Being a student-athlete has played a huge role in shaping my future career goals. As a cheerleader, I’ve developed discipline, teamwork, and perseverance—qualities that extend beyond the sidelines and into my daily life. Cheer requires dedication, physical and mental strength, and the ability to work well with others, all of which have helped me grow as both an athlete and an individual. Balancing school, practices, and competitions has strengthened my time management skills and taught me how to stay focused under pressure. These experiences have prepared me to handle challenges in any career path I choose. One of the most rewarding aspects of cheerleading is the opportunity to uplift and support others. Whether it’s motivating my teammates during a tough practice, leading the crowd in school spirit, or cheering on other athletes, I love being a source of encouragement. Cheerleading has taught me the value of leadership and positivity, which I apply in other areas of my life as well. Outside of cheer, I am passionate about helping others, and I’ve been able to do that through my job as an after-school counselor at the YMCA. Working with children has been an incredibly fulfilling experience. I assist with homework, lead activities, and serve as a mentor to kids who look up to me. It’s rewarding to know that I can make a difference in their lives, whether by teaching them something new, helping them overcome a challenge, or simply being someone they can rely on. Through my job, I’ve developed patience, communication skills, and a deeper understanding of how to connect with and support others. Every child is different, and learning how to adapt to their needs has given me valuable problem-solving and leadership skills. This experience has inspired me to consider a career that involves working with and helping people, possibly in education, counseling, or community outreach. I want to be in a profession where I can positively impact the lives of others, just as I do now through cheer and my job at the YMCA. Cheerleading and my work at the YMCA have both reinforced my belief in the power of encouragement and mentorship. Whether on the mat or in my job, I thrive in environments where I can support others and help them reach their full potential. These experiences have not only shaped who I am today but have also given me clarity about what I want for my future. I know that whatever career path I choose, it will be one that allows me to continue making a positive impact on others.

Mental health struggles affect countless individuals, often in ways that are deeply personal and challenging to articulate. For me, anxiety was once an overwhelming force that dictated my daily life, affecting my relationships, performance as a varsity cheerleader, and overall well-being. However, through therapy, I found a path to understanding, managing, and ultimately overcoming my anxiety. This journey was not instantaneous nor easy, but it was transformative. Anxiety, at its worst, consumed me. It manifested in constant worry, sleepless nights, and an unshakable sense of impending doom. My mind was in a relentless cycle of overthinking, making even simple decisions feel monumental. As a varsity cheerleader, I was expected to exude confidence, perform under pressure, and lead with enthusiasm. However, internally, I felt anything but confident. The pressure to be perfect, both in my sport and personal life, only intensified my struggles. It was not until I sought therapy that I began to understand the root causes of my anxiety. My therapist provided a safe space for me to express my fears and challenges without judgment. Through our sessions, I learned that my anxiety was not an inherent weakness but a response to unresolved stressors and thought patterns that I had unknowingly reinforced. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) played a crucial role in this realization. By identifying negative thought cycles and replacing them with rational, positive perspectives, I slowly regained control over my mind. One of the most significant breakthroughs in therapy was learning grounding techniques. My therapist introduced mindfulness practices, breathing exercises, and visualization strategies that helped me stay present in the moment rather than spiraling into worst-case scenarios. For instance, before a big cheerleading competition, I would use deep breathing exercises to calm my nerves. Instead of allowing self-doubt to take over, I practiced affirmations and reminded myself of my capabilities. Over time, these strategies became second nature, empowering me to handle stressful situations with greater resilience. Therapy also helped me set boundaries and recognize the importance of self-care. I used to believe that I had to please everyone and meet every expectation placed upon me. This mindset was exhausting and fueled my anxiety. Through therapy, I learned that saying no, prioritizing rest, and seeking support from friends and family were not signs of failure but essential components of a healthy mindset. The more I implemented these changes, the more balanced and in control I felt. Perhaps the most profound impact of therapy was the shift in my self-perception. I no longer saw anxiety as an insurmountable obstacle but as something I could manage and grow from. Therapy provided me with tools, but it was my commitment to practicing them that led to meaningful change. While anxiety has not disappeared entirely, it no longer defines me. I have learned to navigate its challenges with confidence and self-compassion. Looking back, I am incredibly grateful for the decision to seek therapy. It not only helped me manage my anxiety but also strengthened my mental and emotional resilience. I have become a stronger cheerleader, a better friend, and most importantly, a more self-assured individual. Mental health is just as vital as physical health, and seeking help is a courageous step toward a better future. My journey with anxiety has taught me that healing is possible, and with the right support, anyone can find the strength to overcome their struggles.

### Passion, Perseverance, and Purpose: My Journey Towards Occupational Therapy From a young age, I discovered a profound passion for helping others. Volunteering became not just an activity, but a core aspect of my identity. Whether it was volunteering with a middle school cheer program, spending my time with the special needs children at my school, or spending time with the folks at a rehabilitation center, each experience deepened my commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others. This passion naturally evolved into my desire to become an Occupational Therapist (OT), where I can empower individuals to overcome challenges and achieve their fullest potential. My journey toward this goal has not been without its obstacles. Throughout high school, I faced academic challenges that tested my resilience. Balancing a rigorous course load with my volunteer commitments often felt overwhelming. There were moments when I questioned my abilities and wondered if I could pursue a demanding field like Occupational Therapy. However, these moments of doubt fueled my determination. I sought help from mentors, developed effective study strategies, and learned to manage my time more efficiently. Each setback taught me the value of perseverance and reinforced my belief in the importance of supporting others through their struggles. One of my most formative experiences came during a day spent at the Special Olympics with the special needs kids at my school. There, I spent time with my buddy who participated in many events, and I was there to cheer her on. I vividly remember when she was nervous and struggling to perform when I talked to her and told her no matter what, we were all proud of her and she could do it. This experience solidified my desire to become an OT, as I realized that the profession embodies the principles of empathy, patience, and tailored care that I hold dear. In my pursuit of becoming an Occupational Therapist, I am committed to furthering my education and gaining the skills necessary to make a significant impact. I plan to study health sciences, focusing on courses that enhance my understanding of human anatomy, psychology, and rehabilitation techniques. Additionally, I aim to engage in research that explores innovative therapeutic practices, particularly those that cater to diverse populations. By immersing myself in both the academic and practical aspects of this field, I aspire to become a well-rounded professional who can adapt to the ever-evolving needs of clients. Ultimately, my goal as an Occupational Therapist is to foster an environment of empowerment and healing. I believe that every individual has the right to lead a fulfilling life, regardless of their physical or mental challenges. By providing compassionate care and tailored interventions, I aim to help my future clients regain their independence and confidence. I envision creating community outreach programs that provide resources and support for individuals facing barriers to recovery, ensuring that my impact extends beyond the clinic. In conclusion, my passion for helping others, coupled with the perseverance I have demonstrated throughout my life, drives my commitment to becoming an Occupational Therapist. I am eager to use my education and experiences to positively impact the lives of individuals in need, fostering resilience and independence in those I serve. With every step of my journey, I remain dedicated to transforming challenges into opportunities for growth and healing.

Anxiety has had a significant impact on my life, often making everyday experiences feel overwhelming. It started quietly, a nagging feeling that something wasn’t quite right, but it grew into something more consuming over time. I remember being in school, sitting in class, and feeling a tightness in my chest. Whenever the teacher would ask a question, my heart would race. I would rehearse answers in my head, but when it was my turn to speak, the words would get stuck in my throat. It was frustrating to feel so paralyzed in moments when I wanted to participate and connect. Social gatherings became particularly challenging. I often felt like I was on the outside looking in, even when I was surrounded by friends. The small talk felt exhausting, and I worried constantly about how I was being perceived. Instead of enjoying the moment, I found myself second-guessing everything I said, which made it hard to truly relax. Even in happy moments, anxiety had a way of creeping in. During celebrations, I’d hold back, afraid that if I let my guard down, something would ruin the joy. It was like I was waiting for the worst to happen, and that fear kept me from fully engaging in the happiness around me. There were times when I tried to distract myself—diving into books or music—but the anxiety always seemed to linger, waiting for a quiet moment to resurface. It felt like a constant battle that I was fighting alone. Eventually, I realized I needed help. Talking to friends about my feelings made a difference; knowing I wasn’t alone was comforting. Seeking therapy was a turning point. It provided a space to unpack my fears and understand that anxiety doesn’t define me. I learned to challenge those negative thoughts and recognize the small victories along the way. Though I still have tough days, I’m learning to cope. I’m gradually reclaiming parts of my life that anxiety tried to take away. Each step forward, no matter how small, feels significant. I’m discovering that it’s okay to seek support and that vulnerability can lead to connection. I’m committed to moving forward, knowing that anxiety is just one part of my journey.