Wearing hearing aids has been a big part of my life and one of my greatest challenges. Growing up, I often felt different from others because I couldn’t always hear everything clearly, especially in loud environments or group settings. I would sometimes miss parts of conversations, music lyrics, or classroom instructions, and it made me feel left out or frustrated. There were times when I was embarrassed to ask people to repeat themselves, and I worried that others might see me as less capable. But over time, I realized that my hearing aids didn’t make me weaker—they made me stronger. Learning to live confidently with hearing loss taught me patience, resilience, and self-advocacy. I learned to speak up for myself, to let teachers and peers know when I needed extra help, and to never feel ashamed of the tools that help me succeed. My hearing aids are part of who I am, and they’ve shown me that everyone faces their own challenges—what matters most is how we push through them. Instead of letting my disability hold me back, I’ve used it to develop deeper empathy for others who struggle in their own ways. Because of my experiences, I’ve become passionate about pursuing a trade in cosmetology and esthetics. I love helping people feel confident, beautiful, and cared for, no matter what they’re going through. When someone sits in my chair, I want them to feel seen and heard. I know what it feels like to be misunderstood or overlooked because of a disability, and I want to create a welcoming space where everyone feels valued. Cosmetology also allows me to use creativity and connection—two things that have always motivated me. Whether it’s doing makeup, skincare, or hair, I love the process of transformation and the confidence it brings out in people. My goal is to eventually open my own salon that’s inclusive and accessible to clients with all kinds of needs, including those with disabilities. I want to show others that beauty isn’t about perfection—it’s about embracing who you are. Wearing hearing aids has taught me that strength comes from acceptance and perseverance. I’ve learned to adapt, communicate, and stay positive no matter what obstacles come my way. My disability may have shaped me, but it doesn’t define me—it drives me to help others feel strong and beautiful in their own skin, just as I’ve learned to feel in mine.

When my cousin was diagnosed with ALS, my world changed in ways I never expected. I had heard of the disease before, but I never truly understood what it meant until I saw how it affected someone I loved. Watching my cousin slowly lose the ability to move, speak, or even breathe on their own was heartbreaking. Yet, despite the challenges, they carried themselves with so much grace and strength. They never complained, never lost their sense of humor, and never stopped showing love to the people around them. Seeing that kind of resilience taught me that real strength doesn’t come from physical ability—it comes from the heart and from hope. ALS impacted my life by opening my eyes to how fragile and precious life really is. It made me realize how important it is to appreciate the small things: being able to hug someone, say what you feel, or walk outside on your own. I learned to stop taking those things for granted. My cousin’s journey taught me to live with gratitude and compassion, and to always show up for people when they need support. Even when we couldn’t do anything to stop the disease, we could still bring comfort, laughter, and love—and that meant something. Through this experience, I also developed a deeper understanding of empathy and advocacy. I began reading about ALS, learning how little awareness and funding there is for research, and how much families go through emotionally and financially. It motivated me to want to make a difference, whether that means volunteering for causes that support people with disabilities, raising awareness, or pursuing a career that allows me to help others directly. My cousin’s strength became my inspiration to live with purpose and kindness every single day. Moving forward, I want to honor their memory by helping others who feel unseen or misunderstood in their struggles. I’ve learned that even the smallest act of kindness—a visit, a message, a moment of listening—can make a huge impact. My goal in life is to carry that compassion into everything I do, both personally and professionally. ALS may have taken my cousin’s physical abilities, but it could never take their light, and that light continues to guide me. I hope to be someone who helps others find hope and strength, even in the hardest times, just like my cousin helped me see the beauty in resilience, courage, and unconditional love.

I am pursuing a career in esthetics because I’m passionate about helping people feel confident and beautiful in their own skin. To me, esthetics is not just about makeup or skincare—it’s about self-expression, healing, and empowerment. My love for beauty started during the COVID-19 pandemic when I was going through a period of isolation and self-doubt. Like many people, I struggled with my mental health and my self-image. I used to hide behind baggy clothes and rarely felt good about how I looked. During that quiet time, I started experimenting with makeup, and it completely changed how I saw myself. It gave me confidence, creativity, and a sense of control when life felt uncertain. That experience inspired me to want to help others feel the same way. I want to show people that beauty isn’t about perfection—it’s about celebrating who you are. As a BIPOC woman, I also understand the importance of representation in the beauty industry. My goal is to make everyone, no matter their skin tone or background, feel seen and valued. Esthetics gives me the opportunity to combine creativity, compassion, and confidence into a career that can truly change how people see themselves. After completing my esthetics program, my goal is to gain experience working in a salon or spa to build my skills and learn from experienced professionals. I want to continue developing expertise in skincare, makeup artistry, and client care so that I can offer services that make people feel both beautiful and cared for. In the long term, I hope to open my own studio that focuses on inclusive beauty and self-care. I want it to be a space where people feel comfortable, supported, and uplifted. My dream is to create a business that not only enhances outer beauty but also promotes inner confidence and mental wellness. Eventually, I would also love to mentor other young women—especially those who have struggled with self-esteem or representation in the beauty world—so they can find strength and purpose in this field too. This scholarship would help me take the first step toward that dream by supporting my education, supplies, and training costs. It would allow me to focus fully on my learning and growth without the financial stress holding me back. One of the biggest challenges I faced was during the COVID-19 pandemic. Being isolated for so long took a toll on my mental health. I struggled with feeling unmotivated, disconnected, and unsure of who I was. It was one of the loneliest times of my life, but it also became a turning point. Instead of letting those feelings take over, I decided to use that time to work on myself. I started journaling, practicing self-care, and exploring new hobbies like makeup and skincare. Those small steps helped me rebuild my confidence and rediscover my sense of identity. Over time, I realized that beauty was more than just appearance—it was about how I felt inside. That mindset shift helped me heal and grow stronger. Through that adversity, I learned that change begins with self-love and resilience. Now, I use that same strength to move forward in everything I do. My journey taught me that challenges can lead to growth, and I want to bring that same message to others through my work in esthetics.

I had always struggled with confidence and self-image. I often felt invisible and hid behind oversized clothes because I didn’t feel comfortable in my own skin. During the pandemic, though, I began exploring things that made me feel good, and one of those things was makeup. What started as a small hobby quickly turned into something deeply personal—it became a way for me to reconnect with myself. For the first time, I felt beautiful and confident. Makeup gave me a sense of control and creativity when everything else in life felt uncertain. Through that process, I discovered my passion for beauty and self-expression, which led me to pursue a career in esthetics. I realized that beauty is not about perfection—it’s about empowerment and self-love. The same way makeup helped me find confidence during a dark time, I want to help others feel that same transformation. Everyone deserves to feel beautiful, seen, and valued. My goal is to build a career where I can create a safe, supportive space for people to embrace who they are, inside and out. I’ve learned how important it is to take care of myself—not just physically, but emotionally and mentally. I’ve started prioritizing mindfulness, journaling, and spending time doing activities that ground me, like exercising or creating art. I’ve also learned to reach out for support when I need it, whether that’s talking to friends, family, or a counselor. These habits are part of my ongoing recovery and growth. As a BIPOC woman, I also understand how important it is to have representation and support in the beauty and wellness industry. There are still so many people who feel like they don’t belong in certain spaces or who have never seen themselves reflected in beauty standards. I want to change that. I want my work to celebrate diversity and help people of all backgrounds feel confident and included. My personal experiences with mental health have given me empathy and understanding, which I believe will make me not only a better esthetician but also someone who can make a genuine difference in people’s lives. Academically, my goal is to complete my esthetics program and continue learning about skincare, wellness, and professional development. I hope to one day open my own studio that focuses on beauty and self-care in a holistic way—where clients can come not just to enhance their appearance but to feel supported and uplifted emotionally, too. My journey hasn’t always been easy, but it’s shaped me into someone strong, compassionate, and determined. I’ve learned to turn my struggles into motivation and my pain into purpose. Pursuing a career in esthetics is not just about beauty—it’s about helping others see the beauty within themselves. I’m proud of how far I’ve come, and I’m excited to keep growing, learning, and using my story to inspire others to find their own strength and confidence.

I am pursuing a career in esthetics because beauty has become a form of self-expression and healing for me. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I went through a period of isolation that made me reflect deeply on who I was and who I wanted to become. Like many others, I struggled with loneliness and self-image during that time. I had always been insecure about my physical appearance and often tried to hide myself behind baggy clothing. For years, I didn’t feel comfortable in my own skin. But when the world slowed down during the pandemic, I finally had time to explore my interests and rediscover myself. That’s when I found makeup—and it completely changed how I saw myself. Makeup quickly became more than just colors and brushes to me; it became a way to express confidence, creativity, and individuality. I realized that beauty isn’t about covering up flaws—it’s about enhancing what already makes each person unique. The first time I truly looked in the mirror and felt beautiful, it wasn’t because I was trying to impress anyone else—it was because I saw a version of myself that finally felt like me. That feeling of empowerment and self-acceptance inspired me to want to help others experience the same thing. As a BIPOC woman, this journey holds even more meaning. Growing up, I didn’t always see people who looked like me represented in beauty campaigns or tutorials. Sometimes it felt like beauty standards weren’t made for people with my skin tone, hair texture, or features. Discovering makeup helped me reclaim that space—it showed me that beauty is not one-size-fits-all. It’s diverse, inclusive, and deeply personal. Now, as I pursue esthetics, I want to be part of an industry that continues breaking those barriers. I want my future clients, especially other people of color, to feel seen, valued, and celebrated for their natural beauty. That’s what drew me to esthetics. I want to use my skills to help others feel the confidence and self-love that I discovered through makeup. Whether it’s through skincare, makeup artistry, or helping someone find a routine that makes them glow from within, my goal is to make people feel as beautiful on the inside as they look on the outside. Everyone deserves to feel that sense of pride and peace when they see themselves in the mirror. Ultimately, my goal is to leave a positive impact on everyone who sits in my chair. If I can help even one person walk out feeling more confident, more seen, and more beautiful than when they came in, then I’ll know I’ve made a difference in the world.

My personal goal in the trades is to build a successful career in esthetics where I can combine beauty, confidence, and healing into one purpose. To me, esthetics is more than just skincare and makeup — it is also about helping people feel comfortable in their own skin and confident in who they are. My dream is to one day open my own studio where clients can come not only to look their best but to feel seen, heard, and valued. I’ve always been drawn to creative work, but during the COVID-19 pandemic, I discovered how powerful beauty could be. It started as a personal journey — learning to love myself and rebuild my confidence after years of insecurity. Makeup became a form of therapy for me, a way to express myself and see my worth again. That experience showed me that beauty has the power to lift people up from the inside out, and I knew I wanted to turn that passion into a career. As I enter the field of esthetics, I would like to focus on helping others experience that same transformation. I’m especially passionate about representation and inclusivity in the beauty industry. As a BIPOC woman, I understand how it feels to not always see yourself reflected in beauty standards or services. My goal is to create a welcoming environment for all skin tones, textures, and backgrounds — a space where everyone feels beautiful, celebrated, and confident. This scholarship would make a huge difference in helping me achieve those goals. It would help me cover tuition and supply costs for my esthetics program, allowing me to focus on my training and professional growth without financial stress holding me back. Every bit of support brings me one step closer to turning my dream into reality — earning my license, building my skills, and eventually opening my own business. In addition to financial support, receiving this scholarship would also mean that others believe in my potential and my purpose. That encouragement would motivate me to keep pushing forward, to stay focused even when things feel challenging, and to continue finding ways to grow. I plan to take full advantage of every learning opportunity — from mastering skincare treatments to understanding the business side of the beauty industry. I want to learn how to provide exceptional service while also creating a space that uplifts mental wellness and self-confidence. My aspiration is simple but powerful: I want to make people feel as beautiful on the inside as they look on the outside. I believe beauty can change how someone feels about themselves, and that confidence can carry over into every part of their life. With the help of this scholarship, I’ll be able to take the next step toward that dream — creating a career that inspires confidence, celebrates individuality, and spreads kindness through the art of esthetics. My ultimate goal is to use my craft not just to change appearances, but to change lives, one person at a time.

I am pursuing a career in esthetics because beauty has become a form of self-expression and healing for me. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I went through a period of isolation that made me reflect deeply on who I was and who I wanted to become. Like many others, I struggled with loneliness and self-image during that time. I had always been insecure about my physical appearance and often tried to hide myself behind baggy clothing. For years, I didn’t feel comfortable in my own skin. But when the world slowed down during the pandemic, I finally had time to explore my interests and rediscover myself. That’s when I found makeup—and it completely changed how I saw myself. Makeup quickly became more than just colors and brushes to me; it became a way to express confidence, creativity, and individuality. I realized that beauty isn’t about covering up flaws—it’s about enhancing what already makes each person unique. The first time I truly looked in the mirror and felt beautiful, it wasn’t because I was trying to impress anyone else—it was because I saw a version of myself that finally felt like me. That feeling of empowerment and self-acceptance inspired me to want to help others experience the same thing. As a BIPOC woman, this journey holds even more meaning. Growing up, I didn’t always see people who looked like me represented in beauty campaigns or tutorials. Sometimes it felt like beauty standards weren’t made for people with my skin tone, hair texture, or features. Discovering makeup helped me reclaim that space—it showed me that beauty is not one-size-fits-all. It’s diverse, inclusive, and deeply personal. Now, as I pursue esthetics, I want to be part of an industry that continues breaking those barriers. I want my future clients, especially other people of color, to feel seen, valued, and celebrated for their natural beauty. That’s what drew me to esthetics. I want to use my skills to help others feel the confidence and self-love that I discovered through makeup. Whether it’s through skincare, makeup artistry, or helping someone find a routine that makes them glow from within, my goal is to make people feel as beautiful on the inside as they look on the outside. Everyone deserves to feel that sense of pride and peace when they see themselves in the mirror. Ultimately, my goal is to leave a positive impact on everyone who sits in my chair. If I can help even one person walk out feeling more confident, more seen, and more beautiful than when they came in, then I’ll know I’ve made a difference in the world.

My name is Aniyah, and I’m currently pursuing a future in cosmetology and esthetics. I’ve always been drawn to creative expression, especially through makeup and skincare. For me, beauty isn’t about perfection—it’s about confidence and healing. I want to help people feel good about themselves, whether that’s through enhancing their natural features or helping them take care of their skin. My educational plan is to attend cosmetology school to become a licensed esthetician and later open a beauty studio that focuses on self-care, confidence, and inclusivity for all skin tones and types. My long-term dream is to create my own line of skincare products that are affordable, effective, and empowering for young people learning to love who they are. I plan to pay for my studies through a combination of scholarships, financial aid, and part-time work. I understand the value of hard work—growing up with a single mother who always supported my dreams taught me determination and independence. Every opportunity I earn brings me closer to my goal of giving back to her and building a stable, creative career for myself. I also believe that investing in education is one of the most powerful things a person can do, because knowledge and skill can never be taken away. My goal is to use what I learn to uplift others and spread positivity in my community, especially among young girls who struggle with self-image. I became a MOA (Moments of Alwaysness) because TXT’s music and message found me during a time when I was struggling to figure out who I wanted to be. They’re not just a group that makes good music—they tell real stories about growing up, self-doubt, friendship, and perseverance. What makes TXT special to me is how genuine they are, both as a group and individually. They balance artistry, emotion, and connection in a way that feels honest. My favorite member is Beomgyu. He’s playful and lighthearted, but also incredibly thoughtful and hardworking. He reminds me that you can chase your dreams while staying true to yourself. I also deeply admire Taehyun’s discipline and Yeonjun’s confidence—they all inspire me in different ways. One of my favorite TXT songs is “Blue Hour.” The song perfectly captures that bittersweet feeling of growing up—when everything around you feels familiar yet different. I also love their song “Chasing That Feeling,” because it’s about continuing to move forward even when things are hard. These songs remind me that growth isn’t always easy, but it’s worth it. TXT has influenced my career goals by showing me that art has the power to connect people and create healing. Through their music, I realized that expressing yourself—whether through sound, makeup, or any creative medium—can make a real impact. I want to create that same sense of comfort and inspiration for others in my field. Whether it’s helping someone feel beautiful for the first time or giving them confidence to face the world, I want my work to have the same uplifting effect TXT’s music has had on me. Their passion motivates me to never stop growing and to use my creativity to spread light wherever I can.

Growing up with a single mother has been one of the most defining parts of my life. My mom is the most supportive person I know, and she has always treated me as her equal. She listens to my thoughts, encourages my ideas, and believes in me more than anyone else ever has. She’s shown me that love and respect go hand in hand, and that even when life doesn’t go as planned, you can still create something beautiful out of it. My father has always been distant. He’s in the military, and while I respect his service, he has never really been emotionally available or involved in my life. That absence has been difficult, especially when I was younger. There were moments when I wished for his support or guidance, but instead I learned how to be strong from watching my mom handle everything on her own. She worked tirelessly to provide for me, never letting me feel like I was missing anything, even when things were tough. Seeing her sacrifice so much has shaped my motivation and outlook on life. I’ve learned that independence isn’t about doing everything alone—it’s about standing tall even when circumstances try to weigh you down. My mom has taught me to face challenges head-on, to stay grounded, and to never forget where I come from. She made me realize that hard work isn’t just about personal success—it’s about lifting up the people who helped you get there. Because of her, I’ve developed a deep sense of purpose and drive. I work hard in school and in my personal life because I want to make something meaningful out of the opportunities I have. One of my biggest dreams is to be able to buy my mom a house someday—a place where she can finally rest and feel proud of all she’s accomplished. It’s not just about repaying her; it’s about showing her that everything she’s done for me was worth it. Growing up with a single mother has taught me resilience, gratitude, and empathy. It’s made me appreciate the small victories, the quiet moments, and the power of unconditional love. My mom has been my role model, my support system, and my best friend. Everything I do—every goal I set and every step I take—is driven by the example she’s set for me. Her strength inspires me to keep moving forward and to one day make a difference in the lives of others the same way she’s made a difference in mine.

Mental health has always been a part of my journey, even before I fully understood what it meant. Growing up, I didn’t have the language to describe anxiety, isolation, or low self-esteem—I just knew that some days felt harder than others. During the COVID-19 pandemic, those feelings became stronger. The world shut down, routines disappeared, and I found myself spending a lot of time alone with my thoughts. That period was one of the hardest but also one of the most eye-opening experiences of my life. It forced me to confront how I was feeling and gave me the space to start figuring out who I was and who I wanted to become. I had always struggled with confidence and self-image. I often felt invisible and hid behind oversized clothes because I didn’t feel comfortable in my own skin. During the pandemic, though, I began exploring things that made me feel good, and one of those things was makeup. What started as a small hobby quickly turned into something deeply personal—it became a way for me to reconnect with myself. For the first time, I felt beautiful and confident. Makeup gave me a sense of control and creativity when everything else in life felt uncertain. Through that process, I discovered my passion for beauty and self-expression, which led me to pursue a career in esthetics. I realized that beauty is not about perfection—it’s about empowerment and self-love. The same way makeup helped me find confidence during a dark time, I want to help others feel that same transformation. Everyone deserves to feel beautiful, seen, and valued. My goal is to build a career where I can create a safe, supportive space for people to embrace who they are, inside and out. My experience with mental health challenges also taught me resilience and self-awareness. I’ve learned how important it is to take care of myself—not just physically, but emotionally and mentally. I’ve started prioritizing mindfulness, journaling, and spending time doing activities that ground me, like exercising or creating art. I’ve also learned to reach out for support when I need it, whether that’s talking to friends, family, or a counselor. These habits are part of my ongoing recovery and growth. As a BIPOC woman, I also understand how important it is to have representation and support in the beauty and wellness industry. There are still so many people who feel like they don’t belong in certain spaces or who have never seen themselves reflected in beauty standards. I want to change that. I want my work to celebrate diversity and help people of all backgrounds feel confident and included. My personal experiences with mental health have given me empathy and understanding, which I believe will make me not only a better esthetician but also someone who can make a genuine difference in people’s lives. Academically, my goal is to complete my esthetics program and continue learning about skincare, wellness, and professional development. I hope to one day open my own studio that focuses on beauty and self-care in a holistic way—where clients can come not just to enhance their appearance but to feel supported and uplifted emotionally, too. I also want to mentor young women who may be struggling with confidence or mental health issues, showing them that it’s possible to heal, grow, and thrive. In continuing to manage my recovery, I plan to stay committed to the habits that have helped me stay grounded. That means continuing therapy when needed, maintaining a consistent self-care routine, and surrounding myself with positive, supportive people. I’ve learned that mental health isn’t something you “fix” once—it’s something you nurture every day. For me, that includes setting healthy boundaries, practicing gratitude, and giving myself grace when life feels overwhelming.

I am pursuing a career in esthetics because beauty has become a form of self-expression and healing for me. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I went through a period of isolation that made me reflect deeply on who I was and who I wanted to become. Like many others, I struggled with loneliness and self-image during that time. I had always been insecure about my physical appearance and often tried to hide myself behind baggy clothing. For years, I didn’t feel comfortable in my own skin. But when the world slowed down during the pandemic, I finally had time to explore my interests and rediscover myself. That’s when I found makeup—and it completely changed how I saw myself. Makeup quickly became more than just colors and brushes to me; it became a way to express confidence, creativity, and individuality. I realized that beauty isn’t about covering up flaws—it’s about enhancing what already makes each person unique. The first time I truly looked in the mirror and felt beautiful, it wasn’t because I was trying to impress anyone else—it was because I saw a version of myself that finally felt like me. That feeling of empowerment and self-acceptance inspired me to want to help others experience the same thing. As a BIPOC woman, this journey holds even more meaning. Growing up, I didn’t always see people who looked like me represented in beauty campaigns or tutorials. Sometimes it felt like beauty standards weren’t made for people with my skin tone, hair texture, or features. Discovering makeup helped me reclaim that space—it showed me that beauty is not one-size-fits-all. It’s diverse, inclusive, and deeply personal. Now, as I pursue esthetics, I want to be part of an industry that continues breaking those barriers. I want my future clients, especially other people of color, to feel seen, valued, and celebrated for their natural beauty. That’s what drew me to esthetics. I want to use my skills to help others feel the confidence and self-love that I discovered through makeup. Whether it’s through skincare, makeup artistry, or helping someone find a routine that makes them glow from within, my goal is to make people feel as beautiful on the inside as they look on the outside. Everyone deserves to feel that sense of pride and peace when they see themselves in the mirror. Ultimately, my goal is to leave a positive impact on everyone who sits in my chair. If I can help even one person walk out feeling more confident, more seen, and more beautiful than when they came in, then I’ll know I’ve made a difference in the world.

I am pursuing a career in esthetics because beauty has become a form of self-expression and healing for me. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I went through a period of isolation that made me reflect deeply on who I was and who I wanted to become. Like many others, I struggled with loneliness and self-image during that time. I had always been insecure about my physical appearance and often tried to hide myself behind baggy clothing. For years, I didn’t feel comfortable in my own skin. But when the world slowed down during the pandemic, I finally had time to explore my interests and rediscover myself. That’s when I found makeup—and it completely changed how I saw myself. Makeup quickly became more than just colors and brushes to me; it became a way to express confidence, creativity, and individuality. I realized that beauty isn’t about covering up flaws—it’s about enhancing what already makes each person unique. The first time I truly looked in the mirror and felt beautiful, it wasn’t because I was trying to impress anyone else—it was because I saw a version of myself that finally felt like me. That feeling of empowerment and self-acceptance inspired me to want to help others experience the same thing. That’s what drew me to esthetics. I want to use my skills to help others feel the confidence and self-love that I discovered through makeup. Whether it’s through skincare, makeup artistry, or helping someone find a routine that makes them glow from within, my goal is to make people feel as beautiful on the inside as they look on the outside. Everyone deserves to feel that sense of pride and peace when they see themselves in the mirror, and I want to be a part of creating that moment for them. In the beauty industry, I hope to create a space where people feel comfortable, accepted, and celebrated for who they are. I want my work to go beyond surface-level beauty—to help people embrace self-care, confidence, and authenticity. I believe esthetics is about transformation, not just of appearance but of self-esteem and mindset. It’s about bringing light and positivity into someone’s life, even in small ways, and reminding them that they are worthy of feeling beautiful every day. Ultimately, my goal is to leave a positive impact on everyone who sits in my chair. If I can help even one person walk out feeling more confident, more seen, and more beautiful than when they came in, then I’ll know I’ve made a difference in the world.

I am pursuing a career in esthetics because beauty has become a form of self-expression and healing for me. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I went through a period of isolation that made me reflect deeply on who I was and who I wanted to become. Like many others, I struggled with loneliness and self-image during that time. I had always been insecure about my physical appearance and often tried to hide myself behind baggy clothing. For years, I didn’t feel comfortable in my own skin. But when the world slowed down during the pandemic, I finally had time to explore my interests and rediscover myself. That’s when I found makeup—and it completely changed how I saw myself. Makeup quickly became more than just colors and brushes to me; it became a way to express confidence, creativity, and individuality. I realized that beauty isn’t about covering up flaws—it’s about enhancing what already makes each person unique. The first time I truly looked in the mirror and felt beautiful, it wasn’t because I was trying to impress anyone else—it was because I saw a version of myself that finally felt like me. That feeling of empowerment and self-acceptance inspired me to want to help others experience the same thing. That’s what drew me to esthetics. I want to use my skills to help others feel the confidence and self-love that I discovered through makeup. Whether it’s through skincare, makeup artistry, or helping someone find a routine that makes them glow from within, my goal is to make people feel as beautiful on the inside as they look on the outside. Everyone deserves to feel that sense of pride and peace when they see themselves in the mirror, and I want to be a part of creating that moment for them. In the beauty industry, I hope to create a space where people feel comfortable, accepted, and celebrated for who they are. I want my work to go beyond surface-level beauty—to help people embrace self-care, confidence, and authenticity. I believe esthetics is about transformation, not just of appearance but of self-esteem and mindset. It’s about bringing light and positivity into someone’s life, even in small ways, and reminding them that they are worthy of feeling beautiful every day. Ultimately, my goal is to leave a positive impact on everyone who sits in my chair. If I can help even one person walk out feeling more confident, more seen, and more beautiful than when they came in, then I’ll know I’ve made a difference in the world.

I am pursuing a career in esthetics because beauty has become a form of self-expression and healing for me. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I went through a period of isolation that made me reflect deeply on who I was and who I wanted to become. Like many others, I struggled with loneliness and self-image during that time. I had always been insecure about my physical appearance and often tried to hide myself behind baggy clothing. For years, I didn’t feel comfortable in my own skin. But when the world slowed down during the pandemic, I finally had time to explore my interests and rediscover myself. That’s when I found makeup—and it completely changed how I saw myself. Makeup quickly became more than just colors and brushes to me; it became a way to express confidence, creativity, and individuality. I realized that beauty isn’t about covering up flaws—it’s about enhancing what already makes each person unique. The first time I truly looked in the mirror and felt beautiful, it wasn’t because I was trying to impress anyone else—it was because I saw a version of myself that finally felt like me. That feeling of empowerment and self-acceptance inspired me to want to help others experience the same thing. That’s what drew me to esthetics. I want to use my skills to help others feel the confidence and self-love that I discovered through makeup. Whether it’s through skincare, makeup artistry, or helping someone find a routine that makes them glow from within, my goal is to make people feel as beautiful on the inside as they look on the outside. Everyone deserves to feel that sense of pride and peace when they see themselves in the mirror, and I want to be a part of creating that moment for them. In the beauty industry, I hope to create a space where people feel comfortable, accepted, and celebrated for who they are. I want my work to go beyond surface-level beauty—to help people embrace self-care, confidence, and authenticity. I believe esthetics is about transformation, not just of appearance but of self-esteem and mindset. It’s about bringing light and positivity into someone’s life, even in small ways, and reminding them that they are worthy of feeling beautiful every day. Ultimately, my goal is to leave a positive impact on everyone who sits in my chair. If I can help even one person walk out feeling more confident, more seen, and more beautiful than when they came in, then I’ll know I’ve made a difference in the world.

I am pursuing a career in esthetics because beauty has become a form of self-expression and healing for me. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I went through a period of isolation that made me reflect deeply on who I was and who I wanted to become. Like many others, I struggled with loneliness and self-image during that time. I had always been insecure about my physical appearance and often tried to hide myself behind baggy clothing. For years, I didn’t feel comfortable in my own skin. But when the world slowed down during the pandemic, I finally had time to explore my interests and rediscover myself. That’s when I found makeup—and it completely changed how I saw myself. Makeup quickly became more than just colors and brushes to me; it became a way to express confidence, creativity, and individuality. I realized that beauty isn’t about covering up flaws—it’s about enhancing what already makes each person unique. The first time I truly looked in the mirror and felt beautiful, it wasn’t because I was trying to impress anyone else—it was because I saw a version of myself that finally felt like me. That feeling of empowerment and self-acceptance inspired me to want to help others experience the same thing. That’s what drew me to esthetics. I want to use my skills to help others feel the confidence and self-love that I discovered through makeup. Whether it’s through skincare, makeup artistry, or helping someone find a routine that makes them glow from within, my goal is to make people feel as beautiful on the inside as they look on the outside. Everyone deserves to feel that sense of pride and peace when they see themselves in the mirror, and I want to be a part of creating that moment for them. In the beauty industry, I hope to create a space where people feel comfortable, accepted, and celebrated for who they are. I want my work to go beyond surface-level beauty—to help people embrace self-care, confidence, and authenticity. I believe esthetics is about transformation, not just of appearance but of self-esteem and mindset. It’s about bringing light and positivity into someone’s life, even in small ways, and reminding them that they are worthy of feeling beautiful every day. Ultimately, my goal is to leave a positive impact on everyone who sits in my chair. If I can help even one person walk out feeling more confident, more seen, and more beautiful than when they came in, then I’ll know I’ve made a difference in the world.

I am pursuing a career in esthetics because beauty has become a form of self-expression and healing for me. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I went through a period of isolation that made me reflect deeply on who I was and who I wanted to become. Like many others, I struggled with loneliness and self-image during that time. I had always been insecure about my physical appearance and often tried to hide myself behind baggy clothing. For years, I didn’t feel comfortable in my own skin. But when the world slowed down during the pandemic, I finally had time to explore my interests and rediscover myself. That’s when I found makeup—and it completely changed how I saw myself. Makeup quickly became more than just colors and brushes to me; it became a way to express confidence, creativity, and individuality. I realized that beauty isn’t about covering up flaws—it’s about enhancing what already makes each person unique. The first time I truly looked in the mirror and felt beautiful, it wasn’t because I was trying to impress anyone else—it was because I saw a version of myself that finally felt like me. That feeling of empowerment and self-acceptance inspired me to want to help others experience the same thing. That’s what drew me to esthetics. I want to use my skills to help others feel the confidence and self-love that I discovered through makeup. Whether it’s through skincare, makeup artistry, or helping someone find a routine that makes them glow from within, my goal is to make people feel as beautiful on the inside as they look on the outside. Everyone deserves to feel that sense of pride and peace when they see themselves in the mirror, and I want to be a part of creating that moment for them. In the beauty industry, I hope to create a space where people feel comfortable, accepted, and celebrated for who they are. I want my work to go beyond surface-level beauty—to help people embrace self-care, confidence, and authenticity. I believe esthetics is about transformation, not just of appearance but of self-esteem and mindset. It’s about bringing light and positivity into someone’s life, even in small ways, and reminding them that they are worthy of feeling beautiful every day. Ultimately, my goal is to leave a positive impact on everyone who sits in my chair. If I can help even one person walk out feeling more confident, more seen, and more beautiful than when they came in, then I’ll know I’ve made a difference in the world.

Mark Twain once said, “The two most important days in your life are the day you were born, and the day you find out why.” Since the first wave of the pandemic, I had to do an abundance of soul searching. I had to come to terms with my sexual identity, face my mental health and self-harm, and deal with the casualty of loved ones. In the midst of this, I turned to baking since it was the one thing I could do that would keep me productive. At first, it was sporadic. Then slowly became an everyday routine. Whenever I bake, it feels like being a part of a children's book. I love creating something with my dishes that put a smile on my family’s faces. Baking snatches me out of reality and sets a scene of utopia. It's a sense of nostalgia for me. The biggest goal I have set for myself is to open up my very own bakery. I want to make a change with my bakery, it is what I was born for.

I did debate in Elementary. It is very different compared to policy debate. For example, one of our topics was: “do video games stunt brain development”. Debate improved my work ethic and taught me vocabulary at a young age. We called ourselves the dream team and we were the very first debate team at Lakeview. Although I had many fun practices, there were also a lot of bad days. I remember getting into an argument with one of my teammates over an upcoming competition. Coach Simmons overheard me talking about how I wanted to quit. She proceeded to schedule a parent-teacher conference with my mom. I was scared, I didn’t want to disappoint my parents. During, the meeting, we discussed how I was tired of losing. To say my mom was upset was an understatement. She told me I Couldn't quit. Miss Simmons and my mother came to a consensus that I was to stay at practice for an extra hour. That was the best thing that has ever happened to me. Miss Simmons Taught me that to win, I’d have to know how it feels to fail. The next upcoming tournament was at Vanderbilt University. I was beyond nervous. However, I wasn't afraid of losing. I had fun at the tournament. After the last round, it was time for awards. I made the top three speakers and got gold medals. When I found out my school had a debate team, I joined without hesitation. We have Been undefeated for going on three years. But I will never forget what debate has taught me. So even if I do lose in the future, I still know what it feels like to win, and that is why I will never be afraid of losing.

My experience with mental health used to be a rollercoaster of emotions. I was raised in a home where crying and anger couldn’t be justified by my mental health. I was never really allowed to confront my emotions or else I was seen as “over dramatic”. This was obviously unhealthy and soon I spiraled. When I was in sixth grade I began hanging out with the wrong crowd. I socialized with the boys who did drugs, sold drugs, manipulated girls. I associated myself with the girls who were getting caught doing things no little girl should be doing. I used to love school until I met those people. I loved being able to learn Spanish. To dissect flowers. To read. I tried too hard to be popular. I was too obedient, too loud, too “fast”, too much. I never really had fond memories with school. Growing up, I was made fun of because of my weight, my height, the way I spoke. Nothing I did or said was good enough. I always felt like the black sheep at my school. It made me anxious that anything I was doing was going to be turned into a joke. I stopped talking. I stopped eating in front of people. My friends stopped talking to me. Needless to say the relationships I established were beginning to unravel. It wasn’t until a few months ago when I was finally able to talk to my mom about getting a therapist. This is a big step from just staying in my room all day talking to no one. My mental health journey has come so far and I am so proud of myself for it. I have found other outlets like baking. I’m looking to make a career out of it. My mom and I have an un-breakable bond. I still struggle with my mental health, but that’s only human of me. I’m not perfect, however I’m getting better. To me, that’s all the reassurance I need. When I was a kid, I wanted to be a chemist. My dad had my life planned out before I had the chance to do so. He told me that I should be focused on the money. This was heavily against my beliefs but he’s my dad. I ended up joining STEM in high school. Don’t get me wrong, I love learning about how to build robots, it’s just not me. I’ve always loved baking. I even have my own online bakery! I enjoy finding new and creative recipes to try and I love seeing my customers enjoy what I make. It makes me feel powerful to create something someone can enjoy. When I told my dad that I’m going to college to own my own business he told me, “you know there isn’t a whole lot of money in those kinds of things. You’re going to go fail Aniyah.” I was distraught. How could my own father have no faith in me or my passion? Nonetheless, I disregarded his distasteful comments and I’ve continued to strive and work hard every night. I’m building my name. It is my dream to have a billboard with my bakery on it. I’ll get there, I know it.

In my early adolescence, I joined my elementary school’s debate team. During this time I became egotistical. I thought that I was above most of my peers since I was “specially selected” to be a part of the first generation team at my school. I was soon devastated by the lack of wins we would get. I would constantly complain about our performance. It wasn’t until my freshman year of high school when I decided to join the policy debate team, that I realized it was ok to fail. It was ok to not always be a winner. I learned that every time I fail it’s a lesson on what I can do to succeed. After I learned not to be afraid of failure, I noticed I started to become good at it! I can now sit here and say that I have fun at every 6 hour debate tournament. I don’t care whether or not I lose because it’s my dearest experience. Learning to accept failure is how I can maintain a growth mindset.