My name is Anthony Fick, and as a first-generation college student, I know what it feels like to step into unfamiliar territory, filled with both fear and determination. For most of my life, I never imagined I would be where I am today—pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work at Indiana Wesleyan University after earning my Associate Degree in Human Services. For me, being a first-generation student is more than earning a degree—it’s about breaking cycles, creating hope, and proving that it’s never too late to rewrite your story. Growing up, college was something that happened to other people. My family worked hard, but education beyond high school wasn’t part of our path. When I was a teenager, I struggled deeply with identity and acceptance. Coming out as gay led to rejection from my family, and I turned to drugs and alcohol to numb the pain. Addiction consumed years of my life. I dropped out of school and lost my sense of direction completely. I never thought I’d recover, let alone go to college. But life has a way of offering second chances. After years of struggle, I entered recovery and slowly began to rebuild my life. I’ve now been sober for over twelve years. In that time, I discovered that the same pain that once defined me could become my greatest strength. My recovery journey inspired me to dedicate my life to helping others overcome addiction and trauma. That’s when I decided to return to school at the age of forty, even though it terrified me. I didn’t know how to use online learning platforms or write academic papers, but I refused to give up. Every class, every assignment, and every late-night study session represented progress—not just for me, but for my family and community. Being a first-generation student means learning as I go. There are moments when I feel lost, unsure of what comes next, and I don’t have family members who can tell me how to navigate college life. But I’ve learned to seek support, ask questions, and trust in my faith and purpose. My journey has taught me that perseverance matters more than perfection. Today, I work as a Chemical Dependency Counselor, helping people who are where I once was—broken, afraid, and uncertain of their worth. My dream is to continue my education through graduate school and become a Licensed Social Worker so I can better advocate for individuals facing addiction, homelessness, and discrimination. Education has given me the tools to transform compassion into meaningful change. This scholarship would help lighten the financial strain of balancing full-time work and school. Every dollar represents an opportunity to focus more on learning and less on worrying about how to pay for it. More than financial help, though, this scholarship would be a symbol of faith—faith that first-generation students like me belong in these spaces, that our stories matter, and that our dreams are worth investing in.

My name is Anthony Fick, and as a proud gay man in recovery, I have learned that resilience is born from pain, and purpose is discovered through perseverance. My journey has not been easy. It has been shaped by rejection, addiction, and loss—but also by love, faith, and a deep commitment to helping others find hope when they feel forgotten. I am currently pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work at Indiana Wesleyan University, with plans to continue to my Master’s Degree and become a Licensed Social Worker and Chemical Dependency Counselor. My calling is to advocate for individuals who have faced discrimination, addiction, and despair—especially LGBTQ+ youth who feel unseen and unheard. Growing up, I faced rejection from my family and community for being gay. As a teenager, I was bullied at school, isolated from peers, and told that something was “wrong” with me. When I finally found the courage to come out, the reaction from those closest to me was devastating. I was encouraged to attend conversion therapy, and the message I received was that I needed to change who I was to be loved. At sixteen, overwhelmed by shame and hopelessness, I contemplated suicide. I felt invisible, unwanted, and broken. Drugs and alcohol became my escape—they took away the pain for a while, but nearly took my life in the process. After years of addiction and self-destruction, I found recovery and, through it, a reason to live. Recovery gave me the strength to embrace my identity fully and the clarity to understand that my experiences were not something to be ashamed of but something that could inspire change. Today, I have been sober for over twelve years. I have devoted my career to counseling others who are struggling with addiction, mental illness, and identity-related trauma. My higher education goals are rooted in advocacy and inclusion. Through my Social Work degree, I am building the professional foundation to stand up for LGBTQ+ youth and adults in need of affirmation and access to care. I plan to expand my work into community-based initiatives that focus on mental health, housing stability, and addiction treatment for marginalized populations. I want to help create a world where no young person feels they have to hide or suffer in silence because of who they are. Being an openly gay man in a helping profession has not always been easy. I have faced subtle discrimination and moments where I felt pressured to downplay my identity. Yet, every time I speak openly about my journey, I see others find the courage to share theirs. My story has become my strength—a reminder that authenticity is the foundation of healing. I believe advocacy starts with visibility, and by living proudly, I offer others permission to do the same. Financially, returning to school as an adult learner has been a challenge. I work full-time while completing my degree, and tuition costs often stretch me thin. Receiving this scholarship would greatly relieve that burden and allow me to focus more on my studies and continued service work. More importantly, it would affirm that my identity and purpose matter—that people like me, who once felt invisible, are seen, valued, and supported in pursuing their dreams. This scholarship would not only ease my financial strain but also empower me to continue using my education and lived experience to advocate for acceptance, equality, and recovery. My mission is to help others find the strength to live authentically and believe that no matter where they’ve been, they deserve a second chance at life—and love. Thank you for reading my essay!!

My name is Anthony Fick, and at forty-three years old, I am proud to be living proof that second chances can transform lives. Returning to school after more than two decades away was one of the hardest and most rewarding decisions I have ever made. Like Debra S. Jackson, I understand that education later in life is more than an academic pursuit—it is an act of courage, faith, and renewal. For much of my early life, I struggled to find purpose. As a teenager, I faced rejection from my family for who I was and turned to drugs and alcohol to escape the pain. My addiction led me down a dark path filled with shame, self-doubt, and loss. There were moments I didn’t think I would survive. Yet through grace and recovery, I discovered a new way of living—one centered on faith, honesty, and service. When I got sober, I began to see that my experiences, no matter how painful, could be used to help others. That realization changed the direction of my life. For the past twelve years, I have dedicated myself to recovery and to serving others who are trying to rebuild their lives. I currently work as a Chemical Dependency Counselor at TCN Behavioral Health, where I guide individuals struggling with addiction. I see myself in their stories—people who have made mistakes but still have incredible potential within them. Every day, I witness the power of compassion, accountability, and second chances. I know that change is possible because I’ve lived it. Returning to school at age forty was a leap of faith. I was filled with fear and self-doubt. It had been over twenty years since I sat in a classroom, and technology had changed everything. But I pushed through the fear because I knew education was the key to expanding my impact. I began my studies at Clark State Community College and later enrolled at Indiana Wesleyan University, where I earned my Associate Degree in Human Services and am now pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work. My goal is to continue on to earn my Master’s Degree and obtain professional licensure as a Licensed Social Worker and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor II. My life experiences have shaped my values in profound ways. I have learned the importance of humility, perseverance, and empathy. I believe everyone deserves to be seen not for their past mistakes but for their capacity to change and grow. Education has deepened my understanding of human behavior, systems, and interventions, giving me the tools to turn compassion into effective action. It has also taught me discipline and patience—skills I now model for the people I serve. Beyond my career, I am passionate about strengthening my community. I volunteer at recovery events, suicide-prevention walks, and outreach programs that connect individuals to treatment and support. I am also developing a long-term vision to open a recovery facility that offers counseling, sober living, and vocational training. My dream is to create a safe, supportive space where people can heal, grow, and discover purpose again—just as I did. This scholarship would be a tremendous blessing. As an adult learner balancing full-time work, financial responsibilities, and coursework, I often face challenges that younger students may not. Yet I remain determined, because education is not just about improving my own life—it’s about equipping me to help others. The Debra S. Jackson Scholarship represents what has guided my journey: resilience, faith in second chances, and belief in the power of education to transform lives at any age. Through continued learning and service, I will continue to help others! Thanks!

My name is Anthony Fick, and I have devoted my life to helping others rebuild theirs. I am currently pursuing my bachelor’s degree in Social Work at Indiana Wesleyan University, following the completion of my associate degree in Human Services. My journey to this career began not in a classroom, but through personal transformation—overcoming addiction, shame, and hopelessness to discover a deep calling to serve others walking the same path I once did. Growing up, I often felt lost and unaccepted. As a teenager, I faced rejection for who I was, and I began using drugs to escape the pain. What started as a way to numb my emotions quickly became a cycle of self-destruction that lasted for years. At sixteen, I even contemplated ending my life because I believed I had no value. Yet through grace, recovery, and the help of others who refused to give up on me, I learned that my pain could be transformed into purpose. Today, I have been sober for over twelve years, and I dedicate my life to helping others find hope and healing. I currently work as a Chemical Dependency Counselor at TCN Behavioral Health, where I guide individuals battling addiction toward sobriety, self-worth, and stability. Each day I witness the courage of people determined to start over, and I meet them with empathy and compassion because I understand their struggle firsthand. My work involves individual and group counseling, crisis intervention, and relapse prevention. I strive to help clients rediscover their identity beyond addiction—focusing on their strengths, spirituality, and potential. This is more than a job to me; it is a mission. Outside of my professional work, I remain active in my community through service and advocacy. I have volunteered at recovery events, suicide-prevention awareness walks, and local community outreach programs designed to connect people with mental-health and housing resources. I also mentor others in early recovery, helping them navigate the challenges of sobriety and reintegration into society. One moment that stands out was organizing a small local support group for individuals recently released from incarceration. Many of them had nowhere to turn, and together we created a space of accountability, faith, and encouragement. Watching someone go from hopelessness to genuine self-belief reminded me why service is sacred work. For me, servitude is not about recognition or reward—it is about love in action. It is about seeing the humanity in every person, even when they cannot see it in themselves. My experiences have shown me that true healing happens when people feel heard, supported, and valued. That is the foundation I hope to continue building through my education and future practice as a Licensed Social Worker and Chemical Dependency Counselor. My long-term goal is to open a community-based treatment center that offers counseling, sober housing, job training, and holistic recovery options. I want to create a place where individuals can heal, grow, and rebuild their lives surrounded by compassion and opportunity. Emma Jane Hastie’s legacy of selfless service deeply resonates with me. Her example reflects the kind of servant-leadership I strive to live every day—quiet, consistent, and rooted in love for others. This scholarship would not only ease my financial burden as a returning adult student but would also affirm that lives dedicated to helping others are worth investing in. My journey from brokenness to purpose has taught me that when we serve others, we honor the very essence of humanity. Through education, empathy, and perseverance, I hope to continue that legacy and carry the torch of servitude forward.

My name is Anthony I am 42 years old. I returned to school in 2021 and I was full of fear. At this time I had been out of school for 21 years. I signed up for a community college here in Springfield, Ohio. I began attending school online something else I was not familiar with. The following year I switched schools to attend an accelerated program because I wanted to accomplish this goal faster. I now attend Indiana Wesleyan and graduated with my associate degree in Human Services last February. I am pursuing a bachelor's degree in social work currently. I have run into an issue with my financial aid where I will not have enough to cover the cost of the remainder of my school. I will still have some financial aid but must pay for whatever is not covered. I am not sure how long I will be able to do that. I made mistakes in the past and used financial aid money for the wrong reasons. I am a recovering addict and I have been clean for 12 years on March 13. I celebrated my clean date and a celebration of life and new beginnings. I am a chemical dependency counselor and I help clients daily who struggle with addiction and mental health. I struggled just like my clients with substance use and mental health. I was saved to live, to give back, to give hope, empathy, and compassion to the clients I meet. I overdosed a few times, I went to rehab a few times, I lied, cheated, stole, and caused a lot of harm because I was being driven by a power greater than me the disease of addiction. I thank God that he saw fit to rescue me from the grips of addiction and give me a second chance in life. The last time I got high I overdosed on heroin and it was fatal, I died. My heart stopped and I was gone. I was Narcan and CPR and my heart started beating. It took the paramedics 45 minutes to get me stable enough to transport to the hospital. I woke up 8 days later after being on life support and doctors not knowing if I had permanent damage. They had no idea how long I went without oxygen. One day my organs were failing, but they are fully functioning today. Another day I had no brain activity, my brain was completely functioning and unscathed. After being in the hospital for 14 days I had to go to a nursing home for rehabilitation. I could not walk, grip a glass, pick anything up, or hold my head up. I had lost control of all my muscles and they had begun to die. I worked hard to rebuild my strength and I realized the obsession to use drugs was gone. I knew this was it I could not take this chance for granted. I began to see life differently and started my recovery journey. My family from out of town traveled here with funeral clothes because they were unsure if I would make it. My addiction and mental health affected everyone around me. I could not get help and be successful until I was ready. I am happy to have MADE IT and I am alive to give back! I am grateful every I wake up and my life has changed so much. I know that I am here to help people and give back to people. I attend 12-step recovery meetings, I have a sponsor, sober support. My priority is my education and completing my degree will help me continue helping my clients. I know that we have a broken system I see it all the time. I am sorry for your loss and the fight your mom was in. When you are fighting against yourself and then you feel alienated from society as well where do you else can you turn? There have to be changes to the system and society as a whole. Substance use and mental health are so complex and serious. If they are not handled and treated correctly it can be devastating for many. I am reminded often by my clients how much they enjoy the space I provide for them to be heard, seen, and comfortable while they attend group 3-5 days a week. I love the work I do, I love helping people and my community. I hope to one day open my own treatment facility. This is only the beginning for me and my career. I also plan to get my master's degree following the completion of my bachelor's degree. I chose to go to school because it was the right time. I had to be sure I could dedicate my time and effort. I have never gotten the grades I have in school. I am proud of myself and my accomplishments thus far. I appreciate your consideration for this scholarship. Thank you for taking the time and read my application. Best regards to you all!

My name is Anthony I am 42 years old. I returned to school in 2021 and I was full of fear. At this time I had been out of school for 21 years. I signed up for a community college here in Springfield, Ohio. I began attending school online something else I was not familiar with. The following year I switched schools to attend an accelerated program because I wanted to accomplish this goal faster. I now attend Indiana Wesleyan and graduated with my associate degree in Human Services last February. I am pursuing a bachelor's degree in social work. I have run into an issue with my financial aid where I will not have enough to cover the cost of the remainder of my school. I will still have some financial aid but I will have to pay as I go. I am not sure how long I will be able to do that. I made mistakes in the past and used financial aid money for the wrong reasons. I am a recovering addict and I have been clean for 11 years, it will be 12 years on March 13. I am a chemical dependency counselor and I help clients daily who struggle with addiction. I struggled just like my clients and I was spared to give back and give hope to the clients I met. I overdosed a few times, I went to rehab a few times, I lied, cheated, stole, and caused a lot of harm because I was being driven by a lower power. I thank God that he saw fit to rescue me from the grips of addiction. The last time I used I overdosed on heroin and it was fatal. I woke up 8 days later after being on life support. One day my organs were failing, they are fully functioning today. Another day I had no brain activity, my brain was completely functioning and unscathed. Family from out of tow traveled here with funeral clothes because they were unsure if I would make it. I MADE IT!! I am grateful every I wake up and my life has changed so much. I attend 12-step recovery meetings, I have a sponsor, sober support. My education and completing my degree will help me continue helping my clients. I am reminded often by my clients how much they enjoy the space I provide for them to be heard, seen, and comfortable while they attend group 3-5 days a week. I love the work I do, I love helping people and my community. I hope to one day open my own treatment facility. This is only the beginning for me and my career. I also plan to get my master's degree following the completion of my bachelor's degree. I chose to go to school because it was the right time. I had to be sure I could dedicate my time and effort. I have never gotten the grades I have in school. I am proud of myself and my accomplishments thus far. I appreciate your consideration for this scholarship. Thank you for taking the time and read my application. Best regards to you all!

Hello my name is Anthony Fick I am 42 years old. I live in Springfield, Ohio and I am working toward my bachelors degree in social work. I am a recovering addicted and I have clean since March 13, 2013. I battled with depression, anxiety and my purpose in life at times. I started self medicating with marijuana and drinking alcohol sometimes. I did not like the way I felt so I had to alter that . This started at 16 years old and progressed as I got older. I began to use pain medication and added with marijuana, alcohol and opiates. I experimented with all drugs at some point and then I met heroin. I knew this was a mistake because I loved the way it made me feel. This continued this years, I went to school and received financial aid and only used the money for bills, drugs, or whatever I needed. I have always felt like I did fit in, heroin isolated me more. The last time I got high this was the 2nd time that I overdosed and I woke up 8 days later. I had been on life support and almost died multiply times. Once I was stable from waking up and became calm. I had to go a nursing home to regain mobility and strength. March 13, 2013 I have lived a different life and know that I spared to be here to help others suffering from the same disease that I have. I worked at a drug treatment facility and have been in this field for 5 years. I am a chemical dependency counselor and I enjoy this work. Even though it is hard somedays and can be hard mentally. I give my clients a safe place to feel heard, seen and cared about. My clients know I understand what they are going through and I try to help everyone I come in contact with. I need my degree to go further with my career. I am running out of financial aid by the end of my degree. My past mistakes with attending school and wasting financial aid. Today I am happy that I am in school, living a life I never thought it would be possible. I attend NA meetings, I have sponsor, sober support, family support, I help people, I know my purpose is to help people, I enjoy school. I know this hurdle with school financial aid will pass. I will receive the help I need and I will get through all obstacles. I am sorry to hear about your brothers struggle and I hope that I can one day make it easier for men to talk about mental health. The stigma that men carry with mental health and talking about it is real and it deserves to be talked about. Thank you for taking the time to read my essay. God Bless