Gardening has been more than a hobby for me; it's a way of living and has taught me to be proud of my hard work and not compare against others. From an early age, I spent countless hours in the garden with my mom, learning from her how to nurture plants and personalize our garden best for our soil and climate. Those experiences with her helped me develop a deep connection to nature and instilled a sense of peace and purpose. It mainly showed me that with dedication and consistency, anything can flourish. I am a college sophomore, double majoring in marine science and environmental science. I seek to combine these areas in a way that contributes to the health and beauty of our planet in a positive aspect. Although my degree will be in marine and environmental science, the skills I learn from those courses and my life experience complement horticulture extremely well, giving me a diverse education. Relating to my previous statement, marine and land-based ecosystems are deeply interconnected, I believe my background in both areas will allow me to contribute to more holistic solutions to environmental challenges. Whether it's restoring coastal habitats or designing sustainable landscapes, I aim to integrate my love for nature and horticulture into my broader environmental work. During high school, I struggled with depression and self-harm. I took random pills as a way to numb the pain. My mother recognized my downward spiral and intervened, which was both terrifying and life-saving. Her heartbreak gave me the motivation to change. I promised her and myself that I would stop, and I've been clean for four years now. Through my recovery, gardening became my sanctuary. The act of nurturing plants mirrored my healing journey, showing me that, like a garden, life requires care, patience, and perseverance. I’m volunteering at Donate Gardens, a botanical garden with a unique mission to blend different cultural influences in its design, like the Chinese garden I’m helping cultivate. The experience has shown me the global interconnectedness of nature, reinforcing my belief that horticulture can be a unifying force for community and sustainability. I believe I am deserving of this scholarship not only because of my passion for horticulture and sustainability but also because of the obstacles I have overcome. My battle with depression and my past have given me a deeper empathy for others who face similar struggles. I know firsthand the healing power of nature, and I want to use my education and experience to help others find solace and strength in nature, just as I have. This scholarship will help me continue my journey to bridge nature, creativity, and environmental science. I'm determined to make a positive impact on the planet and the sea. Thank you for your time, I greatly appreciate it.