Throughout my academic and professional career, I have dedicated myself to being an active community member. My commitment to serving my community stems from my belief that even the smallest action taken can make a world of difference. Whether through volunteering for community service when I can, donating extra food and clothing to food banks, donating my artwork/pottery to community events, or simply being there for my peers, I pride myself in my dedication to being active in and bettering my community. The most fulfilling activities I find myself participating in are the ones that have assisted me when I needed help the most. Having experienced consistent financial and food insecurities in my own life since becoming an independent young adult, I make it a priority to give back whatever I can, whenever I can. I am extremely appreciative of the assistance that I have received from campus/community resources. Until I am financially stable enough to contribute monetarily, I will continue to express my insurmountable gratitude to my community by donating my extra necessities, food, and free time back to those resources. In addition to volunteering/donating to community services, I am a very active member of the smaller communities that I am in. Being in such a demanding major as ceramics, I spend most of my waking hours in the studio. Though much of my time in the studio is focused on my artistic practice, I am always sure to diligently clean and care for the communal spaces and engage with every face that steps foot into the studio. Because of my dedication to this small but very hectic community, I have recently been promoted from a member of the Clay Club to a Clay Club Officer. I find so much fulfillment in this important aspect of my life and do everything I can to help foster a positive experience for my peers and new students alike. Through my activity in the studio, I constantly find myself assisting and mentoring newer students in the ceramics program. Much like myself when I was in their position, many of my peers were not aware of the opportunities and resources out there for them. I do everything in my power to encourage, uplift, and inform my peers of any opportunities that may serve them. Watching my peers grow alongside me in this supportive environment has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life. My success in these aspects of my life has not come without hurdles though. Since experiencing a three-year episode of depression following high school, I have overcome challenges that I never thought possible. Having made it through watching my dad battle active meth addiction and my little-brother struggle with self-harm, all while fighting to stay afloat in my own fight with mental health, has taught me the importance of resilience and unwavering hope. Balancing school, work, relationships, and personal well-being remains challenging, but I am committed to my community and my growth as an artist and student. Despite the mental toll that these struggles have placed on me, I'll forever be appreciative of the persistence, strength, and empathy that these experiences have reinforced within me. This scholarship would provide the financial stability to continue my education and enhance my ability to give back. It would allow me to focus more on my academic and artistic pursuits while continuing my mission of uplifting my community.