My name is Ava Buondonno and I recently graduated from Mainland Regional High School in New Jersey. I am someone who works hard and keeps going even when things get tough. Being a student-athlete has taught me how to manage my time, stay focused, and be responsible in everything I do. I was a member of Mainland’s Varsity Surf Team all four years of high school. There were only a few girls on the team, so I always felt like I had to prove I belonged. Surfing taught me discipline, patience, and how to stay calm under pressure. I earned the All-Academic Team Award each year and got the “Most Stoke” award freshman year, which goes to the surfer who brings the most energy and team spirit. This spring, I earned a slot to compete in the NJ state championships, but I ended up missing the competition because it was unfortunately rescheduled due to weather to the same day as my prom. Even though I couldn’t compete, I was proud to make it that far. Surfing has always been a big part of my life, and I plan to join the surf club at Coastal Carolina University this fall. Academics have always been important to me. I graduated with a 3.904 unweighted GPA and took multiple Honors and Dual Enrollment classes, including Honors Algebra, Honors Italian III, and College Math. I’ve worked hard to keep up in school, even while managing Selective Mutism my whole life, which is a medical condition that makes it hard to speak in certain situations. After losing my dad unexpectedly at the end of sophomore year, I struggled to finish the school year. Instead of giving up, I sought help. I met with my teachers online for months, and I caught up over the summer. That difficult experience taught me how to keep going, even when it feels impossible. One of the best parts of high school was getting involved in community service. I volunteer at the Funny Farm Animal Sanctuary in Mays Landing, NJ. It is an amazing rescue farm that cares for over 650 animals that are disabled or were going to be euthanized. I’ve volunteered over 60 hours of service, helping the Chief Finance Officer with financial data tasks and assisting at large events as a face painter to raise money. I love knowing that my time there makes a difference. I also raised money for the Dean Randazzo Cancer Foundation by bagging groceries at ShopRite and organizing and running an estate sale fundraiser. The estate sale was especially personal because it was made up of my dad’s belongings. After he passed away, I wanted to find a way to honor him, and donating the proceeds to a cause that supports people fighting cancer felt right. Dean is a professional surfer and cancer survivor, and his story is inspiring to me both as a surfer and as someone who wants to help others. This fall, I’ll be attending Coastal Carolina University to study marine science. I am excited, nervous, and ready to start fresh. I know that being a student-athlete has helped prepare me for college by teaching me how to stay committed, keep a good attitude, and support the people around me. I am proud of where I come from and everything I’ve learned along the way.

The movie Soul Surfer had a huge impact on me because it connected deeply with my own life. It taught me so much about perseverance, resilience, and passion. This film tells the incredible true story of Bethany Hamilton, a young surfer who faced unimaginable challenges after losing her arm in a shark attack. Her journey back to surfing inspired me, especially during my own tough times. I connected with Soul Surfer personally because I’ve surfed competitively throughout high school. Surfing isn’t your typical high school sport, especially in New Jersey, where we brave cold ocean temperatures even in fall and spring. Like Bethany, surfing means way more than competition to me. It’s deeply tied to my family, my community, and the environment. Surfing has always been a big part of my life. It was something special I shared with my dad, who first taught me to surf. Tragically, I lost him during my sophomore year. Like Bethany, I found myself facing challenges I never imagined. Her story gave me hope, showing me that I could overcome deep pain and continue following my passion despite immense loss. Surfing became more than just a sport; it was my safe place, a way to stay connected to my dad, and a constant reminder of our shared memories. During my hardest times, my surf coach played a huge role, much like Bethany’s community did for her. My coach never gave up on me and constantly encouraged me to keep moving forward. His support was crucial, helping me find strength when I needed it most. Watching the movie reminded me just how important community support is and the power of someone believing in you, even when you don’t believe in yourself. Like Bethany, surfing taught me discipline and determination, positively influencing my academics. Balancing demanding practice schedules with school hasn't always been easy, but I've maintained a 3.88 unweighted GPA. This spring, I'll compete in my final high school competition at the state championships, but it certainly won't be my last time surfing. Surfing also helped spark my passion for marine science. Driven by my deep love for the ocean, I plan to study marine biology in college. My ultimate goal is to protect the environment and give back to the community that's supported me. Outside sports, I volunteer at the Funny Farm Animal Sanctuary, helping with financial tasks and fundraising events to support over 650 rescued animals. I’ve also been involved in fundraising for the Dean Randazzo Cancer Foundation, further reflecting my dedication to helping others. Soul Surfer taught me powerful lessons about resilience, determination, and having a positive mindset. Bethany’s story encouraged me to embrace challenges, honor my dad’s memory, and always strive for excellence. Receiving this scholarship would significantly ease the financial burden on my family, allowing me to focus on my education and also continue doing the things I love, like surfing. Like Bethany, I want to use my experiences to make a meaningful difference in my community and the world around me.

Being a student-athlete has profoundly shaped who I am, guiding my future goals and helping me find purpose and balance. Throughout high school, I've been an active member of our varsity surf team. Surfing is a bit unusual compared to typical high school sports. Not all schools have a surf team due to geographic limitations, and practicing in New Jersey means braving cold ocean temperatures even in fall and spring, but I love it. Surfing isn't just a sport for me; it's a deep connection to my family, my community, and the environment. My dad taught me how to surf, and every wave I catch reminds me of the bond we shared. After losing him tragically during my sophomore year, surfing became more than a sport. It became my refuge and a way to stay close to him. During the difficult period after losing my dad, my surf coach took a special interest in supporting me. He never gave up on me, continually encouraging me not to quit and to keep moving forward. Without his unwavering support and inspiration, I wouldn't have made it through. It's still challenging every day, but I'm glad I persevered. I'm a stronger person now because of it. Surfing taught me patience, discipline, and perseverance. Balancing rigorous practice schedules with academic demands wasn't always easy, but I've maintained above a 3.88 GPA (unweighted) while actively competing at all levels up to the state championships. The discipline learned through sports helps me stay focused in academics, pushing me to excel and strive for the best. My involvement in surfing also inspired my passion for marine science, and I plan to pursue this major in college, driven by a desire to protect the environment that has given me so much joy. Outside sports, I have dedicated significant time volunteering at the Funny Farm Animal Sanctuary in Mays Landing, NJ, managing financial tasks and helping with fundraising events. Supporting over 650 rescued farm animals has shown me the importance of community and giving back. Additionally, I've fundraised for the Dean Randazzo Cancer Foundation, an organization close to my heart, as my dad struggled silently with his own health battles. My other interests include language and culture; I've enjoyed three years studying Italian, deepening my appreciation for different ways of life and communication. Traveling with my family to Mexico, Bermuda, and the Bahamas has further fueled my curiosity about the world and strengthened my desire to engage globally, connecting my environmental passions with cultural understanding. Losing my dad profoundly impacted me, teaching resilience, empathy, and the importance of balancing life's many demands. He had no life insurance, placing a significant financial burden on my mom, who now supports my brother and me alone. This experience highlighted the necessity of planning for the future and the value of making responsible, thoughtful decisions. This scholarship would help ease the financial pressure on my family, allowing me to focus on academics, athletics, and my goal of becoming a marine biologist. Anthony Bruder's legacy of balancing academics, sports, and diverse interests resonates deeply with me. I strive every day to emulate his inspiring example, seeking excellence in all I do while honoring the memories and lessons of those who've shaped me. Like Anthony, I understand the power of passion and dedication, and I'm committed to making a meaningful impact in both my community and the world around me. Thank you for considering my application for this meaningful scholarship.

Serious Impact at The Funny Farm One of the most meaningful community events I have participated in is the Funny Farm Rescue & Sanctuary’s Spring and Fall Festivals. Located in Mays Landing, New Jersey, the sanctuary provides a home for over 650 rescued animals, almost all of whom have disabilities or were going to be euthanized. These festivals bring together hundreds of people to support this mission. I have been volunteering at the Funny Farm since 2023, helping with financial data entry, fundraising, and event support. However, the festivals stand out as my favorite experience because they showcase the power of community, compassion, and giving back. Beyond the events themselves, what makes the Funny Farm truly special is the dedication of its founder, Laurie Zaleski. She turned a childhood promise into a reality, creating a sanctuary that gives animals a second chance while inspiring people to do good. I admire her perseverance and the way she has built a place where kindness and resilience thrive. Seeing her passion firsthand has motivated me to continue giving back and to believe that one person really can make a difference. At these festivals, I work as a face painter, helping to raise money for the sanctuary. Seeing kids light up with excitement as I paint turtles, butterflies, and other animals on their faces reminds me why these events matter. The festival is not just about fundraising. It’s about creating connections. Families learn about the importance of animal rescue, children interact with animals they may have never seen up close, and the entire event fosters a culture of kindness and generosity. Through volunteering, I have seen how small contributions can make a big impact. While painting faces may seem like a minor role, each dollar raised helps provide food, medical care, and shelter for animals that would otherwise have nowhere to go. Beyond the money raised, the festivals inspire people to get involved. Many visitors leave wanting to volunteer or donate, realizing that their help makes a difference. This experience has also made me think more about how to bring positive change to my community. I have met so many people who want to help but don’t always know how to get started. I would love to see more programs that introduce students to volunteering opportunities. Schools could partner with local organizations to make it easier for students to get involved, whether it’s through environmental conservation, animal rescue, or helping families in need. When young people find a cause they care about, they are more likely to stay involved and inspire others to do the same. Volunteering at the Funny Farm has reinforced my belief in the power of community. It has taught me that change doesn’t always happen in big ways, but through consistent effort and small acts of kindness. Through this scholarship, I hope to continue my education and expand my ability to contribute in meaningful ways. Whether through science, conservation, or community outreach, I want to make a difference just as Greg Carter did through his advocacy and service. If you are ever in New Jersey and get the chance to visit the Funny Farm Rescue & Sanctuary, I highly recommend it. It’s a place where you can see firsthand the magic of kindness and resilience, and it’s impossible to leave without feeling inspired. Regardless of the outcome of this scholarship, I hope to continue supporting their mission and encourage others to do the same whether by visiting, volunteering, or simply spreading awareness. To learn more, visit www.funnyfarmrescue.org.

Growing up near the beach in New Jersey, I spent countless hours exploring tide pools, watching dolphins swim offshore, and wondering how marine ecosystems function. This curiosity led me to my high school’s marine biology class, where I now care for rescue turtles and study the environmental challenges affecting marine life. Through these experiences, I have developed a passion for marine biology and conservation, and I am eager to pursue a STEM career that allows me to protect and restore our planet’s ecosystems. My inspiration to pursue STEM comes not only from my love for marine science but also from my mother, who is a woman in STEM herself. After my parents divorced, she became the sole financial provider for our family. When she lost her job, she didn’t give up. Instead, she built her own aviation consulting business from the ground up in an industry where women are underrepresented. Through her perseverance and success, she proved that women can excel in STEM fields despite obstacles. Seeing her determination has shaped my own approach to challenges and solidified my belief that women belong in STEM. Women in STEM have the power to make groundbreaking discoveries, yet they continue to be underrepresented in many fields, including marine science. While the industry has made progress, there is still work to be done in ensuring equal opportunities for women to contribute their knowledge and ideas. I am determined to be part of the next generation of women pushing boundaries in STEM and proving that we belong in scientific research, conservation efforts, and environmental policy. Beyond the classroom, I have gained valuable experience through volunteer work. I assist with the financial operations of Funny Farm Rescue & Sanctuary, a nonprofit home to over 650 rescued animals. Through this work, I have seen how much science and data analysis play a role in conservation, from tracking animal health to managing resources efficiently. This experience has reinforced my belief that STEM is more than just theories and equations; it is about applying knowledge to solve real-world problems. The importance of perseverance and resilience is something I learned firsthand. At the end of my sophomore year, my father passed away unexpectedly. Losing him was incredibly difficult, and I struggled emotionally and academically. Grief made it hard to focus, and I fell behind in school. Junior year brought even more challenges with SATs and college applications, but my mother encouraged me not to give up. With her support, I sought help from my teachers and caseworker and worked hard to catch up. Now, as I finish my senior year with all As, I am excited for a fresh start in college. I have learned that setbacks do not define me; how I push through them does. I plan to study marine biology and conservation in college, with the goal of working in scientific research, environmental advocacy, and marine ecosystem restoration. I want to use data analysis, technology, and policy development to combat ocean pollution, habitat destruction, and species endangerment. Women belong in every aspect of STEM, and I am determined to contribute my skills, knowledge, and passion to make a difference. This scholarship would provide valuable support as I work toward my STEM degree, allowing me to focus on my education and research. Just as this scholarship aims to empower women in STEM, I hope to inspire other young women to pursue their passions, break barriers, and contribute to a more diverse, inclusive, and innovative scientific community.

From a young age, I was drawn to the ocean. Growing up near the beach in New Jersey, I spent hours exploring tide pools and watching dolphins offshore, fascinated by the vast and complex world beneath the waves. As I got older, I realized that marine life was under threat. Pollution, habitat destruction, and climate change were affecting the animals I loved. This realization fueled my desire to pursue a career in marine biology and conservation to protect our oceans and the creatures that call them home. My commitment to helping animals and the environment deepened when I started volunteering at Funny Farm Rescue & Sanctuary. While the sanctuary primarily cares for land animals, my time there has given me valuable experience in animal rehabilitation and nonprofit operations. I have helped with financial data entry to ensure the sanctuary runs smoothly, assisted in fundraising efforts, and worked directly with animals that had been neglected or abandoned. Seeing the impact that dedicated volunteers can make in saving lives has reinforced my belief that small actions create big change. In my high school marine biology class, I have had the opportunity to care for rescue turtles, learning firsthand about the importance of conservation efforts. Understanding the threats these animals face has strengthened my commitment to protecting marine life. I plan to expand my hands-on experience by volunteering at the Wetlands Institute in Stone Harbor, New Jersey, where I can work on habitat restoration projects and learn more about coastal ecosystems. These experiences are preparing me for a future where I can apply science to solve environmental problems and protect endangered species. However, my journey has not been without challenges. At the end of my sophomore year, my father passed away unexpectedly. Losing him was the most difficult experience of my life. Grief made it hard to focus, and I struggled to keep up in school. Junior year brought additional stress with SAT testing and college preparations, all while trying to navigate life without my dad. There were times when I doubted whether I could keep going, but with the support of my teachers and my own determination, I persevered. I worked hard to catch up, sought help when I needed it, and finished the year strong. That experience taught me the importance of resilience. Challenges will come, but they do not have to define me. Now, as a senior, I am proud of how far I have come. I maintain a strong academic record, participate in extracurricular activities, and continue volunteering to make a difference in my community. I also received the All-Academic Team Award and my second varsity letter from my high school Surf Team, recognizing my ability to balance academics and athletics. These experiences have shaped me into someone who is driven, compassionate, and dedicated to creating positive change. In the future, I hope to use my passion for marine biology to make a real impact on the world. Whether through research, conservation, or public education, I want to work toward protecting ocean ecosystems and ensuring that future generations can experience the beauty and diversity of marine life. Science is about finding solutions, and I am eager to be part of the next generation of environmental problem-solvers. Julie Adams dedicated her life to helping students succeed in STEM, and I want to honor her memory by using my education to make a difference in the world. Her belief in supporting young women in science is inspiring, and I hope to carry that same passion forward in my career. This scholarship would provide the financial support I need to continue my studies and pursue my dream of a career in marine science and conservation. I am committed to making a difference, and I will carry that commitment with me into college and beyond.

From a young age, I was drawn to the ocean. Growing up near the beach in New Jersey, I spent hours exploring tide pools and watching dolphins offshore, fascinated by the vast and complex world beneath the waves. As I got older, I realized that marine life was under threat. Pollution, habitat destruction, and climate change were affecting the animals I loved. This realization fueled my desire to pursue a career in marine biology and conservation to protect our oceans and the creatures that call them home. My commitment to helping animals and the environment deepened when I started volunteering at Funny Farm Rescue & Sanctuary. While the sanctuary primarily cares for land animals, my time there has given me valuable experience in animal rehabilitation and nonprofit operations. I have helped with financial data entry to ensure the sanctuary runs smoothly, assisted in fundraising efforts, and worked directly with animals that had been neglected or abandoned. Seeing the impact that dedicated volunteers can make in saving lives has reinforced my belief that small actions create big change. In my high school marine biology class, I have had the opportunity to care for rescue turtles, learning firsthand about the importance of conservation efforts. Understanding the threats these animals face has strengthened my commitment to protecting marine life. I plan to expand my hands-on experience by volunteering at the Wetlands Institute in Stone Harbor, New Jersey, where I can work on habitat restoration projects and learn more about coastal ecosystems. These experiences are preparing me for a future where I can apply science to solve environmental problems and protect endangered species. However, my journey has not been without challenges. At the end of my sophomore year, my father passed away unexpectedly. Losing him was the most difficult experience of my life. Grief made it hard to focus, and I struggled to keep up in school. Junior year brought additional stress with SAT testing and college preparations, all while trying to navigate life without my dad. There were times when I doubted whether I could keep going, but with the support of my teachers and my own determination, I persevered. I worked hard to catch up, sought help when I needed it, and finished the year strong. That experience taught me the importance of resilience. Challenges will come, but they do not have to define me. Now, as a senior, I am proud of how far I have come. I maintain a strong academic record, participate in extracurricular activities, and continue volunteering to make a difference in my community. I also received the All-Academic Team Award for Surfing, recognizing my ability to balance academics and athletics. These experiences have shaped me into someone who is driven, compassionate, and dedicated to creating positive change. In the future, I hope to use my passion for marine biology to make a real impact on the world. Whether through research, conservation, or public education, I want to work toward protecting ocean ecosystems and ensuring that future generations can experience the beauty and diversity of marine life. Science is about finding solutions, and I am eager to be part of the next generation of environmental problem-solvers. Valerie Rabb dedicated her life to uplifting students, and I want to follow that example by using my education to uplift and protect the world around me. This scholarship would provide the financial support I need to continue my studies and pursue my dream of a career in marine science and conservation. I am committed to making a difference, and I will carry that commitment with me into college and beyond.

The first time I held a baby rescue turtle in my marine biology class, I realized how fragile marine life really is. The turtle’s mother had been run over by a car, and her eggs were rescued by a local wetlands organization. Without human intervention, the hatchlings would not have survived. That moment made me think about how many other marine animals face similar challenges and how scientific research can be the key to their survival. It reinforced my passion for conservation, but more importantly, it showed me that science isn’t just about knowledge; it’s about problem-solving, innovation, and action. Growing up near the beach in New Jersey, I was always fascinated by marine life. Exploring the beaches, watching dolphins offshore, and learning about ocean ecosystems in school made me curious about how marine animals survive and adapt. That curiosity led me to my marine biology class, where I care for rescue turtles. Seeing the impact of pollution, climate change, and habitat destruction strengthened my desire to study science-based solutions to environmental threats. I want to use research, data analysis, and technology to protect marine ecosystems, applying the same methodical preparation and critical thinking that William Griggs valued. Volunteering at Funny Farm Rescue & Sanctuary has deepened my commitment to conservation. While the sanctuary primarily cares for land animals, my time there has taught me valuable lessons about rehabilitation, animal care, and environmental responsibility. Whether I’m entering financial data or assisting with fundraising events, I have seen how mathematics and data science play a role. Science isn’t just conducted in labs; it’s applied in real-world problem-solving. These experiences have shown me that success in science requires knowledge and the confidence to take risks based on careful preparation, just as William Griggs no doubt taught his daughters. To prepare for a future in marine science, I plan to study marine biology in college with a focus on conservation and research. I want to work on environmental issues like coral reef restoration and species protection. This field relies heavily on math and data analysis, such as tracking population changes and modeling climate impact, which require research and computational skills. These abilities will help me contribute to conservation strategies that sustain marine ecosystems. Resilience has shaped my journey, reinforcing my commitment to making a difference through science. The unexpected loss of my father during my sophomore year was an immense challenge, but I refused to let hardship define my path. Balancing school, volunteer work, and personal struggles taught me perseverance. With the help of my teachers and determination, I caught up academically and excelled in my senior year, earning all As. This experience reaffirmed my belief that setbacks are not barriers; they are opportunities to grow. In the future, I hope to work in marine research and conservation, helping protect endangered species and restore fragile ecosystems. Whether through fieldwork, technological advancements in conservation, or policy advocacy, I want my work to make a real impact. The ocean is one of the most vital parts of our planet, and I am determined to help protect it for future generations. William Griggs was a pioneer in using science to push the limits of possibility. His work on the Saturn V rocket helped propel humanity beyond what once seemed achievable. While my focus is on the ocean rather than space, I share the same drive to use science and mathematics to solve complex problems, make discoveries, and protect our world. This scholarship would allow me to pursue my passion for marine science, further develop my analytical and research skills, and contribute to a more sustainable planet.