I am deeply committed to leadership and advocacy, especially when it comes to creating safe and inclusive spaces for youth, both in person and online. As a peer mentor, I work with students with disabilities, helping them navigate social and academic challenges. Through this, I have seen firsthand how important it is for every student to feel supported, included, and safe from bullying. Bullying, whether in person or online, can have long-term consequences, affecting confidence, academic performance, and mental health. I believe that fostering a culture of inclusion is the key to preventing bullying. By promoting empathy I strive to make a difference in my community. Cyberbullying, in particular, is an increasing concern. Social media and digital communication have made it easier than ever for bullying to persist beyond the school walls. Many students face relentless online harassment, often feeling like there is no escape. In today’s digital age, educating youth on responsible digital citizenship is more important than ever. I have worked with younger students to help them understand online safety, privacy, and the importance of treating others with respect—even behind a screen. Schools need to proactively address cyberbullying by implementing stronger policies, providing mental health resources, and fostering open discussions about digital responsibility. Through my work in peer mentoring and leadership roles, I have taken an active role in creating conversations around these issues and ensuring that students feel safe and supported. At Boise High, I have worked to create a more positive and inclusive environment through peer mentoring, Model United Nations (MUN), and my role as National Honor Society (NHS) secretary. As an NHS officer, I have led initiatives that bring students together through service and advocacy, reinforcing the idea that community engagement is essential in addressing societal issues like bullying. MUN has strengthened my ability to engage in diplomatic discussions, debate global issues, and find solutions to conflicts, which is a skill set I use in all aspects of my leadership. My passion for advocacy is also why I plan to major in political science and later attend law school. My ultimate goal is to become a lobbyist, advocating for policies that create real change. I want to work on issues that matter—such as education reform, digital safety policies, and inclusivity laws. However, I know that law school is a significant financial investment. Minimizing my undergraduate debt will allow me to focus on my education and career goals without the overwhelming burden of student loans. This scholarship would be crucial in helping me achieve my dreams. Winning this scholarship would mean the world to me. It would not only provide financial relief but also reaffirm my commitment to advocacy and leadership. I want to continue working toward a future where every child feels safe in their community—both online and offline. With this support, I will carry forward my passion for fighting injustice, ensuring that youth today and in the future grow up in a world where they are supported, valued, and protected.

Billie Eilish’s music has been the soundtrack to my life for years. It’s engraved in my memories, shaping my emotions in ways I never expected. While I could list countless songs that have resonated with me, three stand out as defining moments in my life: “idontwannabeyouanymore,” “My Future,” and “Happier Than Ever.” Each of these songs has marked a different stage of my life, reflecting my evolving understanding of myself. The first Billie Eilish song I ever heard was “idontwannabeyouanymore.” I was ten years old, and from the moment the soft piano melody played, I was captivated. At that age, I interpreted the lyrics literally, picturing a girl looking at her reflection and wishing she were someone else. The complexity of self-doubt and introspection didn’t fully register with me then, but the song still felt earnest. Seven years later, I listen to it with a different perspective. I understand the weight of the words and the emotions poured into the song. It has become a nostalgic piece of my childhood, a reminder of when I was just beginning to explore music that spoke to me rather than simply existing as background noise. This song introduced me to Billie, but it also introduced me to a deeper way of listening to music. Then there’s “Happier Than Ever.” This song is tied to one of my most vivid memories: sitting in a car with my best friend, rain pounding against the windshield as we listened to it for the first time. Nothing could have prepared me for the moment the gentle guitar strumming faded and the bass rattled through the speakers. My jaw dropped, my breath caught, and I swear a shriek left my lips. The raw power of the song, the way Billie’s voice built from quiet resignation to full-throated defiance, resonated with me in a way I couldn’t yet articulate. At the time, I didn’t have the life experience to fully understand the depth of the lyrics, but I felt them. A year later, I saw Billie perform live in Salt Lake City. As confetti rained down from the ceiling I clutched my friend’s hand, screaming the lyrics at the top of my lungs, I was overwhelmed with emotion. The next morning, my voice was gone, but the feeling remained—pure, unfiltered catharsis. “My Future” came into my life at the perfect time. As the second child in my family, I’ve always felt the tension between loving where I come from and craving what lies ahead. I adore my family and my city, but I am ready to break free, to explore and experience the world beyond what I’ve always known. The lyrics, “I’m in love with my future, can’t wait to meet her,” perfectly captures my excitement for what’s to come. My favorite memory tied to this song is driving up 8th Street with my friend, the sky turning golden as we climbed the hill. I jokingly told him, “Don’t kill me, I have so much going for me,” referencing my infatuation with all the possibilities that lay ahead. This song encapsulates that feeling—the thrill of knowing that my future is waiting for me. These three songs represent different versions of myself: the wide-eyed child discovering music’s emotional power, the teenager learning the weight of her emotions, and the ambitious dreamer ready to take on the world. Billie Eilish’s music hasn’t just been something I listen to—it has been something I’ve lived to.

Get ready for Wheel Wars, the newest Love Island challenge that’ll have the couples battling not just their wits, but their nerves too! This competition is all about solving puzzles, sabotaging rivals, and staying cool under pressure. The winning couple gets a well-deserved night in the hideaway, but only if they can handle the drama and come out on top. Step 1: The Spin of Fate To kick off, each couple will spin two giant wheels: Task Wheel: This wheel decides the puzzle or challenge each couple will face. It could range from building something together, solving a jigsaw, or even working through a memory game. Some tasks are easy, some are difficult — luck will play a big part in what you land on! Hindrance Wheel: Once the task is chosen, it’s time to spin again for a “hindrance.” This wheel determines an annoying obstacle that will be placed on the couple. It could be wearing blindfolds, holding a plank for two minutes, or even completing part of the task with one hand. Whatever happens, it’ll make the task harder, but not impossible. Step 2: Task Time & Sabotage Now, couples have 10 minutes to complete their task while dealing with their hindrance. But there’s more, every two minutes(different intervals so the sabotage tasks don't happen at the same time), each couple can sabotage the other team. Here’s where the real drama begins: Sabotage Tasks: Couples have the option to complete a sabotage task that impacts their opponents. For example, doing 15 push-ups might allow them to rearrange their rival's puzzle pieces, or eating a hot pepper could force the other couple to spin in a circle for 20 seconds. These sabotages make the other couple’s task more difficult, but they come with risks. Every sabotage takes up valuable time, and couples must decide whether it’s worth distracting their opponents or staying focused on their own task. If a couple doesn’t want to sabotage, they can skip it to make sure they stay focused on their own challenge. Strategy is key! Step 3: Rankings by Islanders Once the 10-minute round ends, the other Islanders will rank each couple’s performance from 1 to 10. The rankings are based on how well the task was completed, how creative they got with their solutions, and how well they dealt with the hindrances and sabotage. The couple with the highest score wins a night in the hideaway, giving them a private escape from the villa. It’s a sweet reward for surviving the challenge and managing the chaos! Step 4: All Couples Compete Every couple gets a turn in Wheel Wars. As each round passes, the sabotage gets more creative, the tension rises, and the stakes get higher. By the end, everyone will have faced the challenge and tried their best to win the ultimate reward.

“Fix the things you hated, and you'd still feel so insecure.” When I first heard this lyric, it felt like someone had peeled back my skin and read my soul. This lyric—it hit so deeply I paused the song and screamed alone in my car before replaying it again and again. The song has been on loop in my brain ever since. Because the thing is, I’ve tried fixing everything I hated. I’ve curled my hair. Learned how to apply all kinds of makeup I didn’t even like but thought I should master. I’ve stared at Pilates influencers with their toned arms and bee pollen supplements, trying to figure out why they seem so effortlessly perfect. I’ve taped my mouth shut at night because TikTok told me it would slim my face. Bought the clothes that everyone swore would be flattering. Lost the weight I thought was holding me back. But nothing—not a single thing—has been enough to make the pit inside me go away. That stupid, gnawing pit that keeps whispering, “Fix this next.” It’s exhausting. There hasn’t been a day since I was probably nine years old that I haven’t thought about how much space I take up. About how to shrink myself. About how to be more valuable by being less: less loud, less big, less me. And the worst part? Even when I accomplish the things I think I need to—losing weight, keeping quiet, blending in—it still doesn’t feel right. It’s like I’m playing a game where the rules keep changing, and I’ll never win. Cortisol face. Pilates arms. Bee pollen to grow your cup size. Ashwagandha to slim your thighs. The early 2000s “skinny” is back, and suddenly the idea of a healthy body is old news. Every scroll feels like a slap in the face, reminding me that I’ll never be good enough, no matter how hard I try. And the thing is, I know I’m not alone in this. Every girl I know feels the same way—this constant pressure to be perfect, to compete with each other like we’re fighting for the last scrap of validation. That’s why this lyric captures the essence of being a teenager so well. Adolescence feels like one long stretch of trying to meet impossible expectations—whether it’s how you look, how you act, or how much you accomplish. It’s the unrelenting pressure to always be “more,” and yet no matter what you do, it’s never enough. Being a teenager is like being stuck in this weird in-between space where you’re expected to have everything figured out but are constantly reminded that you’re still not there yet. Olivia’s words reflect that tug-of-war perfectly, the exhausting, universal experience of chasing something you can’t quite reach. It’s like we’re all climbing the same impossible mountain, but instead of helping each other, we’re pushing each other down to try and get ahead. The insecurity is so universal that we don’t even question it anymore. We just accept it. Hearing Olivia sing about it felt like finally being seen. For the first time, someone put into words the exact thing I’ve been feeling for years but didn’t know how to say. The endless loop of “fix this, then you’ll be happy” is a scam. Hearing it laid out so clearly, that no amount of fixing will ever make me feel secure, made me pause. But hearing this song gave me a little bit of hope. It reminded me that I’m not crazy for feeling the way I do, and I’m not alone in it either. And maybe, just maybe, that’s enough for now.

I write essays. It’s where I find my voice. I can articulate thoughts and emotions that often feel too complex to say aloud. Words come off the page more better than they do from my mouth, giving me clarity and confidence I often can’t achieve in the moment. Writing allows me to process the world around me and express myself authentically. I’ve come to rely on writing not only as a tool for self-expression but also as a way to unwind and reflect. When I’m overwhelmed by life’s unpredictability and drama, journaling helps me sort through my emotions. It’s a grounding ritual, a way to capture fleeting moments and preserve them in ink. Writing allows me to document my growth and my fears; It serves as a reminder that no feeling is permanent, no problem insurmountable. Writing helps me channel my frustration and curiosity into something productive. When I read or hear about something in the news that bothers me, I turn to essays. Writing about an issue forces me to slow down and look at the facts. I’m a deeply emotional person, in the heat of the moment my feelings can be strong and, at times, misleading. Writing requires me to pause, research, and think critically. It helps me transition from reacting emotionally to engaging thoughtfully. Not only making me a more informed individual but also allows me to articulate my thoughts in a way that invites constructive dialogue. In college, I plan to continue writing in both my personal and academic life. Journaling will remain my private sanctuary to reflect on my experiences and navigate the challenges of this new chapter. I also hope to join a student publication, using writing as a way to participate in important conversations happening all around me. Writing essays about societal issues has always been a meaningful outlet for me, keeping me calm in the face of fear. I want to continue this practice by engaging with new perspectives in college. I look forward to exploring creative writing more deeply. I’ve always been drawn to storytelling but haven’t had the chance to fully develop that side of my writing. College offers an ideal opportunity to experiment with fiction, blending my love for self-expression with the art of crafting compelling narratives. Writing, for me, is more than just a skill or a hobby—it’s how I make sense of myself and the world. It gives me the tools to process, reflect, and contribute, and it’s a practice I plan to carry with me throughout college and beyond. I hope to continue growing as a writer, not only to refine my craft but also to keep discovering new ways writing can enrich my life and the lives of others.

My dream is to advocate for better civics education as a lobbyist, ensuring that every student has the knowledge and tools to engage effectively in our political landscape. The importance of civics education has become more evident to me over the years, and I am determined to use my skills and passion to bring this issue to the forefront of public policy. Earning my bachelor’s degree in Political Science will provide me with the necessary foundation to understand the complexities of government, education, and public policy. Depending on where I attend college in the fall, I may find myself in a state capital such as Boise or Phoenix, offering opportunities for hands-on experience through internships where I can work directly with policymakers and their staff. This experience will be invaluable in preparing me for my long-term goals of influencing public policy. Once I complete my undergraduate studies, I want to move to Washington, D.C., to immerse myself in the workings of Capitol Hill. By working as an intern or even securing a position as a staffer, I will gain critical experience in navigating the political landscape at the federal level. My goal is to build connections with legislators and advocacy groups, and through these connections I will learn firsthand how policies are created and implemented and how to effectively advocate for change. This experience will also be essential in helping me develop the skills I need to succeed as a lobbyist. Ultimately, I hope to pursue a law degree, which will allow me to better analyze legal frameworks and navigate the intricacies of policy change. As for my true dream, I envision myself working as an in-house lobbyist for an organization focused on national education reforms, specifically advocating for improved civics education across the nation. Civics education is critical for ensuring that students understand their rights, responsibilities, and the power they have to shape the world around them. Unfortunately, the lack of comprehensive civics education in many schools has left too many students disengaged from the political process and unaware of how they can make a difference. My mission is to bridge this gap and advocate for policies that require every student to receive a robust civics education, one that prepares them for active participation in their communities and beyond. Achieving this dream will not only benefit me personally, but it will also have a lasting impact on the people around me. If I can equip young people with the knowledge to navigate the political system and empower them to speak up on issues that matter, we will create a more just and inclusive society. By advocating for better civics education, I hope to help create a future where all individuals—regardless of their background—have the knowledge and agency to contribute meaningfully to their communities. Daniel’s words, “Complete Your Dream,” inspire me to step toward building a future where every student has the tools to shape their destiny and, by extension, the future of our country. The journey is long, but I’m ready to take it, knowing that the work I do will ultimately benefit not just me, but countless others.

As I watch the political landscape unfold today, I see disturbing signs of a democracy in peril. Billionaires seated at the front of presidential inaugurations, the ultra-wealthy whispering in the ears of political leaders, and executive orders reversing progress for marginalized communities. These are not just isolated events, but rather reflections of a deeper issue within our political system. They mirror the kinds of political shifts seen in pre-World War II Germany or on the eve of the French Revolution. In these moments of fear and uncertainty, history offers us crucial lessons on how we can change the course of our future. Politics has always been a part of my life. Growing up, the news was always on in our house, and I quickly learned to analyze the world around me through the lens of current events. Family dinners have always been full of lively current-events debates which has taught me how to navigate differences of political opinions with those around me. History, too, has been the backbone of my education. I’ve always been fascinated by how the actions of the past shape our lives today, and I’ve come to realize how history is more than just a record—it’s a roadmap. The concentration of wealth and power is a worrying trend in today’s world of politics. The influence of a few billionaires over policy decisions, the dismantling of protections for women and people of color in the workplace, and the growing threats to free speech all show a troubling departure from the democratic ideals that have defined our nation. These are the same warning signs we saw in history before the rise of authoritarianism. When the power of the few overrides the voice of the many, the foundation of democracy starts to crack. But rather than feeling despair over this, I see an opportunity to confront these issues head-on. Understanding history is not about living in fear of the past; it’s about learning from it and ensuring that we don’t repeat its mistakes. By looking at history and recognizing the signs of a crumbling democracy, we can take the necessary steps to protect the freedoms and rights that are under threat today. Confronting the uncomfortable truths of our current political climate, no matter how challenging, is the first step toward real change. The future of democracy lies in our ability to recognize its weaknesses and take action to strengthen it. As I pursue my studies in political science, I plan to take this understanding of history and use it to fight for a more just and equitable future. I am committed to seeking hands-on experience, whether it’s through internships at the state capital or working on the Hill in Washington, D.C., where I can gain the connections and experience needed to influence policy. I want to work with others who share the goal of restoring fairness, equality, and opportunity for all Americans. The fear and uncertainty we face today are not insurmountable if we are willing to confront them. By applying the lessons of history to today’s challenges, we can rebuild the democratic system that has long been a beacon of hope and opportunity. In the face of today’s challenges, I choose to remain optimistic. History shows us that even in the darkest of times, progress is possible when we accept the hard truths. Armed with the lessons of the past, I am determined to be part of the movement that brings about positive change, one informed decision at a time.

The embroidered orange and golden flowers keep me sane. With pages crumbled and some tear-stained, my journal embroidered with orange and golden flowers guides me through life. My mental health fluctuates drastically. The dramatics of life and school often keep me on my toes, as well as my mental well-being. Stress and complicated school projects often overwhelm me. Deadlines for seven classes sit on the front burner of my mind while the things I wish to think about rot away while anxiety overtakes me. My journal, with beautiful embroidered flowers, counteracts that. Writing has always been my outlet. When the pressure of applications and expectations feels too heavy, journaling allows me to pause and release those emotions. It’s a space where I can be honest without fear of judgment– aside from my own. Journaling stabilizes me when life feels chaotic l. In moments of stress, putting my hot pink pen to paper feels like hitting a reset button, clearing my mind so I can refocus. I write life lessons for my future daughters, hoping that one day they will read my words and realize it’s okay not to have everything figured out. This mindset has given me a sense of control over my mental health; even when I’m struggling, the thought that my words could comfort my children someday brings me solace. Mental health profoundly impacts both my academic performance and personal life, especially during the school year. When my mental health is strong, I thrive. Schoolwork becomes not just a necessity but a source of fulfillment, and I find joy in the process of learning. On the other hand, when I’m struggling, my motivation plummets, and tasks that once felt meaningful become monotonous. This duality has taught me the importance of prioritizing my well-being, and journaling has become my anchor in maintaining balance. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that ignoring my mental health in favor of academic success is counterproductive. In the past, I would push through stress and exhaustion, believing I had no choice but to focus on schoolwork. But this approach often backfired, leaving me burnt out and disconnected. Journaling has helped me break that cycle. By regularly reflecting on my mental and emotional state, I’ve developed a stronger sense of self-awareness. I’ve learned to recognize when I’m pushing myself too hard and when I need to step back and recharge. This practice has also made me more intentional about self-care. Journaling is often the first step, but it opens the door to other healthy habits. Writing about my stress might prompt me to take a walk, talk to my sisters, or give myself a spa day. These small actions add up, allowing me to approach my academic responsibilities with a clearer mind and renewed energy. Maintaining my mental health isn’t always easy, but prioritizing it has made a world of difference. Journaling has been instrumental in this journey, providing a safe space to reflect, regulate, and grow. When I take care of my mental health, I don’t just perform better academically, I find joy and meaning in the process.