chappell Roan's music has profoundly impacted my life, resonating with me on multiple levels. Her unique blend of pop melodies and deeply personal lyrics speaks to the experiences and emotions that many of us navigate daily. Songs like "I Don't Want It All" and "Rush" explore themes of identity, love, and self-acceptance, which are incredibly relevant to my own journey. Her candidness about navigating challenges, including mental health struggles and the complexities of relationships, has made me feel seen and understood. In a world where vulnerability is often shunned, Chappell embraces it, creating a safe space for her listeners to explore their own feelings. Her music encourages me to be authentic, empowering me to express myself more openly. Supporting Chappell Roan's career is important to me because I believe in artists who foster connection and community through their work. Not only is she incredibly talented, but she embodies the values of inclusivity and authenticity that I hold dear. By championing her music, I'm not just supporting her as an artist but also promoting the idea that it's okay to be vulnerable and true to oneself. Her success represents a broader narrative of acceptance in the music industry, and I am excited to see how her journey unfolds. In a time when genuine representation is crucial, I feel that supporting Chappell Roan is a way to contribute to a movement that celebrates diversity and encourages others to embrace their true selves. I'm looking forward to witnessing the evolution of her career and the impact she will continue to have on many lives, including mine.

I’ve been reflecting on the relationship I’ve built with my college supply chain professor, a connection that has profoundly enriched my academic and personal journey. This relationship is rooted in shared values, mutual growth, and a commitment to making a positive impact on our community. Over the course of my studies, I’ve come to see this connection as a partnership where we inspire each other to reach our fullest potential, both in the classroom and beyond. Our relationship has flourished through open communication and honest dialogue. I appreciate how my professor creates a welcoming environment, encouraging not just academic discussion but also personal sharing. By openly sharing our dreams, challenges, and even our failures, we have established a bond that goes beyond the traditional student-teacher dynamic. This openness has nurtured a deep sense of trust and understanding, allowing us to engage in meaningful conversations that challenge my perspectives and push me further in my studies. One of the aspects I cherish most about this relationship is our shared passion for practical application of supply chain principles. Together, we have explored ways to translate theoretical knowledge into real-world impact. I find it incredibly motivating when my professor brings in current industry trends and challenges, encouraging discussions that are not only academically rigorous but also relevant to today’s world. This collaboration enhances my learning experience, making me feel more connected and engaged with the material. In addition to our academic pursuits, we also focus on common interests and values that align with our desire to give back to the community. Our discussions often lead to brainstorming sessions about potential projects or initiatives we could undertake together. Whether it’s volunteering at local organizations, organizing events that raise awareness about supply chain issues, or starting initiatives to address specific local needs, I genuinely appreciate the ways we have actively worked together to make a difference. Participating in these projects has not only expanded my practical skills but has also deepened my understanding of the impact that supply chain management can have on society. I’ve learned that it’s about more than just logistics; it’s about fostering connections, supporting sustainable practices, and encouraging economic development in our community. Overall, this relationship with my supply chain professor has become a cornerstone of my educational experience. It has inspired me to think critically and creatively about my future career in supply chain management. I’m grateful for the guidance and support I receive and look forward to continuing our collaboration to create positive change—both within myself and in the broader community.

In high school, I was an active member of the Booster’s Club, and I distinctly remember a time when our club was organizing a fundraising event for new sports equipment. I took the initiative to rally my classmates and the local community to participate in the event, and through strategic planning and effective communication, we were able to exceed our fundraising goals. This experience taught me the value of teamwork and determination in achieving a common goal, and it reinforced my belief in the power of collective efforts to bring about positive change. As a college student, I've had the opportunity to develop and refine my ability to support and empower others. Through various experiences such as providing academic assistance through tutoring and mentoring programs, actively participating in community service initiatives, and being a dependable friend and listener, I have enhanced my skills in helping others. Joining clubs and organizations that focus on community service not only allowed me to give back, but also ignited and nurtured my passion for making a positive impact on those around me. I find genuine fulfillment in knowing that my actions, no matter how small, can contribute to someone else's well-being. Joining clubs and organizations focused on community service has not only allowed me to give back, but it has also sparked and nurtured my passion for making a positive impact on those around me. This journey has solidified my commitment to continuing my development as a helpful and supportive individual, and I'm excited to see where this path takes me beyond college. One of the significant clubs I joined is the sustainability club, which has given me the opportunity to actively contribute to environmental initiatives and promote sustainable practices on campus. I find genuine fulfillment in knowing that even small actions can In high school, I was an active member of the boosters club, and I distinctly remember a time when our club was organizing a fundraising event for new sports equipment. I took the initiative to rally my classmates and the local community to participate in the event, and through strategic planning and effective communication, we were able to exceed our fundraising goals. This experience taught me the value of teamwork and determination in achieving a common goal, and it reinforced my belief in the power of collective efforts to bring about positive change. In addition, I have been an active member of the supply chain club, where I have learned about and contributed to discussions on effective supply chain management and logistics. Moreover, as a member of the women in business club, I have had the opportunity to engage in empowering and supporting initiatives aimed at fostering a more inclusive and diverse business environment. These experiences have affirmed my commitment to personal growth as a helpful and supportive individual, and I'm excited to continue on this path beyond college.

Jealousy, competition, and lust are all huge parts of Love Island's challenges. Each season there is normally a few cast members that fans fall in love with. This season, I started watching and did not know if I would like Leah. I ended up really falling in love with her wit and personality. Leah made me want to watch the show. I think a great challenge would be for cast members to each anonymously send in a quote that shows a little about their character. This could be funny, intelligent, or even blunt. Each cast member would get a chance to choose which cast member wrote the quote by engaging the person with a dance or kiss. The person who chooses the correct person the most times would get a date with anyone they choose. One thing that I think is lacking on Love Island is the length of the dates, so I would suggest the date lasts 8 hours and they do something adventurous. I believe a challenge that leads to a bigger prize will encourage cast members to expand their horizons and choose people they might not have otherwise chosen. This could expand connections beyond looks or the initial conversations they had with a cast member that isn't normally their type.

Life is not promised so live it to the fullest. After my grandpa's death, my grandma realized that life is not always promised and to live it to the fullest and I quickly realized the same after she passed. After my Grandpa died, my grandma began to pick up hobbies to occupy herself like taking on a larger role at her church, spending time with friends, and doing crossword puzzles. She loved everything about the church community and people loved her too. When she was not at church, she was with her family or her friends, traveling, or doing crosswords next to her loyal dog, Taz. My brother and I would visit and we would sit and chat with her on her couch. My family went to my grandma's house for dinners or to just hang out and play cards. We would talk, have fun, or plan vacations. Throughout my whole life, my grandma and my family would go places together like Florida, Virginia, and St. Thomas. These vacations are very special to me. When I go back to them, they make me think of her and all the fun and laughs we had. In addition to my grandma traveling with us, she would also travel alone or with my uncle. When she traveled alone, she would visit places like Japan, Australia, and Alaska. During her travels, she would meet people and enjoy her time. My grandma loved to explore new cultures and it is the reason my family and I travel so much. I did not get to visit her much, but when I did it was the last time I would see her. I went to the hospital with my mom and brother, my dad was already there. We brought her favorite snack, peanut M&M's. This was all new to me, I have not lost someone this close to me. All the hospital sounds, lights, people, and hallways were overwhelming. Tears were already starting to roll down my face, I walked into her room trying to hold them back so my grandma did not see. I sit down on the chair right next to where she is lying and look at her, she looks so different from the last time I saw her. I try to speak but I can't, I struggle to hold back my tears. She was very weak and not in a good mental place because of all the medications. She did not know exactly what was happening, but I gave her the biggest hug and said “I love you so much, Grandma”. Everyone shared memories they loved and will miss and we showed her so much love. Only a couple of hours later, she passed away. Later on, I sat in my house next to my family, and we talked, My dad spoke to us, and he said, “Grandma lived well and that she is in a better place now”. While listening to my dad talk, I think about what he said and reply “I love grandma and I wish we would have had more time with her”. My dad pauses and then says “I think this will help us all realize we do not have forever and tomorrow is not always promised so we all have to live life to the fullest”. I realized in that moment that life is not always promised, tomorrow is not promised, nothing is. Make time for family, make time for friends, and do the things you have always wanted to do because life is not always promised and I learned that the most difficult way anyone can.

“Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower,” was a statement from Steve Jobs. Leadership is influencing and inspiring others to be a better version of themselves. I am inspired by many people in my life. I did not think of them as leaders to me until lately. I find that I am inspired to be at the forefront of innovation, hopefully taking my education and career to the next level. As I go into my freshman year of college, I realize I have many years of growth ahead of me, but I can lead from where I am. I strive to be kind, brave and to be on the forefront of new technology and advancement in my chosen field of supply chain management. For over 6 years, I have been able to volunteer and serve my community in numerous ways. In addition, in high school, I was a member of the National Honor Society, Youth Action Committee, and Compassion Club. Through these organizations, I have volunteered on Veteran’s Day, been involved in the Rake & Run to rake leaves for the elderly or people unable to rake their lawns and can drives to raise money. I have also aided with coaching and helping volleyball camps through school and volleyball clubs. Volunteer work has allowed me to advance my skills, develop patience, and helped me grow as a friend. My goal is to be the best version of myself. In the future, I plan to continue to contribute back to the communities in which I live. I always try to lead from where I am and hope to be able to learn more about leadership and continue to grow my skill set. Throughout my volunteer work, I was able to meet new people and become more comfortable talking to people with diverse backgrounds. In addition, volunteering has helped me develop leadership skills and helped me feel like I am part of the community. These experiences have helped me become more self-confident and enrich my life. I have developed a passion to help people and have developed my supportive nature. In college, I plan to join clubs to continue to give back to the community and continue to nurture my leadership skills. I will attend Michigan State University in the fall and one specific cause I would like to be a part of is Spartans Serve. This program gives back in many ways, but to summarize, they make the world a better place through community service. To summarize, I was able to learn so much from the appreciation I get from the people I am helping. Young or old, I love getting to know people better and learning from them. I learned new ways to help younger volleyball players. Each person learns uniquely, and I was able to find new ways to connect. On the other end of the spectrum, I was able to talk with my elders and learn new ways to look at life and my future. Each opportunity has been a wonderful experience and I plan to continue this work into the future.

“Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower,” was a statement from Steve Jobs. Leadership is influencing and inspiring others to be a better version of themselves. I am inspired by many people in my life. I did not think of them as leaders to me until lately. I find that I am inspired to be at the forefront of innovation, hopefully taking my education and career to the next level. As I go into my freshman year of college, I realize I have many years of growth ahead of me, but I can lead from where I am. I strive to be kind, brave and to be on the forefront of new technology and advancement in my chosen field of supply chain management. For over 6 years, I have been able to volunteer and serve my community in numerous ways. In addition, in high school, I was a member of the National Honor Society, Youth Action Committee, and Compassion Club. Through these organizations, I have volunteered on Veteran’s Day, been involved in the Rake & Run to rake leaves for the elderly or people unable to rake their lawns and can drives to raise money. I have also aided with coaching and helping volleyball camps through school and volleyball clubs. Volunteer work has allowed me to advance my skills, develop patience, and helped me grow as a friend. My goal is to be the best version of myself. In the future, I plan to continue to contribute back to the communities in which I live. I always try to lead from where I am and hope to be able to learn more about leadership and continue to grow my skill set. Throughout my volunteer work, I was able to meet new people and become more comfortable talking to people with diverse backgrounds. In addition, volunteering has helped me develop leadership skills and helped me feel like I am part of the community. These experiences have helped me become more self-confident and enrich my life. I have developed a passion to help people and have developed my supportive nature. In college, I plan to join clubs to continue to give back to the community and continue to nurture my leadership skills. I will attend Michigan State University in the fall and one specific cause I would like to be a part of is Spartans Serve. This program gives back in many ways, but to summarize, they make the world a better place through community service. To summarize, I was able to learn so much from the appreciation I get from the people I am helping. Young or old, I love getting to know people better and learning from them. I learned new ways to help younger volleyball players. Each person learns uniquely, and I was able to find new ways to connect. On the other end of the spectrum, I was able to talk with my elders and learn new ways to look at life and my future. Each opportunity has been a wonderful experience and I plan to continue this work into the future.

I used to hate when people asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up because I never knew how to answer them. I know what I want to be now: I want to be kind. To me, integrity is the quality of a person being sincere, authentic, and truthful in appearance, speech, and action. Throughout my education and athletic career, I have built on mentorships, collaboration, and my ability to stay connected even in uncomfortable or otherwise toxic situations. I have learned how to establish ground rules for myself and never let negative people or situations bring me down. I rise above and prove my worth to the best of my ability. I know that not everyone is going to be my cheerleader, but having good morals, being humble, being kind and being confident in myself will allow me to continue my education and personal growth. My sport of choice is volleyball. I have played on many national club teams, as well as my high school varsity team for 3 years. I have learned the importance of cheering people on even if I am not the one in the game. I have learned to overcome negative obstacles and be a positive force on the court for my teammates. I have learned that hard work isn’t always noticed, but it’s rewarding. In my life, hard work has become a pivotal drive and allowed me to achieve stellar grades and achievements. In addition, my dream and goals are to be the best version of myself. Athletics has helped me build great leadership skills and taught me how to learn from mistakes and celebrate successes. I have had many examples of integrity and human dignity lead me over the years. My club coach was an inspiration to me. She was able to pull a group of strangers together into a team with great success. She was able to coach me in the way that I needed. When I was having a bad hitting day, she always knew the right things to say to pick me back up. I knew that was the type of person I wanted to be. I could help this team overcome adversity with positivity and hard work. Without athletics, I firmly believe that I would not be the leader and person I am today. I learned about teamwork, how to address concerns and build leadership and mentoring skills. Ultimately athletics and teams have thought me success, patience and integrity.

“Building personal financial capability early in life can give people a foundation for later-life financial well-being”. I was raised to make a solid financial plan to start my life. I have a Roth IRA and savings account. I maintain employment as much as possible throughout my teenage years and continue to do so. I have always made sure to make financially sound decisions from using coupons, finding sales, and planning for college and my future. In high school, I was able to take financial classes that taught me day to day budgeting in the real world. Many young people walk into their adulthood not prepared for the future. It can be a struggle when you are going out in the world for the first time and have independence. As a newly independent person people want to go out, enjoy themselves and sometimes that comes with credit card debt, vehicle debt and education debt. With all this debt, even with a good job can be debilitating. For me, there must give and take. I want to enjoy myself, but also work hard between applying for scholarships, working a job, and still living within my means, I hope it enables me to be able to graduate college without a mountain of debt. I realized young that I must plan for my future. Even though I am not yet 18, I still know that I want to retire someday. I try to put away a little bit of money to a Roth IRA and other investments. In addition, when I apply for student loans, I will research and explore many options to make sure that I am choosing the right loan. I have a credit card for convenience and to build my credit rating, but I pay off my credit card bill each month. Financial literacy is very important for the future of everyone. Making good decisions youth will allow for less stress and anxiety later in life. Through research I found out that 78% of adults live paycheck to paycheck. That can be very scary if an emergency came up, like their heater or car needs to be replaced, even scarier if there is a medical emergency. To build a better society, I would advocate for more classes on finance throughout school, starting in elementary school with basic information. In the end, I believe I am setting myself up for financial success and would like for others to have the same confidence.

Over the last few years, it has been increasingly apparent that supply chain management needs an overhaul. There are empty shelves in the grocery stores and high prices at the gas pumps. The importance of production flow to get goods and services to the public at a fair price is imperative. The supply chain management industry brings the basic life necessities, such as food and clothing, as well as life-saving medicines and healthcare products to individuals in need. I desire to use my creativity and relationship-building skills to find unique ways to provide fast and efficient shipping needs to customers. Throughout my education and athletic career, I have built on mentorships, collaboration and my ability to stay connected even in uncomfortable or otherwise toxic situations. I have learned how to establish ground rules for myself and never let negative people or situations bring me down. I rise above and prove my worth to the best of my ability. I know that not everyone is going to be my cheerleader, but having good morals, being humble, being kind and being confident in myself will allow me to continue my education and personal growth. As a leader and to promote excellence, I work to turn negatives into positives and learn from challenges and never let them affect my integrity. I always take responsibility for my mistakes. I make sure that I accept when I make a mistake and either fix it or apologize for it. I hold myself accountable and do better in the future. In addition, my dream and goals are to be the best version of myself. I want to contribute back to the communities in which I live. I also would like to use my budding leadership and teamwork skills to build the culture of the company or university I am in. Throughout my life, I have changed my focus and career goals, however one thing that remains the same is my focus on relationship building and the importance of a good culture in the workplace. Employee engagement is the focal point for many businesses and this career is no different. Creativity and focus will get me to the job I love, but I will be a building block for the company for everyone to love. Supply chain management is a career that will enable me to make strides in company culture while providing new ideas for better service to customers.

Our environment is important for many reasons. It's important to have a healthy environment for sustainability, our culture, our families and our future. I desire to use my creativity and relationship-building skills to find unique ways to provide fast, efficient and eco-friendly resources to customers, which will then lead to a healthier environment. Throughout my education and athletic career, I have built on mentorships, collaboration and my ability to stay connected even in uncomfortable or otherwise toxic situations. I have learned how to establish ground rules for myself and never let negative people or situations bring me down. I rise above and prove my worth to the best of my ability. I know that not everyone is going to be my cheerleader, but having good morals, being humble, being kind and being confident in myself will allow me to continue my education and personal growth. My sport of choice is volleyball. I have played on many national club teams, as well as my high school Varsity team for 3 years. I have learned the importance of cheering people on even if I am not the one in the game. I have learned to overcome negative obstacles and be a positive force on the court for my teammates. I have learned that hard work isn’t always noticed, but it’s rewarding. In my life, hard work has become a pivotal drive and allowed me to achieve stellar grades and achievements. In addition, my dream and goals are to be the best version of myself. I want to contribute back to the communities and environment in which I live. I also would like to use my budding leadership and teamwork skills to build the culture of the company or university I am in. Throughout my life, I have changed my focus and career goals, however one thing that remains the same is my focus on relationship building and the importance of a good culture in the workplace. Employee engagement is the focal point for many businesses and this career is no different. Creativity and focus will get me to the job I love, but I will be a building block for the company for everyone to love. The building block to a long-lasting company is sustaining clean energy initiatives, better production of products and balancing these with maintaining a forward-thinking, creative business culture that will thrive in today's society. We need to look to the past and not make the same mistakes twice. Our future is in the hands of today's society.

I did not have to think very long about the many people that inspire me. I am surrounded by many people who encourage and motivate me every day, but none inspire me like the legacy of my Great-Grandmother, Millie. About a year ago, she passed away. I didn’t know her very well beyond visiting from time to time and enjoying her cookies and pies during the holidays. However, over the past year, I have learned so much about the 92 years she spent teaching, mentoring, and helping people. My great-grandmother had 12 children and over 100 grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She raised and built her children into caring, loving, and successful adults. She not only succeeded in that responsibility, but she also made time to help her church and her community. My great-grandmother raised her family, with the help of my great-grandfather, on a large farm in a very small town. Shortly after they sold the farm to their oldest son, my great-grandfather had a stroke and heart attack which left him needing assistance in many of his everyday needs. She not only handled this with grace, but she went out for the first time and got a job outside of the home. Her new job was so fitting for her beautiful nature, she was a social worker for Big Brothers/Big Sisters. While in this position, she made so many matches and changed lives forever through their relationships. Relationship building is so very important. My sport of choice is volleyball. I have played on many national club teams, as well as my high school Varsity team for 3 years. I have learned the importance of cheering people on even if I am not the one in the game. I have learned to overcome negative obstacles and be a positive force on the court for my teammates. I have learned that hard work isn’t always noticed, but it’s rewarding. In my life, hard work has become a pivotal drive and allowed me to achieve stellar grades and achievements. In addition, my dream and goals are to be the best version of myself. I want to contribute back to the communities in which I live. I also would like to use my budding leadership and teamwork skills to build the culture of the company or university I am in. Throughout my life, I have changed my focus and career goals, however one thing that remains the same is my focus on relationship building and the importance of a good culture in the workplace. Employee engagement is the focal point for many businesses and this career is no different. Creativity and focus will get me to the job I love, but I will be a building block for the community or company for everyone to love.

I did not have to think very long about the many people that inspire me. I am surrounded by many people who encourage and motivate me every day, but none inspire me like the legacy of my Great-Grandmother, Millie. About a year ago, she passed away. I didn’t know her very well beyond visiting from time to time and enjoying her cookies and pies during the holidays. However, over the past year, I have learned so much about the 92 years she spent teaching, mentoring, and helping people. My great-grandmother had 12 children and over 100 grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She raised and built her children into caring, loving, and successful adults. She not only succeeded in that responsibility, but she also made time to help her church and her community. My great-grandmother raised her family, with the help of my great-grandfather, on a large farm in a very small town. Shortly after they sold the farm to their oldest son, my great-grandfather had a stroke and heart attack which left him needing assistance in many of his everyday needs. She not only handled this with grace, but she went out for the first time and got a job outside of the home. Her new job was so fitting for her beautiful nature, she was a social worker for Big Brothers/Big Sisters. While in this position, she made so many matches and changed lives forever through their relationships. My great-grandmother has impacted the world with her stunning smile and soft, attentive nature. When you ask anyone that knew her, you will hear the wonderful stories of a woman that is very understanding, a great listener and had a love for her family that was undeniable. As I learn more about the woman that was the matriarch of my family, and it has helped me explore more about my passions, my leadership, and my future. I have learned to always work hard. I have learned to smile at people as I walk by them on the street or in the hallway. I have learned to listen with the intent to understand, not just to respond. I have learned that each person has an impact on others. This has helped me build my dreams and goals to be the best version of myself. I want to contribute back to the communities in which I live. I also would like to use my budding leadership and teamwork skills to build the culture of the company or university I am in. Throughout my life, I have changed my focus and career goals, however one thing that remains the same is my focus on relationship building and the importance of a good culture in the workplace. Employee engagement is the focal point for many businesses and this career is no different. Creativity and focus will get me to the job I love, but I will be a building block for the company for everyone to love. Supply chain management is a career that will enable me to make strides in company culture while providing new ideas for better service to customers. Throughout my high school career, I have joined many clubs (National Honor Society, Youth Development Committee, Compassion Club, etc.) that encourages and supports community involvement and volunteering. I have grown as a person through these experiences and plan to continue to give back to the community and volunteer in college and into the future.

Our society has become impatient. We want answers at our fingertips, or items on our doorstep quickly. Over the last few years, it has been increasingly apparent that supply chain management needs an overhaul due to the empty shelves we have all noticed at the grocery stores. The importance of production flow to get goods and services to the public at a fair price is imperative. I desire to use my creativity and relationship-building skills to find unique ways to provide fast and efficient shipping needs to customers. Throughout my education and athletic career, I have built on mentorships, collaboration and my ability to stay connected even in uncomfortable or otherwise toxic situations. I have learned how to establish ground rules for myself and never let negative people or situations bring me down. I rise above and prove my worth to the best of my ability. I know that not everyone is going to be my cheerleader, but having good morals, being humble, being kind and being confident in myself will allow me to continue my education and personal growth. My sport of choice is volleyball. I have played on many national club teams, as well as my high school Varsity team for 3 years. I have learned the importance of cheering people on even if I am not the one in the game. I have learned to overcome negative obstacles and be a positive force on the court for my teammates. I have learned that hard work isn’t always noticed, but it’s rewarding. In my life, hard work has become a pivotal drive and allowed me to achieve stellar grades and achievements. In addition, my dream and goals are to be the best version of myself. I want to contribute back to the communities in which I live. I also would like to use my budding leadership and teamwork skills to build the culture of the company or university I am in. Throughout my life, I have changed my focus and career goals, however one thing that remains the same is my focus on relationship building and the importance of a good culture in the workplace. Employee engagement is the focal point for many businesses and this career is no different. Creativity and focus will get me to the job I love, but I will be a building block for the company for everyone to love. Supply chain management is a career that will enable me to make strides in company culture while providing new ideas for better service to customers.

I did not have to think very long about the many people that inspire me. I am surrounded by many people who encourage and motivate me every day, but none inspire me like the legacy of my Great-Grandmother, Millie. About a year ago, she passed away. I didn’t know her very well beyond visiting from time to time and enjoying her cookies and pies at the holidays. However, over the past year I have learned so much about the 92 years she spent teaching, mentoring, and helping people. My great grandmother had 12 children and over 100 grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She raised and built her children into caring, loving, and successful adults. She not only succeeded in that responsibility, but she also made time to help her church and her community. My great-grandmother raised her family, with the help of my great-grandfather, on a large farm in a very small town. Shortly after they sold the farm to their oldest son, my great-grandfather had a stroke and heart attack which left him needing assistance in many of his everyday needs. She not only handled this with grace, but she went out for the first time and got a job outside of the home. Her new job was so fitting for her beautiful nature, she was a social worker for Big Brothers/Big Sisters. While in this position, she made so many matches and changed lives forever through their relationships. My great-grandmother has impacted the world with her stunning smile and soft, attentive nature. When you ask anyone that knew her, you will hear the wonderful stories of a woman that is very understanding, a great listener and a love for her family that was undeniable. As I learn more about the woman that was the matriarch of my family, it has helped me explore more about my passions, my leadership, and my future. I have learned to always work hard. I have learned to smile at people as I walk by them on the street or in the hallway. I have learned to listen with the intent to understand, not just to respond. I have learned that each person has an impact on others. Therefore, I want to live my life with character, while assisting people, teaching people, and enjoying the ride. I want to hear that I made an impact on the world the way my great-grandmother did. I want to know that I am a leader that lifts people up and helps them succeed. I am motivated to live each day with grace and patience because of the character and service my great-grandmother portrayed.