Responsibility came early in my life, earlier than it does for many children. When my parents separated when I was four years old, my childhood quickly became divided between two homes. What might seem like a small logistical challenge at first, moving between houses, soon taught me lessons that would shape how I approached school, responsibility, and my future. From a young age, I learned that staying organized and accountable for my own belongings and schoolwork was not optional. It was necessary. That early responsibility pushed me to mature faster than many of my peers, and over time it helped me develop the discipline and independence that now guide my educational goals. Growing up between two households meant constantly planning ahead. I had to remember which assignments, books, and supplies I needed for the next day and ensure they traveled with me between homes. Forgetting something was rarely an easy fix, if a homework assignment or textbook was left behind, I often had to find another solution or accept the consequences at school the next day. While other children could rely on having everything in one place, I learned that my success depended on how well I prepared myself. At first, these responsibilities felt overwhelming for someone so young. However, they gradually became habits that strengthened my independence. I learned to double-check my backpack before leaving one house, think through my schedule for the next day, and take ownership of my work. Over time, this routine built a level of self-discipline that would become one of my greatest academic strengths. Instead of seeing organization and responsibility as burdens, I began to understand them as tools that could help me succeed. These experiences also shaped the way I viewed education. School was never just something I attended each day, it became a pathway to building stability and creating opportunities for my future. Because I had already learned that preparation and effort mattered, I approached my education with a sense of purpose. I understood that the work I put into school could determine the possibilities available to me later in life. This mindset eventually led me to pursue one of the most challenging academic goals I have set for myself. Earning my associate’s degree at the same time I graduate from high school. Choosing to take on college-level coursework while still completing my high school education required a level of commitment that many students do not face until later in their academic journeys. It meant managing multiple classes, meeting higher academic expectations, and staying motivated through a demanding workload. Balancing both high school and college courses forced me to refine the discipline I had developed growing up. Time management became essential. I had to carefully plan my schedule, prioritize assignments, and remain focused even when deadlines and responsibilities overlapped. There were moments when the workload felt overwhelming, and it would have been easy to fall behind or lower my expectations for myself. However, each challenge reminded me of the resilience I had built from an early age. The same responsibility that once helped me navigate two homes now helped me navigate two levels of education at once. Completing both programs simultaneously has been one of the most rewarding achievements of my academic journey. Not only has it strengthened my academic skills, but it has also reinforced my confidence in my ability to pursue ambitious goals. This experience has shown me that with determination, discipline, and the right mindset, challenges can become opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. Education has given me more than knowledge; it has given me direction. Through my academic experiences, I have discovered a strong interest in business and entrepreneurship. I am fascinated by how businesses grow, how investments can create long-term stability, and how strategic decision-making can shape success. These interests have inspired my goal to pursue a business degree and continue building the knowledge necessary to succeed in the business world. In the future, I hope to use my education to create opportunities not only for myself but also for others. Entrepreneurship has the power to strengthen communities, create jobs, and provide stability for families. By pursuing higher education and developing strong business skills, I want to contribute to building businesses and opportunities that have a positive and lasting impact. Looking back, the challenges I faced growing up between two households shaped me in ways I did not fully understand at the time. What once felt like a difficult adjustment became the foundation for the discipline, organization, and resilience that define my approach to education today. Those early lessons prepared me to take on demanding academic goals and gave me the confidence to pursue a future filled with possibility. Education has provided the direction and tools I need to transform challenges into progress. It has allowed me to grow from a young child learning responsibility too early into a student ready to pursue ambitious goals and meaningful opportunities. As I continue my academic journey, I carry forward the lessons that shaped me, discipline, perseverance, and determination, and I am committed to using my education to build a better future for myself and to contribute positively to the world around me.

Growing up with a stepfather who served in the National Guard and later built his own real estate business has deeply influenced both my personal values and my future goals. Watching his journey has shown me what discipline, perseverance, and leadership look like in everyday life. His military service instilled in him a strong work ethic and commitment to responsibility, while his entrepreneurial path demonstrated how those same qualities can be used to create opportunities for oneself and others. Witnessing these two sides of his life has inspired my passion for business and shaped the direction of my educational and career ambitions. My stepfather’s military service taught me lessons long before I fully understood their meaning. The values he carried from the National Guard, discipline, accountability, and resilience, became part of the environment in which I grew up. He approached challenges with determination and believed strongly in finishing what you start. These values influenced how I approached school, pushing me to work hard, stay organized, and remain focused on long-term goals even when tasks felt difficult. His service also gave me a deeper respect for commitment and sacrifice, reminding me that success often requires patience, persistence, and the willingness to put in consistent effort over time. In addition to his military background, my stepfather’s entrepreneurial journey has had an equally powerful impact on me. After serving, he built his own real estate LLC, purchasing properties and renting them out. I have watched him research opportunities, evaluate risks, manage investments, and solve problems that arise with properties and tenants. Seeing the real-world side of business showed me that entrepreneurship is not just about making money, it is about strategic thinking, responsibility, and creating something sustainable through hard work. Through his example, I became fascinated with how businesses operate and how investments can create long-term financial stability. These experiences sparked my interest in studying business in college. I want to understand the financial, managerial, and strategic aspects that allow businesses to grow and succeed. My goal is to major in business so I can develop the skills necessary to pursue my own ventures in the future. Inspired by my stepfather’s work in real estate, I also plan to obtain my real estate license when I turn eighteen. Real estate represents both opportunity and independence, and I am excited by the idea of learning how to identify promising properties, manage investments, and help others find places they can call home. Combining a business education with real estate experience will allow me to build a strong foundation for a career in entrepreneurship. Ultimately, my stepfather’s path, from military service to business ownership, has shown me that discipline and initiative can open doors to meaningful opportunities. His example motivates me to pursue higher education with purpose and to develop the knowledge and skills necessary to build a successful career. By following the values he has demonstrated, I hope to create my own path in business while continuing the legacy of determination and hard work that he modeled for me.

This scholarship’s mission to empower women through knowledge, curiosity, and participation in STEM strongly reflects the path I hope to pursue in my own education and career. For me, STEM is not just about technology or data—it is about using knowledge and problem-solving skills to create opportunities and inspire others to explore fields they may not have believed were accessible to them. My interest in STEM developed through my curiosity about technology and how data can be used to solve real-world problems. As I continued exploring this interest, I became especially interested in the field of business analytics. Business analytics combines technology, statistics, and critical thinking to help organizations understand complex problems and make better decisions. I am drawn to this field because it allows me to apply analytical thinking while also creating meaningful impact through data-driven solutions. At the same time, I have become aware of how important representation and encouragement are for young women interested in STEM. Many girls grow up believing that fields like computer science, engineering, or analytics are not meant for them. I have seen firsthand how this lack of encouragement can discourage talented and curious students from exploring their interests. Because of this, I have made an effort to help introduce younger students to technology and coding through volunteer work in local elementary schools. By teaching the fundamentals of coding and robotics, I hope to show students especially young girls that STEM can be creative, engaging, and accessible. Seeing students successfully write simple code or control a robot for the first time is incredibly rewarding because it builds confidence and curiosity. These small moments of discovery can inspire students to explore interests they may not have considered before. Beyond volunteering, I have also worked hard academically and personally to pursue my goals in STEM. I graduated high school early and am currently completing my associate’s degree while working nearly full time to help fund my continued education. These experiences have strengthened my determination and shown me the importance of perseverance when pursuing opportunities in challenging fields. In the future, I plan to continue my education at Florida Southern College and pursue a degree in business analytics. Through this field, I hope to apply technology and data analysis to help organizations solve problems and operate more effectively. However, I also want to continue supporting efforts that encourage young women to explore STEM fields and feel confident pursuing careers in technology and data science. Communities like the one this scholarship hopes to foster are incredibly important because they create spaces where women can support, encourage, and inspire one another. When women share knowledge, curiosity, and opportunities in STEM, they help build a future where innovation is shaped by diverse perspectives and experiences. Being part of a community that values curiosity, education, and empowerment would not only support my academic goals but also strengthen my commitment to helping others discover their potential in STEM.

It only takes one word to make you realize how fragile life can be: cancer. In that moment, the things that once felt important fade away, and what remains is the strength, courage, and love that carry people through the hardest battles. Cancer has affected my family in ways that have deeply shaped how I view strength, resilience, and the importance of supporting the people we love. Two of the people in my family who have faced this challenge are my great aunt Linda and my aunt Bethany. Watching both of them go through cancer treatments has been difficult, but it has also taught me powerful lessons about perseverance and the strength that comes from refusing to give up. My great aunt Linda was diagnosed with breast cancer, which was a frightening experience for our entire family. A cancer diagnosis often brings uncertainty and fear, not only for the person facing it but for everyone who cares about them. Seeing someone you love go through treatments and the physical and emotional toll that cancer can take is incredibly difficult. However, my great aunt handled the situation with courage and determination. Her strength reminded me that even in the face of something as overwhelming as cancer, hope and resilience can make an incredible difference. My aunt Bethany’s experience with cancer has also had a profound impact on me. She has gone through multiple rounds of cancer treatments, and even after periods where she was considered cancer-free, the disease returned. Each time she has had to face that news again, she has shown an incredible amount of courage. Watching her continue to fight, even after experiencing setbacks, has been both emotional and inspiring. She refuses to let cancer define her or take away her determination to keep moving forward. Seeing both of these women face cancer has shown me how powerful the human spirit can be. Their strength has reminded me that resilience is not about never facing challenges, but about continuing to fight even when things feel overwhelming. Cancer is not just a medical battle; it is an emotional and mental one as well. Watching them remain hopeful and determined through treatments and uncertainty has taught me the importance of maintaining hope, even during the most difficult times. Their experiences have also helped me understand how important family support is during moments like these. When someone is going through cancer treatment, the encouragement and love of family members can make a tremendous difference. Even small acts of support, checking in, spending time together, or simply reminding someone that they are not alone, can provide strength during an incredibly challenging time. Through these experiences, I have learned to appreciate the resilience of the people around me and the importance of never taking time with loved ones for granted. Most importantly, watching my great aunt Linda and my aunt Bethany continue to fight has taught me that strength is not about avoiding hardship, but about refusing to give up. Their determination has inspired me to approach challenges in my own life with the same perseverance, courage, and hope.

You should consider me for this scholarship because I am deeply committed to my education, to serving my community, and to using the opportunities I receive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. My academic achievements, work ethic, volunteer experiences, and personal background have all shaped my determination to pursue higher education and build a future where I can use my talents to help people and create positive change. One of my proudest academic accomplishments was graduating high school early in December. This decision required a great deal of discipline, time management, and focus. I knew that graduating early would allow me to begin working toward my future goals sooner and demonstrate my commitment to my education. After graduating, I immediately began pursuing my associate’s degree, which I will complete this spring. Throughout this process, I have challenged myself academically while continuing to stay focused on my long-term plans for higher education. In addition to my academic responsibilities, I work nearly full time in the fulfillment department at Walmart. Balancing work and school has not always been easy, but it has taught me invaluable lessons about responsibility, perseverance, and independence. Working while attending school has allowed me to begin saving money for my continued education because I am largely responsible for paying for my own college expenses. This experience has strengthened my work ethic and motivated me to stay focused on my goals. Every shift I work and every class I complete brings me one step closer to achieving the future I have been working toward. Beyond academics and work, community involvement has always been an important part of my life. I strongly believe that education and opportunity come with a responsibility to give back and support others. One way I have done this is through volunteering at the Midwest Food Bank. During my time volunteering there, I have helped sort and prepare food that will be distributed to shelters, food pantries, and organizations that serve families in need. Being part of an effort that directly helps people in my community has been incredibly meaningful. It has shown me how small acts of service, when combined with the efforts of many people, can make a significant difference. I have also volunteered through the Hudson Area Public Library’s teen program, where I have helped with activities that support younger members of the community. In addition, I have had the opportunity to introduce elementary school students to the basics of coding and robotics. Teaching these lessons has been one of the most rewarding experiences I have had because it allows me to share my interest in technology while encouraging young students to explore skills they might not otherwise encounter. This is especially important to me because many students, particularly young girls, are not always encouraged to pursue interests in computer science or technology. Being able to show them that coding can be creative, exciting, and accessible helps build confidence and curiosity that can last far beyond the classroom. Another activity that has been especially meaningful to me is coaching my younger brother’s soccer team. Coaching has allowed me to mentor younger athletes while helping them develop teamwork, confidence, and perseverance. Youth sports are about much more than competition; they are about building character, learning how to work together, and encouraging one another. Through coaching, I have learned that leadership often means supporting others, helping them overcome challenges, and celebrating their progress. My personal experiences have also shaped my determination and resilience. Growing up in a blended family meant adjusting to two households after my parents separated when I was young. While that experience was difficult at times, it ultimately gave me a strong support system. My parents and step-parents have always worked hard to support me and encourage my goals. Having multiple parental figures who care deeply about my success has taught me the importance of cooperation, communication, and perseverance even when situations are not always easy. Looking ahead, I plan to continue my education at Florida Southern College in Lakeland, Florida, where I intend to pursue a degree in business analytics. I am drawn to this field because I enjoy problem solving and working with technology to better understand complex challenges. Business analytics allows professionals to analyze data, identify patterns, and help organizations make more informed decisions. I am excited by the opportunity to use data and analytical thinking to help organizations operate more effectively and responsibly. However, my goals extend beyond professional success. I also want to continue giving back to the communities around me. Whether through volunteer work, mentoring younger students, or supporting programs that encourage young people to explore technology and education, I hope to use my experiences to inspire and support others. The opportunities I have received through my education and community have played an important role in shaping who I am today, and I want to ensure that I help create similar opportunities for others in the future. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to continue pursuing my education while reducing the financial burden of college. Because I am working to fund my education myself, financial support makes a significant difference in my ability to focus on my studies and take advantage of opportunities for learning and growth. This scholarship would not only support my academic journey but also reinforce my commitment to working hard, serving my community, and using my education to make a positive impact. I believe my dedication to education, my work ethic, and my commitment to service demonstrate why I would be a strong candidate for this scholarship. I am determined to continue growing, learning, and contributing to the world around me, and I am grateful for any opportunity that helps make that possible.

Growing up in a blended family has shaped who I am in ways that I did not fully understand when I was younger. My parents separated when I was four years old, and from that point on I split my time between two households. As a child, that adjustment was difficult. Moving back and forth between homes and only getting half of my time with each parent sometimes made me feel like I was missing out on moments that other families might take for granted. Over time, however, I began to realize that my family situation also gave me something incredibly valuable. While my parents were no longer together, they both worked hard to make sure I felt supported and cared for. As they each built new lives, I also gained step-parents who became important parts of my support system. Instead of losing family, I gained two more people who care about me deeply and want to see me succeed. Having four parental figures who are willing to work together to support me has taught me important lessons about cooperation, patience, and understanding. Even though blended families can sometimes be complicated, my parents and step-parents have always tried to prioritize what was best for me. Seeing them communicate, compromise, and support my goals helped me understand the importance of working together even when situations are not perfect. Growing up in this kind of environment also helped me become more adaptable and independent. Learning to adjust to different households, routines, and perspectives taught me how to be flexible and understanding of others. It helped me develop stronger communication skills and an appreciation for the fact that families can look different for everyone. These experiences have shaped how I approach relationships and challenges in my own life. Because of the support I received from my family, I have always felt encouraged to pursue my goals and work hard for the future I want. I graduated high school early and am currently working toward completing my associate’s degree while working to save money for my continued education. I plan to pursue a degree in business analytics and continue building skills in technology and problem solving. In the future, I hope to use my education and talents to help others. Whether through my career or through volunteer work, I want to contribute to causes that support people in my community. I have already been able to do this through volunteering at the Midwest Food Bank, helping with programs at my local library, and mentoring younger students through activities like coaching and teaching basic coding. These experiences have shown me that even small efforts can make a meaningful difference in someone’s life. Growing up in a blended family taught me that support can come from many different places and that strong relationships are built through effort, understanding, and care. Because of that, I want to continue using the opportunities I have been given to help others, encourage those around me, and give back to the communities that have supported me along the way.

“Distance, timing, breakdown, fighting, silence, the train runs off its tracks, kiss me, try to fix it, could you just try to listen?” encapsulates the quiet devastation that comes when a relationship slowly falls apart. Rather than describing a dramatic ending, the song focuses on the slow unraveling of something that once felt meaningful. The tragedy of the song is not just the breakup itself, but the realization that the relationship may have been damaged beyond repair long before either person was ready to admit it. In the song, Swift mourns the loss of what could have been while also turning the blame inward. She references “demons” that all look like her, suggesting that the internal battles she carries might be part of what caused the relationship to collapse. This self-reflection makes the song particularly powerful. Instead of portraying heartbreak as something caused entirely by the other person, she confronts the uncomfortable possibility that both people contributed to the tragedy. The result is a feeling of quiet regret, two people who may have loved each other but could not make things work. These themes appear throughout Red, where Swift constantly revisits the moment relationships began to fall apart and tries to understand why. One example is The Moment I Knew, which centers on the painful realization that someone she loved did not show up when it mattered most. The song describes a birthday party where the one person she was waiting for never arrives. When she sings, “That was the moment I knew,” it represents a quiet but devastating turning point. Just like Sad Beautiful Tragic, the heartbreak lies in the realization that something meaningful has already slipped away. Another song that deepens these themes is All Too Well. In this track, Swift reflects on a relationship filled with vivid memories that continue to replay in her mind even after the relationship has ended. She describes moments that once felt magical but now carry a painful sense of loss. The relationship’s downfall seems sudden, yet the lyrics hint that there were signs all along that something was wrong. When she sings about how the other person never fully called the relationship love, it reveals a painful imbalance, one person holding on to something the other was never fully committed to. The memories linger, making it impossible to fully move on. This emotional cycle continues in I Almost Do, another song from the same album. Here, Swift captures the struggle between longing and self-protection. She still feels the urge to call the person she once loved, but she knows that doing so would reopen wounds that took time to heal. When she admits that it takes everything in her not to reach out, it highlights the lingering pull of a relationship that once meant everything. The restraint itself becomes painful, every moment of silence represents a battle between the past and the present. Together, these songs show why Red resonates so deeply with listeners. The album captures heartbreak in all of its complexity, regret, nostalgia, longing, and the painful clarity that comes after something ends. Rather than portraying love in simple terms, Swift explores how relationships can be messy, confusing, and emotionally overwhelming. That emotional depth is the reason Red is the most moving. The lyrics are so intense, detailed, and honest that they feel incredibly real. Swift’s storytelling allows listeners to see pieces of their own experiences reflected in the songs. Because of that, the album doesn’t just tell one story, it becomes a collection of emotions that many people can recognize and connect with in their own lives.

Sports have always been an important part of my life, not only as a form of competition and recreation, but also as a way to bring people together and build confidence, teamwork, and leadership. My experiences playing recreational sports and coaching my younger brother’s soccer team have shown me how powerful sports can be in shaping young people’s lives. These experiences are what inspire me to pursue a career connected to sports, where I can combine my passion for athletics with my interest in business analytics. One of the most meaningful parts of my involvement in sports has been coaching my younger brother’s soccer team. Coaching has allowed me to see the impact that encouragement, mentorship, and leadership can have on young athletes. Many of the players are still learning the basics of the game, but they are also learning valuable life skills such as teamwork, communication, and perseverance. Watching them improve and gain confidence throughout the season has been incredibly rewarding. It has shown me that sports are not just about winning games, but about helping individuals grow and develop both on and off the field. This experience has also helped me recognize how much strategy and data can influence success in sports. Teams and organizations increasingly rely on data analysis to evaluate performance, make strategic decisions, and improve training methods. As someone who plans to study business analytics, I am excited about the opportunity to apply analytical skills to the world of sports. By analyzing performance data, player statistics, and game strategies, analysts can help teams better understand what contributes to success and how they can continue improving. In the future, I hope to work in a role where I can use data and analytics to support sports organizations and athletes. Business analytics can help teams make smarter decisions about player development, game strategy, and resource management. It can also help organizations improve fan engagement, manage operations more efficiently, and create better experiences for the communities that support them. Beyond the analytical side of sports, I also hope to continue contributing to the personal development of young athletes. Coaching my brother’s team has shown me how important mentorship is in sports, especially for younger players who are still developing confidence and discipline. I want to continue supporting youth sports programs and helping create environments where young athletes feel encouraged and supported. Sports have the ability to inspire people, build communities, and teach lessons that last far beyond the field. My goal is to contribute to that impact by combining my passion for athletics with my interest in data and problem solving. Whether through analytics, mentorship, or community involvement, I hope to help teams perform at their best while also ensuring that sports continue to be a positive and meaningful experience for athletes and fans alike.

My name is Bailey Michaels, and I grew up in central Illinois in communities that shaped both my values and my goals for the future. I was originally from Homer, Illinois, a small town just outside of Champaign where the sense of community was strong and everyone seemed to know and support each other. Later, I moved to Bloomington, Illinois, where I continued my education and became involved in activities that allowed me to give back to my community. Growing up in these environments taught me the importance of connection, responsibility, and helping others whenever possible. Family has always played an important role in my life. I am very close with my family, including my younger brother, who I often help coach in soccer. Coaching his team has been one of the ways I have been able to support my family while also mentoring younger kids in my community. My parents have always encouraged independence and responsibility, trusting me to make decisions about my future and work hard toward my goals. Because of this, I have taken on the responsibility of planning and paying for my education largely on my own, which has strengthened my work ethic and determination. Academically, I chose to challenge myself by graduating high school early in December. After graduating, I immediately began working toward my associate’s degree, which I will complete this spring. While continuing my education, I have also been working nearly full time in the fulfillment department at Walmart. Balancing school and work has required strong time management and discipline, but it has also helped me develop independence and financial responsibility as I save money to support my future education. In addition to school and work, I stay involved in my community through volunteer work. I volunteer with the Midwest Food Bank, where I help sort and prepare food for organizations that serve families in need. I also volunteer with the Hudson Area Public Library’s teen program and have helped introduce younger students to coding and robotics through local elementary school programs. These experiences have allowed me to combine my interest in technology with my desire to mentor and support younger students. Looking ahead, I plan to continue my education at Florida Southern College in Lakeland, Florida, where I hope to pursue a degree in business analytics. I have always been interested in problem solving, technology, and using data to better understand challenges and develop solutions. My goal is to build a career where I can use data analysis to help organizations make informed decisions while also continuing to give back to communities through volunteer work and mentorship. Although leaving Bloomington will be difficult because it has been such an important part of my life, I believe that stepping outside of my comfort zone will allow me to grow both personally and professionally. My experiences so far have taught me the value of hard work, service, and perseverance, and I plan to carry those lessons with me as I pursue my education and future career.

One of the most meaningful ways I have given back to my community has been through organizing and participating in volunteer efforts at the Midwest Food Bank and helping with youth-focused programs in my area. Growing up in smaller communities like Homer and Bloomington, Illinois taught me the importance of community support and the impact that service can have on people’s lives. Because of this, I have always looked for opportunities to help others and encourage those around me to get involved as well. While volunteering with the Midwest Food Bank, I helped organize shifts where volunteers worked together to pick and sort groceries that would later be distributed to shelters, food pantries, and organizations serving families in need. During one of these volunteer sessions, our team spent several hours selecting food items and loading them into trucks that would be delivered to local programs. Helping organize volunteers and ensuring that tasks were completed efficiently required communication and teamwork. Seeing how much food could be prepared and distributed in just a few hours showed me how powerful collective service can be when people work together toward a shared goal. In addition to volunteering at the food bank, I have also given back to my community by working with youth programs. I volunteer through the Hudson Area Public Library’s teen program and coach my younger brother’s soccer team. These experiences have allowed me to support younger members of my community while helping them build confidence and teamwork skills. Coaching soccer has been especially meaningful because it allows me to mentor young players and help them learn not only the fundamentals of the game, but also the importance of encouragement, responsibility, and supporting their teammates. Through these experiences, I have learned that leadership through service is about more than simply organizing an event or completing volunteer hours. True leadership means being willing to step forward, encourage others to participate, and create an environment where everyone feels motivated to contribute. A strong leader in service focuses on helping others succeed and ensuring that the impact of the work benefits the community as a whole. Leadership through service is important because it inspires others to get involved and strengthens communities. When people see someone taking initiative and giving their time to help others, they are often more likely to do the same. Service creates a ripple effect where one act of kindness or leadership can encourage many others to contribute. My volunteer experiences have shown me that even small actions can create meaningful change. Whether organizing volunteers at a food bank, mentoring younger students, or helping with community programs, leadership through service allows individuals to make a positive difference in the lives of others. As I continue my education and pursue my career goals, I plan to carry these values with me and remain committed to serving and supporting the communities I am part of.

Sustainability should be a priority in the field of business analytics because data plays a powerful role in how organizations make decisions that affect both the economy and the environment. Businesses today generate and rely on large amounts of data to guide operations, production, supply chains, and long-term planning. Business analysts help interpret that data and provide insights that influence those decisions. Because of this, professionals in business analytics have a unique opportunity, and responsibility, to help organizations reduce waste, improve efficiency, and make more environmentally responsible choices. One of the most important ways business analytics contributes to sustainability is through identifying inefficiencies. Data analysis can reveal patterns in energy usage, supply chains, and production processes that companies may not notice otherwise. By analyzing this information, businesses can reduce unnecessary resource use, lower emissions, and operate more efficiently. For example, data can help companies optimize shipping routes, reduce excess inventory, or identify ways to minimize packaging and material waste. Small improvements in efficiency across large organizations can result in significant environmental benefits. My interest in business analytics comes from my passion for problem solving and using data to improve decision making. I believe that sustainability and responsible business practices should be integrated into those decisions whenever possible. Businesses are not only responsible for generating profits, but also for understanding how their operations impact the communities and environments around them. With the right data and analysis, companies can make choices that benefit both their organization and the world they operate in. In the future, I hope to contribute to sustainability efforts by using analytics to help organizations measure and reduce their environmental impact. Data can be used to track energy consumption, waste production, and carbon emissions, allowing businesses to better understand where improvements can be made. By turning complex data into clear insights, analysts can help leaders see the long-term value of sustainable practices. Often, environmentally responsible decisions also lead to cost savings and improved efficiency, making sustainability both an ethical and practical priority. My experiences growing up in smaller communities and volunteering in my area have also shaped how I view environmental responsibility. Community organizations rely on shared resources, and protecting those resources benefits everyone. Whether volunteering at the Midwest Food Bank or working within my community, I have seen how responsible management of resources can help organizations serve more people while reducing waste. As I continue studying business analytics and pursue my education at Florida Southern College, I hope to develop the skills needed to analyze complex systems and identify solutions that support both business success and environmental responsibility. In the long term, I want to work in a role where I can help organizations make smarter, more sustainable decisions using data. Sustainability should not be seen as an obstacle to business growth, but rather as an opportunity to innovate and operate more responsibly. Through the power of data and thoughtful analysis, business analytics professionals can help create solutions that reduce environmental impact while supporting long-term economic success.

One social issue I care deeply about is the lack of encouragement and exposure young students receive in computer science, especially young women. In my community, there is a noticeable lack of inspiration and access to opportunities that introduce students to coding, robotics, and technology at an early age. To help address this issue, I volunteer at local elementary schools where I teach students the fundamentals of coding and robotics. My goal is to show them that computer science is not something to be intimidated by, but something they can explore, enjoy, and potentially pursue in the future. When students are first introduced to coding, many of them assume it is too difficult or that it is only meant for certain kinds of people. This belief often comes from societal stereotypes that discourage some students, particularly girls, from seeing themselves in technology-related careers. I have noticed that many young girls are interested and curious about how computers and robots work, but they sometimes hesitate to participate because they feel that those interests are not encouraged as much as they should be. Through volunteering, I try to create an environment where every student feels comfortable experimenting, asking questions, and making mistakes while learning. I teach them simple coding concepts such as sequencing, problem solving, and logical thinking through beginner-friendly robotics activities and coding exercises. Watching students realize that they can control a robot or write a simple piece of code is incredibly rewarding. That moment of excitement often helps them see that technology is something they are capable of understanding. One of the most important parts of this experience is encouraging students to believe in their abilities. When young people are exposed to computer science early, they begin to see it as a normal and achievable path rather than something that feels out of reach. This is especially important for girls who may not see as many role models in technology fields. By volunteering my time and sharing my enthusiasm for coding, I hope to show them that their interests are valid and that they belong in spaces where innovation and creativity happen. This issue matters to me because I believe that talent exists everywhere, but opportunity does not always reach everyone equally. Many students in my area simply do not have the resources or encouragement to explore technology, even if they have the potential to thrive in it. By introducing coding and robotics in elementary schools, I hope to spark curiosity and confidence that will stay with them as they grow older. While my efforts may seem small, I believe meaningful change often begins with simple actions. If even a few students leave those lessons feeling inspired or more confident about their abilities, then the experience has made a difference. By helping young students and especially young women, discover their interest in computer science, I hope to contribute to a future where technology fields are more inclusive, diverse, and accessible for everyone.

My name is Bailey Michaels. I graduated early from high school in December and am currently working toward my associate’s degree, which I will complete this spring. After finishing my associate’s degree, I plan to move from Bloomington, Illinois, to attend Florida Southern College in Lakeland, Florida. It has always been my dream to leave Bloomington, not because I dislike it, but because I love it too much. Bloomington has given me a sense of comfort and community that is difficult to leave behind. It is the perfect location, close enough for a weekend in Chicago or a day trip to Champaign, where much of my family lives. At the same time, I have always known that if I stayed too long, I might never push myself to experience new opportunities and grow beyond the place that feels familiar. Before moving to Bloomington, I lived in Homer, Illinois, just outside of Champaign. Growing up in a small town allowed me to experience a strong sense of community where everyone knew and supported each other. That sense of connection shaped many of the things I value today, especially the importance of giving back. I currently volunteer with the Midwest Food Bank and the Hudson Area Public Library through their teen program. Both opportunities have allowed me to contribute to my community while learning the importance of service and leadership. Outside of volunteering, I enjoy staying active in my community. I play pickleball in a local recreation league and coach my younger brother’s soccer team. Coaching has been especially meaningful to me because it allows me to mentor younger players while helping them build confidence and teamwork skills. In addition to school and volunteering, I work nearly full time in the fulfillment department at Walmart. I have been saving as much as possible to help pay for my education in Florida. My parents have always trusted me to take responsibility for my own future, and while I am proud to be working toward that goal independently, the financial reality of college is still challenging. Receiving this scholarship would significantly ease the financial burden of continuing my education. It would allow me to focus more on my academic goals and community involvement rather than worrying about how I will afford tuition and living expenses. More importantly, it would bring me one step closer to achieving my dream of continuing my education at Florida Southern College and building a future where I can grow both personally and professionally. I am committed to working hard, continuing to give back to my community, and making the most of every opportunity that higher education provides.

Too often, “The loudest support someone receives comes after their funeral,” a quote from my friend’s mother after her daughter died by suicide. Her words highlight a painful reality: many people only recognize the depth of someone’s struggles after it is too late. Suicide is not simply the result of reckless behavior. It becomes a problem when someone, regardless of age, feels that the only escape from their situation is to end their own life. Suicide is an especially important conversation among teenagers. Not only are teens themselves at risk, but their words and actions can sometimes contribute to the struggles of others. Bullying, whether in person or online, can have lasting effects that people often underestimate. What may seem like a small joke or comment can deeply affect someone who is already struggling. Because of this, it is important for teenagers to understand the weight their words can carry. Encouraging kindness and awareness can help prevent situations where someone feels isolated or hopeless. Beyond bullying, conversations about suicide prevention are critical because the warning signs are not always obvious. Many people who plan to take their own lives appear happier or calmer in the days leading up to it. Sometimes this happens because they believe they have finally found a way to escape their pain. Recognizing these changes and reaching out can make a difference. Often, people who are hurting most simply need someone who cares enough to ask if they are okay and truly listen to their answer. My own experiences with mental health have influenced many aspects of my life, from my performance in school to how I approach challenges. During my junior year of high school, I experienced an overwhelming amount of stress. Eventually, I was diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder. Before receiving that diagnosis, I felt hopeless and confused. I believed that everyone else was able to cope with these intense feelings while I could not. I was not only worried about school and the changes happening in my life, but I was also afraid that something was wrong with me. Once I learned that not everyone constantly experienced the same level of anxiety that I did, I finally began to understand what I was going through. That realization allowed me to seek help and develop healthier ways to manage stress. After experiencing several anxiety attacks due to feeling overwhelmed with schoolwork and expectations, I began to recognize how important mental health awareness and support truly are. These experiences have shaped both my personal goals and my career aspirations. I plan to pursue a career in business analytics because I enjoy analyzing data, solving problems, and helping organizations make better decisions. However, success for me is not only defined by professional achievements. I also want to dedicate time outside of my career to volunteer work that supports individuals who feel overlooked, undervalued, or alone. Whether through mentorship, community programs, or mental health awareness initiatives, I hope to use my experiences to remind others that their struggles are valid and that they are not alone. My journey has taught me that understanding, compassion, and simply being willing to listen can have a powerful impact on someone’s life. If sharing my story or volunteering my time helps even one person feel supported before it is too late, then it will be worth it.