From a young age, the environment has been my escape. As someone with dyslexia, traditional classroom settings were challenging for me, making learning a frustrating experience. However, being outside in nature gave me a sense of freedom and comfort. I am a visual learner, and the outdoors became my classroom, allowing me to engage with the world in a natural and fulfilling way. This passion for the environment led me to pursue a degree in Environmental Studies with a concentration in Ecology at Florida Gulf Coast University, where I also minor in Biology and Art. Through my studies, I have found a love for learning because I can focus on science and the outdoors—subjects that truly inspire me. At Florida Gulf Coast University, I work as a student worker in the colloquium department, where I teach students about the importance of environmental protection and sustainable growth. This role allows me to educate others on ways to reduce their carbon footprint and live more sustainably. Through my education and experience, I am actively working toward combating climate change by promoting awareness and advocating for responsible environmental practices. One of the largest environmental issues in the United States is food waste, which significantly contributes to landfill overflow and greenhouse gas emissions. One practical solution is to implement DIY composting systems to recycle organic waste and enrich soil for houseplants or outdoor gardens. Composting not only reduces waste but also helps create nutrient-rich soil that benefits plant growth, leading to a more sustainable way of managing food scraps. Another major contributor to climate change is the animal agriculture industry, which is the largest source of atmospheric pollution. One way to combat this issue is by reducing meat consumption. Cutting back on the amount of beef and chicken consumed each week can significantly lower carbon emissions. However, for those who are dedicated meat eaters, sourcing meat from local cattle farms instead of purchasing from large grocery chains is a more sustainable option. Supporting local farmers not only reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation but also strengthens local economies. In addition to food-related sustainability efforts, adopting second-hand shopping habits is another effective way to reduce environmental impact. The fashion industry is one of the most significant polluters, but purchasing second-hand items from thrift stores, flea markets, or online platforms like Facebook Marketplace can help cut down on waste. Donating items instead of discarding them ensures that resources are reused rather than ending up in landfills. Shopping second-hand is also economically beneficial, making it a win-win situation for both consumers and the environment. My passion for the environment has driven me to pursue a career where I can make a meaningful impact. Through my studies and my role in educating others, I am committed to promoting sustainable practices that help combat climate change. By taking small steps—such as composting, reducing meat consumption, and shopping second-hand—everyone can contribute to a healthier planet. I encourage my family and friends to be mindful of their daily habits and recognize that even the smallest actions can collectively create significant environmental change. The future of our planet depends on our willingness to adopt more sustainable lifestyles, and I am determined to continue advocating for a greener, more sustainable world.

Growing up, I have always been infatuated with the outdoors. Ever since elementary school, I knew I wanted to pursue a career involving the environment and animals. Working toward a better environment has always been a passion of mine. Organizations such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Audubon Society, and The Nature Conservancy have inspired me to pursue a job in the outdoors rather than be confined in an office. While I know what work I am passionate about, I do not have a specific job in mind yet. Hence, I want to work with wildlife organizations because of the broad spectrum of jobs they provide. Many jobs in this line of work require a wildlife-based degree. I have chosen to study Environmental science because of all the different topics it covers including marine science, ecology, conservation, biology, and chemistry. I am excited about my future in college and career; I see myself discovering a new species one day. I’ve spent my entire life in the southeastern United States, primarily in Florida, where the climate and environment are strikingly different from much of the rest of the country. Growing up in Florida’s unique ecosystems has given me valuable experience in the field, but it has also limited my education to the state’s specific environmental conditions. To broaden my knowledge and skills, I’m eager to gain experience in other parts of the U.S., exploring diverse ecosystems that challenge me in new ways. On a personal note, Florida’s climate doesn’t align with my long-term aspirations. I aim to move up north after finishing school, where I hope to enjoy a different environment and lifestyle. The award of the Pursue Your Passion Scholarship would provide valuable tools to pursue my passion. Ultimately, my dream is to pursue a full-time career in the federal government as a Fish and Wildlife Conservation Officer, a Park Ranger, or something similar. Since I was a young girl, I’ve been passionate about working outdoors and positively impacting the environment. Organizations like the National Park Service have always inspired me, and I’m determined to follow in their footsteps to protect and preserve our natural resources for future generations.

When I was in kindergarten, my parents and teachers noticed I was hesitant toward reading and writing. I despised reading and writing and would scream and cry because I felt frustrated. After researching, my parents figured I was struggling with a learning disability. In second grade I was diagnosed with Dyslexia and was enrolled at the Roberts Academy, a school for children with learning disabilities. After feeling so self-critical, I was surrounded by other children who needed extra help, just like me. I began to excel due to the learning strategies and exercises taught, and I felt confident in myself. Once I started High School my self-esteem started to drop again. My freshman year was extremely challenging. My teachers understood my disability and many of them did anything they could to help me. I graduated with a 3.8 GPA and ranked 40th in a class of 510 graduates. While my disability still impacts me, I no longer feel insecure and I am excited and confident in my future. Instead of focusing on everything I struggle with because of my dyslexia, I try to focus on my passions. I used to get extremely angry when I could not read or write perfectly. I would get upset when I stuttered or when I couldn't figure out how to spell a word. But I understand my disability will never go away and I am at peace with that. Hence I try to focus on my strengths. Art has always been one of my ways to escape. I love to paint with watercolor and sculpt with clay. Art calms me down and gives me confidence. I have always thought of myself as a creative person and one of the ways I express it is through art. Art has also taught me the important lesson of mistakes. It is okay to make mistakes and becoming frustrated is natural, however, frustration does not solve the problem. Art has helped me learn patience in all areas of learning. When I am struggling, it is important to remember the good characteristics about myself because I am not just my mistakes, I am my accomplishments. Being selected would make me feel recognized as a person in my situation. For many years, learning disabilities were viewed as laziness. But new education strategies and opportunities for students with dyslexia (and other learning disabilities) are becoming more normalized which gives me confidence in moving forward in my education. At one point in my life, I felt hopeless and lazy. I felt I wasn't working hard enough and that I could do better. But in reality, I was struggling with something I couldn't control. Thanks to opportunities like the Carol B. Warren, You are Loved Scholarship, students like me have new hope for our education. Participating in this scholarship brings me confidence in myself, and hope for other students who struggle with learning disabilities.