Resilience, Ambition and Strength, the 3 pillars of my personality. My family of 6 is the rock I stand on, responsible for my growth into a high achieving, strong, empathy centered individual. My mother, diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma when I was 2, is my earliest memory of the strength that engulfed me. At the age of 6, I was diagnosed with diabetes. Admitted Monday, by Friday, I was giving my own shots, counting my own carbs, and handling my condition with responsibility and care. My mother, now cancer free for 17 years, through every trial and tribulation, along with my family, rallied behind me as a unit of unwavering support. Confidence is funny because it starts as an idea that exudes into a lifestyle. Never dreaming to be anything other than mediocre, burdened with my disease, I grew up wildly insecure. In joining my first sport, my condition allowed me only about 80% of the time others were allowed. I picked up Olympic weight lifting, 4 varsity sports, club volleyball and crossfit by my sophomore year. The more I applied myself, the more I began to understand my capability rather than my disability. By my senior year, I had been recognized 16 times individually and was a county-wide example for resilience and kindness. I graduated with a 4.2 on the deans list, with signed commitment papers as an NCAA, Division 1 track and field athlete. Growing up, my 2 diabetic grandmothers, 2 cousins and grandfather, practiced poor medical habits. Being the youngest, but best managed diabetic in my family, I knew the power, and difficulty in overcoming your surroundings. I attended camp Kudzu for years, meeting so many other diabetic children like me. In overcoming my insecurity, I became outspoken with a mission: I wanted to help people. In 2022, I was selected to be the face of the county’s ‘Diabetic Outreach Program;’ an experience that shaped my future and solidified my career. I am a Business Management/Marketing Major with a concentration in professional sales, with aspirations of becoming a medical sales representative for DEXCOM. A career where I can use my knowledge to connect with so many others like me, making a difference of great impact. My first year in college was filled with growth, as I evolved into a focused student-athlete. I attended events where I honed my connection and networking skills, and was able to get into contact with a DEXCOM sales representative, who I intend to get an internship from in my near future. However, another stone was thrown in my path. In December, my father, the only income provider in my household, lost his job. Overnight- I lost insurance and a way to pay for my education. I got a job while continuing my studies and sport. I soon after made the difficult decision to transfer, in hopes of finding a school that aligned with my values, health and goals. After a drawn out process, I found a university of holistic practice, where I will be able to meet students with ambition, and a desire to help others, as well as a track program that does not promote obsession with performance, but rather progression. Though I have had some boulders within my path, I choose to view them as stepping stones, guiding me to where I am today. I continue to nurture a mindset of resilience, ambition and strength, built on my values and my family. With the voice, story and ambition I have, I know my future is full and bright. Hopefully, you decide to follow along to witness the difference I will make.