In my junior year of high school, everything felt overwhelming. Between demanding classes, extracurricular commitments, and preparing for college applications, I found myself constantly exhausted and anxious. However, my struggle with anxiety began long before high school. In fourth grade, a group of my friends suddenly turned against me, and that experience profoundly affected me. It was my first real encounter with intense anxiety and fear, making me hesitant and cautious in my interactions for years afterward. Initially, I tried to cope on my own, but the anxiety only grew worse. Eventually, I started seeing a counselor who provided me with the tools to understand and manage my anxiety better. Therapy helped me develop strategies to cope, but by high school, I recognized that additional support was necessary. In my sophomore year, after discussing it with my parents and counselor, I started medication for my anxiety. This decision was transformative. It allowed me to take control of my anxious thoughts and tendencies, significantly improving my outlook on life. One thing I began doing intentionally to support my mental health was dedicating time each day to journaling. At first, it felt strange, almost like keeping a diary when I was younger. Quickly though, I found that writing down my thoughts helped me process my feelings more effectively. It made my anxieties seem less daunting and easier to manage. I also made it a habit to take daily walks after school, even if it was just around my neighborhood. These walks became my peaceful escape, offering quiet moments to clear my mind and reset. Changing my habits was not easy initially, especially when social activities or academic pressures became intense again. However, over time, I learned the importance of setting boundaries and clearly communicating my needs. Saying no to certain activities or requests made me feel guilty at first, but soon I understood that prioritizing my own well-being was essential. It allowed me to be more present and supportive for the people around me. The most important lesson from this journey has been recognizing the importance of balance and self-awareness. I realized that my mental and emotional health deserve the same attention and care as any other responsibility in my life. This awareness has significantly influenced my future planning. Now, as I prepare to attend college, I am committed to maintaining these self-care routines. I understand that managing stress effectively will be essential for my success in college and beyond. Looking forward, I am excited about attending college to study English, with the goal of becoming an English teacher. My experiences have equipped me with empathy, resilience, and a deep understanding of how to care for myself, which I believe will make me a compassionate and effective teacher. By prioritizing my mental health, I have grown stronger and more confident in facing whatever challenges lie ahead.

Empowerment, to me, is feeling strong enough to step beyond the boundaries I've set for myself. It's about taking the risks that scare me, knowing that even if it’s difficult, I have the ability to grow and succeed. Most of all, it’s about finding the courage to keep moving forward, even when things feel overwhelming. My first true experience with empowerment came from something most kids probably take for granted: learning how to read. Because I have borderline dyslexia, reading wasn't easy for me at first. Letters and words felt confusing and frustrating, like a puzzle missing half the pieces. But after many hours of practice and encouragement from my teachers and family, something finally clicked. Suddenly, words weren't obstacles; they became gateways into incredible worlds filled with stories that inspired me. Discovering that I could overcome such a significant personal challenge taught me a lot about what empowerment really means. It means believing in my own strength even when a goal seems out of reach. While books gave me confidence, social interactions were a different story. After a negative experience in grade school, social anxiety took root in my life. Being around people, especially unfamiliar ones, often felt overwhelming. I tended to withdraw into books because stories felt safer, less unpredictable. But over time, I realized that hiding away wasn't helping; it was holding me back from truly experiencing life. That's when I discovered drama and theater, activities that surprisingly gave me a new sense of courage. Standing on stage in front of an audience wasn't easy at first, but performing taught me to embrace discomfort and uncertainty. Acting allowed me to be brave in ways I hadn’t imagined, and the confidence I built performing eventually spilled over into my everyday life. It helped me slowly become more comfortable in social settings, and I found myself more willing to reach out and connect with others. Now, I’m fortunate enough to have a supportive core group of friends who have made navigating these anxieties easier. I've also been lucky to have incredible role models who have shown me the true meaning of empowerment. My mom, a first-grade teacher for over twenty-five years, showed me the power and influence a dedicated educator can have on students. Watching her inspired me deeply and directly influenced my decision to become a high school English teacher. Similarly, my 9th and 11th-grade Bible teacher impacted me significantly. Her kindness, quiet strength, and genuine care for students showed me that real empowerment doesn't need to be loud or forceful; it can come from compassion, empathy, and a quiet belief in others. She helped me believe in myself at times when my anxiety was overwhelming and reinforced my desire to inspire and empower students in my own classroom someday. Empowerment has shaped who I am today. It's a process rather than a single moment, an ongoing journey of building confidence, learning to navigate challenges, and supporting others along the way. I hope to carry this feeling forward into my future as a teacher, helping my students discover their own strengths and guiding them toward their own sense of empowerment. For me, empowerment isn't just something personal; it's something to be shared and passed along, strengthening each of us one courageous step at a time.

When people talk about civil service, they often think of emergency responders or government officials. For me, civil service means something slightly different; it means being a high school English teacher. Growing up with teachers in my family influenced me deeply. Both my grandmother and my mom dedicated their lives to teaching, and seeing the impact they made on students inspired me to follow in their footsteps. As a young child, reading didn't come easily to me. I'm nearly dyslexic, but in the first and second grade something clicked and my love for stories took off like a rocket. I struggled with anxiety, especially in social situations, and books became my safe place. Stories gave me comfort, provided a place to retreat to, and ultimately helped me develop empathy and insight. Over the years, teachers helped me overcome some of my biggest hurdles. They showed patience and understanding; their classrooms became spaces where I could gradually build confidence. In the past year, I’ve started managing my anxiety better with the help of medication and support from my family and teachers. I'm now more comfortable speaking up in class and connecting with new people. I see firsthand how valuable a supportive teacher can be for students dealing with personal struggles; that's precisely the kind of educator I aspire to become. Teaching English provides a unique opportunity to help students learn important life skills beyond grammar or literature. Books aren't just stories to be analyzed; they offer lessons on compassion, critical thinking, and self-expression. I want to show students that literature can be a way to explore ideas and challenges in their own lives. Even students who don't love reading as much as I do can still benefit from learning to think deeply about the world around them. My mother and grandmother demonstrated how teaching goes beyond the curriculum. They built relationships with students that lasted years; former students would come back to visit and express gratitude for their support and guidance. Witnessing these relationships taught me how much teachers matter. It's not just about test scores or grades; it's about making a genuine difference in someone's life. In choosing to become a teacher, I'm choosing to serve my community through education. I want my classroom to be a safe, welcoming environment where students feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and expressing themselves freely. I want to offer the kind of support my mom, grandma, and other teachers have given me, because I know how life-changing that can be. Ultimately, teaching is more than a career choice for me; it’s my way of positively contributing to the well-being of my community, one student and one novel at a time.

For as long as I can remember, anxiety has been a part of my life. It wasn’t always obvious to others, but inside, it felt like a constant weight pressing down on me. Social situations were the hardest. The thought of speaking up in class, introducing myself to new people, or even just walking into a crowded room made my heart race and my hands shake. While other kids seemed to make friends effortlessly, I found comfort in books, where I could disappear into fantasy worlds that felt safe and predictable. Reading was my escape. I could be anyone, go anywhere, and experience adventures without ever leaving my room. While books gave me comfort, they also became a way to avoid the things that scared me. Instead of pushing myself to meet new people or try new things, I buried myself in stories where I didn’t have to worry about being judged or saying the wrong thing. I told myself I was just "shy," but deep down, I knew it was more than that. My anxiety wasn’t just making me quiet—it was holding me back. Over the years, I tried different ways to manage it. Breathing exercises, grounding techniques, and pushing myself out of my comfort zone all helped in small ways, but the anxiety never really went away. No matter how much I prepared for social situations, I still felt the same overwhelming nervousness. Eventually, I realized that I needed more help, and with the support of my family, I started taking medication for anxiety last year. At first, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Would I feel different? Would I still be me? But as time passed, I noticed small changes. The constant sense of dread started to fade. I worried less about saying the wrong thing or embarrassing myself. For the first time, I felt like I had space to breathe, to think, to be present in the moment without my mind racing through every possible worst-case scenario. With my anxiety more manageable, I’ve started to open up in ways I never thought I could. I’m participating more in class discussions, reaching out to people, and even enjoying social events that I used to avoid. It hasn’t been an instant transformation, and I still have moments of doubt, but I finally feel like I’m stepping into the person I was always meant to be. Anxiety will always be part of my story, but it no longer defines me. I’ve learned that seeking help isn’t a weakness, it’s a step toward strength. And now, instead of just reading about adventures, I’m starting to live my own.

LeBron James is one of the greatest basketball players of all time, and I have always admired his skill, leadership, and dedication to the game. His impact on basketball is undeniable—his combination of size, speed, and basketball IQ makes him a once-in-a-generation player. While I believe Michael Jordan is still the greatest of all time (GOAT), LeBron is a very close second, and his accomplishments make a strong case for that title. LeBron’s longevity and consistency are unmatched. He has played at an elite level for over two decades, winning four NBA championships, earning four MVP awards, and becoming the NBA’s all-time leading scorer—a record that solidifies his place in history. His ability to dominate across different eras, teams, and playing styles is something no other player has done quite the same way. Beyond his on-court achievements, LeBron is also a leader and role model. He has used his platform to advocate for social justice, opened the I PROMISE School to help underprivileged kids, and built a lasting legacy that goes beyond basketball. While Jordan’s six championships, undefeated NBA Finals record, and killer mentality keep him at the top, LeBron’s versatility, leadership, and record-breaking career make him a close second—and one of the greatest athletes of all time.

When it comes to Team USA, there are many incredible athletes to cheer for, but my favorite is Alex Morgan from the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team. She is not just a talented player but also a leader, an advocate, and an inspiration to young athletes everywhere. Morgan has been a key part of Team USA’s success for over a decade. Whether it’s her iconic game-winning goals, her incredible speed, or her ability to come through in high-pressure moments, she embodies what it means to be a world-class athlete. She played a huge role in the U.S. winning the 2015 and 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cups, proving that hard work and perseverance lead to success. Beyond her talent on the field, I admire Alex Morgan for her dedication to fighting for equality in sports. She has been a vocal advocate for equal pay for women in soccer, standing up for herself and her teammates in the fight for fair treatment. She uses her platform to bring awareness to important issues, proving that athletes can make a difference beyond just their sport. Morgan’s resilience, leadership, and passion make her my favorite athlete to cheer for. She represents strength and determination, and every time she steps onto the field, she inspires young athletes, especially girls, to believe in themselves and chase their dreams.

Since around age 11, anxiety has been a part of my life. It wasn’t always obvious to others, but inside, it felt like a constant weight pressing down on me. Social situations were the hardest. The thought of speaking up in class, introducing myself to new people, or even just walking into a crowded room made my heart race and my hands shake. While other kids seemed to make friends effortlessly, I found comfort in books, where I could disappear into fantasy worlds that felt safe and predictable. Reading was my escape. I could be anyone, go anywhere, and experience adventures without ever leaving my room. While books gave me comfort, they also became a way to avoid the things that scared me. Instead of pushing myself to meet new people or try new things, I buried myself in stories where I didn’t have to worry about being judged or saying the wrong thing. I told myself I was just "shy," but deep down, I knew it was more than that. My anxiety wasn’t just making me quiet—it was holding me back. Over the years, I tried different ways to manage it. Breathing exercises, grounding techniques, and pushing myself out of my comfort zone all helped in small ways, but the anxiety never really went away. No matter how much I prepared for social situations, I still felt the same overwhelming nervousness. Eventually, I realized that I needed more help, and with the support of my family, I started taking medication for anxiety last year. At first, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Would I feel different? Would I still be me? But as time passed, I noticed small changes. The constant sense of dread started to fade. I worried less about saying the wrong thing or embarrassing myself. For the first time, I felt like I had space to breathe, to think, to be present in the moment without my mind racing through every possible worst-case scenario. With my anxiety more manageable, I’ve started to open up in ways I never thought I could. I’m participating more in class discussions, reaching out to people, and even enjoying social events that I used to avoid. It hasn’t been an instant transformation, and I still have moments of doubt, but I finally feel like I’m stepping into the person I was always meant to be. Anxiety will always be part of my story, but it no longer defines me. I’ve learned that seeking help isn’t a weakness—it’s a step toward strength. And now, instead of just reading about adventures, I’m starting to live my own.

"And now, I said, let me show in a figure how far our nature is enlightened or unenlightened:—Behold! human beings living in an underground den, which has a mouth open towards the light and reaching all along the den; here they have been from their childhood, and have their legs and necks chained so that they cannot move, and can only see before them, being prevented by the chains from turning round their heads. Above and behind them a fire is blazing at a distance, and between the fire and the prisoners there is a raised way; and you will see, if you look, a low wall built along the way, like the screen which marionette players have in front of them, over which they show the puppets." (Republic, Book VII, 514a-515a, trans. Benjamin Jowett) In this passage from The Republic, Plato presents one of the most profound metaphors in Western philosophy: the Allegory of the Cave. At its core, this allegory is an exploration of human perception, ignorance, and the difficult path toward enlightenment. Plato’s argument is that most people live in a state of intellectual bondage, mistaking shadows for reality. The underlying meaning of this passage is that knowledge is not simply about acquiring information but about breaking free from illusion, challenging long-held assumptions, and striving toward higher truth. Plato constructs the cave as a metaphor for human ignorance. The prisoners, chained from childhood and unable to move their heads, represent individuals who have never questioned the reality presented to them. They can only see shadows cast on the wall by unseen objects, which are manipulated by unseen figures behind them. This imagery suggests that people do not directly perceive truth but instead experience a distorted version of it. The fact that these prisoners have been in the cave since childhood underscores how deeply ingrained false beliefs can be. This speaks to the way culture, upbringing, and societal structures shape our understanding of the world before we ever have the opportunity to question them. The chains binding the prisoners symbolize more than just physical restraint; they represent the limitations imposed by ignorance, societal norms, and even fear of the unknown. Plato suggests that people often remain intellectually "chained" because questioning their perceived reality is uncomfortable. Just as the prisoners do not realize they are shackled, people in society may not recognize their own intellectual limitations. These chains are not imposed maliciously but rather as a natural result of being born into a world where knowledge is mediated through flawed perceptions, authority figures, and incomplete education. The fire in the cave serves as a false source of illumination. It creates the shadows on the wall, tricking the prisoners into believing they see reality when, in fact, they are only observing distortions. This fire can be interpreted as a metaphor for superficial knowledge, the kind that appears illuminating but is actually deceptive. In modern terms, this could represent misinformation, propaganda, or the passive acceptance of half-truths. Just as the prisoners mistake shadows for reality, people today may mistake media narratives, societal expectations, or even their own biases for objective truth. The low wall and the unseen figures who manipulate objects to cast shadows add another layer to Plato’s argument. This suggests that the reality people accept is often shaped by others—whether it be political leaders, educators, religious institutions, or cultural influencers. The wall, acting as a barrier between the prisoners and the truth, highlights the idea that certain structures in society control the flow of knowledge, whether intentionally or as a byproduct of power dynamics. The puppeteers in this metaphor can be interpreted as those who shape public perception, whether through education, media, or political discourse. Plato’s deeper message is that escaping ignorance requires an intentional and often painful process of intellectual awakening. Later in the allegory, he describes a prisoner breaking free, turning toward the light, and eventually emerging from the cave to see the true world beyond. However, this passage sets the stage by emphasizing how difficult it is to even realize one is trapped. In essence, Plato is arguing that people must first recognize their own ignorance before they can seek enlightenment. The relevance of Plato’s allegory extends far beyond ancient Greece. Even today, people are often metaphorically trapped in caves of misinformation, cultural biases, and ideological echo chambers. Many accept the first version of reality presented to them without questioning its accuracy. Social media, political propaganda, and algorithm-driven news cycles reinforce this problem, creating modern-day "shadows on the wall." Just as the prisoners trust what they see without questioning its source, people today may unquestioningly accept ideas shaped by the agendas of those in power. However, Plato does not present this situation as hopeless. His allegory suggests that education, self-reflection, and critical thinking are the keys to breaking free. The first step is recognizing the chains—understanding that one’s perception of reality is limited and shaped by external influences. The next step is actively seeking knowledge beyond the immediate and the obvious. This requires not only intellectual curiosity but also the courage to face uncomfortable truths. Plato’s Allegory of the Cave is not just a critique of ignorance but also a call to action. He challenges individuals to become the freed prisoner—to turn away from the comfortable illusions and seek truth, even when it is difficult. This idea is foundational to philosophy, science, and education as a whole. It is not enough to passively receive information; one must actively question, analyze, and pursue deeper understanding. Ultimately, this passage from The Republic encapsulates one of the most enduring philosophical ideas: that reality is not always what it appears to be, and true wisdom requires breaking free from illusions. Plato urges his readers to move beyond superficial knowledge, challenge their assumptions, and seek higher understanding. The process may be painful, but in the end, enlightenment is worth the struggle.

Books have shaped my life in more ways than I can count. My love for reading began when I was little, sitting by the fireplace as my grandpa read stories to me. Even before I could understand the words, I was captivated by the worlds they created. As I grew older, that fascination never faded; it only deepened. The moment I learned to read was life-changing. Suddenly, books weren’t just stories someone else had to tell me; they were doors I could open myself. But my love for words didn’t stop at reading—I wanted to share them with others. That’s why I want to be a teacher. English class wasn’t just another subject for me; it was the place where I felt the most at home. While others saw Shakespeare as outdated and dull, I saw depth and meaning. I wanted to find ways to make literature come alive for my classmates, to help them see stories as more than just assignments. It was during one of these moments—when I found myself thinking about how I could make English more engaging—that my mom first told me, “Sounds like you should be a teacher.” And she was right. Teaching is more than just standing at the front of a classroom; it’s about inspiring students to think, to question, and to grow. I don’t expect every student to fall in love with reading the way I did, but I do want to help them see the power of words. Whether it’s learning how to analyze a novel, write an essay, or simply express themselves more clearly, I want to be the teacher who gives students the confidence to find their own voices. I also know what it’s like to struggle in school. Learning to read wasn’t easy for me at first, and that experience has given me a deep appreciation for the patience and dedication that great teachers bring to their students. My first-grade teacher never gave up on me, and because of her, I found my passion. I want to be that teacher for someone else—the one who makes a difference, who helps a student unlock their potential, who makes learning exciting rather than intimidating. Beyond the classroom, I hope to create a space where students feel heard and understood. High school can be overwhelming, and I want to be the kind of teacher students know they can turn to. Books have always been my escape, my safe place, and I want to show students that they can find comfort in stories, too. Whether it’s through literature, writing, or simply a classroom environment where they feel supported, I want to help my students grow not just academically, but as individuals. I know teaching isn’t easy. It requires patience, energy, and constant adaptation. But I also know that it’s one of the most rewarding careers out there. Every teacher I’ve had has left a mark on me, shaping the way I see the world, and I hope to do the same for my future students. When I think about my first-grade classroom, my high school English teachers, and the library that first filled me with excitement, I know I’m on the right path. Teaching is not just a career for me; it’s a calling. And I can’t wait to step into a classroom and begin the next chapter of my story.

Writing has been a passion of mine for as long as I can remember. Ever since I was little, I’ve been drawn to stories, especially fantasy books filled with magic, adventure, and characters who overcome impossible odds. I have always loved fairytales, not just for their happily-ever-afters, but for their timeless lessons and the way they can be reimagined in endless ways. Reading these stories inspired me to start creating my own, and soon I found myself writing fairytale retellings with my own unique twists. What I love most about writing is that it allows me to build worlds from scratch. I can create entirely new places, develop characters with rich backstories, and decide the rules of magic and fate. Writing gives me a sense of freedom that I don’t always find in other areas of my life. I can take a familiar story and rewrite it so that the characters make different choices, or I can explore what happens after the traditional ending. There is no limit to creativity, and that excites me. Writing has also helped me in ways beyond just storytelling. It has allowed me to express myself when words don’t always come easily in conversation. It has given me an outlet for my thoughts, struggles, and dreams. Because I have dyscalculia, numbers and logic-based subjects have always been difficult for me, but writing has been my strength. It is the place where I feel the most confident, where I don’t have to worry about getting the “right” answer because there is no single right way to tell a story. As I enter college, I plan to continue writing and expanding my skills. I am excited about taking creative writing courses to learn new techniques and improve my craft. I also hope to join a writing club where I can meet other writers, share my work, and receive constructive feedback. Surrounding myself with a community of writers will push me to grow and refine my storytelling. Beyond college, I hope to publish my own fantasy novels one day. Whether through traditional publishing or self-publishing, I want to share my fairytale retellings with other readers who, like me, find joy in reimagining classic stories. I know that writing is a lifelong journey, and I am eager to continue developing my voice as a writer. Writing isn’t just something I do for fun; it’s a core part of who I am. No matter where life takes me, I know I will always be writing, creating, and dreaming up new stories.

Prompt # 1 Throughout my education, I have faced challenges that often made school feel overwhelming. I was diagnosed with dyscalculia and borderline dyslexia, which made understanding numbers, time, and money incredibly difficult. While I was not in a formal special education program, I had a 504 plan that provided accommodations to help me navigate these struggles. I also received special tutoring that allowed me to build strategies for learning and managing my difficulties with numbers. The support I received helped me realize that with the right tools and determination, I could overcome my challenges and pursue my goals. My experiences with tutoring and accommodations taught me the value of individualized learning. I saw firsthand how different teaching approaches could make a significant difference in how students understand and retain information. These experiences inspired me to pursue a degree in English and a teaching certification so I can help students who struggle with their own learning challenges. I want to be the kind of teacher who recognizes when a student is struggling and provides them with the guidance and support they need to succeed. Just as my tutors and teachers helped me, I want to make a difference in students’ lives by fostering confidence and a love for learning. My struggles in school also made me realize that education is not a one-size-fits-all system. Some students grasp concepts quickly, while others need more time and alternative explanations. Because of my own difficulties, I have developed patience and empathy for students who may feel frustrated or discouraged. I know what it feels like to struggle despite putting in the effort, and I want to be a teacher who reassures students that they are capable and intelligent, even if they learn differently. Pursuing a college education and a teaching certification will allow me to turn my challenges into strengths, equipping me with the skills to help others navigate their own educational journeys. Prompt #2 Struggling with dyscalculia and borderline dyslexia has shaped who I am in ways I never expected. Math has always been a challenge for me, and even today, I struggle with tasks that involve numbers, time, and money. Simple things, like calculating a tip at a restaurant or estimating how long something will take, can be frustrating and stressful. These difficulties have made school harder, but they have also taught me resilience, perseverance, and the importance of asking for help when needed. One of the biggest lessons I have learned from my struggles is that failure is not the end; it is part of the process. There were times when I felt discouraged because no matter how much effort I put into math, I still had a hard time understanding it. However, with support from my teachers, tutors, and family, I learned to work through my frustrations and find strategies that helped me succeed. I realized that my challenges did not define me, and that success is not about being the best at everything but about continuing to push forward despite difficulties. My experiences have also made me more understanding of others who struggle, whether it is academically or in other areas of life. Because I have had to work extra hard to keep up with my peers, I have developed a strong sense of empathy and a desire to help others who may feel the same way. This is one of the reasons I want to become a high school English teacher. I know that not every student finds learning easy, and I want to be the kind of teacher who makes learning accessible and enjoyable for everyone, especially those who feel like they are constantly falling behind. Facing challenges has also given me a deeper appreciation for my strengths. While numbers and calculations are difficult for me, I have always loved reading and writing. English has been my refuge, where I feel confident and capable. My struggles with math have made me even more determined to pursue a degree in English, where I can thrive and use my strengths to help others. I believe that the best teachers are the ones who have struggled themselves because they understand the value of patience, persistence, and encouragement. In the end, my difficulties with dyscalculia and borderline dyslexia have shaped me into a more determined, compassionate, and resilient person. They have taught me that everyone has challenges, but those challenges do not have to hold us back. Instead, they can push us forward, helping us grow into stronger individuals. I am excited to take the lessons I have learned and use them to inspire and support others as a future teacher.