One of the most powerful lessons I have learned from my faith is the importance of leading with a servant’s heart. Leadership, to me, is not about seeking recognition or authority, but about meeting the needs of others, offering support during challenging times, and helping others grow and succeed. My faith continually reminds me to put others before myself, to listen with empathy, and to act with integrity, even when it may not be the easiest path. A time when I was able to lead others through my faith occurred during my experience as a leader in my church youth group. We were preparing for a mission trip that involved volunteering at a local community center, serving children and families in need. As one of the older members of the group, I was asked to help organize activities and mentor some of the younger participants who were experiencing their first mission trip. During our preparation and time on the trip, I encountered moments when others felt overwhelmed or discouraged by the challenges we faced, such as long days, emotional situations, and unfamiliar responsibilities. In those moments, I leaned into my faith, drawing on Scripture and prayer to provide encouragement and reassurance. I reminded my peers of Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” and led prayer circles where we could reflect, express our concerns, and seek God’s guidance together. By creating a space for open communication and spiritual support, I was able to help foster a sense of unity and peace among our group. The mission trip not only allowed us to serve others but also strengthened our faith and relationships with one another. This experience taught me that leadership is not just about taking charge but about being present for others, offering hope, and guiding people through uncertainty with grace and love. As I continue my education and prepare for a career in healthcare, I plan to carry these lessons with me. In physical therapy, I will have the opportunity to work with patients who are often facing pain, fear, and uncertainty. I want to lead and serve my patients with the same compassion and faith-based encouragement that has shaped my leadership in the past. Receiving this scholarship would not only ease the financial burden of my education but would also serve as a reminder that faith-based leadership is valued and supported. I am deeply committed to honoring God through my future work, using my education and skills to serve others and make a meaningful difference in their lives. Thank you for considering my application and for supporting students who seek to lead through faith.

My journey toward healthcare was deeply influenced by my personal experiences as a dancer. For many years, dance was a central part of my life, bringing me both joy and discipline. However, like many athletes, I faced injuries that not only tested my physical limits but also challenged me emotionally. During my recovery, I worked closely with physical therapists who not only helped me heal but also restored my confidence and sense of purpose. Witnessing their knowledge, skill, and compassion inspired me to pursue a career where I could help others overcome physical challenges and regain their independence. Through my coursework in anatomy, psychology, and physiology, I have developed a deep appreciation for the complexity of the human body and the science behind healing. However, it is not just the science that draws me to physical therapy. It is the relationships built with patients, the opportunity to empower them throughout their recovery journeys, and the chance to offer hope when it feels out of reach. I believe that healthcare is not only about treatment, but about truly seeing each individual, understanding their struggles, and walking alongside them as they heal. In addition to my academic pursuits, I have also been actively involved in volunteering, which has strengthened my desire to serve others. Volunteering at community events, health fairs, and assisted living facilities has taught me the importance of compassion, patience, and empathy. These experiences have reaffirmed my commitment to healthcare and have shown me how even small acts of kindness can leave a lasting impact on someone’s life. Looking ahead, my goals are to specialize in women’s health and sports medicine. I am particularly passionate about helping female athletes and women who face unique physical health challenges, such as postpartum recovery or pelvic floor dysfunction. There is a growing need for more specialized care in these areas, and I want to be part of the solution by providing evidence-based, compassionate care that empowers women to live full, active lives. Pursuing higher education in healthcare comes with significant financial challenges, and receiving this scholarship would greatly alleviate the burden of tuition and allow me to focus more fully on my studies and clinical experiences. With this support, I will be better equipped to complete my education and step into a role where I can serve others, contribute to the healthcare field, and give back to my community. I am grateful for the opportunity to apply for this scholarship and for your investment in students like me who are committed to making a difference in healthcare. Thank you for your consideration.

My journey into healthcare began during my years as a competitive dancer. Dance was not only my passion but also my identity. However, like many athletes, I experienced injuries that not only affected my physical abilities but also challenged my confidence and emotional well-being. During my recovery, I was introduced to the world of physical therapy. I saw firsthand how the compassionate care and expertise of physical therapists could guide individuals through recovery, restore their abilities, and give them hope. This experience opened my eyes to the incredible power of healthcare to change lives, and it sparked my desire to help others the same way my physical therapists helped me. As I have continued my education, my passion for healthcare has only grown. Courses such as Anatomy, Psychology, and Physiology have deepened my understanding of the human body and mind, while also highlighting the complexity and importance of holistic care. My goal is to become a Doctor of Physical Therapy and specialize in women’s health and sports medicine. I want to work closely with young athletes and women, helping them recover from injuries, manage chronic conditions, and regain their confidence and strength. I am especially passionate about addressing issues such as pelvic floor dysfunction, postpartum recovery, and injury prevention in female athletes, areas that are often under-researched and underserved. As a woman entering the healthcare field, I recognize the importance of diversity and representation. Women bring unique perspectives, empathy, and experiences that enrich patient care and contribute to more inclusive healthcare environments. Historically, women have faced obstacles in accessing education and leadership opportunities in healthcare, but I am determined to be part of the generation that continues to break down these barriers. By pursuing this career, I hope to not only provide excellent care to my patients but also serve as a role model for other young women who aspire to enter the healthcare profession. The financial challenges of pursuing a healthcare degree can be overwhelming, but scholarships like this one provide crucial support that allows students like me to focus on our studies and clinical training. Receiving this scholarship would help alleviate the financial burden of my education, enabling me to fully commit to my academic and professional development. It would also serve as a powerful encouragement, reminding me that others believe in my potential to make a meaningful difference in healthcare. In the future, I hope to contribute to the advancement of healthcare by not only providing compassionate, evidence-based care but also by advocating for greater awareness and education in women’s health. I want to be a source of healing, support, and empowerment for my patients, helping them overcome physical challenges and achieve their goals. Through my work, I aspire to honor the mission of this scholarship by shaping a future in healthcare that is inclusive, compassionate, and driven by a genuine desire to serve others. Thank you for considering my application and for investing in the education and dreams of women who are passionate about making a difference in healthcare

Creating a Connections puzzle allows us to explore how words and concepts intersect across different categories. In this puzzle, we focus on four unique groupings: health and science terms, words that rhyme with dog breeds, items that are yellow, and types of gym equipment. Each category consists of four words, forming a 4x4 grid that challenges the solver to identify the hidden connections. The first category is Health and Science Terms, which includes the words Glucose, Neuron, Vaccine, and Antibody. These words are central to the fields of biology and medicine. Glucose is a type of sugar that serves as a primary energy source for the body’s cells, and its regulation is especially significant in conditions like diabetes. Neuron refers to the nerve cells responsible for transmitting information throughout the nervous system, playing a crucial role in everything from reflexes to complex thought processes. Vaccine represents a medical breakthrough that helps the body build immunity against specific diseases, preventing countless illnesses worldwide. Antibody is a protein produced by the immune system to identify and neutralize harmful pathogens such as bacteria and viruses. Together, these words highlight the intricate and life-saving work being done in health and science. The second category is Words That Rhyme with Dog. The words are Fog, Log, Jog, and Hog. Though unrelated to dogs themselves, the phonetic connection offers a playful and challenging twist for solvers. Fog refers to a thick cloud of tiny water droplets near the ground, obscuring visibility. Log is a piece of cut wood or a record of events. Jog is a form of light running, often done for exercise. Hog is a term for a domesticated pig or someone who hoards something. This category relies purely on sound similarity, challenging players to think creatively about word relationships. The third category is Items That Are Yellow, containing Banana, Lemon, Sunflower, and School Bus. Each of these items is commonly associated with the color yellow. A Banana is a popular fruit known for its bright yellow peel when ripe. A Lemon is a citrus fruit with a vibrant yellow color, often used in cooking and beverages. The Sunflower is a tall, bright flower whose large yellow petals resemble the sun. The iconic School Bus is painted yellow to increase visibility and ensure the safety of children during transportation. This group focuses on visual characteristics, making it distinct and recognizable. The fourth and final category is Types of Gym Equipment, which includes Treadmill, Dumbbell, Elliptical, and Rowing Machine. These items are commonly found in fitness centers and home gyms, used to enhance cardiovascular fitness, strength, and endurance. The Treadmill allows users to walk or run in place, simulating outdoor activity indoors. A Dumbbell is a hand-held weight used for strength training exercises targeting various muscle groups. The Elliptical provides a low-impact cardiovascular workout that combines the movements of stair climbing, walking, and running. The Rowing Machine simulates the motion of rowing a boat, providing both aerobic and strength-building benefits. This category emphasizes physical fitness and the tools used to achieve personal health goals. In conclusion, this Connections puzzle brings together four diverse and engaging categories, each requiring the solver to recognize patterns across very different domains. From scientific concepts to playful rhymes, visual color cues, and gym equipment, the puzzle challenges both knowledge and creativity.

My name is Ashley, and I am an undergraduate student at Elon University majoring in Exercise Science. From a young age, I have been fascinated by how the human body moves, adapts, and heals. This curiosity eventually led me to pursue a career path deeply rooted in both science and service. I plan to continue my education by earning a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree, where I can apply my scientific knowledge to help others live healthier, fuller lives. My love for science was first sparked during my years as a competitive dancer. I spent countless hours training and performing, learning how small adjustments in movement and strength could dramatically affect performance and prevent injury. However, like many athletes, I also experienced injuries that challenged me physically and emotionally. While recovering, I became fascinated with the science behind rehabilitation — how muscle, bone, and connective tissue respond to targeted therapy and how psychological resilience supports physical recovery. This experience opened my eyes to the incredible power of applied science in improving people’s lives. Throughout my academic journey, courses like Anatomy, Physiology, and Psychology have only deepened my passion for the science behind movement and healing. I am especially interested in women’s health and sports medicine, fields where science and math are essential to understanding biomechanics, injury prevention, and rehabilitation protocols. For example, studies show that neuromuscular training can reduce ACL injuries in female athletes by up to 50 percent, demonstrating how scientific research can have real-world, life-changing outcomes (Hewett et al., 2006). I hope to contribute to this growing body of research and apply it in clinical practice, helping female athletes and dancers recover from injuries and return to doing what they love. Beyond clinical practice, I aspire to contribute to research that explores the unique health challenges women face throughout different stages of life, including pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and menopause. The field of women’s health in physical therapy is still evolving, and there is a tremendous need for more evidence-based care and specialized treatment plans. I want to play a role in advancing this research while also advocating for greater awareness and education, ensuring that women receive the comprehensive care they deserve. The opportunity to apply for the William Griggs Memorial Scholarship is especially meaningful to me because of William Griggs’ legacy of curiosity, innovation, and encouragement of women in science and math. Like Mr. Griggs, I believe that science represents a vast frontier filled with endless possibilities. With each new discovery, we have the potential to improve lives, solve problems, and push the boundaries of what we believe is possible. This scholarship would not only help ease the financial burden of my education but would also serve as an incredible encouragement as I continue to pursue my dreams. In the future, I hope to honor this legacy by serving others through my work as a physical therapist, contributing to scientific research, and inspiring young women to pursue careers in science and healthcare. I am grateful for your consideration and the opportunity to share my story.

Receiving this scholarship would have a profound impact on my educational journey, my professional development, and ultimately, the people I hope to serve through my career. As a full-time student pursuing my Exercise Science degree at Elon University while balancing work and family responsibilities, financial support would relieve much of the financial burden associated with tuition, books, and living expenses. This would allow me to dedicate more time and energy to my studies, internships, volunteer opportunities, and research experiences, all of which are crucial to preparing for a successful career in physical therapy. Instead of being limited by financial concerns, I would have the freedom to fully engage in my academic work and gain the hands-on experience that will make me a more knowledgeable and compassionate healthcare professional. More than simply alleviating financial stress, receiving this scholarship would serve as a meaningful affirmation of my calling and commitment to serve others through holistic health and healing. It would motivate me to continue striving for academic excellence and personal growth, knowing that others believe in my ability to make a positive difference in the lives of others. This encouragement would strengthen my resolve to stay focused, work hard, and pursue every opportunity to grow as a student and future physical therapist. In the realm of holistic health and healing, I hope to make a lasting impact by addressing the needs of women and young athletes in a way that honors the whole person: body, mind, and spirit. Physical healing does not occur in isolation. True recovery requires attention to the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of a person’s well-being. As a retired dancer, I have witnessed firsthand how injuries affect not only physical performance but also self-confidence, emotional stability, and even one’s identity. I want to offer my future patients compassionate care that recognizes these interconnected challenges, providing them with both clinical expertise and empathetic support throughout their recovery. My specific interests include women’s health issues such as pelvic floor dysfunction, diastasis recti, hormonal changes, and injury prevention in female athletes. Many of these conditions are underdiagnosed and undertreated, often leaving women feeling discouraged or overlooked. Through specialized training and research, I hope to advocate for more comprehensive and individualized care that empowers women to regain control of their health, build confidence, and return to the activities they love. I am also passionate about injury prevention, especially in young female athletes who face a higher risk for injuries such as ACL tears. By educating athletes, coaches, and parents on proper training techniques and early intervention, I believe we can help prevent many serious injuries before they occur. Ultimately, my greatest desire is to serve as a source of healing, encouragement, and hope for my future patients. I want each person who walks into my clinic to feel seen, heard, and valued. My faith has taught me that every person is uniquely created by God, deserving of dignity and compassionate care. In combining my clinical knowledge with a holistic and faith-driven approach, I hope to create a practice that uplifts and empowers each patient to achieve lasting health and well-being. This scholarship would not only provide practical financial support but would serve as an investment in the future of the patients I hope to serve. With the support of this scholarship, I will be one step closer to becoming the kind of physical therapist who makes a real difference in the lives of others, offering healing that goes beyond the physical to touch every aspect of a person’s life.

My journey into Christianity has been a gradual but powerful transformation that has shaped not only my faith but my entire approach to life, education, and my future career. From a young age, I was introduced to the idea that God loves me and has a plan for my life. I attended church with my family, participated in Sunday school, and learned many of the Bible stories that form the foundation of Christian teaching. However, it wasn’t until I was older and faced some of my own personal challenges that my relationship with God became personal and real. Rather than simply being part of my upbringing, my faith became the central guiding force that continues to shape my values, decisions, and aspirations. During my teenage years, I experienced moments of uncertainty, self-doubt, and anxiety about my future. Like many young people, I struggled with the pressure to figure out my life’s path while also trying to meet the expectations of others. As a dancer, I faced physical demands that took a toll on my body, and I encountered injuries that left me questioning my identity and future. Dance had been such an important part of my life that I sometimes wondered who I was without it. It was in these difficult moments that I turned more seriously to God for guidance and reassurance. Through prayer, reading Scripture, and conversations with my family and spiritual mentors, I began to truly understand the peace that comes from trusting God’s plan even when I could not fully see it. One particular verse that has stayed with me throughout my journey is Jeremiah 29:11, which says, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” This verse became a source of comfort and strength for me as I faced decisions about my education and career. Instead of being overwhelmed by the uncertainty, I found peace in trusting that God’s plan for me was better than anything I could have created on my own. With His guidance, I slowly discovered a new passion that combined my love for movement, my desire to help others, and my interest in science and health. As I transitioned out of dance, I developed a deep interest in physical therapy. My personal experience with injury recovery gave me a firsthand understanding of how important compassionate and effective physical therapy can be for individuals trying to return to activities they love. I began to realize that physical therapy was not only a way to help people heal physically, but also a way to support them emotionally and spiritually. Being able to walk alongside someone in their recovery process, offering them hope and encouragement, felt like a perfect way to live out my faith through my career. Currently, I am studying Exercise Science at Elon University, where I have been able to deepen my understanding of the human body and the science behind rehabilitation. My favorite classes have been Anatomy and Psychology because they offer both the technical knowledge and the human-centered perspective that are so essential to effective patient care. In addition to my studies, I have been working as a manager at Chick-fil-A, which has helped me develop leadership skills, time management, and a strong work ethic. Balancing school, work, and personal responsibilities has not always been easy, but I believe these experiences have prepared me for the rigor and commitment required in the field of physical therapy. My long-term career goal is to become a licensed physical therapist, specializing in women’s health and working particularly with young athletes and dancers. Through my experiences, I have learned that women face unique health challenges that often require specialized care. Conditions such as pelvic floor dysfunction, diastasis recti, stress urinary incontinence, and hormonal imbalances can greatly affect a woman’s quality of life, yet many women do not receive the care they need. According to Bo and Frawley (2015), as many as one-third of women experience pelvic floor dysfunction at some point in their lives, yet it remains underdiagnosed and undertreated. In my future practice, I want to help address these gaps by offering compassionate, evidence-based care that empowers women to regain confidence in their bodies. In addition to clinical work, I am also passionate about injury prevention, particularly in young female athletes. As a dancer, I saw many peers struggle with injuries such as ACL tears, stress fractures, and chronic pain. Research shows that targeted neuromuscular training programs can significantly reduce the risk of ACL injuries in female athletes by up to 50 percent (Hewett et al., 2006). These injuries not only affect athletic performance but can also have long-term consequences for joint health and overall well-being. My goal is to educate young athletes about proper training techniques, strength conditioning, and injury prevention strategies so they can continue to pursue their passions safely and confidently. Another area of growing interest for me is the impact of hormonal changes on injury risk and recovery. The International Olympic Committee (2014) has highlighted the issue of Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S), which affects many female athletes who do not consume enough energy to meet the demands of their training. RED-S can lead to menstrual dysfunction, decreased bone density, and a higher risk of fractures and injuries. By incorporating this knowledge into my practice, I hope to provide holistic care that considers the full range of factors influencing my patients’ health. Receiving this scholarship would be a tremendous blessing and would have a significant impact on my ability to pursue these goals. The financial support would allow me to focus more fully on my studies, internships, and professional development opportunities without the added stress of financial strain. As I prepare to apply for UNC’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program, I recognize the importance of dedicating time to clinical experiences, volunteer work, and research opportunities that will strengthen my skills and prepare me for graduate-level training. This scholarship would help make that possible, allowing me to invest fully in my education and future career. Looking ahead, my plan is to complete my Exercise Science degree at Elon University and then enter UNC’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program. After becoming a licensed physical therapist, I hope to open my own practice that specializes in women’s health and athletic rehabilitation. My vision is to create a welcoming and supportive environment where women and young athletes feel heard, respected, and empowered to take control of their health and recovery. I want my practice to be a place where faith and science intersect, where patients not only receive excellent clinical care but also experience compassion, encouragement, and hope. Ultimately, my desire is to honor God through my work by serving others with compassion, excellence, and integrity. My faith has taught me the importance of seeing each person as a child of God, deserving of dignity and care. As I move forward in my education and career, I pray that God will continue to guide my steps and use me as an instrument of His healing and love. This scholarship would not only provide financial relief but would also serve as a profound encouragement and affirmation of the calling I believe God has placed on my life. It would allow me to continue pursuing the education and experiences necessary to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the women and young athletes I hope to serve. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to share my story and for the consideration of my application.

My inspiration to pursue a career in women’s health stems from both personal experience and professional goals. As a retired dancer, I developed a deep appreciation for the human body, especially in how it moves, adapts, and heals. Over time, I became increasingly aware of how women face unique challenges in musculoskeletal health, including issues related to hormonal changes, pelvic floor dysfunction, and injury patterns that are often overlooked or misunderstood. This realization is what sparked my passion for contributing meaningfully to women’s health within the field of physical therapy. As a dancer, I witnessed peers struggle with stress fractures, chronic pain, and pelvic instability, often without access to the appropriate care or support. I saw firsthand how these issues affected not only their physical performance, but also their mental health and confidence. Many of these challenges are linked to the Female Athlete Triad and Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S), both of which highlight the impact of inadequate nutrition and hormonal imbalance on bone health, menstruation, and physical performance. According to the International Olympic Committee (2014), RED-S can lead to decreased bone density, higher injury risk, and delayed recovery. These are critical issues that demand more attention and specialized care within physical therapy. Currently, I am studying Exercise Science at Elon University. Classes such as Anatomy and Psychology have helped me build a strong foundation for understanding both the physical and emotional needs of patients. I plan to use this knowledge as a springboard for pursuing a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree at UNC, where I hope to focus on women’s health and rehabilitation across the lifespan. I am especially interested in working with female athletes and young dancers who are recovering from injuries or managing chronic conditions such as pelvic floor dysfunction, diastasis recti, or stress urinary incontinence—issues that affect up to one-third of women but are often underdiagnosed and undertreated (Bo et al., 2015). In addition to clinical care, I am passionate about education and prevention. Research shows that targeted strength and neuromuscular training can reduce ACL injury risk in female athletes by up to 50% (Hewett et al., 2006). I hope to integrate these preventive strategies into my work, helping young women stay healthy and active while reducing their risk of serious injury. Family also plays an important role in my vision for care. Growing up in a close-knit family and now balancing work and school while spending time with loved ones has taught me the importance of support systems. I believe that healing is not a solitary process. It is something that should involve and empower families to be active participants in their loved one’s recovery. In my future practice, I want to foster communication with caregivers, educate them about at-home care strategies, and create a collaborative environment that strengthens both physical outcomes and emotional resilience. Although I do not yet have a personal website or published research, I am committed to academic and clinical excellence. I regularly seek out current research, attend seminars, and look forward to contributing to studies on women’s health and physical therapy in graduate school. In particular, I would like to explore how hormonal transitions such as puberty, pregnancy, and menopause impact recovery timelines and rehabilitation strategies. In conclusion, my passion for women’s health has developed through personal experience, academic curiosity, and a desire to advocate for more informed, inclusive care in physical therapy. I am committed to advancing the field through clinical work, education, and research that uplifts and supports women through every stage of life.

When working with a child who has a rare disorder, such as Rebecca, my approach as a future physical therapist would center around compassion, individualized care, and family involvement. Each child presents with their own unique set of abilities, challenges, and goals. Understanding and embracing these differences is crucial for developing an effective treatment plan that not only addresses their physical needs but also supports their emotional and psychological well-being. The first step I would take is conducting a thorough evaluation. I would focus not only on the child’s physical limitations but also consider their cognitive, emotional, and social needs. Collaborating with a multidisciplinary team, including physicians, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, and educators, ensures a comprehensive understanding of the child's condition and how it impacts their daily life. With a rare disorder, there may be limited research or standardized protocols. This makes creativity, ongoing learning, and flexibility essential. I would continuously seek out the latest research, attend conferences, and consult with specialists to provide the most up-to-date and effective care possible. In terms of treatment methods, I would use evidence-based physical therapy techniques tailored to the child’s specific condition. This may include strength training, flexibility exercises, balance activities, and functional mobility training. However, with children, especially those facing complex challenges, therapy must also be engaging and fun. Incorporating play-based therapy, games, and age-appropriate activities not only keeps the child motivated but also helps integrate therapy into their daily routines. For a child like Rebecca, whose rare disorder may present physical limitations, adaptive equipment or assistive devices might be used to promote independence and participation in daily activities. Another essential component of therapy is setting realistic, meaningful goals. These goals should be specific to the child’s interests and daily life. For instance, if the child enjoys dancing, as I once did, incorporating movements and exercises that mimic dance steps could make therapy more enjoyable and personally significant. This individualized approach empowers the child, builds confidence, and fosters a positive attitude toward therapy. Family involvement is perhaps one of the most critical aspects of a disabled child’s progress. Parents, siblings, and caregivers play a pivotal role in reinforcing therapeutic techniques at home, offering emotional support, and advocating for the child's needs. I would work closely with the family to provide education on the child’s condition, demonstrate exercises they can safely perform at home, and offer ongoing emotional support as they navigate the challenges of raising a child with special needs. Open communication between the therapist and family helps ensure consistency and maximizes the effectiveness of the treatment plan. Additionally, involving the family in goal-setting empowers them to take an active role in their child’s progress. Celebrating even the smallest achievements together can strengthen the family’s resilience and provide motivation for continued progress. In conclusion, working with a child who has a rare disorder requires a compassionate, flexible, and collaborative approach. By using individualized, evidence-based therapy methods, incorporating play and creativity, and engaging the family as active partners in care, I would strive to help each child achieve their highest potential. As a future physical therapist, my goal is not only to improve their physical abilities but also to enhance their overall quality of life, enabling them to participate fully in the activities they love.

Most parents have to ground their children from TV or games. My mother however had to ground my from reading my books. I can remember how I cried when she took away one of the Percy Jackson and the Olympian books from me after I failed to complete my chores. I used to stay up until two or three in the morning reading under my covers and listening to music from my MP3 player. I would daydream that I was the hero coming to save everyone, just like the heroes in my books would. Reading has given me an inspiration of life, to help save others and to use my creativity to foster save spaces for others. The books I have read have taught me that help comes in all shapes and sizes. In any book I have read, I was always drawn to the smart and strong-willed female characters. Those characters were who I wanted to be. I wanted respect and to be strong enough to help those that needed it. It took a long time for me to find my voice and to begin to speak up for myself and those around me, but I credit those female characters for shaping me into the individual I am today. The Hunger Games was a book many young adults read during their middle school years. While most teens missed the important parallels to todays society, they did see the strong-willed female character Katniss Everdeen stand up and fight for what she believed in. This is one of the first books I read that really opened my eyes to speaking my mind and not backing down from those who may scare me. This confidence I have been provided from books has carried me through my teen years into adulthood. It has given me the confidence to know that I am capable of anything. While I might not be planning on overthrowing the government, I am still planning to make a difference in this world. As a future physical therapist, I know that helping those overcome physical boundaries they might face can give them a chance to do things they enjoy again. Such as, reading or overthrowing the government. I have a chance to leave my mark on the world, even if that means I just get to be a supporting character in someone else's story. Being a strong-willed female character does not mean you have to be the main character, but it does mean, I get to make decisions that help others and to stand up for what I believe in.

"What could go wrong" He shouted. An adventurous glint in his eyes as he stared at me from the top of the hill. We had done lots of hikes before, but we had always been prepared and researched the trail beforehand. This is a trail neither of us knew about. In fact, we often drive past this forest on our way into the city. Somehow, we had managed to miss this trail the hundreds of times we have driven this way. Today however, Tyler happened to see it and pulled over to check it out. We were supposed to be on our way to get groceries, but it seems that he is no longer thinking about our empty pantry back home. I sigh, "Okay, but only for a few minutes." He jumps up and down at my response, as if he is a dog with too much energy. He quickly bolts down the trail and I have to run after him to keep up. Just for a second I turn to check that I locked the car, but I notice I've already run too far ahead to see it anymore. It is not like I had anything valuable in it anyways. Tyler had stopped under a tree and was examining something on the ground. I squint my eyes and see something shiny sitting there near the trunk. He reaches his hand out to touch it and just for a second he hesitates. Finally, he goes to pick the object up and in a flash of light he disappears. For a second I freeze, the shiny object still laying there. Frantically I run over shouting his name, hoping this is just some sick joke he is playing on me. I reach for my phone to call him and see that I have no service in this part of the woods. I feel a lump in my throat as I crouch down to examine the mysterious object on the ground. A silver butterfly pendant lays glinting in the sunlight that streams through the trees. I reach out to touch it and quickly jerk my hand back. I have no way of knowing what happened to Tyler. He could be dead for all I know, and I am not ready to die from some creepy pendant on the ground. This is all his fault, I told him not to pull over to inspect this trail. I paced back and forth, trying to stay calm. "Breathe in, breathe out, breathe in, breathe out" I repeat over and over in my head. My hands are shaky and I mull over the different outcomes of touching the pendant. Perhaps, I should head back to our car and call for help. How do I explain to someone that my husband disappeared in a flash of light after touching a random object on the ground. They'll think that I am crazy. My eyes glance back over to the silver object resting in the grass by the tree. I feel drawn to it, as if something in pulling me there to touch it. I chew on my lip and then let out an aspirated sigh. "What could go wrong" I mumble to myself as I reach down to touch it. As my hand meets the metal, the world around me suddenly goes bright. I only have time to cry out for a second before that bright light goes dark and I lose my consciousness.

A few months ago I had the opportunity to begin volunteering at the local hospital near where I live. At first, I was a little nervous about finally being in a healthcare setting. What if I ended up not enjoying it? This is everything I have been working towards. The hospital happened to have an opening in their rehab center during the time I was available to volunteer. I figured it was a sign from God, that this was something that I was supposed to be doing. As an aspiring physical therapist, my entire career will be centered around rehabilitation of individuals of all different backgrounds. I began to become excited to have this opportunity. It is hard to begin to get your footing and create connections as someone who comes from a family with no healthcare professionals. I do not have anyone I can turn to and ask for advice. This was my first chance to start my career. In 2022 I graduated from Guilford Technical Community College. After graduating high school, I had absolutely no idea what I wanted to do. I felt lost and hopeless about my future career choice. So, community college seemed like the right option for me. I was able to stay at home close to my family, most importantly my mom, and begin to navigate adulthood. Now, I am entering my last year of undergraduate college at Elon University. I am still blessed to be able to live at home and enjoy time with my family and dogs. My major, Exercise Science, has been anything but easy. However, if it was easy, anyone would do it. I find lots of joy in the challenge, as nothing is more satisfying than knowing I understand a hard topic. I have made lots of friends at Elon, people who are able to encourage me and remind me why I am doing what I am doing. School has been nothing but uplifting. Physical Therapy was not always my intended career path. Throughout the years I had many different ideas of where I would end up. I am certain that I have made the right decision for my future. Helping people understand their bodies and begin to use them again after an injury or surgery is extremely important. I have found comfort in mobility and living pain-free, and I am pleased that one day I will be able to help others live the same way.

Expressing myself as a child was always incredibly difficult. Sentences formed awkwardly in my mouth and my emotions felt overwhelming. Nothing ever came out how I wanted it to and it reflected in my day-to-day relationships. People thought I was weird and I did not understand social cues like a lot of my peers. School was miserable, making friends was a struggle, and maintaining the relationships I did have proved to be just as difficult. My words often failed me, but my body gave me hope. Dance quickly became the center of everything for me. I did not have to talk, just move, and there was structure. Structure was lacking in my outside life, I felt thrown around. In ballet class, we always had a specific way things were done. First, we start with barre, and barre always consisted of the same things, then we stretched, and afterward, we moved on to center work. Lastly, we did our reverence, to show respect to our teacher and the art form. It was an hour and a half where I wasn't the same girl who felt alone in life, I was a ballerina. I was not a gifted dancer. My muscles were weak, my feet never pointed enough, and I lacked grace and delicacy. This did not deter me, I was up for the challenge. Every class was an opportunity to do better than I did before. Schoolwork had always come easy to me, it never challenged my brain or entertained me. Dance gave me something to work towards, it gave me goals. I worked hard, harder than I had ever worked on anything else. It was important to me, it gave me a sense of desperation. I was so desperate to achieve something in dance, desperate to hear a good job, or to just feel proud of myself. I know other girls out there feel the same way I felt growing up. They are hungry for dance and will do anything they can to feel that happiness. I want to be someone who can help these girls. I dealt with lots of different injuries throughout my dance career. Staying healthy is so important, but sometimes is hard to tackle on your own. Physical therapy is just one way that dancers can bounce back from injuries and continue on their journey. I want to use my background in the arts combined with physical therapy to help young dancers heal from injuries while maintaining the integrity of the art form. Dance will forever be the driving force in my life. It is something I refuse to let go of. I will continue to express myself through the arts, and help other dancers do the same.

Growing up I have always wanted to have a family of my own one day. A family that I can care for and nurture. My own family was a comfortable middle-class family in a suburban area of North Carolina. Money was not something I worried about as I was growing up. I never had to worry about the food on the table, the clothes on my back, and the roof over my head. Everything was taken care of. Now, at the age of 19, I am preparing to enter the world on my own. Money is something I constantly worry about. My comfortable middle-class family can only support me so much as I make my way into adulthood. Many of my friends had grandparents who were able to help pay for their college education. I however have 2 grandmothers, both who live off government assistants, and one who is a dementia patient and cannot even remember my name. My parents help me the best they can, with gas money here and there, I'm still on their health insurance plan, but college is too expensive for them to pay for (especially when they have three kids). Even though my parents are unable to pay for my college education, I am grateful that homelessness, starvation, and lack of gas money are not something I have to worry about. My family's wealth may not be able to afford a college education, but it does mean I am able to pursue that college education anyways. This is setting me up to one day be able to help my own children and pass wealth on to many more generations. My plans are to become a Physical Therapist, my dreams are to be a professional ballerina. Dancing does not often pay the bills, so, I came to terms with that and picked a different career option I was happy with. I can still use my education to help dancers and help other dancers find their goals. The money I earn from physical therapy will be able to give my kids access to a better life. I want them to be able to live in a nice house, access to good education, and one day I hope to help my kids when they go off to college. The goal is that this pattern will continue, that the generations in my family will continue to have access to these opportunities, and that they will be able to live happy, comfortable lives.

When I was younger I struggled to express my feelings and thoughts to others. I was never good at using my words to tell my story. Dance gave me a voice, a voice that speaks through movement. It gave me meaning and hope that I was worth listening to. The body is capable of telling a story. The arms, the legs, the waist, the hands, and even just the toes can create a movement that has a meaning, a meaning that is personal to the artist. Movement is not something that gets us from point A to point B, it is deeper than that. Bees use movement to tell others where pollen has been found, the trees use movement to spread their seed, and the river uses movement to take the fish downstream. Movement provides knowledge and feelings. Humans have complex feelings and thoughts, sometimes, words are just not enough to express what we are feeling. Watching the younger generation reminds me of how I used to be, and I want to be able to help develop a voice for children, just as I once did. The arts are special in our society; they are necessary for our society if we want to continue to grow and develop our communities. In order for the arts to thrive, we must pass our knowledge on to the next generation of artists. As I continue my college education, I also teach at a local dance studio. When I complete my degree, I want to be able to expand my reach. Teach kids all over the world that we have other forms of communication, and that our bodies are precious. Knowledge is power, and kids are curious; the best way for me to help my community is by passing on the knowledge I have acquired from my years of dancing. Dance has given me a purpose in life. When everything is going wrong, I am able to feel at peace in a dance class. All of my worries are set aside and all that is on my mind is the movement of my body. I want to be able to teach others who feel the same way, those who allow the world to slip away for a few moments so they can enjoy the art of dance. I want to create a safe space for those dancers who need movement to carry all of their concerns away.

When I was younger I struggled to express my feelings and thoughts to others. I was never good at using my words to tell my story. Dance gave me a voice, a voice that speaks through movement. It gave me meaning and hope that I was worth listening to. The body is capable of telling a story. The arms, the legs, the waist, the hands, and even just the toes can create a movement that has a meaning, a meaning that is personal to the artist. Movement is not something that gets us from point A to point B, it is deeper than that. Bees use movement to tell others where pollen has been found, the trees use movement to spread their seed, and the river uses movement to take the fish downstream. Movement provides knowledge and feelings. Humans have complex feelings and thoughts, sometimes, words are just not enough to express what we are feeling. Watching the younger generation reminds me of how I used to be, and I want to be able to help develop a voice for children, just as I once did. The arts are special in our society; they are necessary for our society if we want to continue to grow and develop our communities. In order for the arts to thrive, we must pass our knowledge on to the next generation of artists. As I continue my college education, I also teach at a local dance studio. When I complete my degree, I want to be able to expand my reach. Teach kids all over the world that we have other forms of communication, and that our bodies are precious. Knowledge is power, and kids are curious; the best way for me to help my community is by passing on the knowledge I have acquired from my years of dancing.

These two goofballs love attention and are hoping for some good belly rubs in this picture. The two dogs shown in this picture are Luna and Perry. My Instagram is @ashleywhit.e