Being the daughter of a Marine veteran has taught me that service does not end when the uniform comes off. Growing up, I always knew my dad had served our country, but when I was younger, I did not fully understand what that meant. I just knew that I was proud to say, “My dad was a Marine.” As I have gotten older, those words have begun to mean so much more. I now understand that behind that title are sacrifices, courage, discipline, and a willingness to put the lives of others before your own. Watching the way my dad carries those values through life has shaped the person I am and the person I hope to become. My dad taught me that strength is not about never struggling. Strength is continuing to show up when life becomes difficult. It is doing what is right even when no one is watching. Most importantly, it is being willing to stand beside someone when they need you most. Those lessons have stayed with me throughout my life, especially during moments when I have questioned myself or wondered whether I was strong enough to accomplish my goals. His example is one of the reasons I have chosen to study criminology and hope to pursue a career in law. I want my future to be about more than earning a degree or having a successful career. I want it to mean something. I want to advocate for people during moments when they feel scared, powerless, or unheard. I want to be the person who reminds someone that their story matters and that they do not have to face their hardest moments alone. My dad and I may serve others in completely different ways, but the purpose behind it is similar. He chose to serve his country as a Marine. I hope to serve others through the justice system by standing up for people who need someone in their corner. I may never fully understand everything he experienced or every sacrifice he made, but I understand the example he gave me. He showed me that a meaningful life is not measured only by what you accomplish for yourself, but by what you are willing to do for others. When I imagine my future, one of the things that matters most to me is making my dad proud. I hope that one day, when he sees me graduate and eventually begin my career in law, he realizes that his service reached further than he may have ever known. The lessons he carried home from the Marine Corps became lessons he passed down to his daughter. I will never wear the uniform my dad wore, and my path of service will look different from his. But I will carry the values behind that uniform with me wherever I go. My dad served his country, and because of the example he gave me, I hope to spend my life serving others. That will always be one of the greatest ways I can honor him.

I still remember the day in high school when it felt like my entire world was crumbling around me. Suddenly, I felt like I could not breathe. My chest felt tight, my thoughts were racing, and I could not understand what was happening to me. I remember feeling scared because there was nothing physically around me that should have made me feel that way, yet my body was telling me that something was terribly wrong. That experience eventually led me to learn that I was struggling with anxiety. At the time, I did not realize it, but that moment would completely change the way I understood myself, other people, and mental health. Learning that I had anxiety did not mean that everything suddenly became easier. In many ways, it was only the beginning of learning how to live with something that other people could not always see. There were times when I felt overwhelmed by situations that seemed simple to everyone else. I became good at appearing okay even when I did not feel okay inside. My experience taught me how easily someone can be struggling without the people around them realizing it. When I started college, my mental health became difficult again. Adjusting to a completely new environment while trying to balance classes, relationships, responsibilities, and the pressure I placed on myself became overwhelming. During my first semester, my mental health affected my academics, and I finished with a 1.9 GPA. Seeing that number was incredibly difficult because I knew it did not represent how hard I wanted to work or what I was capable of accomplishing. For a while, I felt disappointed in myself and worried that one difficult semester had already determined my future. Eventually, I realized that I needed to take my mental health seriously instead of trying to push through everything alone. I started getting help through therapy, and slowly, things began to change. Therapy helped me better understand my anxiety, recognize when I was becoming overwhelmed, and learn healthier ways to handle difficult moments. As my mental health improved, so did my confidence and academics. I went from struggling during my first semester to earning straight A’s. That transformation taught me that asking for help can be one of the strongest decisions a person makes. My experiences have also shaped the way I treat the people around me. Because I know what it feels like to struggle internally while appearing fine on the outside, I try to approach others with more patience and compassion. I have learned not to assume that I know everything someone is experiencing simply because of what I can see. Sometimes a person does not need someone to fix everything for them; they just need someone willing to listen and remind them that they are not alone. My mental health journey has also influenced my goals for the future. As a criminology student interested in pursuing a career in law, I want to work with people who may be experiencing some of the most difficult moments of their lives. I am especially interested in family law because it requires more than understanding laws and court procedures. It requires empathy, patience, and the ability to listen to people during emotional and uncertain situations. My experiences have made me want to become someone who makes people feel heard and supported when their lives feel like they are falling apart. I would never have chosen to struggle with anxiety, but it has shaped the way I see the world. That scared high school student who felt like she could not breathe could not have imagined how much she would grow. I have learned that progress is not always a straight line, that asking for help is important, and that a difficult chapter does not determine the rest of your story. Most importantly, my experience with mental health has taught me to lead with compassion because we never truly know what someone else may be carrying.

To me, selflessness means being willing to give your time, energy, and compassion to others without expecting anything in return. I believe some of the most meaningful things we can do in life are the things that may seem small to us but can mean everything to someone else. Throughout my life, I have sought opportunities to help others, especially children, individuals with disabilities, women, and families facing difficult circumstances. These experiences have shaped the way I view service and have taught me that helping others is not about receiving recognition. It is about making another person feel seen, supported, and cared for. One of the experiences that had the greatest impact on me began in high school when I became involved with Unified Champions. Being part of this organization allowed me to spend time with students with disabilities and help create an environment where everyone felt included. What started as a way for me to get involved became something much more meaningful. I learned that sometimes the greatest thing you can give another person is your time, friendship, and willingness to make sure they never feel left out. The relationships and memories I made through Unified Champions are something I still carry with me today. I have continued that passion for service in college through my sorority, Phi Mu. One experience that has been especially meaningful to me is volunteering with the Miracle League. Being able to encourage individuals with disabilities and help make sure they have the opportunity to experience the excitement and sense of belonging that comes with playing a sport reminded me why service is so important to me. Seeing someone smile and knowing that I helped make their day a little brighter is a feeling that is difficult to put into words. Through Phi Mu, I am also able to support Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Our chapter participates in fundraising efforts that benefit children receiving medical care and their families. Knowing there is a real child and family behind the money we raise makes our philanthropy much more meaningful to me. Families facing difficult circumstances already have so much to worry about, and I am grateful to be part of an organization that works to make their lives even a little easier. My desire to help others also extends beyond organized volunteering. I spend time gathering and donating clothing, hygiene products, and other necessities to women’s shelters. I often think about the women receiving those items. I may never know their names or hear their stories, but I know many of them are experiencing some of the hardest moments of their lives. If something I donate can provide even a small amount of comfort, confidence, or hope, then it is worth giving. These experiences have taught me that selflessness does not always require a grand gesture. Sometimes it means giving up a few hours of your day, donating something another person needs more than you do, making sure someone feels included, or simply being there when someone needs support. I want to continue living my life with compassion and looking for opportunities to help others. At the end of the day, I believe the greatest impact we can have is making someone feel less alone and reminding them that people in the world genuinely care.

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.

Spending my time volunteering with Unified Champions has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. This program has given me the opportunity to work closely with children who have special needs, and through this, I have developed a deep appreciation for the importance of inclusion, patience, and encouragement. Seeing firsthand how a little support can make a huge difference in a child’s life has inspired me to pursue a career in occupational therapy. I chose this field not only because of my love for working with children but also because of the impact I know I can make in their lives. Every child deserves the opportunity to develop essential life skills, and I want to be part of that journey. Through my experiences with Unified Champions, I have seen how small victories—whether it’s improving fine motor skills, learning to communicate more effectively, or gaining the confidence to try something new—can have a profound effect on a child’s overall development. I want to be the person who helps children with special needs overcome obstacles and reach their full potential. One of the most meaningful moments I experienced while volunteering was working with a young boy who struggled with coordination and social interaction. At first, he was hesitant to participate in activities and often became frustrated. Over time, through consistent encouragement and adapted exercises, he began to engage more, smile more, and even initiate interactions with his peers. Witnessing his growth and knowing that I played a small role in helping him gain confidence reaffirmed my decision to pursue occupational therapy. I want to continue making this kind of difference in children’s lives, ensuring they receive the support and tools they need to succeed. However, pursuing this career comes with financial challenges. College is expensive, and while I am determined to achieve my goals, I need financial assistance to make my education possible. My passion for this field is strong, and I am willing to work hard to reach my dream, but financial barriers should not stand in the way of my ability to help others. Receiving financial support would allow me to focus on my education and gain the knowledge and skills necessary to become an effective occupational therapist. I believe that every child, regardless of their abilities, deserves the chance to grow, learn, and thrive. Through my experiences with Unified Champions, I have seen the incredible impact that dedicated professionals can have on children with special needs. I am eager to become one of those professionals, using my education and training to make a real difference. With the right support, I know I can turn my passion into a lifelong career, advocating for children who need guidance, encouragement, and the opportunity to achieve their full potential. By becoming an occupational therapist, I hope to change lives—just as the children I have worked with have changed mine. I am excited to continue this journey, and with financial assistance, I can take the next steps toward achieving my dream.

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.