For DonorsFor Applicants
user profile avatar

Aydin Oelzturk

2475

Bold Points

1x

Finalist

Bio

Santa Barbara City College student graduating the major economics with a Liberal Arts/Studies Associates Degree. I am transferring to University of Michigan - Ann Arbor where I will receive my bachelors degree in Sports Management. Through them, I will be enrolled in internships and get real time experience as a sports scout. I will then excel from there. My goal is to become the main soccer scout for Arsenal F.C. in London, England

Education

Santa Barbara City College

Associate's degree program
2021 - 2023
  • Majors:
    • Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
  • Minors:
    • Economics

Terra Linda High School

High School
2015 - 2019

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Bachelor's degree program

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

    • Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness
    • Business/Managerial Economics
    • Finance and Financial Management Services
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Sports

    • Dream career goals:

      Football Scout for Arsenal F.C.

    • Cashier

      Wiessengriessler
      2020 – 2020
    • Event Seller/ 50/50 Raffle Ticket Seller for 49ners EDU and 49ners Youth Athletics

      49ners Foundation
      2023 – Present1 year
    • Auto Tech Trainee Internship

      Tesla, Inc
      2023 – Present1 year
    • Busser/Barback

      ACME Hospitality
      2021 – 2021

    Sports

    Basketball

    Club
    2006 – 20126 years

    Awards

    • accepted into AAU, won St. Isabella's championship

    Tae Kwon Do

    Club
    2010 – 20144 years

    Awards

    • Blue belt, tournament: gold medal, bronze medal, bronze trophy, silver trophy

    Soccer

    Club
    2006 – 202014 years

    Awards

    • Surf Cup
    • state cup

    Volleyball

    Varsity
    2017 – 20192 years

    Awards

    • Most Valuable Player

    Soccer

    Varsity
    2015 – 20194 years

    Awards

    • Most Improved Player
    • MCAL Trophy

    Research

    • Public Policy Analysis

      Terra Linda High School AP Government class — to retrieve cost information for EV chargers from locally nearby schools and the postive/negative effects on the change.
      2018 – 2019

    Arts

    • Terra Linda High School Pop Band

      Music
      Played at every Varsity Home Football Game
      2015 – 2018
    • Terra Linda High School Jazz Band

      Music
      2015 – 2018
    • Miller Creek Middle School Jazz Band

      Music
      Won for best jazz band in california at six flags
      2012 – 2015
    • Miller Creek Middle School Jazz Combo

      Music
      Played outside San Rafael Farmers Market to raise money
      2012 – 2015
    • Miller Creek Middle School Band

      Music
      1st place in school bands in california at six flags
      2012 – 2015
    • Terra Linda Band

      Music
      2015 – 2018

    Public services

    • Volunteering

      Invited with Westside Northbay Timbers: Coaching clinic in Oakland — I played right back
      2018 – 2019
    • Volunteering

      Household — Contractor/Construction
      2018 – 2020

    Future Interests

    Advocacy

    Politics

    Volunteering

    Entrepreneurship

    Taylor Swift ‘1989’ Fan Scholarship
    I feel the most connected to Taylor Swift's "Blank Space," which is also my favorite song by her. Its memorable tune and insightful lyrics immediately grabbed my attention. I didn't fully understand the song's impact on me emotionally until I read more into its meaning. Taylor Swift and other celebrities are often portrayed in the media as unstable emotional wrecks who are obsessed with their relationships, and "Blank Space" is a commentary on this stereotype. Swift sings in the opening lines of the song, "Hello, and welcome to the. Amazing things are within my reach." The rest of the song builds on the tone established by this line, in which Swift presents herself as a manipulative seductress who is always on the prowl for a new lover. I appreciate how "Blank Space" flips these assumptions on their heads. Swift does not allow herself to be defined by the media's portrayal of her; instead, she writes about a strong but flawed protagonist. Swift sings the chorus, which includes the words, "So either it will last forever or it will burn to the ground. If the rush was worth the agony, let me know when it's over "which is especially meaningful to me. It's a metaphor for the risk and unpredictability of romantic partnerships, as well as our propensity to dive headfirst into them anyway. I can identify with the author on this theme of emotional openness and risk-taking. Although I have experienced heartbreak in the past, I am still drawn to the idea of love and the prospect of finding someone who appreciates and accepts me for who I am. But what I appreciate about "Blank Space" is that it doesn't sugarcoat the less pleasant parts of interpersonal relationships. It recognizes that love can be difficult and even painful at times, but hints that it is ultimately worthwhile. The use of metaphor and imagery is a big part of what makes "Blank Space" such a powerful song. One of Swift's most memorable lyrics is "Got a long list of ex-lovers, they'll tell you I'm insane," which instantly conjures up mental images of the singer as a raving lunatic. At the same time, it's symbolic of how our emotional baggage from past relationships can weigh us down even today. It's also important to highlight the music video for "Blank Space," which provides further insight into the song's deeper themes. Swift plays a character in the video that appears to embody all the negative stereotypes that are often associated with her, including being vain, manipulative, and prone to fits of anger. As the video continues, however, it becomes clear that Swift's character is merely putting on an act to hide the fact that she is a victim of the media's negative portrayal of her. The video's message that we shouldn't judge people by their media portrayal but instead should get to know them as individuals ring true to me. It also serves as a reminder that we each can influence the way others see us and interpret our actions. In conclusion, "Blank Space" is an extremely moving song for me. It's a critique of how society evaluates couples and celebrities, and a gentle reminder not to cast quick judgments based on superficial characteristics. It is both a reminder that there is value in taking risks and putting ourselves out there, and a celebration of the messiness and unpredictability of love.
    Esteemed Project Scholarship
    Since I believe in the transforming potential of soccer, I would want to work as a soccer scout and strive to make a good difference in the lives of young people all around the world. I feel that if I can locate exceptional young players in underprivileged neighborhoods and provide them the opportunity to pursue their dreams, I will be able to help them and their families break free from the cycle of poverty. I would make a difference by providing these young players with materials they would not have otherwise had access to. There are many talented young players in low-income areas, but many are unable to advance to the professional level due to a lack of funds or relationships. The opportunities I might provide for these young people by scouting them and offering them the opportunity to train and enhance their skills with top-level coaches and players are limitless. In addition to providing opportunities, I would be able to serve as a mentor and role model to these young athletes. As someone who has played at a high level and persisted in the face of adversity, I would be able to inspire these young players to believe in themselves and put up the work required to achieve their goals. As a soccer scout, I would be able to disseminate messages of tolerance and acceptance across countries and cultures. Soccer can bring people from all walks of life and all across the globe together in ways that few other sports can. I could help create bridges between cultures and provide young gamers from all around the globe the opportunity to make lifelong friends. To make a difference, I would concentrate on supporting young players from low-income neighborhoods in financially establishing themselves. Soccer is more than a pastime for many of these children; it is a means of support for them and their families. I would help them better their lot in life and break the cycle of poverty by supporting them in polishing their talents and finding professional playing opportunities. Young players who are struggling to find their place in the world may benefit from a career in professional soccer for reasons other than financial stability. If these young athletes pursued their aspirations and succeeded in their chosen sport, they may experience a sense of fulfillment and success that will carry over into other parts of their lives. Most importantly, as a soccer scout, I would be able to offer young people all across the world something to be thrilled about. Providing young players the opportunity to pursue their dreams and compete at a high level would enable me to provide smiles and support to young people who may otherwise have nothing to smile about since soccer is a game that brings people together and inspires passion and excitement. To summarize, I am confident in my abilities to make a huge difference in the lives of youngsters all around the world if I work as a soccer scout. By providing young players with chances, serving as role model and mentors, creating unity and understanding, and aiding them in reaching financial stability and purpose, I would be providing them with the skills they need to enhance their lives and the lives of their families. Most importantly, I would have a major impact on the world that would extend well beyond the soccer field by bringing joy and hope to young people all around the world.
    Eco-Warrior Scholarship
    Sustainable living is more than just a slogan; it's a philosophy. Reducing my impact on the environment by choosing sustainable practices is important to me as a person. My consistent efforts to save the planet for the next generation are evidence of my commitment to environmental conservation. One of the most important deliberate choices I make every day is to reduce my energy use. I'm trying to be as frugal as possible with the energy used around the home. As I leave a room, I turn off the lights, unplug electronics, and adjust the thermostat to reduce energy use. My commitment to a sustainable lifestyle includes reducing my water use. While I'm brushing my teeth, I don't run the water and after I'm done, I switch off the shower. The amount of water I consume might be drastically reduced with even little improvements. Moreover, I value eco-friendly modes of transportation. When it's not necessary for me to drive, I choose to use public transportation, ride my bike, or walk instead. This not only saves me money on gas but also reduces traffic congestion and my carbon impact. I also do everything I can to keep my garbage to a minimum. I reuse and recycle whatever I possibly can, including plastic bags, water bottles, and food leftovers. If possible, I try to purchase items with little packaging and refrain from using single-use plastics. I make conscious choices to reduce my environmental impact, such as adopting a plant-based diet, patronizing eco-friendly businesses, and buying non-toxic household goods. I am doing my part to safeguard the planet by reducing my impact on it via these choices. Why do I think it's crucial that I cut down on my carbon output? This is due to a number of factors, the most pressing of which being the need of taking action against climate change. Rapid climate change caused by human activity is a major threat to Earth and its inhabitants. The effects of climate change on ecosystems, animals, and human civilizations are already apparent. Rising sea levels, more frequent and intense natural disasters, and abnormal weather patterns are only some of the many negative outcomes of global warming. We must act quickly to reduce our carbon impact or face dire consequences. Reducing our carbon footprint is also essential for the conservation of natural resources and biodiversity. The Earth's water, air, and soil are precious commodities that must be protected. Cutting down on our use ensures that these assets will be available to future generations. In addition to helping the planet, sustainable lifestyles also improve human health and happiness. A plant-based diet, using public transportation, and reducing our exposure to harmful chemicals and pollutants have all been linked to improved health and a reduced risk of disease. Nonetheless, there is a chance that sustainable practices might pay out monetarily. If we reduce our energy use, for instance, we may pay less for our power. Financial support for green businesses may also boost the economy and create green-sector jobs. In the end, the health of the planet and its people depends on us doing what we can to reduce our carbon footprint and adopt more sustainable lifestyles. We each have the power to make a difference by choosing actions that reduce our own impact on the environment, such as using less electricity, less water, and more environmentally friendly products. If we all pitch in now, we can protect the planet for the next generation and guarantee a sustainable future.
    Lost Dreams Awaken Scholarship
    My drug addiction is my first priority. I know firsthand how drug misuse destroys relationships, education, and well-being, having suffered with cannabis. I struggled academically and socially while overcoming my marijuana addiction. Smoking replaced meaningful time with my loved ones. I also became sidetracked and wasted educational possibilities. Addiction wreaked havoc on my mind. Use worsened my anxiety and sadness. Addiction prevented me from breaking my lifelong practice of self-destruction. Drug-free saved my life. Psychotherapy, support groups, and reflection helped me overcome my addiction and manage stress. My family, friends, and schoolwork have improved. Rehab gave me purpose and focus. Today I can enjoy life, appreciate the small things, and respect my friends. I'm glad for every sober second because treatment provided me with the skills to change the world. Finally, cleanliness can change my life. I was able to repair damaged relationships, excel in school and my career, and find meaning in life after overcoming my addiction. If you or a loved one is addicted, there is assistance and hope. Recovering may lead to a more satisfying life.
    Goobie-Ramlal Education Scholarship
    My father was a devout Muslim from Turkey, and my mother was from Austria, so I grew up with a unique viewpoint on higher education. Neither of my parents went to college. Despite the challenges I've had as a consequence of my past, it has motivated me to learn more and make a difference in the world. Growing up, my parents emphasized the value of a good education and encouraged me to continue my education throughout my life. While they did not pursue more education beyond high school, they recognized the importance of education beyond that level and the opportunities it may provide. On the other hand, my father's unyielding adherence to the rules of Islam sometimes conflicted with what I wanted for myself. Not often did what he had in mind for my future coincide with my own hopes and dreams for myself. My father often discouraged me from following my passions and urged me to instead choose safer, more traditional career paths. Nonetheless, I am committed to advancing my education so that I may have a positive impact on the world. I felt like I could make a difference in the world because of the unique perspective my upbringing offered me. I devoted myself fully to my coursework because I was hoping that a rigorous education would help me develop the abilities essential for a future in public service or international relations. During my studies, I've come to appreciate the interconnectedness of many of the world's most pressing problems, such as climate change, inequality, war, and human rights abuses. My understanding of the importance of diversity and inclusion in shaping a more equitable and inclusive global society has also been enhanced by this experience. I've excelled in the classroom, but I've also been quite active in my neighborhood. Being up in a multiethnic household broadened my perspective and taught me to appreciate the value of other people's experiences and perspectives. This is a quality that I think will help me succeed in my career. I've been able to help spread the word about the value of education and the importance of equal access to opportunities by working with neighborhood organizations that provide aid to refugees and immigrants. These events have taught me the value of collaboration and the potential for positive change that may come from a group's combined efforts. My plans for the future include completing my degree and making a positive impact on the world. My life's work is devoted to advancing environmental sustainability, human rights protection, and social equity. Whichever field my career takes me into, I want to make a difference via my work. I hope that the legacy I leave behind is just as profound and long-lasting. Since I am the product of a conservative Turkish Muslim father and an Austrian mother who did not complete her college education, I had some uncommon challenges on my path to a degree. On the other side, it has given me a new perspective on life and renewed my resolve to use my growing body of knowledge and experience to bring about good change in the world at large. I want to find a career where I can put my skills and knowledge to use promoting social justice, human rights, and ecologically responsible development, and so help bring about a more just and equitable world.
    Mental Health Importance Scholarship
    Our mental health is very important. Emotional, psychological, and social health are what allow us to deal with life's inevitable ups and downs while also appreciating the good times when they come. To live a long, healthy, and happy life, it is critical to take care of one's mental health. In this post, I'll talk about the importance of mental health and the steps I take to keep it. Taking care of one's mental health is essential for many reasons. To begin, good mental health improves our ability to deal with adversity. Unpredictability is a part of life, as is the certainty that everyone will face difficulties and disappointments. We are better able to face adversity, find solutions, and move on when we have good mental health. Furthermore, mental health enables us to form and sustain positive relationships with others. Good mental health enables us to communicate clearly, work through disagreements, and build trust and intimacy with others — all of which are necessary for living a happy and fulfilled life. Second, mental and physical health are inextricably linked. The inverse is also true: a healthy mind can aid in the prevention of a variety of physical ailments. Headaches, stomachaches, and even chronic illnesses are physical manifestations of mental health issues such as anxiety, sadness, and stress. Taking care of our mental health, as well as our emotional and psychological well-being, is essential for our overall health. To maintain good mental health, a variety of methods and practices are required. Maintaining my mental fitness requires a combination of exercise, positive thinking, and time spent doing things I enjoy. As someone who enjoys staying active, I find that regular exercise improves my mood. Regular physical activity has been shown to improve mental and emotional health. I exercise every day to keep my mind and body healthy, whether by going for a walk, working out at the gym, or participating in a sport. Maintaining a positive attitude has helped me stay motivated, reduce stress, and overcome obstacles. I try to concentrate on the good things in my life and count my many blessings. I also try to view challenges as lessons to be learned rather than problems to be solved. Last but not least, maintaining my sanity requires me to engage in activities that I enjoy. Music, sports, and automobiles have always given me joy, so I make an effort to devote time to them on a regular basis. Doing things I enjoy, such as listening to music, playing basketball with friends, and working on my car, give me a lot of satisfaction. They force me to focus on the present moment, allowing me to relax and forget about the problems I face on a daily basis. However, maintaining my mental health has not always been easy for me. I was able to identify the factors that improve and degrade my life in this manner. I discovered the importance of looking after my mental health by doing things I enjoy and exercising on a regular basis. When I was struggling, I also learned the value of seeking outside assistance. If I am experiencing mental health issues, I will not hesitate to consult with a therapist or other mental health professional. Admitting that we need help takes courage, but there is no shame in doing so. To summarize, our mental health is critical, and we need a variety of tools to keep it in good shape. My mental health routine primarily consists of doing things I enjoy, staying positive, and getting regular exercise. Keeping a positive attitude has allowed me to
    Sports Lover Scholarship
    Sports have always been essential in developing both the physical and mental capacities of its participants. People benefit in many ways, from enhanced physical and mental health to enhanced communication and group dynamics. Sports are unparalleled in their ability to help people grow in areas such as self-esteem, self-leadership, discipline, and work ethic. Soccer, in particular, has had a major influence on my life during the past 16 years as a sport. When I was very little, my dad started me off on a lifelong love of soccer. He was a huge soccer fan and often invited me to watch him play. After seeing how much he enjoyed the game, I decided to give it a try myself. I picked up competitive soccer when I was seven years old and played all the way through college. With time, soccer meant more to me than merely playing a game. It evolved into a sanctuary where I could vent my feelings and forget about the stresses of everyday life. For me, soccer has been an ever-present companion through life's hard patches. When I was 15 years old, my father passed away from cancer. It hit me hard, and I struggled with depression and thoughts of suicide as a result. When I needed someone most, however, soccer was there for me. It allowed me to divert my attention from my suffering and towards something constructive. I found my identity and strength through soccer, and it carried me through the worst periods. I participated in the varsity team, a club team, and an Olympic Development Program all through high school. Soccer not only kept me active, but it also provided me with invaluable life lessons. Working together, keeping in touch, and staying committed are all skills I honed. My personal connections and academic success are just two areas where these skills have made a profound impact. Also, thanks to soccer, I've been able to see the world and broaden my horizons. My exposure to and appreciation of many cultures has been greatly enhanced by my participation in international competitions held all around the world. In addition, I've been able to expand my social circle and made some truly wonderful friends as a result. My dream job allows me to combine my love of soccer with my career. In the future, I'd like to apply what I've learned about soccer to become a scout, so I'm presently majoring in sports management at college. My dream job would be to scout excellent players from around the world for a premier soccer club like Arsenal and help them build championship-caliber squads. Last but not least, sports, and in particular soccer, have had a major effect on me. It has given me direction in life, practical skills, and an outlet for when things go tough. In addition to influencing my professional aspirations, it has enabled me to travel and gain exposure to many cultures. I will be forever appreciative of the impact soccer has had on my life, and I look forward to many more years of playing and enjoying the game.
    Maverick Grill and Saloon Scholarship
    My formative years were spent in the stunning woodlands of Northern California, but I've never stopped being curious about the wider world. As a result, I've made it a point to go to a lot of other nations. The person who has always made the greatest impression on me is and always will be my father. I have spent my entire life trying to earn his approval because I have such high regard for him and the ambition to one day achieve the same level of success that he has achieved. One of the many things that made my father unique was the fact that he was always willing to put the needs of others ahead of his own. He has a large family and is always prepared to lend a helping hand, whether it is with them or by donating our gently used items to people in less developed countries. I am going to try to emulate his success because he has always been a source of motivation for me. During the formative years of my life, dad shared priceless knowledge with me that has been of great benefit to me throughout my life. He was an outstanding educator. Throughout those formative years, he served as both my guide and my instructor. Perspective was the most important thing I learned from my father, along with discipline, respect, persistence, determination, and trust. All of these traits were instilled in me by him. It is essential to keep in mind that every person, story, and event can be interpreted from a different point of view. Even though my father instilled in me a lot of important values such as self-discipline, respect, tenacity, dedication, and trust, it is essential to keep them in mind. For me to have a complete understanding of where I am and why I am here, I need to consider the millions of unique points of view that people in different regions of the world have. This will enable me to have a complete understanding of where I am and the conditions surrounding me right now. If it is true that knowledge is power or the key, then how can you assert that you are gaining any sort of education if all you do is take in data from a singular perspective? If you only take in information from a single angle, you can't possibly assert that you're increasing your level of understanding. When you first started collecting data, you had high hopes that you would recall quite a bit more than you do now, but unfortunately, this is not the case. Therefore, I believe that I am the most qualified candidate for your scholarship program because, after hearing all sides of the argument, I will be better able to take a step back, assess the situation, and offer solutions that will be mutually beneficial and effective. Consequently, I believe that I am the most qualified candidate for your scholarship program. I'll keep my fingers crossed that you'll get back to me soon. No, I did not travel more than halfway around the world merely to obtain a single, insignificant piece of a jigsaw puzzle. Rather, I came to finish the puzzle because I was curious about how the individual pieces would come together in the end. to complete the puzzle and view it as its whole, it is necessary to collect all of the individual pieces.
    Book Lovers Scholarship
    Why read the Bible? That's an odd question. Reading the Bible assists Jewish and Christian believers in developing and discovering their purpose. Churches read and preach from the Bible. This textbook, we believe, is mostly used in academic environments where the Bible is seen differently. Many people believe we live in a post-Christian, postmodern, secular, pluralistic world. Christianity and the Bible are no longer in power. Even religiously linked schools are becoming more diverse, reflecting society. Why the Bible? Why should you study the Bible? Why should we study the Bible academically? Ancient Near Eastern and Greco-Roman cultures are highlighted in the Bible. The Bible has the potential to boost liberal arts history and cultural studies. The Bible describes how ancient empires, such as the Assyrian, Babylonian, Persian, Seleucid, and Roman, influenced civilizations and societies. The Bible provides an unparalleled cross-cultural examination of ancient warfare, social institutions, religion, ritual, cosmologies, and cultural dynamics such as honor/shame. The Bible had an impact on Western culture. Bible stories have long had an impact on literature, music, and art. Biblical values had an impact on ethics, law, and policy. The interpretation of the Bible and European and American history are inextricably intertwined. The Bible is often used to justify Europe's and America's political, social, geographical, and economic histories (e.g., the divine right of kings, Protestant Reformation, the divine destiny of American expansion, and slavery). The Bible reveals the greatest effect of Western civilization. Third, the majority of people believe in the Bible. Many individuals revere the Bible even in a post-Christian society. Sometimes opposing political and cultural perspectives utilize the Bible. The Bible is often cited in news and information blogs. Bible-based books, movies, and television shows are popular and well-received. Why? To investigate contemporary Bible interpretations in church literature, sermons, politics, the media, and informal conversations with family and friends. Finally, devotional and academic Bible study are mutually exclusive. The literary and historical contexts of the Bible enhance it. Scholarly Bible study may aid Christians in better understanding the Bible. This textbook should help newcomers to the Bible. We want people to realize the time difference between ours and the Bible's. To assist readers to comprehend how ancient audiences regarded literature, we raise historical, literary, and theological issues. This Bible study should promote Bible study as well as intellectual curiosity.
    JADED Recovery Scholarship
    Is there anything in life worth remembering if you don't often blackout? Which would I rather do: spend the next four months as a rock star or live a sober, average life for the next four decades? Even though my life was a mess while I was drinking, at least I didn't have to plan anything for the weekend. Given my track record, I avoided making any guarantees at all. Even though I had a lot of downtimes, I was ready for boredom with a barrage of high-impact weapons. A head explosion would be entertaining to see from a distance. Even though sobriety is meant to be a fresh start, it might seem more like a never-ending homework assignment at times. There is a good reason why AA gatherings don't feature velvet ropes and long lines of people waiting to get in. Being sober is very dangerous and challenging during the first few months, and much more so for the first few years. Rather than a heroic quest, getting well is like driving across Nebraska while experiencing nausea, a headache, and only AM radio. Simply put, I'm still with it because I want to go. Although I'd rather not put on my rose-colored glasses once again, I'm not helping anybody by pretending that alcohol's positive effects never existed. Since I was enjoying myself at the time, these memories bring back a flood of positive emotions. For the longest time, the idea that I was an alcoholic never crossed my mind. When I first began drinking, I thought that meant I was happy. People like to be in the company of those who exude positivity and self-assurance, even if they are aware that a scathing rant or a sobbing episode may break out at any time for no apparent reason. When I was drinking, I had a lot of fun with my friends. Building a network of friends requires venturing out of your comfort zone and engaging in activities that interest you. Once my only focus became a happy hour, I had no problem meeting new people. Since we all knew we'd soon forget what was said, the conversation flowed effortlessly and the stakes were minimal. We hit it off because we shared a belief in our intelligence and wit rather than because of any actual common ground. I assumed that if I could communicate without spitting, slurring, or losing my temper, my social life would improve. But I gave up a lot of the cocky stupidity that was one of my selling points. It used to be that I had many friends, but now it's not so. No one is following me anymore, not even internet ads. When I finally put down the bottle, I realized I had nothing in common with the people I'd been hanging out with. Although I am still here, I have no clue where everyone else is. Last but not least, the difficulty was that while I was wondering whether I had a social life at all, my academic life was dwindling. My overall course load began to decrease. I was severely affected by this since keeping up with my academic performance was crucial to me, but I let my preoccupation with finding new acquaintances distract me from this priority. After giving up alcohol in October, my grades began to improve, and I was able to graduate with a 3.85 GPA. The fact that I am still here and in good health every day is a blessing, and I am proud of what I have accomplished.
    Supermom Scholarship
    Previously, my father was the strongest figure in my life. He was there for me, by my side 24/7 and it meant the world to me until he passed away from stage 4 pancreatic cancer in 2019. My mom and I previously used to engage in many disagreements as I was not nearly appreciative enough of my mom at the time. I only saw my father coming to every sports game, taking me out to eat, and buying me this and that which led me to have a much stronger love for my dad when I was younger. However, once he was no longer there, it was a real cultural shock. The culture of the house became different, it was so quiet you can almost still hear him yelling from the TV room just because you want to. Normally in this situation, the entire family essentially breaks apart. It's really difficult keeping together what once was when you feel such a large black hole in the center for such a strong period. Before everything went down, my mom was always a hard worker, working as a medical assistant however after, her and my role increased massively. My mom quit her job and began to take care of my dad full-time. I could barely be in a room with him for 30 minutes which is why I know the mental strength it takes to keep your emotions in check when you are taking care of a loved one. My mom hardly cried to stay strong for me, the house was spotlessly clean every day like it previously was, and there was a warm breakfast every morning for me. Previously, my mom needed help just logging into her computer, now she is thriving online, doing her own taxes, calling company after company, dealing with insurance, mortgage, home owners association and so much more. I honestly don't know how she does it. I really took my mother for granted. She is the greatest mother I could have ever asked for and one of the strongest women I know. Today she is struggling to make ends meet as a nanny for a rich woman just to try to give me a better life. Seeing her do all of this honestly breaks my heart and It would bring me to tears to be able to have this scholarship and make her life a little easier!
    Scholarship for Sports Majors
    Without sports, I wouldn't be who I am today. Unlike politics, sports is a driving force where people connect and throw their differences aside. This is why Soccer especially but sports in general are so important to me. It doesn't matter who you are, where you come from, how much money you have, or how you look, once your own the field or court, everyone is the same and has the same goal. I started playing sports first when I was around 4 years old. I started with Basketball, Tae Kwon Do, and Soccer. As I got older, and increasingly more competitive, I had to slowly choose which sport I was going to pursue, I chose soccer. To this day, all the friends I spend my time with and communicate with are all from my soccer team. There is a certain strength of bond, and brotherhood growing up together on a team, counting on each other. It develops a special kind of relationship outside of class that you don't build with your regular peers as often. Ever since I was a small child, it was a dream of mine to play for Arsenal F.C. I worked my butt off day in, and day out. At one point my club soccer team, Westside Northbay Timbers was 15th in the Nation. My high school Varsity soccer team won our league the first year and continued to make it to the finals the following two years. Sports are in my DNA. My dad was a coach of mine while I was younger and as I become older he still coached me 24/7 which helped me understand the game extremely well. He wanted me to succeed more than I wanted to succeed at the time. Sadly he is no longer able to witness my future after he passed. As a result, I vowed to make him proud every single day by dreaming to be able to affect Arsenal F.C.'s chance of winning the league in anyway I can. I decided the best way to do that is to become a sports scout for the club team, which would be a dream of mine. To be able to travel around the world for my occupation and scout talent to make a difference in a Club that has single handily changed my life completely. Without them, I wouldn't be here today. I want to return the favor.