Some of the most powerful lessons in life are passed down through stories of sacrifice, resilience, and the unwavering belief in a better tomorrow. My grandfather’s journey exemplifies this truth and has profoundly shaped my values. Born into poverty, he used a stick to brush his teeth because his family could not afford a toothbrush. When he became an adult, he vowed never to experience that kind of deprivation again and kept seven toothbrushes—one for each day of the week. Determined to change his circumstances, he joined the U.S. Navy, not only to serve his country, but also to access the G.I. Bill and achieve his dream of a college education. His belief in the transformative power of education has been instilled in me, shaping my own determination to use education to better my life and the lives of others. I plan to major in health sciences with a minor in disabilities studies and a second minor in business with the goal of ultimately earning a doctorate in occupational therapy. My dream is to help children with disabilities achieve independence and lead fulfilling lives. Throughout my life, I have been guided by values like integrity, kindness, and the importance of keeping my word. My grandparents, parents, and mentors have always emphasized that a person’s name and reputation are their most valuable possessions. These principles, along with the example of perseverance set by my grandfather, inspire me to lead a life of purpose and service. I feel a special connection to Patrick A. Visaggi’s legacy, especially through his service in the U.S. Navy and his dedication to others. Like Mr. Visaggi, my grandfather used his Navy service as a stepping stone to improve his life and provide for his family. This instilled in me the understanding that education is the key to opportunity and that hard work and sacrifice are necessary to achieve meaningful goals. This belief has become a cornerstone of my life, guiding me as I prepare for my future. Family has always been central to my values and aspirations. My grandparents worked tirelessly to create a better life for their children and grandchildren, teaching us to value hard work, education, and kindness. My own parents have continued this legacy by showing me the importance of compassion and perseverance. These lessons drive my desire to pursue a career where I can give back to others and make a difference in their lives. In pursuing my education and career, I hope to honor the values passed down through my family and the legacy of individuals like Mr. Visaggi and my grandfather. Their stories remind me that resilience, determination, and a commitment to helping others can leave a lasting impact and I am eager to continue this tradition in my own way.

True kindness isn’t found in grand gestures, but in the quiet moments of connection. One of the most impactful relationships in my life is my friendship with Cooper, a remarkable individual who has taught me more about resilience, joy, and kindness than I ever thought possible. Cooper has special needs and was born with Down syndrome, but his spirit is anything but ordinary. He approaches life with determination, humor, and a perspective that inspires everyone around him. Our friendship has shaped the way I see the world, teaching me that kindness isn’t about dramatic gestures, it is about showing up consistently, celebrating small victories, and making others feel valued. Through our time growing up together, I’ve seen firsthand the importance of celebrating milestones that might seem small to some but mean the world to others. One of my favorite memories with Cooper was during his first relay race at the Special Olympics. I remember standing on the sidelines, cheering as loud as I could, along with his family and friends. When Cooper crossed the finish line and received his gold medal, his face lit up with the purest joy I’ve ever seen. It wasn’t just about winning; it was about being supported and celebrated by the people who love him. That moment taught me that kindness is often about reminding others that their efforts and achievements matter. Cooper’s journey hasn’t always been easy. One of his biggest frustrations comes from being difficult to understand due to his special needs. Often, people struggle to figure out what he wants or needs, which can leave him feeling isolated or misunderstood. But having grown up with him, I’ve developed a deep understanding of his communication style. I can almost always tell what he’s trying to say, even when his words aren’t clear to others. There are rare moments when I can’t fully understand him, but even then, I do my best to help him feel heard and supported. This bond has only strengthened our friendship because Cooper knows he can trust me and find comfort in me when he’s frustrated. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see him relax and feel understood, knowing I’ve been able to provide that for him. This pattern of kindness extends beyond my relationship with Cooper. I’ve made it a priority to build similar connections in other areas of my life. For example, as part of a senior buddy program at my school, I’ve mentored a kindergartener named Emma Beth. One way I’ve shown kindness to her is doing activities with her once a month. During these activities I always make sure that they are filled with fun but also encouragement and advice, reminding her of her unique strengths and the importance of kindness in her own life. Watching Emma Beth light up when she sees me is a reminder of how meaningful small acts of encouragement can be. It’s not just about taking the time to play with her and talk to her; it’s about showing her that someone believes in her and will always cheer her on. Similarly, I’ve shown kindness through my involvement in Girl Scouts, where I’ve spent years serving my community. One project that stands out involved organizing care packages for families in need during the holidays. The packages included food, warm clothing, and handwritten notes of encouragement. Delivering these packages was a deeply humbling experience, as I saw how something as simple as a warm meal or a kind word could lift someone’s spirits. These acts of kindness might not solve every problem, but they remind people that they’re cared for and valued, which can be just as impactful. As senior class president, I’ve also worked to create an inclusive and supportive environment for my peers. Leadership has given me countless opportunities to extend kindness, whether it’s through encouraging classmates who feel overlooked or ensuring everyone’s voice is heard during school events. One instance that stands out was during a senior event where a student who typically stayed in the background expressed interest in helping out. I made sure to include them and recognize their contributions publicly, and the smile on their face was worth every bit of extra effort. That small act of inclusion not only boosted their confidence but also reminded me how powerful kindness can be when it’s intentional. At its core, kindness is about creating connections and making others feel seen, valued, and supported. Whether it’s cheering Cooper on at a Special Olympics race, spending time with Emma Beth, or including someone who’s often overlooked, I’ve tried to make kindness a consistent part of my life. These moments of kindness have positively impacted those around me, but they’ve also shaped me into a more empathetic and compassionate person. The lessons I’ve learned through these experiences remind me that the ripple effect of kindness is endless. Small, consistent actions have the power to transform lives, both the lives of those who receive them and the lives of those who give them.

The weight of overcommitment is like carrying a backpack filled with bricks, you don’t realize how heavy it is until you finally put it down. For years, I juggled school, extracurriculars, leadership roles, and social commitments, believing I could handle it all. But the truth is, spreading myself too thin left me feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and unable to give my best to anything. Learning to step back and prioritize my mental health transformed not only my academic performance but also my personal life. When my schedule was packed with too many responsibilities, my mental health suffered, and the effects rippled into every area of my life. At school, I found it harder to concentrate on assignments, often rushing through them just to move on to the next task. As a straight A student, my grades didn’t necessarily drop, but the quality of my work wasn’t reflective of my true potential. Beyond academics, my stress started to take a toll on my relationships. I became irritable, distant, and too caught up in my to-do list to fully engage with my family or friends. The constant pressure to meet deadlines and fulfill commitments made me feel like I was stuck in a never-ending cycle of exhaustion. Eventually, I reached a breaking point. I realized that by trying to do everything, I wasn’t doing anything well or even taking care of myself. This moment of clarity forced me to reevaluate my priorities and take steps to protect my mental health. One of the most important changes I made was learning to say no. At first, this was incredibly difficult; I worried I’d disappoint people or miss out on opportunities. But I soon discovered that saying no to some commitments allowed me to say yes to the things that truly mattered. This shift helped me focus on quality over quantity, allowing me to give my full attention and energy to the activities that aligned with my goals and values. Another strategy that helped me was setting boundaries with my time. I started creating schedules that included breaks, ensuring I had time to recharge between tasks. I also made a conscious effort to avoid overloading my afternoons and weekends with too many commitments. These boundaries gave me the space to breathe and allowed me to approach my responsibilities with a clearer mind. Finally, I began prioritizing self-care as a non-negotiable part of my routine. This included small but meaningful practices, such as getting enough sleep and carving out time for hobbies like volleyball and coloring. These moments of rest and reflection became essential for maintaining my mental health, helping me feel balanced and in control. Stepping back didn’t mean giving up on my ambitions; it meant learning how to approach them in a healthier, more sustainable way. By managing my mental health and avoiding overcommitment, I’ve found that I can perform better academically and cultivate deeper, more meaningful relationships. Most importantly, I’ve learned that taking care of myself isn’t selfish; it’s the foundation for thriving in every area of life.

Every person deserves the chance to overcome their challenges and unlock their full potential, and I want to be someone who helps make that happen. My field of interest is health sciences, with the ultimate goal of pursuing a doctorate in occupational therapy. This career path allows me to combine my passion for helping others with my interest in human development, and it all began during my own experience with physical therapy. As a patient in physical therapy, I was focused on my own recovery, but I couldn’t help but notice the occupational therapist who shared the space with my pt. Week after week, I watched her work closely with her patients, guiding them through exercises to improve their motor skills, coordination, and overall independence. I saw the progress her patients made over time. What seemed small at first, like holding a utensil properly, would eventually build into milestones worth celebrating. It was incredibly inspiring to witness how her dedication and expertise helped transform people’s lives. Those moments sparked my interest in occupational therapy and planted the idea that I wanted to do something just as meaningful with my future. I desire to create an impact by focusing on pediatric occupational therapy, where I can work with children and their families to overcome developmental delays or recover from injuries. I want to provide more than just treatment, I want to foster confidence, independence, and hope. Every child has unique challenges, whether it’s learning to tie their shoes, improving hand-eye coordination, or gaining strength after an accident. By tailoring therapy to their specific needs, I want to help them achieve their goals and see themselves as capable and resilient individuals. Beyond the clinical setting, I aspire to advocate for greater accessibility to therapy services, especially for underserved communities. I also hope to contribute to advancements in treatment methods by staying informed on research and incorporating new techniques into my practice. The field of occupational therapy is constantly evolving, and I want to be part of that growth while ensuring that each patient I work with feels seen, supported, and empowered. What drives me most is knowing the impact I can have on someone’s quality of life. My own experiences have taught me the value of persistence and individualized care, and I am determined to bring those lessons into my work. Occupational therapy isn’t just a career to me, it’s a way to make a lasting difference, one patient at a time. Like John Young, who pursued his professional dreams with determination and a desire to make an impact, I am committed to using my passion and abilities to create meaningful change in the lives of others.

When I watch Ilona Maher play rugby, I don’t just see an athlete, I see someone who is unapologetically herself, someone who has turned criticism into confidence. She is someone who has used her platform to inspire others, especially women, to embrace their bodies and their strength. Ilona isn’t just a force on the field; she’s a champion for body positivity, and that’s why she’s my favorite athlete to cheer for on Team USA. Standing at 5’10” and weighing 200 pounds, Ilona has been mocked for her appearance more times than I can count. She’s been called “too masculine” or “too big,” and I get it. As someone who has also been teased for being taller and bigger than most of my peers, I’ve always felt a little out of place. But seeing how Ilona handles the negativity with grace and humor has made me feel less alone. Someone once made a comment about her having a BMI of 30, and her clapback was everything. She proudly defended her body, reminding everyone that it’s built for rugby and being a strong athlete. That response stuck with me because it wasn’t just about shutting down the negativity, it was about embracing who she is. She’s not just strong physically; she’s mentally strong too, and that’s something I admire deeply. What makes love Ilona even more is her sense of humor and how real she is on social media. She doesn’t just share her wins on the field; she gives us a glimpse into her life off the field. Whether she’s posting about the struggles of being an athlete, behind the scenes of her season on Dancing with the Stars, or joking around with her teammates, Ilona’s content always feels authentic. It’s like she’s talking to a friend, and that honesty makes her feel even more like someone I can relate to. I love seeing a strong woman who doesn’t take herself too seriously but still knows her worth. Her ability to laugh at herself and own who she is has made me more confident in embracing my own body and personality. Ilona Maher has taught me that strength comes in all shapes and sizes, and that being different is something to celebrate, not hide from. Her confidence has inspired me to love myself for who I am and to not shy away from what makes me unique. Whether she’s dominating on the rugby field or spreading positivity through her social media, Ilona shows us that true beauty and strength come from within. Watching her has been a constant reminder that I don’t need to fit a certain mold to be valuable; I just need to be myself. And that’s why I cheer for Ilona Ilona. She’s not just a role model for athletes, but for anyone who’s ever felt insecure or judged for being different like me. She’s a reminder that strength isn’t just about how you look, it’s about how you stand tall in the face of adversity, and how you own your power.

I walked into physical therapy for my back, but I walked out with a vision for my future. What started as an inconvenience became the spark that led me to discover occupational therapy, a career I hadn’t even known existed. My physical therapist shared a workspace with an occupational therapist, and I often found myself captivated by the work I saw. Watching them help children overcome challenges and grow in confidence showed me how life-changing occupational therapy could be, not just physically but emotionally and mentally. It was then that I realized college would be more than a stepping stone for me; it would be the foundation for the life I want to build. Helping others has always been a passion of mine, especially when it comes to children and individuals with special needs. I’ve experienced the joy of helping my friend with Down syndrome navigate challenges and celebrate small victories, and those moments solidified my desire to pursue a career that makes a difference. Discovering occupational therapy felt like finding the perfect way to connect my love for helping others with my goal of creating meaningful change. I want to be a pediatric occupational therapist who empowers children to gain independence and reach their fullest potential, one goal at a time. This scholarship would help me achieve my dream by making the path to my degree more accessible. To become an occupational therapist, I need to earn a bachelor’s degree and then pursue my Doctorate in Occupational Therapy. While I am committed to this journey, I know it will come with significant financial challenges. Receiving this scholarship would ease the financial burden and allow me to focus fully on my studies and hands-on training. What inspires me most about occupational therapy is its ability to break down barriers, whether they are physical, emotional, or mental, that prevent people from living full, independent lives. It’s not just about learning to tie shoes or write with a pencil; it’s about restoring confidence, building skills, and giving people the tools they need to thrive. To me, this work is more than a profession; it’s a calling. When I think about my future, I don’t just see a diploma hanging on a wall. I see children smiling as they achieve things they once thought impossible. I imagine families celebrating milestones and breakthroughs. This scholarship would allow me to pursue the education I need to make that vision a reality. It would not only help me reach my academic goals but also prepare me to give back to my community as a compassionate and skilled occupational therapist. The eight months I spent in physical therapy taught me more than how to heal my back; they showed me the path I was meant to take. Now, I am ready to dedicate myself to the hard work and challenges ahead because I know the impact I can make is worth it. With the support of this scholarship, I will be one step closer to fulfilling my calling and helping children overcome barriers to live full and joyful lives one small victory at a time.

Throughout my academic journey, I was always known as a strong student. I was dedicated, hardworking, and achieved excellent grades. What most people didn’t know, however, was that I carried a secret: I couldn’t read without the aid of an audiobook. I worked tirelessly to hide this fact, masking my struggles with determination and effort. I relied heavily on audiobooks to complete assignments, memorized information rather than fully processing it, and avoided situations where my reading difficulties might be exposed. On the surface, I was thriving, but inside, I knew I wasn’t truly reaching my potential. I believed that as long as I maintained good grades, my secret would remain hidden. That all changed when I took the ACT for the first time. Despite my best efforts, my struggles with reading comprehension were reflected in my score. I got a score of 14 in the reading section. Seeing that score was devastating. It was a number that felt like it defined my limitations, and no amount of hard work or effort could disguise the fact that I needed help. When my parents saw my ACT results, they realized something was wrong. They had always known I worked hard, but this was the first time my struggle was undeniable. Determined to support me, they sought answers and eventually found out about vision therapy. At first, I was embarrassed by the idea of needing therapy. Vision therapy felt like an admission that I wasn’t as capable as I had worked so hard to appear. But as I started the program, I began to understand the root of my challenges. Vision therapy wasn’t just about improving my eyesight, it was about retraining my brain to process information more effectively. Each session was demanding, requiring patience and persistence, but I was committed to making progress. Around the same time, I was placed in a special program at school called Bridge, designed to provide accommodations for students who needed extra support. While I recognized the value of the program, I felt deeply ashamed. Being in a class for students who struggled felt at odds with my identity as a high-achieving student. I was worried about how others might perceive me and wrestled with feelings of inadequacy. Over time, both vision therapy and the Bridge program became transformative experiences. Slowly but surely, I began to notice changes. I could read for longer periods without fatigue and understand complex texts without relying on audiobooks. My confidence grew as I gained the skills I had been missing for so long. One of the most validating moments came when I retook the ACT. After months of hard work in vision therapy and with the support of the Bridge program, my reading score jumped from a 14 to a 35. That improvement wasn’t just about the numbers, it was a reflection of my perseverance and the power of seeking help. Through this journey, I learned that asking for help is not a sign of weakness but a sign of strength. My challenges taught me to value resilience and embrace vulnerability. They also deepened my empathy for others who face struggles, inspiring me to advocate for students who may feel ashamed or isolated because of their differences. These experiences have also influenced my aspirations for the future. I plan to pursue a career in pediatric occupational therapy, where I can help children overcome obstacles and reach their full potential. My journey has shown me the importance of perseverance, and I am eager to provide the same encouragement and support that I received to others. Rick Levin’s legacy resonates deeply with me. His dedication to nurturing the academic and emotional strengths of his students mirrors the guidance and encouragement I have experienced. Like Mr. Levin, I hope to create an environment where others feel seen, valued, and empowered to overcome their challenges. What once felt like setbacks have become a source of strength. My struggles with reading and comprehension have shaped my character, instilling in me a deep sense of gratitude, humility, and determination. As I prepare to take the next step in my education, I am also trying to pay for college on my own, without relying heavily on my parents for financial support. This responsibility has motivated me to work harder than ever, seeking every opportunity to support my goals while maintaining the resilience I have built through previous struggles. I am confident in my ability to face challenges and eager to make a positive impact in the lives of others. This scholarship represents more than financial assistance, it embodies the values of perseverance, acceptance, and generosity. For me, it would provide vital support as I continue working toward funding my education independently. By embracing these principles, I am committed to honoring Mr. Levin’s memory and leaving a lasting impact in my community and beyond.

I never imagined that a friendship could impact my mental health so profoundly. For years, I had a friend who at first seemed so kind and supportive but slowly became manipulative and isolating. She distanced me from other friends, made me question my worth, and used guilt and intimidation to control me. Her behavior was mentally abusive. She constantly belittled me, dismissed my feelings, and made me feel like I was not good enough. I did not realize how unhealthy our relationship had become until I felt completely drained and alone. Breaking away from that friendship was one of the hardest but most important decisions I have ever made. It marked the beginning of my journey to understanding mental health and the value of healthy relationships. This friendship left a lasting impact on my beliefs. It showed me how easily someone can manipulate a relationship to gain control, especially when the other person is vulnerable or trusting. Before this experience, I thought that being a “good friend” meant always trying to fix problems, even at the expense of my own well-being. I now understand that relationships should never come at such a high cost. True friendships are built on mutual respect, trust, and kindness; not control or manipulation. I learned to recognize red flags, such as when someone makes you feel guilty for having other friends, dismisses your opinions, or constantly belittles you. These lessons have shaped the way I approach relationships today. While this friendship was painful, it ultimately strengthened my self-worth. At first, walking away from the friendship felt like a failure. I worried that I had done something wrong or that I had not done enough to “fix” the relationship. However, over time, I realized that ending it was not a failure; rather, it was an act of courage. It taught me to prioritize my mental health and to advocate for myself when something feels wrong. I came to understand that it is okay to let go of relationships that hurt more than they help. This realization gave me the confidence to establish healthy boundaries - not just in friendships but in every area of my life. This experience has also profoundly influenced how I interact with others. Having been in a mentally abusive friendship, I am more empathetic towards people who may be dealing with similar challenges. It has made me more aware of how my words and actions can impact others. As senior class president, I work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for my peers. I encourage open communication and emphasize the importance of treating one another with kindness and respect. In my leadership roles, I often find myself mentoring others who are struggling with relationships or self-esteem, and I draw on my own experiences to offer advice and encouragement. One of the most significant ways this experience has shaped me is in my career aspirations. After experiencing first hand the harm that an unhealthy relationship can cause, I am passionate about teaching others the importance of mental health and fostering positive connections. This led to me creating a Healthy Relationships patch program for my Girl Scout Gold Award project which teaches Girl Scouts across the nation the importance of establishing boundaries in relationships as well as recognizing the warning signs of unhealthy tendencies in relationships. This passion will also help me in my future career as a pediatric occupational therapist. I want to create a safe and supportive space for children and families by helping them build the skills and confidence they need to maintain healthy relationships. I plan to use my platform to teach children not only about physical and developmental growth but also about emotional well-being and interpersonal skills. I hope to inspire others to prioritize their mental health and to understand that they deserve relationships that uplift them. Breaking free from that toxic friendship was a turning point in my life. Although it was an incredibly painful experience it was extremely valuable as it allowed me to heal, regain my confidence, and discover my passion for supporting others. My journey taught me that mental health is just as important as physical health and that everyone deserves relationships that are positive, respectful, and empowering. By sharing my story, I hope to encourage others to recognize their own worth and to seek out relationships that build them up instead of breaking them down. The lessons I have learned from this experience will stay with me forever. They have shaped my beliefs about relationships, strengthened my empathy, and clarified my purpose in life. Whether in my personal life, leadership roles, or future career, I am committed to creating a world where mental health and healthy relationships are valued and nurtured.