Sports have always been more that a competition to me, they have been a source of discipline, connection, and purpose. As a Marine Corps veteran, single mother of five, and current college student pursuing a degree in Elementary Education, I have learned that the lesson gained through athletics often extend far beyond the field or court. They shape character, strengthen communities, and create opportunities for growth, especially for young people who need positive guidance the most. After serving in the Marine Corps, I transitioned into civilian life while raising five beautiful children and returning back to school. Balancing motherhood, academics, and personal goals has required a lot of time management, self-motivation, and discipline- qualities that sports installed in me early on. Being an athlete taught me how to push through discomfort even when the odds feel overwhelming. These same principles now guide me as a student and a mother. As I continue to work on becoming an elementary school teacher, I plan to use sports as a powerful tool for community engagement and youth development. I believe athletics can be a safe and inclusive space where children can learn confidence and respect. When becoming a teacher, I plan on applying to be a track coach for the school I am teaching at. I have always loved school sports, and I feel they provide an opportunity to meet them where they are and help them discover their strengths. My goals are to be actively involved in youth sports through either the school I am teaching at or the community around the school. I want to create environments where children feel encouraged rather than pressure, where efforts celebrated as much as achievement, inclusion and perseverance, I hope to bring a sense of belonging and purpose to young athletes. Being a mother of five, I have witnessed firsthand the impact that positive role models and organized sports can have on children. I plan to advocate for sports programs that welcome children of all backgrounds and abilities, and financial circumstances. Community-based sports should never be a privilege reserved for a few; they should be a resource that uplifts entire neighborhood. Whether in a classroom, on a field, or within the broader community, I aim to lead by example and empower young children to believe in themselves. this scholarship would support my education journey and bring me one step closer to making a lasting, positive impact.

Service has always been the foundation of who I am. Before i became a student pursuing higher education, I learned the value of servitude through my time in the Marine Corps. The Marine Corps instilled in me a deep understanding that true leadership is not about rank or recognition, but about showing up for others, especially when it is difficult or inconvenient. One moment in particular stands out as a time when I was able to make a meaningful and positive impact on my community through service. I became involved in supporting local military families who were experiencing food shortage and childcare challenges. Many of these families were navigating deployments, financial difficulties, and the emotional toll that military life brings, with limited support. As a former Marine and mother, I understand these struggles and instead of just standing by, I took action by organizing get togethers to support the military community. I would coordinate meal drop-offs, donated groceries, and help connect families to local food panties, childcare programs, and veteran support organizations. For moms who needed a few hours to attend appointments or just some time for some self-care, I would volunteer to watch their children. Military is life is hard, but the biggest struggle is always moving and having no familiar faces or family around to help when we need it most. Community is a big part in the military we have to come together and help each other when we can. It also created a sense of connection and belonging for families who often feel alone. It was nice to see relief on mom's faces when they realized they were not alone and that someone genuinely cared. It also reminds me that service does not always require a uniform or an official title; it simply can just mean having a caring heart. As a single mom of five children and a student pursuing a degree in Elementary Education, that commitment to service continues to guide my path. I want to bring the same compassion, advocacy, and dedication into my future classroom. Children thrive when they feel supported, understood, and valued-just as families do. My experiences in the military and in the community, service have shaped me into someone who leads with empathy and resilience. Servitude has taught me that even small actions can create lasting change. Whether through military service, community support, or education, I strive to be someone who lifts others up. this scholarship would not only support my academic journey, but it would also help support my military community and goals for my children.