One technology that continues to fire my imagination is the development and implementation of solar panels. While other inventions sometimes get more attention, solar panels are truly transformative in that they take an abundant, renewable resource of energy, and turn it into clean, life-changing power. From rural villages gaining access to electricity for the first time to modern cities reducing their carbon footprint, solar energy shows the world how engineering can be transformative in helping the planet become more equitable, sustainable, and resilient. As a student at the University of Michigan, I have been fortunate to learn about sustainability in an environment where that mission is not just a mere concept. Michigan's commitment to sustainability–including the Campus Sustainability Integrated Assessment and projects focused on carbon neutrality–aligns with my personal goals as a student in mechanical engineering. Here, I am not just learning the math of mechanical engineering, I am being challenged to think about how equipment and technology work for people and the planet in a curriculum driven by people-first engineering. During my time in Ann Arbor, one of the most rewarding experiences has been participating on Michigan's Formula SAE team. Designing and optimizing components for electric vehicles has allowed me experiences of innovation and increased efficiency. The engineering principles we use to make our car perform better on the track, minimizing energy losses and maximizing our outputs, complement my personal interests in renewable technologies, i.e., solar. Every time we tune breaks or finish a thermodynamic calculation, I tend to still think of ways to improve, innovate, and impact our energy systems, to make the world healthier for all of us. Your scholarship would allow me to continue fulfilling my ambition of earning an engineering degree from the University of Michigan. My current financial circumstances have presented obstacles to making this happen, but I am stubborn and refuse to give up on becoming a leader who will take her skills and apply these to create an impact as a leader. With your assistance, I would be able to continue my education, create an even larger impact, and help develop and improve clean energy technologies, like solar energy, to support the potential for a more just and sustainable world. Innovation means the most when it creates opportunity. To me, solar panels mean open opportunity, and that is the type of innovation that I aspire to have in my future career.

As a child, I always felt like my voice was never heard loud enough. In a room full of adults, I was only ever annoying or needy; I wish I knew then what I know now. The issues that they were discussing involved me, so why was I not allowed to discuss them? I was seven when I was categorized as the loud kid with too many friends to keep track of, the “social butterfly” of the playground. However, this was quickly shut down. “She’s so smart, she just… needs to learn when it’s time to talk, and when it’s time to be quiet.” I remember my teachers saying it all too well. The next few years, I shut down completely– too quiet, too reserved, too meek. Through a group of youth from my city I learned that I didn’t need to be quiet to fit in, to be loved. I could be heard without being labeled as “obnoxious” or “provoking.” I was fifteen when the stereotype flipped back, and I couldn’t care less about it now. If I am loud, at least I am being heard. As the Vice Chair of my town’s Youth Alliance Committee, it is my job to make sure that we– the youth in my city– are heard. It is my job to stand up for myself and others, and let the rest of the world know that we deserve to have our spot in important topics, especially if they directly involve us or our futures. There is a small place in my heart where I feel bitterness towards those who shut me out, but I have found something better than revenge could ever bring me: a home. This home is what I hope to provide for others in the future. I hope to be a place that my friends can feel safety in, can confide in without a worry. My friends have in turn given me that same home; they have surrounded me in a loving and supportive environment, and I am never worried about judgement anymore. I had let myself get walked all over once before, and I was not going to let it happen again. With my new friends, I was able to cultivate my own personality, not some twisted version of everyone else. I had, and have, my own likes, interests, hobbies, personality. I am my own person, and that is all that I want everyone else to be. I want each human being to be exactly that: human. Humanity is all about embracing your flaws, making mistakes, and knowing that it is okay to do so. Having empathy for others is an inherently human trait, and it is one I hope to always carry with me.

The universe, an ever-expanding tapestry of time, space, and matter, holds an inherent beauty that captivates the human imagination. From the dazzling dance of celestial bodies to the subtle intricacies of quantum particles, our universe is a dynamic and ever-changing entity. We must work towards a better understanding of the nature of our universe and elucidate the ideas and concepts I hope to employ in this pursuit. Specifically, I advocate for the encouragement of women in STEM-focused careers and the promotion of diversity in discussions about our future. The universe is a stage on which an intricate ballet of cosmic events unfolds continuously. From the birth and death of stars to the ebb and flow of galaxies, the cosmic symphony is a testament to the dynamic nature of our reality. The beauty lies not only in the grandeur of celestial phenomena but also in the underlying principles that govern them. As we delve deeper into the mysteries of the universe, we unravel the fundamental laws that dictate its behavior, offering us a glimpse into the very fabric of existence. The constant evolution of both the cosmos and our very own planet provides a profound source of inspiration. It challenges our understanding, prompting us to question, discover, and innovate. This ceaseless change is the driving force behind scientific inquiry, propelling us to explore new frontiers and push the boundaries of our knowledge. To comprehend the intricacies of the universe is to embark on a journey of perpetual discovery, an endeavor that not only enriches our understanding but also fuels the human spirit. In our pursuit of cosmic understanding, we must tap into the full spectrum of human talent. Historically, the field of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) has been male-dominated. While progress has been made, there is still a significant gender gap in STEM-related professions. Encouraging women to pursue careers in STEM is not only a matter of equality but a strategic imperative for the advancement of our understanding of the universe. Diversity in the scientific community brings varied perspectives, approaches, and ideas to the table. By fostering an environment where women are welcomed and supported in STEM fields, we open the door to a wealth of untapped talent and creativity. This diversity is a catalyst for innovation, as different experiences and viewpoints contribute to a richer tapestry of ideas. Furthermore, representation matters – having role models and mentors who reflect the diversity of society can inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers, breaking down stereotypes and barriers. To achieve this, we must address systemic issues that hinder the progress of women in STEM. This includes challenging stereotypes, providing equal opportunities, and creating supportive environments where women can thrive. Initiatives such as mentorship programs, outreach activities, and scholarships can play a crucial role in empowering women to pursue and excel in STEM-focused careers. As we work to understand the universe, let us ensure that all voices, regardless of gender, have the opportunity to contribute to the cosmic narrative. It is equally essential to foster diversity in discussions about the future of our understanding of the universe. The vastness of cosmic exploration should be mirrored by the inclusivity of the conversations surrounding it. Our understanding of the universe is shaped not only by scientific inquiry but also by the ethical, social, and cultural dimensions of the questions we pose and the solutions we seek. In a world that is becoming increasingly interconnected, the impact of scientific discoveries extends beyond the laboratory. It influences policy, ethics, and the very fabric of society. To navigate the complex interplay between science and society, diverse perspectives must be integrated into the dialogue. This includes voices from different cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds, ensuring that the benefits of scientific progress are shared equitably. Considering the ethical implications of our scientific endeavors is paramount. The power of scientific discovery brings with it a responsibility to use knowledge for the betterment of humanity. By including diverse voices in discussions about the future of our understanding of the universe, we can approach these ethical considerations with a more comprehensive and nuanced perspective. The pursuit of a better understanding of the nature of our universe is a noble and essential endeavor. The ever-changing, dynamic nature of the cosmos is a source of inspiration, pushing us to explore the unknown and expand the boundaries of human knowledge. To achieve this goal, we must embrace diversity and inclusion in the scientific community. Encouraging women in STEM-focused careers and promoting diversity in discussions about our future are not only moral imperatives but also strategic actions for the advancement of science. By harnessing the full spectrum of human talent and incorporating diverse perspectives, we can ensure that our exploration of the universe is not only scientifically rigorous but also ethically sound. In the grand tapestry of cosmic exploration, let us strive for a harmonious blend of diverse voices, working together to unlock the secrets of the ever-changing universe.

As a child, I always knew that I would come home and have food on the table. I was never worried about our power going out, or the water shutting off, but I couldn’t go out to eat with friends, and there were times when I had to stay home from school sporting events because we didn’t have the money to pay for a ticket. I was never in poverty, but we were always poor. Living off of one income has been hard for my family, and while I do have a part-time job, working fast food for just above minimum wage was never really going to help around the house anyway, and I was grateful that my family never wanted me to. I’m part of the “not poor enough” group of kids. The ones who had food at home, but never went out to eat. The ones who had a phone, but didn’t get one until well into middle school, and never had the unlimited data. I never got airpods, and I still haven’t. I’ve fallen in love with my 12-dollar pair of wireless earbuds from Amazon, and don’t see the value in the newest pair of Apple’s money-stealers. I’m grateful for that as well. Being a part of this community has shown me the true value of life. Instead of shopping trips and going out to eat, I enjoy watching the sunset with a bag of chips and a homemade PB and J. While I do like movie theaters, I’ll never turn down an opportunity to get cozy under my blankets and watch a Netflix show. I find value in friends and experiences rather than materialistic things. And while Target will always be calling my name, my friends and family tend to be louder in the growing crowd of voices around me. This scholarship would help relieve the stress that has fallen onto my parents' shoulders since the day I decided that I wanted to be an engineer. A four-year university is something that they've always desired for me, always their smart little girl. Even though my father never went to college, he wants this for me more than anything I have ever wanted for myself. I live to make him, my mother, and my family and friends proud. Most importantly, I live to make myself proud. By receiving this scholarship, it would take some of the weight off of them, which I hope to do myself in the future. I hope to be their favorite daughter, even if I am their only, and I hope to have the ability to provide for them as they have provided for me, and this degree will help me to do so.

As a Michigan senior in my hometown, there are so many people here who need help. My grandpa, Fredrick Lutzke, was one to recognize that. After shutting down his pharmacy, my grandpa Fred took it upon himself to try and help the few that he could. And so, he founded a local food pantry, which he named "Love Thy Neighbor Food Pantry." Growing up, I was always involved in his pantry. Every summer, me and my little brother would hang out there for hours on end, helping back "weekend backpacks" for kids our age when the time came around for us to go back to school. My grandpa Fred would provide every student in need with a bag of food for the weekend, nicknamed "backpacks." As a child, seeing my granpda help kids in need instilled a desire to do the same. However, I didn't realize how 'in need' my family was as well. By helping others, I was truly blind to the financial struggle in my own home. As I grew, and my father became disabled, I watched my family adjust to living on a singular income for 4 people. I vowed to never let my brother see this. To this day, I try my hardest to spoil him rotten, but my part time job can only get me so far. This scholarship would help me in my future endeavors, as I strive to help others for a career. My goal has always been to be a doctor, which would continue to allow me to help others. As I entered my high school years, I looked for new opportunities to help out within my community. As a result, I applied for my town's Youth Alliance Committee, a group of highschoolers from every school in my town whose main focus is to help our city's youth. As a grantmaking committee, we get to help thousands of youth in our city by deciding who and where gets funding. I am very fortunate to be able to call myself the vice-chair of this committee, leading this group alongside other students to create change and impact in our community. Volunteering has always been a part of me since my early childhood, and I am happy that I'm able to share my passion of philanthropy with the youth of my town. YAC is a fundamental part of my being, and it has shaped me into the person that I am today. I would not be here, writing this essay, if I didn't have this group of inspirational people behind me. Every single person in this group as led me to find myself, discover my own identity, and molded themselves alongside me. They have taught me how to believe in myself and my abilities, including the ability to sit here and write about my experiences. It is because of them that I know my own self worth, and have enough confidence to submit this essay. Without them, volunteering would not have impacted my life in the way that it has.

I cannot remember a time where I didn't want to help people. Helping others has always been at the forefront of my mind ever since my grandpa introduced me to philanthropy. Ever since, I have become the Vice-Chair of my local YAC, a completely youth-focused and youth-led grantmaking organization that aims to help the young people of my city. Other than philanthropy, pursuing medicine is a way I can help others. By pursuing medicine, specifically a doctorate in anesthesiology, I can help bring this long time desire to the forefront of my life. I can connect with my patients and help ease them into reaching the right decision for them, whether it be in surgery. in their personal life, or in the hospital. Other than these patients, I can help my family, who have done absolutely everything that they could for me, and by following a career path that they have heartily encouraged, I can support them for the rest of their lives like they have supported me in mine. My mother was, and still is, one of my biggest encouragers, and I am forever thankful that I had someone in my life who pursued medicine that I could look up to. She had originally went to college for criminal justice, earning a Bachelor’s of Arts in such. She wished to be a probation officer, but later found her true passion for helping others, something that has passed down to me and my little brother alike. As I entered elementary school, I remember her going back to college to become a rad-tech. She has now been helping people for over ten years at our local Veteran's Affairs center, and I see the way her eyes still light up even when she’s had a tough day at work. Her passion has never faded, and I thank her silently everyday for passing her love of helping others through medicine down to me. Medicine has been intertwined into my life since a very young age, and I’m immensely grateful for the impact it has had on me, and the impact I hope to have on others. By earning this scholarship and putting it towards the many years of college that I still have ahead of me, I could take off some of the work load that would undoubtedly fall onto my mother and father. This money would help me to kick start my goal of repaying them for the many years that they have cherised and nurtered my many passions.

As a Taylor Swift fan, it's difficult to choose just one favorite song from her album "1989." However, "Style" has always stood out to me as a standout track on the album. There are several reasons why "Style" is my favorite song in "1989." Firstly, the song's production is simply outstanding. The combination of electronic beats, synths, and guitar riffs creates a unique sound that sets "Style" apart from the rest of the album. The song has a distinct energy that makes it impossible not to dance or bob your head along to the beat. It's clear that a lot of thought and effort went into crafting the instrumental and it truly shows in the final product; Taylor is an icon who can do no wrong. Secondly, the lyrics of "Style" are incredibly clever and well-written. The song is a perfect example of Taylor Swift's ability to craft catchy hooks and lyrics that stick in your head long after the song has ended. The chorus of "Style" is especially catchy, with lines like "You got that James Dean daydream look in your eye / And I got that red lip classic thing that you like." The way Taylor Swift uses language to describe the connection between the two people in the song is both romantic and poetic. The contrast between the two characters shows the Another aspect of "Style" that I appreciate is the song's narrative structure. The verses are filled with vivid imagery and descriptions that paint a picture of the relationship between the two people in the song. The way Taylor Swift juxtaposes the two characters' similarities and differences is fascinating and adds depth to the song. For example, in the second verse, she sings "You've got that long hair slicked back, white t-shirt / And I got that good girl faith and a tight little skirt." The contrast between the two characters' styles highlights the tension between them and adds to the song's overall appeal. I love the way "Style" makes me feel. The song has a sense of nostalgia and yearning that is both relatable and uplifting. It's a song that I can listen to on repeat and never get tired of because it has a timeless quality that speaks to the human experience. Whether I'm driving in my car or getting ready for a night out, "Style" always puts me in a good mood and gives me the confidence to take on the world. In conclusion, "Style" is my favorite song on Taylor Swift's album "1989" for a variety of reasons. From its outstanding production to its clever lyrics and narrative structure, the song is a true gem in Taylor Swift's discography. It's a song that makes me feel good and reminds me of why I fell in love with Taylor Swift's music originally.

Performance anxiety is a common phenomenon that affects many individuals, including myself. As a student pursuing higher education, I have faced several challenges due to my performance anxiety, which has impacted my academic and personal life. However, through the support of my friends and the experience of being a manager at my local Chick-fil-A, I have been able to overcome my anxiety and build my confidence. The effects of performance anxiety have been significant in my life. Whenever I face a challenge or an opportunity to perform, I often experience intense nervousness and fear of failure. I constantly worry about making mistakes or not performing up to my expectations, which leads to a lack of focus and decreased motivation. This has been particularly challenging in academic settings, where I have felt pressure to excel and stand out amongst my peers. Additionally, my anxiety has affected my personal life, causing me to avoid social situations and not participate in activities that require me to put myself in front of others. Despite these challenges, I have been fortunate to have a supportive group of friends who have been a source of encouragement and comfort during difficult times. They have been understanding of my anxiety and have provided me with a safe space to express my feelings and fears. They have also given me practical advice and strategies to help me cope with my anxiety, such as deep breathing exercises and positive affirmations. Their unwavering support has been crucial in helping me to overcome my anxiety and build my confidence. Moreover, being a manager at my local Chick-fil-A has been instrumental in helping me to overcome my anxiety surrounding being perfect. As a manager, I am responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the restaurant and ensuring that everything runs smoothly. This role has allowed me to challenge myself and face my fears head-on. At first, I was overwhelmed by the responsibility and the pressure to be perfect, but over time, I learned to embrace my mistakes and view them as learning opportunities. I also learned to ask for help when needed and trust my team to support me. These experiences have taught me valuable lessons about leadership and resilience, which have translated into other areas of my life. Working at Chick-fil-A has provided me with a supportive work environment that values teamwork and personal growth. The company's values align with my personal beliefs, and I feel proud to be a part of a team that prioritizes customer service and excellence. My colleagues and supervisors have been supportive and understanding of my anxiety, and they have encouraged me to be open about my struggles. This has helped me to feel more comfortable in my skin and to focus on my strengths rather than my weaknesses. My performance anxiety has been a significant challenge in my life, but through the support of my friends and my experience as a manager at Chick-fil-A, I have been able to overcome my anxiety and build my confidence. I have learned valuable lessons about leadership, resilience, and the importance of seeking help when needed. These experiences have shaped me into a more compassionate and self-aware individual, and I am grateful for the opportunities that have allowed me to grow and develop. As I continue to pursue my academic and personal goals, I am confident that I will be able to face any challenges that come my way with courage and determination.

As an artificial intelligence language model, ChatGPT is a relatively recent technological invention that has captured my attention and admiration. ChatGPT has revolutionized the way we interact with technology. In the past, people had to type in specific search terms to find answers to their queries. However, with ChatGPT, users can ask questions in natural language and receive relevant and helpful responses. This makes interacting with technology much more accessible and user-friendly, especially for those who are not technologically savvy. ChatGPT's natural language processing capabilities enable it to understand complex queries and provide accurate and helpful responses, making it an indispensable tool for individuals and businesses alike. ChatGPT is a powerful tool for learning and personal growth. With ChatGPT, users can ask questions and receive insightful and informative responses that can help them expand their knowledge and understanding of various subjects. Additionally, ChatGPT can also generate creative writing prompts and provide feedback on written work, which can be incredibly helpful for aspiring writers and students. Moreover, ChatGPT can also provide mental health support, offering advice and resources to individuals who are struggling with their mental health. ChatGPT's versatility as a tool for learning and personal growth is truly remarkable and has the potential to change the way we approach education and personal development. ChatGPT is a testament to the power of artificial intelligence and its potential to positively impact society. ChatGPT's ability to understand and respond to natural language queries is a significant achievement in the field of artificial intelligence and has the potential to improve many aspects of our lives. For example, ChatGPT can help businesses improve their customer service by providing accurate and helpful responses to customer inquiries. Additionally, ChatGPT can help individuals who are struggling with mental health issues by providing a non-judgmental and supportive outlet for their concerns. ChatGPT's potential to positively impact society is vast and exciting, and I am eager to see how it will continue to develop and improve in the years to come. ChatGPT is my favorite technological invention within the last ten years for several reasons. It has revolutionized the way we interact with technology by enabling us to ask questions in natural language and receive helpful responses. It is a powerful tool for learning and personal growth, providing insights and support to individuals seeking to expand their knowledge and improve their writing skills. ChatGPT is a testament to the potential of artificial intelligence to positively impact society and improve our lives. I am excited to see how ChatGPT will continue to develop and improve in the future and believe that it has the potential to become an even more valuable and indispensable tool for individuals and businesses alike. By using this model and its technology, the medical health field, one that I wish to pursue, can help others without the added stress. Artificial intelligence can communicate with others precisely and quickly, after being trained by amazing programmers to do so. In the future, AI will hopefully be able to perform tasks that 'take away' from the valuable time of all medical personnel.