My experience with mental health has been one of the most defining aspects of my life. It has shaped the way I see the world, how I connect with others, and what I want to do with my future. Living with anxiety and depression has not been easy, but it has taught me lessons that I carry with me every day—lessons about strength, empathy, and the power of speaking up when it's hardest to do so. For a long time, I struggled in silence. I didn’t always have the language to describe what I was going through, and I didn’t want to be seen as weak or different. But over time, I realized that pretending everything was okay was not only exhausting—it was isolating. Opening up about my mental health became a turning point. It was through that vulnerability that I began to heal, and more importantly, began to understand myself on a deeper level. This experience changed my beliefs about what it means to be strong. I used to think strength meant keeping everything bottled up and pushing through no matter what. Now, I know that real strength is asking for help, showing up even on the hard days, and being honest about how you feel. It’s about resilience—but not the kind that pretends pain doesn't exist. It's the kind that acknowledges it, faces it, and grows from it. Mental health has also profoundly impacted my relationships. Because of what I’ve gone through, I’ve become more compassionate and patient with others. I notice the little signs when someone is struggling. I try to create space for people to be themselves without fear of judgment. My own journey has helped me build stronger, more honest connections, and I’ve learned that simply listening can sometimes mean everything to someone who’s hurting. These experiences have also inspired my career goals. I want to work in a field where I can make a difference in people’s lives, particularly when it comes to emotional well-being. I’m especially interested in becoming a therapist, counselor, or mental health advocate—someone who can be a source of support and hope for others the way I needed when I was at my lowest. Every step brings me closer to a future where I can help others feel seen, heard, and supported. Mental health isn’t just something I’ve dealt with—it’s something that has shaped me. It’s made me more aware, more human, and more determined to use my experiences to uplift others. I’m still learning, still healing, and still growing, but I know that my path—whatever it looks like—will always be guided by compassion, connection, and the belief that no one should have to struggle alone.

A college degree has the power to transform not only my life, but also the lives of future generations in my family. It would be more than a piece of paper, it would be a symbol of perseverance, hope, and the fulfillment of dreams that have been nurtured over generations but never fully realized. For me, earning a college degree would be a defining moment that shifts the narrative of what’s possible in my family. Growing up, I watched my parents, although split, work tirelessly to provide for me. They taught me the value of hard work, but they didn’t have the opportunity to pursue higher education themselves. Despite their sacrifices, we often faced financial hardships, and I quickly learned that education was the key to stability and a better future. A college degree would not only give me the tools to build a successful career, but it would also allow me to create a life that offers security, choice, and opportunity. Something my family has never had in abundance. Beyond personal success, I see a college degree as a legacy. It sets a precedent. When younger members of my family see me walk across the stage at graduation, they’ll see someone who comes from the same background, and faced similar struggles still succeeded. That kind of representation can be life-changing. I want to be the person who proves to them that they are capable of achieving greatness, too. To me personally, earning a degree means honoring the sacrifices of those who came before me and opening the door for those who will come after. It’s a statement that says, “We made it through, and we are not turning back.” It’s about pride, independence, and the ability to contribute meaningfully to the world around me. I want to use my education to create change, not just for myself, but for my family, my community, and anyone who needs a reminder that their circumstances don’t define their future. I’m passionate about young education, and I’ve taken concrete steps to pursue that passion. For example, I am currently in an internship to better my understand of education. These experiences have deepened my commitment to making a difference and showed me how my interests can translate into a lifelong mission. College will give me the knowledge, skills, and platform to take this passion to the next level. In the end, a college degree is not just my dream, it’s a turning point for my family. It’s the beginning of a new chapter where education, opportunity, and ambition become part of our story.

Adversity is a part of life that can shape and transform us in ways we often don't understand until later. For me, the challenges I faced began when I was very young, and they continued throughout my teenage years. I grew up in a split family, which brought with it a host of emotional struggles, including verbal abuse from my father’s girlfriend. These early experiences set the stage for deeper challenges, including anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts during middle school. However, these hardships also led me on a path of self-discovery and resilience. Growing up in a divided household was difficult. The emotional turmoil of seeing my family split apart created a sense of instability that was difficult to navigate. As a young child, I didn’t have the tools to understand or cope with what was happening, and my emotional needs often went unmet. Things only worsened when my father’s girlfriend began verbally abusing me. The verbal attacks were harsh and frequent, and I felt powerless to stop them. The feelings of worthlessness and confusion led me to believe that I didn’t deserve happiness or peace. During middle school, these emotional scars began to manifest in the form of severe anxiety and depression. The overwhelming pressure of school, social situations, and the inner turmoil I carried made it difficult to function normally. I found myself trapped in a cycle of negative thoughts, which eventually led to suicidal thoughts and self-harm. I felt like I was drowning in my emotions, with no way to escape. However, it was during this period that I began to realize that I didn’t have to face this battle alone. One day, after a particularly difficult episode, I reached out to a school counselor. It was the first time I had ever truly admitted to someone what I was going through. Her response was one of kindness and compassion, and it helped me understand that there was no shame in seeking help. This was a turning point for me. It took a lot of courage to ask for help, but it marked the beginning of my healing process. Therapy and counseling became an essential part of my journey. I learned coping strategies that helped me manage my anxiety and depression. Gradually, I began to rebuild my self-esteem, learning to recognize and challenge the negative beliefs I had internalized over the years. I started to realize that I was not defined by the abuse I had suffered or the struggles I faced. Through therapy, I learned that my emotions were valid and that it was okay to seek support when I needed it. Throughout this process, I also discovered the power of self-compassion. I began to treat myself with the same kindness and understanding that I extended to others. Instead of blaming myself for the things that had happened in my life, I started to recognize that I had done the best I could under difficult circumstances. This shift in perspective allowed me to heal and regain a sense of control over my life. Looking back, I can see how far I’ve come. The challenges I faced were incredibly difficult, but they didn’t define me. Instead, they taught me important lessons about resilience, self-worth, and the importance of mental health. I now know that it’s okay to struggle, and it’s okay to ask for help. Life can be challenging, but we don’t have to face it alone. I am proud of the strength I have found within myself, and I will continue to carry that strength with me as I move forward.

Hello, my name is Arianna Bisson-Rink, and I’m pursuing a career in elementary education because I’ve always had a deep love for working with children and helping others. I believe that the early years of a child’s education are some of the most important in shaping who they become, not just academically, but emotionally and socially as well. I want to be the kind of teacher who creates a safe, encouraging space where students feel supported, seen, and inspired to be their best selves. My passion for becoming a teacher comes from both positive and difficult life experiences. I grew up in a split family, which often left me feeling torn between two worlds. That instability took an emotional toll, and as I got older, I found myself struggling with anxiety, depression, and eventually suicidal thoughts. Those were some of the darkest moments of my life, and there were times when I felt like I didn’t have a purpose or that things wouldn’t get better. What helped me get through it was the support of very few people who were mostly my close friends, and the only ones who took the time to really listen. They reminded me that I mattered and that things could improve with time and effort. I also learned to open up about my mental health and started finding ways to take better care of myself. It wasn’t easy, but over time I began to heal and find a sense of hope again. Those experiences have stayed with me, and they’re a big part of why I want to work in education. I know how much of a difference one caring adult can make in a child’s life. I want to be that person for my future students a teacher who makes them feel valued and who notices when something might be wrong, and who helps them find their strengths. As an elementary educator, my goal is to make a positive impact by being a consistent source of support and kindness for my students. I want them to not only learn math, reading, and science, but also how to believe in themselves and treat others with empathy. I’ve been through tough times, but those challenges have shaped me into someone who truly wants to help others grow and that’s what I plan to do every single day in my classroom. Thank you for taking the time to read this and for the opportunity for this scholarship.

One of the most memorable community events I’ve had the chance to be part of was the Elementary Dr. Seuss Night at my local school. The event brought together students, teachers, and families for a fun evening celebrating the joy of reading. It was all about inspiring young children to develop a love for books, and I was lucky enough to volunteer as a reader and help with setting up different activities. What made this event special for me was how it encouraged kids to connect with stories in a fun, interactive way. I had the opportunity to read some of Dr. Seuss’s most famous books, like *The Cat in the Hat* and *Green Eggs and Ham*, to small groups of children. Their excitement was contagious, and it was incredible to see how something as simple as reading a book could spark their imagination and curiosity. It reminded me how powerful books can be in shaping a child’s love for learning. Beyond reading stories, I also helped set up activity stations where kids could create their own Dr. Seuss-themed crafts and play games related to the books. It was amazing to see the community come together over something as simple as storytelling. Watching the kids engage with the activities, and seeing their parents and teachers join in, made me realize how events like these can bring people closer and create a positive atmosphere. It felt good to know that we were helping kids connect with learning in a way that was fun and memorable. For me, Dr. Seuss Night was a reminder of how small actions, like volunteering, can have a big impact. Even though I wasn’t one of the main organizers, just being there to support and share in the experience felt meaningful. It showed me that community events, no matter their size, have the power to unite people and make a real difference in the lives of others. This experience also inspired me to think more about how I can continue to give back to my community in the future. I’d love to see more events that promote education and creativity for kids, events where families can come together, learn, and have fun. I believe that when children are encouraged to explore their imaginations and dive into books, it can have a lasting effect on their love for learning and on their future success. Thank you for considering my application. I’m grateful for the opportunity to share this experience, and I look forward to continuing my educational journey with your support.

As a first-generation college student, I’ve had to take on most of the responsibility for funding my education. My parents have always been supportive of my academic goals, but due to financial constraints, they’ve been unable to assist with college costs. To make ends meet, I’ve worked part-time jobs while balancing my schoolwork, but it’s been a challenge. Still, I’m determined to keep going and make my dream of higher education a reality. What drives me to pursue a college degree is the opportunity to build a better future for myself and contribute to my community. I’m passionate about [mention your field of study, e.g., healthcare, technology, education, etc.], and I believe education is the key to creating positive change. With a degree, I hope to help others and make a real impact, especially in areas that lack resources or support. This scholarship would be a huge help in easing the financial strain of college. It would allow me to focus more on my studies instead of constantly worrying about how to pay for tuition and other expenses. Having this support would be an incredible step forward in helping me reach my goals and make the most of my time in school. I’m committed to working hard and making the most of every opportunity in college. Receiving this scholarship would bring me closer to achieving my dreams and using my education to give back to others. Thank you for considering my application. Your support would mean so much to me as I continue on this journey.

The movie that has had the greatest impact on my life is *The Pursuit of Happyness*, starring Will Smith. The story follows Chris Gardner, a man who faces homelessness while striving to create a better future for his son. Watching him overcome such immense challenges—never giving up despite constant setbacks—really resonated with me. It reminded me that, even in the hardest times, perseverance and hope can lead to a brighter future. Growing up, I faced many personal challenges that often felt overwhelming. From living in a split family to struggling with bullying, social anxiety, and emotional hardships, it was difficult to find my footing. Like Chris, I’ve faced moments where I questioned if things would ever get better. Watching the film showed me that it’s possible to push through these tough moments and keep moving forward, even when things seem impossible. Chris’s ability to continue pursuing his goals, even when the odds were stacked against him, inspired me to keep going despite my own struggles. What struck me most about the film was its emphasis on persistence and hard work. Chris’s journey is not an easy one—he’s constantly rejected, challenged, and forced to face uncomfortable truths about his situation. But no matter how many setbacks he faces, he never gives up. This lesson about the importance of sticking with something, even when it feels like the world is against you, has been life-changing for me. It taught me that success doesn’t come easily, but if you keep going and put in the work, the results will follow. This message helped me reframe my own challenges and view them as opportunities to grow rather than obstacles that would stop me. The movie also taught me the power of love and dedication. Throughout the story, Chris’s love for his son is the driving force behind his determination. He sacrifices so much for his son’s future, and that love fuels his relentless pursuit of a better life. This really spoke to me because it reminded me that when we have a reason to keep going—whether it’s for ourselves or someone we love—it gives us the strength to push through even the toughest times. Another major takeaway from the movie was the importance of believing in yourself, even when others may not. Chris faces numerous rejections and failures, but he keeps pushing forward because he believes in his own potential. That belief is what ultimately leads him to success. It made me realize that self-confidence is a key factor in overcoming challenges. When you believe that you are capable of achieving your goals, you’re more likely to take the steps necessary to get there. *The Pursuit of Happyness* has had a lasting effect on me by showing me that perseverance and determination are crucial for achieving success. It taught me that no matter where we start in life or how difficult our journey may seem, we always have the power to change our circumstances if we keep working hard. This film inspired me to approach my own goals with determination, to never give up in the face of adversity, and to remember that success is about the effort, not just the outcome.

Growing up, I faced many personal challenges that shaped who I am today and profoundly impacted my perspective on life, education, and the way I want to contribute to the world. Coming from a split family, dealing with verbal and emotional abuse, struggling with self-harm and body image issues, and living with social anxiety, I often felt isolated and uncertain about my place in the world. Bullying in school only added to these feelings, making it difficult to find confidence and trust in myself. These struggles took a significant toll on my mental and emotional health, and I often felt overwhelmed by the weight of everything I was going through. However, through support, and personal growth, I’ve learned to navigate these challenges.Turning them into opportunities for healing. Overcoming these hardships wasn’t easy, but it taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, strength, and perseverance. I learned that even when life feels unbearably hard, we can choose how we respond to those challenges. Through therapy, self-care, and seeking out positive influences, I learned to cope with my anxiety and work through the emotional pain. I also developed a deep sense of empathy for others going through their own struggles, which has motivated me to help others who may be facing similar difficulties. This experience has shaped the way I view education. When I was younger, education became a source of comfort for me. It was something I could focus on that provided me with a sense of accomplishment and purpose, despite everything going on in my personal life. School gave me the opportunity to step away from my problems and focus on learning, helping me feel empowered. As I’ve grown older, I’ve come to see education not just as a way to achieve career goals, but as a means of personal growth. It has the ability to transform lives, and I want to use my education to make a positive impact in the world. As I pursue my education in the field of zookeeping, I’m excited to use what I’ve learned to help others and make a meaningful difference. My passion for animals and wildlife conservation has been a driving force in my life, and I see this career as a way to turn that passion into action. Through my studies, I hope to gain the knowledge and skills to contribute to the protection of endangered species and to work directly with animals in ways that ensure their survival. I want to be part of the larger conservation efforts that are focused on regrowing species that are at risk of extinction. In addition to animal care, I’m excited about the opportunity to educate others on the importance of wildlife conservation. By working at a zoo, I can help teach visitors about the value of preserving endangered species and how their actions can contribute to conservation efforts. Education is a powerful tool, and I believe that by sharing my knowledge and enthusiasm for animals, I can inspire others to care about wildlife and take action to protect the planet. The obstacles I’ve faced in my life have taught me the importance of perseverance and the power of education to create positive change. They’ve shown me that despite the difficulties we may encounter, there is always a way forward. I’ve learned that we all have the ability to rise above our challenges, and it’s those experiences that can fuel our determination to make a difference. I plan to use my education to contribute to the world in a meaningful way by helping to preserve the world’s wildlife and inspire others to do the same.

I’m passionate about pursuing a degree in zookeeping because it combines my love for animals with my desire to make a tangible difference in conservation efforts. From a young age, animals have been a source of wonder and comfort for me. I've always felt a strong connection to them, and over time, this connection grew into a passion to work with them in a way that benefits both the animals and the world around us. A degree in zookeeping is a perfect fit because it allows me to combine hands-on care for animals with the opportunity to actively contribute to wildlife preservation and education. One of the main reasons I’m drawn to zookeeping is the critical role that zoos play in conservation. Many species are facing the threat of extinction, and zoos provide a safe environment where endangered animals can be protected, studied, and even bred to help increase their populations. I want to be part of that process, helping to care for animals that are struggling to survive in the wild and contribute to efforts that ensure their long-term survival. The idea of directly helping to preserve species that are at risk of disappearing from the planet is something that deeply motivates me. Beyond the physical care of animals, I’m excited about the opportunity to work in education and outreach. Zoos are not only places to care for animals but also serve as important centers for teaching the public about wildlife conservation. I believe that educating visitors, especially young people, about the importance of protecting animals and their natural habitats is essential. Through this degree, I hope to gain the knowledge and skills needed to connect with others and inspire them to take an active role in preserving wildlife. Being able to share my passion and knowledge with others is something I look forward to, as it could encourage more people to care about conservation. What excites me about zookeeping is how it combines my interests in science, animal behavior, and environmental protection. It’s a career that requires a mix of practical skills, such as animal care and habitat management, along with scientific understanding of ecology, genetics, and conservation biology. This degree will give me the chance to learn all of these aspects in-depth, preparing me to not only care for animals but also contribute to ongoing research and conservation efforts. Zookeepers play a crucial role in shaping how animals are cared for in captivity, and I am eager to take on that responsibility. Ultimately, my passion for animals and conservation is what drives me to pursue this degree. The chance to care for animals, contribute to their preservation, and educate the public about the importance of wildlife conservation is something I am deeply committed to. This degree will equip me with the knowledge and practical experience to make a real difference in the world. I look forward to using everything I learn to help protect endangered species, create better living conditions for animals in captivity, and inspire others to join the fight for wildlife preservation.

Jack Terry’s story of perseverance and overcoming adversity truly inspires me. His journey of facing difficult challenges, pushing through them, and emerging stronger is something I deeply connect with. Like Jack, I’ve faced a lot of hardships in my life that have at times seemed overwhelming. From growing up in a split family and enduring verbal and emotional abuse from a young age to struggling with self-harm and body image issues, I’ve had to find a way to keep going despite the obstacles. Social anxiety and being bullied throughout elementary and middle school only added to the challenges I had to navigate. Though these experiences were painful, they taught me important lessons about strength, resilience, and the power of healing. Over the years, I’ve learned to find my own worth and take steps toward healing. It’s through this journey that I’ve developed a deep empathy for others who may be going through similar struggles. It’s also made me realize that hardships, while difficult, can shape us in ways that make us stronger and more compassionate. Much like Jack, who used his experiences to fuel his passion for helping others, I’ve learned that the best way to move forward is by turning pain into purpose. As I continue my studies and work toward my future, I hope to give back to society by contributing to animal conservation. My passion for animals has been a constant in my life, and I want to use my education to make a real difference in protecting endangered species. My dream is to work at a zoo, where I can help educate others about the importance of conservation and play a part in regrowing species that are at risk of disappearing. The challenges I’ve faced have taught me the importance of perseverance and resilience, and I want to carry those lessons into my career. I’ve learned how to turn pain into a driving force, and now I want to use that energy to make a positive impact in the world. By working in conservation, I can share my love for animals with others and teach them the value of protecting the planet’s most vulnerable species. I hope my future work will not only help preserve wildlife but also inspire others to take action and make a difference. I greatly appreciate you taking the time to read my application and your commitment to Jack Terry’s ideas and principles.

Being a student-athlete has had a profound impact on shaping both my personal growth and my future career goals. As a cheerleader, I’ve learned not only about the importance of physical strength and coordination, but also about the values of teamwork, leadership, and perseverance. These lessons have been crucial in my journey and will continue to play a major role as I move forward in my career. Whether I'm leading my team through difficult routines or striving to meet academic goals, the discipline and time management skills I’ve developed from cheerleading have taught me how to work hard and stay focused even when faced with challenges. Cheerleading has also helped me become a better communicator. It’s not just about stunts and performances; it's about being in sync with teammates, following directions, and offering support when others need it. The ability to work closely with others and lead with empathy is something that will translate into any career I pursue. Additionally, managing both cheerleading and my studies has taught me how to juggle multiple responsibilities. I’ve learned how to prioritize my time effectively, which has made me more efficient in every area of my life, whether it's schoolwork or personal goals. Outside of sports, I have a range of interests that help me stay balanced and allow me to express my creativity. One of my biggest passions is running my own small business, Eternity Florist, where I create custom ribbon flower arrangements. This business has given me the opportunity to develop entrepreneurial skills, from managing orders to customer relations, and it’s been an amazing experience to see something I love turn into a real business. In addition to my business, I enjoy crocheting and cosplaying, both of which let me explore my creativity in different ways. Crocheting is a relaxing activity that allows me to create something beautiful, while cosplaying lets me immerse myself in a world of storytelling and craftsmanship. Both activities have taught me patience and problem-solving, skills I can apply to any career. The combination of my athletic experience and creative passions has shaped my outlook on life. I’ve learned the importance of working hard, staying organized, and balancing multiple pursuits. Whether I continue developing my business, follow a different career path, or pursue a combination of both, the skills I’ve gained as a cheerleader and from my hobbies will continue to guide me toward success in the future. Through all these experiences, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of who I am and what I want to achieve, and I’m excited to keep building on that foundation.

My name is Arianna Bisson-Rink, and I’m a dedicated student, a passionate cheerleader, and someone with a deep love for animals. Since I was young, I’ve felt a strong connection to wildlife, and I’ve always dreamed of turning this passion into a career. That’s why I am determined to pursue a degree in zoology or a related field and ultimately become a zookeeper. I want to use my education to make a difference in animal care, contribute to conservation efforts, and promote awareness about wildlife protection. As a cheerleader, I’ve had the opportunity to develop important skills that extend far beyond the sport itself. Cheerleading has taught me how to be a team player, work together toward common goals, and lead by example. These are qualities that I know will serve me well in my future career. Whether it’s working in a team of professionals at a zoo or leading educational programs about animal conservation, I understand the importance of collaboration, communication, and dedication. Balancing the demands of cheerleading with my academic responsibilities has also taught me how to manage my time effectively and remain disciplined, skills that are vital as I work toward achieving my goal of becoming a zookeeper. In addition to my involvement in cheerleading, my passion for animals has led me to actively pursue opportunities to learn more about wildlife. I’ve volunteered at local animal shelters, worked with rescue organizations, and participated in educational programs about animal care. These experiences have deepened my understanding of animal behavior, the challenges facing wildlife today, and the crucial role zoos play in conservation. Through these hands-on opportunities, I’ve seen firsthand how important it is to combine practical experience with formal education to make a meaningful impact in the field of animal care. This scholarship will play a pivotal role in helping me achieve my dream of becoming a zookeeper. The financial support will allow me to focus more on my studies and less on the stress of paying for tuition, textbooks, and other academic expenses. With this assistance, I will be able to fully immerse myself in my education, pursue internships, and take part in hands-on learning opportunities that will prepare me for my future career. I am eager to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute to animal welfare and conservation efforts, and this scholarship will bring me one step closer to that goal. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to apply for this scholarship, and I believe that with your support, I will be able to turn my passion into a meaningful career that positively impacts the lives of animals and the world around us. Thank you for considering my application.

STEM has been a big part of shaping my dream of becoming a zookeeper. I’ve always been fascinated by animals and ecosystems, and STEM has given me the tools to better understand them. But pursuing this path hasn’t been without its challenges, especially as a young woman in a field where stereotypes still exist. Those obstacles, however, have only fueled my determination and strengthened my passion for this career. One challenge I’ve faced is overcoming the assumption that STEM fields, or roles like wildlife conservation and zookeeping, aren’t always for women. Instead of letting those stereotypes discourage me, I’ve worked hard to prove otherwise. I’ve learned to lean on mentors, focus on my strengths, and stay determined in pursuing what I love. These experiences have helped me grow more confident and resilient. What keeps me so passionate about STEM and zookeeping is the chance to make a real difference for animals and their environments. Learning about biodiversity, conservation, and animal behavior has inspired me to use my knowledge to tackle real-world challenges, like protecting endangered species and educating people about wildlife conservation. I want to play a role in preserving ecosystems and ensuring the animals under human care have the best lives possible. Participating in STEM-related extracurriculars has also helped me grow as a leader. I’ve worked on animal care projects at shelters and joined citizen science programs, like tracking local wildlife populations. These experiences taught me how to organize teams, communicate effectively, and take responsibility for achieving goals. I plan to carry those skills with me into my career as a zookeeper, where I’ll not only care for animals but also lead initiatives to educate others and contribute to conservation efforts. Becoming a zookeeper combines everything I’m passionate about: animals, science, and solving real-world problems. With the skills and confidence I’ve gained through STEM, I’m excited to turn my dream into reality and make a meaningful impact in the world of wildlife.

Being a high school cheerleader, especially one who participates in football, basketball, and state competitions, is an experience full of challenges and rewards. While the sport demands significant physical, mental, and emotional effort, it also provides opportunities for personal growth and life lessons that last far beyond high school. One of the biggest challenges cheerleaders face is managing their time. Balancing practices, games, competitions, schoolwork, and a social life is no easy task. Cheerleaders often have especially demanding schedules during football and basketball seasons, with the added pressure of preparing for state competitions. This leaves little room for downtime, requiring careful planning and prioritization to avoid falling behind in school or feeling burned out. Cheerleading is also physically demanding. Long practices filled with stunts, tumbling, and complex routines take a toll on the body. Exhaustion is common, and injuries are always a risk. On top of that, cheerleaders often face intense mental and emotional pressure. Performing in front of crowds during games or competing at the state level can be nerve-wracking, especially when the team is striving for perfection. Academics present another hurdle. Missing classes for games, pep rallies, or travel means that cheerleaders often have to work twice as hard to keep up with their schoolwork. This can be stressful, especially during busy seasons. Team dynamics can also be challenging. Cheerleading is a team sport, and conflicts among team members can make it harder to perform as a cohesive group. Finally, cheerleaders often face social expectations or stereotypes. Being in the spotlight brings added scrutiny, which can create pressure to live up to certain ideals. Despite these challenges, being a cheerleader teaches valuable life lessons. One of the most important is the power of hard work. The long hours of practice and dedication required to perfect routines show that persistence pays off, even when things get tough. Cheerleaders also develop exceptional time management skills, learning to juggle busy schedules—a skill that will serve them well in college and beyond. Cheerleading also emphasizes teamwork. Success depends on trust and cooperation. Whether it’s hitting a stunt or performing a flawless routine, the team’s achievements are the result of everyone working together. Cheerleaders also learn resilience. Whether it’s bouncing back from an injury, a failed stunt, or a tough loss, they gain the ability to recover and move forward with determination. Leadership is another key lesson. Many cheerleaders take on roles like team captain, which teach responsibility, decision-making, and how to inspire and guide others. Additionally, being part of a cheer team fosters school spirit and a sense of community. Cheerleaders play a vital role in bringing people together, whether it’s through cheering at games or representing their school at state competitions. Finally, cheerleading teaches how to handle pressure. Performing in front of large crowds or competing at high-stakes events helps cheerleaders develop focus and composure, skills that are valuable in any high-pressure situation. In the end, being a high school cheerleader is about much more than performing routines or competing for trophies. The challenges push cheerleaders to grow as individuals, and the lessons they learn—about hard work, teamwork, resilience, and leadership—stay with them for life. Through every game, competition, and practice, cheerleaders develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed, both on and off the mat.

Growing up, I’ve always been captivated by the intricate relationship between humans, nature, and the creatures that inhabit it. For me, agriculture and caring for animals represent more than just work—they are a way to connect with the earth, foster sustainability, and nurture life. This passion has been cultivated over time, shaped by personal experiences, values, and a desire to contribute to a healthier, more balanced world. My connection to agriculture began with an appreciation for how it sustains communities. The process of planting seeds, nurturing them, and eventually seeing them grow into life-giving crops is a humbling reminder of our responsibility as stewards of the land. Agriculture offers a tangible way to give back, and it teaches patience, hard work, and resilience. There is something deeply fulfilling about watching a field transform across seasons—a process that is both a reflection of nature’s power and a result of human care. My passion for caring for animals stems from the bond I’ve experienced with them over the years. Animals have a unique way of teaching empathy and responsibility. Whether it’s tending to livestock, feeding farm animals, or simply observing their behavior, the relationship between humans and animals is one of mutual dependence and respect. I’ve always believed that when we care for animals—ensuring they are healthy, safe, and valued—they, in turn, enrich our lives, from providing food to companionship and even lessons in perseverance. This passion has also shaped my dream of working at a zoo, where I can dedicate myself to the care, protection, and education surrounding animals. Zoos provide an incredible opportunity to create connections between people and wildlife, fostering awareness about conservation and the importance of protecting endangered species. I am inspired by the role zoos play in educating the public and contributing to global efforts to preserve biodiversity. Being a part of that mission would allow me to combine my love for animals with my desire to make a meaningful impact. My passion also extends to a broader desire to promote sustainable practices. As the world faces challenges like climate change and food insecurity, I feel inspired to be part of a movement that emphasizes ethical farming, humane animal care, and environmental preservation. Agriculture, animal care, and zoo work aren’t just traditions or career paths to me—they’re opportunities to create a more harmonious relationship with our planet. In essence, agriculture, animal care, and working at a zoo are more than interests—they are ways for me to feel connected to something larger than myself. They embody the values of nurturing, respect, and sustainability that I hold dear. By pursuing this passion, I hope to contribute to a future where both humans and the natural world thrive together.

Growing up with teenage parents who separated early on was anything but easy. As a kid, I often felt like my feelings and opinions didn’t matter. My parents were still figuring out their own lives, and emotional support wasn’t something they could always provide. I learned to stay quiet and suppress my emotions, even turning to self-harm just to feel “normal.” It was a tough way to grow up, and for a long time, I thought that was just how life had to be. Things started to change in high school when I decided to try therapy. At first, it was one of the hardest things I’d ever done. After spending years believing that no one cared about what I felt, opening up to someone—especially a stranger—felt impossible. But my therapist was patient, and over time, I began to realize that my voice did matter. She taught me coping mechanisms that helped me deal with my emotions, and she gave me the structure and tools to succeed. For the first time in a long while, I was able to stay on top of assignments, keep my grades up, and feel proud of myself. Therapy became a turning point in my life. Through this process, I discovered a purpose that goes beyond my own healing. I’ve always had a passion for animals, and learning about endangered species has made me realize how much they need our help. Animals like the Amur leopard and the vaquita aren’t disappearing because they can’t adapt—they’re disappearing because of human actions. I want to change that. My goal is to work in conservation, helping endangered animals survive and thrive. My mission doesn’t stop there. I also want to educate others—both kids and adults—about why protecting wildlife is so important. Many people don’t realize how deeply connected we are to the natural world and how much we lose when a species disappears. By raising awareness and encouraging sustainable choices, I hope to inspire others to take action too. Protecting endangered animals isn’t just about saving them—it’s about preserving the ecosystems that all of us rely on. The challenges I faced growing up taught me resilience and empathy, two qualities I now carry with me in everything I do. While I can’t change the past, I can use those experiences to create a better future—for myself and for the animals who don’t have a voice. I’m determined to make a difference and honor the memory of Mark D. Schwarck by committing to the values of compassion, perseverance, and positive change.