From a young age, I have been captivated by the power of words. Whether through books, essays, or song lyrics, language has always been my way of understanding the world. This passion led me to pursue a career as a high school English teacher, a role where I can inspire future generations to find their own voices and develop critical thinking skills. One of the main reasons I chose this field is my belief in the transformative power of education. High school is a crucial time in students’ lives, where they begin to form their perspectives and ambitions. As an English teacher, I want to create a classroom environment that encourages curiosity, discussion, and personal growth. Literature has the unique ability to connect people across different backgrounds, and I hope to introduce students to stories that challenge their thinking and expand their worldviews. Beyond teaching literature, I aim to equip students with essential communication and analytical skills. Strong reading and writing abilities are foundational for success in any career, and I want my students to leave my classroom feeling confident in their ability to express themselves. Additionally, I recognize the importance of fostering a love for learning—one that extends beyond the classroom and into their futures. My personal experiences have further solidified my commitment to this path. Graduating high school early was both a challenge and an accomplishment, proving my dedication to education. It also reinforced my appreciation for great teachers—those who encouraged me, challenged me, and helped shape my academic journey. I want to be that person for my own students, providing guidance and encouragement as they navigate their own challenges. Ultimately, my goal is to make a lasting impact, not just by teaching literature and writing, but by inspiring students to think critically and believe in their own potential. Education has the power to change lives, and I am eager to contribute to that change—one lesson, one book, and one student at a time.

I first discovered Chappell Roan in 2023, and from the moment I heard her music, I knew she was something special. Her vibrant sound, unapologetic personality, and powerful lyrics resonated with me in a way no other artist had before. Watching her career grow over the past year has been nothing short of inspiring. She has gone from an underrated gem to a rising star, proving that authenticity and dedication can carve a path to success. Seeing her unapologetically embrace who she is has not only made me a devoted fan but has also helped me embrace myself. Before discovering Chappell Roan, I struggled with self-confidence and fully expressing my sexuality. As a queer woman, I often felt like I had to tone down parts of myself to fit into the expectations of others. I was hesitant to be open about who I was, fearing judgment or rejection. But through Chappell’s music and presence, I found a sense of belonging and pride. Songs like Pink Pony Club and Naked in Manhattan celebrate queerness in a way that is joyful, bold, and freeing. Her music doesn’t just tell stories—it creates a space where being yourself is not only accepted but celebrated. Chappell Roan’s artistry goes beyond just her music; her entire persona exudes confidence and individuality. She isn’t afraid to be loud, theatrical, and completely herself, and that has been incredibly empowering to witness. Her journey has shown me that self-expression isn’t something to be ashamed of—it’s something to embrace. Because of her influence, I’ve gained the courage to live openly and proudly as a queer woman. I no longer feel the need to hide who I am, and for the first time, I can fully celebrate my identity without fear. Supporting Chappell Roan’s career feels personal because of the impact she has had on my own life. I want to see her continue to thrive, not just because she deserves it, but because the world needs more artists like her—artists who uplift, empower, and create spaces for people to feel seen. She has given so many of us a voice, and I will always be grateful for the confidence she has helped me find within myself.

Mental and physical wellness are essential to me because they impact every aspect of my life—my education, my relationships, and my future. As a student, my well-being determines my ability to succeed academically and maintain meaningful connections with those around me. However, maintaining good mental and physical health can be challenging, especially as an LGBTQ+ student navigating both personal and societal obstacles. One of the biggest challenges I face in maintaining my wellness is managing stress and anxiety. As a student who graduated high school early and is beginning college at sixteen, I often feel pressure to prove myself in academic spaces where I am younger than my peers. This pressure, combined with the challenges of adjusting to a new environment, can make it difficult to prioritize my mental health. I sometimes struggle with imposter syndrome, feeling like I have to work twice as hard to be taken seriously. Learning how to manage stress through self-care, time management, and seeking support when needed has been crucial in maintaining my well-being. Physical health is also an important part of my overall wellness. With the demands of school, it can be easy to neglect basic needs such as proper nutrition, exercise, and sleep. However, I have learned that taking care of my body directly impacts my mental health. If I am sleep-deprived or skipping meals, I am more likely to feel overwhelmed or anxious. I try to stay active through hobbies like crocheting, which helps me relax, and singing, which allows me to express myself creatively. Small habits like taking walks or making time for proper meals help me maintain balance in my life. Being an LGBTQ+ student adds another layer of complexity to my mental and physical wellness. While I am proud of who I am, there are still challenges that come with existing in a world where LGBTQ+ people often face discrimination and misunderstanding. Finding supportive communities has been essential to my well-being. Having friends, mentors, and safe spaces where I can be myself without fear of judgment helps combat feelings of isolation. However, there are still moments when I feel the weight of societal expectations or fear being treated differently because of my identity. Despite these challenges, I remain committed to prioritizing my mental and physical health. I know that in order to achieve my goal of becoming a high school English teacher, I must take care of myself first. I want to be a role model for future students, showing them that success is possible without sacrificing well-being. This scholarship would provide me with the opportunity to continue my education while focusing on maintaining my health, allowing me to thrive both academically and personally. Mental and physical wellness are not just important—they are essential to living a fulfilling life. By learning how to navigate challenges, seek support, and prioritize self-care, I am setting the foundation for a healthy and successful future.

From a young age, I have always loved reading. Books have been a source of comfort, knowledge, and inspiration, allowing me to explore different perspectives and worlds beyond my own. As I grew older, I realized that my love for reading wasn’t just about the stories—it was about learning and sharing knowledge. This passion, combined with my desire to help others, led me to pursue a career in teaching. One of the most influential people in shaping my career choice was my 10th-grade English teacher, Ms. Zapp. She was more than just a teacher—she was an inspiration. She had a way of making literature come alive, turning what could have been just another class into an engaging and thought-provoking experience. More importantly, she made every student feel valued, capable, and heard. Her ability to connect with students and make them feel important left a lasting impact on me. She showed me that teaching is about more than just delivering lessons; it’s about shaping students’ confidence, encouraging their curiosity, and making a difference in their lives. Because of her, I realized that I want to be the kind of teacher that students remember—not just for the subject I teach but for the support and inspiration I provide. Beyond my love for literature, I have always found fulfillment in helping others. Whether it was tutoring classmates, assisting younger students, or simply offering a listening ear, I have always enjoyed being someone that others can rely on. Teaching is the perfect career for me because it combines my passion for learning with my desire to support and uplift others. Every student has the potential to succeed, but sometimes, they need the right teacher to believe in them before they can believe in themselves. I want to be that teacher—the one who encourages students to push past their self-doubt and realize their capabilities. Education is one of the most powerful tools a person can have, and I want to play a role in providing that to future generations. I believe that English, in particular, is more than just grammar and essays—it’s about communication, critical thinking, and self-expression. Literature has the power to teach empathy, broaden perspectives, and spark meaningful discussions. As a teacher, I hope to help students not only improve their reading and writing skills but also develop a deeper appreciation for the power of words and ideas. This scholarship would help me achieve my dream of becoming a high school English teacher. It would allow me to focus on my education and gain the knowledge and skills I need to make a real difference in the classroom. Teaching is more than a job to me; it is a calling. I am committed to creating a positive and inspiring learning environment where students feel seen, heard, and encouraged. Just as Ms. Zapp inspired me, I hope to inspire my own students—to help them discover their potential, embrace their love for learning, and leave my classroom knowing they are capable of great things.