Throughout my life, my unwavering passion for making a positive impact in the lives of others has been the driving force behind my pursuit of higher education and my aspirations to become a physical therapist. This scholarship award would provide me with the opportunity to further my education and fulfill my dreams, while also recognizing the unique qualities that set me apart as a deserving candidate. From a young age, I have been captivated by the immense potential of healthcare to transform lives. Witnessing the positive impact of physical therapy during my own recovery from a broken arm, I found my calling. This profound experience ignited a flame within me, a burning desire to make a difference in the lives of others through the power of rehabilitation and healing. What sets me apart is not only my passion for the field of physical therapy, but also my unwavering commitment to learning and growth. Pursuing a higher education is not merely a means to an end for me; it is a lifelong journey of discovery and personal development. I am eager to immerse myself in a rigorous academic curriculum, where I can delve into the intricacies of human anatomy, kinesiology, and evidence-based practice. I am driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge, and I believe that my relentless pursuit of learning will enable me to excel in my future profession. Furthermore, I possess a unique combination of qualities that will contribute to my success as a physical therapist. I am known for my empathy and compassion, which enable me to establish meaningful connections with individuals from diverse backgrounds. I genuinely care about the well-being of others and possess a deep understanding of the physical and emotional challenges they face. My ability to listen attentively and provide unwavering support will be invaluable in creating a therapeutic environment where patients can heal and flourish. Moreover, I possess strong communication and interpersonal skills that will enhance my effectiveness as a healthcare provider. I recognize the importance of effective collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, as well as clear and empathetic communication with patients and their families. I am eager to embrace opportunities for growth in these areas, as they are essential in delivering patient-centered care and fostering positive therapeutic relationships. My "why" for pursuing a higher education lies in my unwavering belief in the power of education to effect positive change. I view higher education not only as a personal goal but also as a responsibility to contribute meaningfully to society. By pursuing a higher education in physical therapy, I am equipping myself with the knowledge, skills, and expertise necessary to make a lasting impact in the lives of individuals who are in need of rehabilitation and support. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to apply for this scholarship and I believe that I am uniquely deserving of this award. My unwavering dedication, passion for physical therapy, commitment to lifelong learning, empathy, and strong communication skills set me apart as a candidate who is ready to make a meaningful impact in the field of healthcare. With this scholarship, I would have the resources and support to further my education, fulfill my dreams, and ultimately contribute to the well-being of individuals in need of rehabilitation and support. Thank you for considering my application.

Cancer, an indiscriminate disease, has profoundly impacted my life through the battles of my grandpa with lung cancer and my aunt with breast cancer. Witnessing their strength and resilience in the face of adversity ignited my determination to make a difference in the field of cancer care. I experienced firsthand the devastating effects of cancer as my grandpa's condition deteriorated, leaving a void that cannot be filled. The aggressive treatment my aunt underwent, along with subsequent complications, added to the heart-wrenching journey. These experiences have shaped my character, instilling within me an unwavering commitment to support those facing cancer. Through their battles, I learned the power of empathy and the importance of unwavering support to individuals affected by cancer. This inspired me to volunteer at organizations, providing solace and compassion to others on their cancer journeys. The resilience and determination displayed by my loved ones have become guiding forces in my life, fueling my dedication to make a positive impact and provide support to those in need. As an aspiring physical therapist, I envision developing personalized treatment plans for cancer patients, alleviating their discomfort and enhancing their overall quality of life through therapeutic exercises, manual techniques, and modalities. Recognizing the impact of cancer on mental well-being, I aim to create a safe and supportive environment where patients can freely express their fears and concerns. By integrating mindfulness, relaxation exercises, and therapeutic communication, I strive to enhance their mental resilience throughout the healing process. I believe addressing the emotional and psychological aspects of the cancer journey is crucial for comprehensive care. These experiences have also deepened my relationships with my loved ones. Going through the trials of cancer together has brought us closer, strengthening the bonds of family and creating a sense of unity and shared purpose. We have learned to cherish every moment and value the time we have with one another. Cancer has taught me the significance of showing love and appreciation for the people in my life, as we never know what challenges lie ahead. The impact of cancer on my life has shaped my perspective and fueled my passion for making a difference. Through my role as a physical therapist, I strive to contribute to a future where the devastating effects of cancer are minimized, and hope is restored to those facing this formidable foe. I am committed to working collaboratively with interdisciplinary teams, advocating for advancements in cancer care, and providing compassionate support to those affected by this relentless disease. Together, we can create a world where cancer patients receive the care, support, and hope they deserve.

Domestic violence affects countless individuals worldwide. As a survivor of domestic violence, I am determined to use my experience and voice to raise awareness, advocate for change, and empower those who have endured similar hardships. In my life, I plan to undertake various initiatives aimed at shedding light on this pressing issue and fostering a supportive environment for survivors. Through my actions, I aim to make a lasting impact on the lives of others, providing them with hope, resources, and the strength to break free from the cycle of abuse. As a survivor of domestic violence, I understand the devastating impact it can have on every aspect of one's life. I have personally experienced the feelings of fear, isolation, and hopelessness that accompany such situations. However, I refuse to let my past define me. Instead, I harness my strength and resilience to fuel my determination to raise awareness and support others who are still trapped in abusive relationships. To raise awareness, I'll share my story, break the silence, and encourage help-seeking. Through social media platforms, public speaking engagements, and community events, I will reach out to diverse audiences, spreading awareness about the signs of abuse, the available resources, and the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment. Advocacy plays a vital role in combating domestic violence. I plan to collaborate with local organizations and support groups, volunteering my time and expertise to help survivors access the assistance they need. Through counseling services, legal aid programs, and community workshops, I will empower survivors with the knowledge and tools to reclaim their lives. By advocating for stronger legislation and policies, I aim to ensure that survivors receive the necessary protection and support from the justice system. Education is key to preventing domestic violence and fostering healthy relationships. I will work closely with schools and universities to develop educational programs that address the root causes of abuse, promote respect, and teach conflict resolution skills. By educating young individuals about healthy boundaries, consent, and the importance of empathy, we can create a generation that actively works to prevent domestic violence. Creating a network of support is crucial in addressing domestic violence effectively. I will collaborate with other organizations, community leaders, and activists to amplify our collective efforts. By forging partnerships, we can share resources, pool our expertise, and coordinate events that engage and educate the broader community. Together, we can create a powerful movement that not only raises awareness but also implements tangible solutions. My actions to raise awareness for domestic violence will have a profound impact on the lives of others. By sharing my personal journey, I can instill hope in survivors, demonstrating that they are not alone and that there is a way out. By providing information about available resources, I can guide individuals toward the support they need to escape abusive situations safely. Through advocacy, I can help shape policies and systems that provide greater protection and justice for survivors. By promoting education and awareness, I can empower future generations to cultivate healthy, respectful relationships. As a survivor of domestic violence, I am committed to using my experiences to make a difference in the lives of others. Through raising awareness, advocacy, education, and collaboration, I will actively contribute to the fight against domestic violence. By sharing my story, supporting survivors, and challenging societal norms, I aim to create a world where everyone feels safe, respected, and free from the shackles of abuse. Together, we can build a society that fosters empathy, empowers survivors, and works tirelessly to eradicate domestic violence once and for all.

In life, we often encounter challenges that push us to grow and redefine our path. One such turning point for me was the day I broke my arm. What seemed like a devastating setback at the time turned out to be the catalyst that sparked my passion for helping others. Through the assistance of a dedicated physical therapist, I realized the profound impact healthcare professionals can have on individuals' lives. It is through this transformative experience that I discovered my calling to become a physical therapist and serve those in need. The fundamental reason why it is important to help others lies in the virtues of empathy and compassion. By extending a helping hand, we create a sense of unity, empathy, and understanding within our communities. We foster a society where individuals feel valued, supported, and cared for. Empathy enables us to connect on a deeper level, fostering mutual respect and a shared understanding of the challenges that others face. When we selflessly lend our support to others, we not only uplift their lives but also experience profound personal growth. Helping others allows us to expand our horizons, challenge our own limitations, and gain a broader perspective on life. Through my own experience, I realized that my broken arm was not just a physical injury; it was an opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery. The guidance and expertise of my physical therapist inspired me to seek a higher purpose and embark on a path where I could make a lasting impact on the lives of others. The act of helping others creates a ripple effect that extends far beyond the immediate impact. When we assist someone in need, we inspire them to pay it forward and help others as well. This chain reaction of kindness leads to a more compassionate and harmonious society. The role of my physical therapist in my life created a ripple effect that sparked my desire to follow in their footsteps and become a physical therapist myself. By helping others, we plant seeds of hope, kindness, and positivity that have the potential to transform lives and shape a better future. There is an indescribable sense of fulfillment that comes from helping others. Witnessing the positive changes in someone's life, knowing that you played a role in their journey, and seeing them regain independence and joy is immensely rewarding. This sense of fulfillment motivates individuals to help others and pursue careers in service-oriented fields. My personal experience with a physical therapist not only helped me heal physically but also ignited a passion within me to pursue a career in physical therapy. Through this journey, I have come to understand the profound impact that helping others can have on individuals and society as a whole. The virtues of empathy, personal growth, the ripple effect, and fulfillment all highlight the importance of lending a helping hand to those in need. It is my firm belief that by pursuing a career in physical therapy, I can make a lasting impact on the lives of others, just as my physical therapist did for me. I am committed to embracing this opportunity to improve the quality of life for individuals, and I am grateful for the chance to receive this scholarship, which will aid me in achieving my dream of becoming a physical therapist.

Alzheimer's disease and dementia have cast a long shadow over my life, affecting both sides of my family and leaving an indelible mark on my experiences, my loved ones, and my community. The devastating impact of these conditions has taught me invaluable lessons about compassion, resilience, and the importance of cherishing every moment with our loved ones. The journey began with my grandmother on my dad's side, who battled dementia and Parkinson's disease. Witnessing her gradual decline was heart-wrenching. The vibrant woman I once knew slowly slipped away, her memories fading, her personality diminishing. It was a painful experience for my family as we grappled with the loss of her presence and the changes that altered our interactions with her. Alzheimer's disease also cast a dark cloud over my mom's side of the family. Several aunts, uncles, and grandparents fell victim to its grip, robbing them of their memories, their identities, and ultimately, their lives. Each loss brought profound sorrow and highlighted the insidious nature of the disease. It was difficult to witness the toll it took on my relatives and the emotional burden it placed on my immediate family. One of the most poignant experiences was caring for my great aunt, who battled Alzheimer's disease. Her condition worsened gradually, and I became her primary caregiver. I watched as she slowly forgot cherished memories, including her deceased son, who had been her whole world. Witnessing her pain and confusion as she tried to make sense of her reality was both heartbreaking and eye-opening. Despite her struggles, her resilience shone through in fleeting moments of clarity and the love she continued to share. Beyond the confines of my family, Alzheimer's disease and dementia have had a far-reaching impact on my community. I have witnessed the struggles faced by other families who grapple with similar challenges, and I have been inspired by their resilience and determination. The formation of support groups and the tireless efforts of healthcare professionals and organizations to raise awareness and provide assistance have highlighted the collective strength and compassion within our community. These experiences have taught me invaluable lessons about the fragility of life, the significance of empathy, and the importance of living in the present moment. I have learned to cherish every interaction, to listen attentively, and to be patient with those who may struggle to communicate. The journey has also reinforced the necessity of self-care, as witnessing the toll of these diseases can be emotionally draining. In conclusion, the impact of Alzheimer's disease and dementia on my life, family, and community has been profound and far-reaching. The losses and challenges have been immense, but they have also fostered resilience, empathy, and personal growth. My grandmother's battle with dementia, the losses on my mom's side, and caring for my great-aunt have all contributed to a deeper understanding of the human experience and the importance of compassion. While the journey has been arduous, it has also underscored the significance of cherishing our loved ones, supporting one another, and working together to find solutions and treatments for these debilitating conditions. Through awareness, advocacy, and compassion, we can strive to create a world where the impact of Alzheimer's disease and dementia is minimized, and the dignity and well-being of all individuals are upheld.

Leadership is a profound force that inspires and empowers individuals towards collective goals. It is not just a title or position but a responsibility to serve and elevate others. Effective leadership ignites positive change and leaves a lasting impact on individuals, communities, and organizations. It provides direction, clarity, and the ability to transcend limitations. Leadership inspires individuals to discover their strengths, embrace their potential, and contribute their unique perspectives to a shared vision. Inspiring and motivating others is a fundamental aspect of leadership. True leaders lead by example, demonstrating integrity, resilience, and a strong work ethic. They earn trust and respect by setting high standards and exhibiting ethical behavior. Leaders foster an inclusive culture where diverse perspectives are valued, and effective communication allows others to voice their ideas and opinions. Leadership plays a pivotal role in driving innovation and problem-solving. Leaders identify challenges, envision alternative solutions, and inspire creative thinking. They nurture a culture of continuous learning and improvement, encouraging individuals to embrace new ideas and take calculated risks. By fostering an environment of innovation, leaders empower individuals to challenge the status quo and drive meaningful progress. Leadership extends beyond individual achievements; it involves recognizing and developing the potential of others. True leaders invest in the growth and development of their team, providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for advancement. They celebrate collective success and cultivate a strong and united community. In my personal journey, I have experienced the transformative power of leadership. Whether through leading student organizations, collaborating on group projects, or serving as a mentor, I have seen the positive influence that effective leadership can have on individuals and teams. One significant example of my commitment to leadership was when I became the President of the Student Government Association (SGA) at my college. In this role, I dedicated myself to being a voice for students, advocating for their needs and concerns, and holding college executives accountable to the student body. I organized town hall meetings, collaborated with faculty and administrators, and facilitated open lines of communication to ensure that students' voices were heard and their interests were represented. Through my leadership in the SGA, I recognized the importance of building strong relationships and fostering a sense of unity among students. I encouraged active participation and engagement, creating a platform for students to share their ideas and contribute to the betterment of the college community. By leveraging the power of leadership, I worked collaboratively with my team to implement initiatives that enhanced student life, promoted inclusivity, and fostered a sense of belonging. In conclusion, leadership guides, motivates, and empowers others towards a common purpose. It inspires positive change, fosters collaboration, drives innovation, and nurtures growth. Through my experiences and as the President of the SGA, I have witnessed leadership's impact on others and myself. As I continue on my journey, I am committed to cultivating and embodying the qualities of a leader, striving to inspire others, foster meaningful connections, and contribute to the betterment of society.

In a world filled with diverse challenges and opportunities, I am deeply committed to making a positive impact and leaving a lasting legacy. Through my experiences as a dedicated volunteer and my aspiration to become a physical therapist, I aim to contribute to the betterment of individuals' lives, promote well-being, and inspire positive change on a global scale. Volunteering has been an integral part of my life, allowing me to actively engage with various communities and make a tangible difference. Whether it was mentoring underprivileged youth, making clothes for children, or participating in local initiatives, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of volunteerism. By dedicating my time, skills, and energy to uplift others, I have realized the profound impact that even small acts of kindness can have on individuals and communities. Through volunteering, I have learned the importance of empathy, compassion, and the power of collective action to effect positive change. My aspiration to become a physical therapist is rooted in my desire to make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals seeking rehabilitation and improved physical well-being. Through my own personal experiences with physical therapy, I have witnessed the transformative effects it can have on restoring mobility, alleviating pain, and enhancing quality of life. By pursuing a career in physical therapy, I hope to combine my passion for human movement and my commitment to helping others, offering support and guidance to patients on their journey to recovery. I believe that by empowering individuals to regain their physical capabilities, I can contribute to their overall well-being and improve their quality of life. I strongly believe in the holistic approach to wellness, recognizing that physical, mental, and emotional well-being are interconnected. In my pursuit of making a positive impact on the world, I strive to promote holistic wellness in the individuals and communities I serve. By emphasizing the importance of self-care, stress management, and mental health support, I aim to empower individuals to lead balanced and fulfilling lives. Through education, advocacy, and providing resources, I seek to contribute to the well-being of others and create a ripple effect of positivity. Beyond my individual efforts, I aspire to inspire others to join me in making a positive impact on the world. By sharing my experiences, passions, and insights, I hope to ignite a sense of social responsibility and encourage others to embrace the power they hold to effect change. Whether it is through community outreach, mentoring aspiring volunteers, or raising awareness about critical social issues, I believe that collective action can lead to substantial and sustainable transformations. By inspiring others, I aim to create a network of changemakers dedicated to making a positive difference in their own spheres of influence. As I embark on my journey to make a positive impact on the world, my unwavering dedication to volunteering and my ambition to become a physical therapist form the bedrock of my purpose. Drawing upon my diverse experiences, honed skills, and unyielding passion, I am driven to contribute to the well-being of individuals, communities, and the global community as a whole. By extending acts of kindness, providing unwavering support, and championing advocacy, my ultimate goal is to ignite a ripple effect that inspires profound and lasting change. By promoting holistic wellness and inviting others to join me on this transformative path, we can collectively shape a brighter future for generations to come.

Sports and athletics have had a profound impact on my life, molding me into the person I am today. They have also ignited a deep passion for physical well-being. Beginning my dance journey at the tender age of five, I immersed myself in the world of movement, discipline, and the indispensable role of physical therapy. This rich and transformative experience has profoundly influenced my decision to pursue a degree in an athletics-related field, driven by my desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of athletes and individuals seeking physical rehabilitation. Participating in dance throughout my formative years taught me invaluable lessons in discipline, commitment, and perseverance. In the studio, hours upon hours were dedicated to refining techniques and mastering choreography, honing not only physical strength but also mental fortitude. Dance instilled in me the value of hard work, unwavering dedication, and the gratification that comes from pushing beyond one's limits. These lessons have transcended the realm of dance, permeating various aspects of my life and teaching me the importance of setting ambitious goals, maintaining unwavering focus, and never succumbing to adversity. As I progressed on my dance journey, I became acutely aware of the profound impact of injuries and the vital role of physical therapy in the recovery process. Witnessing the dedication and expertise of physical therapists fascinated me, particularly as they guided dancers in regaining strength, mobility, and ultimately returning to the stage. Furthermore, my own personal experience with physical therapy following a broken arm reinforced my appreciation of the transformative effects of this field. This first-hand encounter solidified my passion for combining athletics with physical therapy's rehabilitative powers, as I yearned to assist others in surmounting physical challenges and attaining optimal performance. Sports and athletics have fundamentally shaped my character, fostering discipline, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to improving the well-being of athletes and individuals seeking physical rehabilitation. My extensive dance background has endowed me with a unique perspective on the profound potential of movement and the pivotal role of physical therapy in facilitating recovery and enhancing performance. Therefore, pursuing a degree in health and exercise science represents my earnest pursuit to integrate my passion for sports with my unwavering dedication to empowering others. I am eagerly embarking on this fulfilling path, driven by the desire to make a meaningful impact and empower individuals to achieve their athletic aspirations while prioritizing their physical and mental well-being. In conclusion, my journey through sports and dance has been transformative, equipping me with valuable skills and a profound appreciation for the interplay between athletics and physical therapy. By pursuing a degree in an athletics-related field, I am embarking on an exciting endeavor to merge my passion for sports with my aspiration to uplift and improve the lives of athletes and individuals seeking physical rehabilitation. With enthusiasm and dedication, I am determined to make a lasting impact and empower others to surpass their athletic goals while nurturing their holistic well-being.

Ever since I was young, I have had the passion to help others. Throughout the years, I have taken this passion and helped those around me in different ways. As a child I helped make blankets for dialysis patients. Through middle school and high school, I would volunteer at the YMCA, make gift baskets for nursing home residents, lead free after school workshops for youth, and donate food for struggling families in my community. During my junior and senior years of high school, I volunteered at the Oklahoma Regional Food Bank. There I was able to help fill over 4,000 bags of food, which went towards 800 meals for children. When I started my freshman year of college, my college formed a food pantry for the students. This was a perfect opportunity to help my fellow students. Then a year later, the college formed a clothes closet were I also volunteered. However, one of my most significant endeavors was something I started in my Senior year of high school. Most everyone knows that infants and babies are very delicate and fragile and thus do not have a fully developed immune system. Thus, babies can get sick very easily, which could be life threatening to the child. However, in my senior year of high school I was felt compiled to find a way to help these children. During that time, I had remembered my mom had made outfits, hats, and other accessories when I was a child. Once I remembered this, I knew exactly what I was going to do: make hats for the newborn babies and infants. From there, I contacted several hospitals in my community, two of which, Norman Regional Hospital and Integris Southwest Medical Center, gladly stated they would take the baby hats and were actually looking for volunteers to make more. After I got their approval, I found a pattern to crochet the hats and I persuaded my friends and family to help me make the hats. Every month, I would collect the hats and deliver them to the two hospitals. To date, I have delivered over 500 hats. It is a great honor to be able to provide these hats for the newborn babies and infants, as well as assist the mothers who might not have had the ability to provide this luxury for their child. Now as one can see, I have always wanted to help others and my career goal is no different. When I was young, I broke my arm and had to go through weeks of physical therapy. It was excruciatingly painful, yet if I wanted to be able to move my wrist again, I had to do it. This opened my eyes to the realm of physical therapy. Physical therapists and physical therapist assistants not only help people regain mobility but inspire others to also help themselves. This inspired me to go to college to become a physical therapist. Furthermore, one day after I get my degree, work, and gain experience as a physical therapist, I want to open my own physical therapy clinic. I want to do this, so I can give to others that are struggling the opportunity to work, gain experience, and follow their dreams. My one and only goal in life is to be able to help others, and this scholarship would help me achieve that.

When I was 19, I was mentally and sexually abused by my then boyfriend. I felt so alone and worthless. I was constantly being told that I had no value, was stupid, crazy, too sensitive, and that something was wrong with me. I ended up developing self-confidence, self-esteem, and physical appearance issues. I developed a fear of crying and showing emotions because if I did, I would get abused more, which is trauma that still affects me. When the abuse would start, I had to go to a place in my mind I call my ‘happy place.’ It is where I would mentally go to escape the abuse. However, I do not want to be known as the victim of this abuse or to allow my trauma to keep affecting me. I am a survivor of abuse, and I am strong. I am not inadequate or deplorable. Instead, I wanted to be a guiding light for those who have also had horrible things done to them. The best way I felt I could do this was by being a leader that they could look up to. Thus, I became an officer in several clubs and organizations at my college. I became an SGA Representative so I could represent and vote on behalf of my fellow college students. Then after gaining experience in the SGA, I became the SGA President so I could advocate on behalf of my fellow students to college officials. I became a community leader for the Christian college club called Chi Alpha so I could help fellow students heal from hurt and pain they may be experiencing. This is all because I want to be an inspiration to those around me with mental health issues too. Since my freshman year till now, I volunteered with different programs on campus. I volunteered at the college Food Pantry and Clothes Closet helping and during Welcome Week where I showed new students how to get to their classes. Furthermore, these skills I can apply in my future as a physical therapist. Thus, through all these experiences I have learned to have perseverance, humility, strength, and encouragement, even during hard times. Thus, this scholarship is a great opportunity for me to be able to impact my follow students, classmates, and friends in the future. This scholarship would help me to be able to continue to go to college, volunteer, and one day become a Physical Therapist. Furthermore, one day after I get my degree, work, and gain experience as a physical therapist, I want to open my own physical therapy clinic. I want to do this, so I can give to others that are struggling the opportunity to work, gain experience, and follow their dreams just as I have been able to. My one and only real goal for my life is to be able to help others and this scholarship would be able to help me do that.

When I was 19, I was mentally and sexually abused by my then boyfriend. I felt so alone and worthless. I felt inadequate and deplorable. For the longest time, I felt it was my fault this happened. When it came to my college education, I was struggling. I had concentration issues and constantly felt drained. For the longest time I felt like a shell of myself, and it put a huge strain on my relationships with friends and family. Anxiety, flashbacks, and negative thoughts still affect me to this day. However, my wonderful cats Lightning, Grayhood, Tiger, and Funyun have helped me extraordinarily. They have helped significantly reduce my mental stress and feelings of depression and loneliness. Every time I feel down, one of my cats come cuddle with me. When I’m outside, my cat Lightning follows me around. They give my support and happiness. Furthermore, my cats are very entertaining. They can sense when I’m in need of a laugh. They help lift my spirits and forget the horrors of life.

I cried out in pain, pleading for him to stop and get off me for I no longer wanted to have sex. However, his response was “Shut up and let me finish.” When I was 19, I was mentally and sexually abused by my then boyfriend. I felt so alone and worthless. I was constantly being told that I had no value, was stupid, crazy, too sensitive, and that something was wrong with me. I ended up developing self-confidence, self-esteem, and physical appearance issues. I stopped eating and lost weight. I developed acne so bad it covered my face because of the stress and anxiety. I developed a fear of crying and showing emotions because if I did, I would get abused more, which is trauma that still affects me now. When it came to sleep, I got none for I always had one eye open in fear my abuser was going to do something. This all accumulated to me trying to commit suicide. Thankfully, I did not succeed in that endeavor. However, I do not want to be known as the victim of this abuse or to allow my trauma to keep affecting me. I also want to be a guiding light for those who have also had horrible things done to them. The best way I felt I could do this was by being a leader that they could look up to. Thus, I became an officer in several clubs and organizations at my college, specifically when I got involved with the SGA. I became an SGA Representative, then later SGA President, so I could represent and advocate on behalf of my fellow students. This is all because I want and hope to be a guiding light and inspiration to those around me with mental health issues too.

I cried out in pain, pleading for him to stop and get off me for I no longer wanted to have sex. However, his response was “Shut up and let me finish.” When I was 19, I was mentally and sexually abused by my then boyfriend. I felt so alone and worthless. I was constantly being told that I had no value, was stupid, crazy, too sensitive, and that something was wrong with me. I found out that this person, my then boyfriend and abuser, had been cheating on me during the entire time we were dating. I ended up developing self-confidence, self-esteem, and physical appearance issues. I stopped eating and lost weight. I developed acne so bad it covered my face because of the stress and anxiety. I developed a fear of crying and showing emotions because if I did, I would get abused more, which is trauma that still affects me now. When the abuse would start, I had to go to a place in my mind I call my ‘happy place.’ It is where I would mentally go to escape the abuse. When it came to stress and feelings of despair, they were my best friends. When it came to sleep, I got none for I always had one eye open in fear my abuser was going to do something. This all accumulated to me trying to commit suicide. Thankfully, I did not succeed in that endeavor. However, this experience has greatly affected my mental health. I felt inadequate and deplorable. For the longest time, I felt it was my fault this happened. I chose to date him and give him the opportunity to do those horrible things to me. When it came to my college education, I was struggling. I had concentration issues and constantly felt drained. When I would see people at the college or elsewhere, I felt I had to act and pretend like I was fine. For the longest time I felt like a shell of myself, and it put a huge strain on my relationships with friends and family. I am so thankful they stood by me and helped me after I was out of that abusive relationship. I distanced myself from them for fear they would hurt me, while also thinking I would negatively affect them. Anxiety, flashbacks, and negative thoughts still affect me to this day. However, I do not want to be known as the victim of this abuse or to allow my trauma to keep affecting me. I am a survivor of abuse, and I am strong. I am not inadequate or deplorable. I have had to find ways to relieve stress and anxiety. These are things like deep breathing, removing myself from stressful situations, and swinging while listening to music. When I am swinging, listening to music, and watching the bird fly overhead; I feel relief, liberation, and peace from my trauma affecting me. Prayer also helps because I am able to talk to God about my issues and feel heard, even if everyone else in my life does not seem to be listening or care. God has helped me overcome so much of my trauma and mental health issues. I also wanted to be a guiding light for those who have also had horrible things done to them. The best way I felt I could do this was by being a leader that they could look up to. Thus, I became an officer in several clubs and organizations at my college. I became an SGA Representative so I could represent and vote on behalf of my fellow college students. Then after gaining experience in the SGA, I became the SGA President so I could advocate on behalf of my fellow students to college officials. I became a community leader for the Christian college club called Chi Alpha so I could help fellow Christians heal from hurt and pain they may be experiencing. With my career aspiration, this trauma of mine has strengthened my resolve. I want to finish college and become a physical therapist so I can make a positive difference in other peoples’ life. This is all because I want and hope to be a guiding light and inspiration to those around me with mental health issues too.

Since I was young, I have looked up to my parents, grandparents, and great grandparents. I would sit and listen to their stories of their youth. However, my favorite stories were ones regarding my ancestors. I heard stories about ancestors who lived hard lives and gave great sacrifice and those who achieved greatness, which is how I came to admire my eight great grandmother Nancy Ward, Beloved Woman and High Priestess of the Cherokee. Nancy Ward was an exceptional woman, a lady of true strength and wisdom. She went out of her way to establish peace between the European settlers and the Cherokee people. She traded with them, showed them how to live here in North American and so much more. However, the most important thing she did was make sure her people were taken care of properly. She is known as the one who introduced dairy cattle to the Cherokee people. However, that is not all she did. Nancy Ward also was a warrior. One of the greatest stories I heard was about how she led the Cherokee people into victory in a battle against the Muskogee. It was then that she was officially recognized as leader of the Cherokee Nation and was given the title Beloved Woman. This title gave her the authority of the spirit world and the recognition as the only female voting member of the Cherokee General Council. Furthermore, Nancy Ward was a key person in keeping the Cherokee people safe during the American Revolution and in creating a treaty between the Cherokee Nation and the United States Government. During the treaty negotiation, she expressed that the only way for her people and the U.S. to live in peace was for the two to see themselves as one people.

As a little girl I loved to learn new things, interesting things. My parents said I had an imagination and wisdom beyond my years. Many people think that imagination is just child’s play, however I do not believe so. Imagination is not just a thought, but also a driving force. I imagined myself doing many things in life, however the best thing I think I imagined for myself was not going to college but helping others. When I was young, I broke my arm. I had to go through weeks of physical therapy. It was excruciatingly painful, yet, I had to do it. No one but myself was going to be able to move my wrist again. This opened my eyes to the role physical therapy had in helping others. Physical therapists and physical therapist assistants not only help people regain mobility but inspire others to also help themselves. It took dedication and determination to finish the physical therapy treatment all the way through. Several times I felt like quitting, however, my physical therapist and assistant helped me to keep going. I now can move the arm I broke better than the one I did not break. From then on, I have imagined myself going college and becoming an impact in the physical therapy realm.

Imagination is not just a thought, but also a driving force. I imagined myself doing many things in life, however the best thing I imagined for myself was not going to college but helping others. I am Breanna Conrad, a college junior at the University of Oklahoma, and a first-generation college student. I have always wanted to help others. As a child I helped make blankets for dialysis patients. Through middle school and high school, I would volunteer at the YMCA, make gift baskets for nursing home residents, lead free after school workshops for youth, and donate food for struggling families in my community. My senior year of high school I started a project to make hats for babies to help them stay warm and not get sick. Furthermore, I had wanted to become a nurse, so I could help others. However, that career goal changed all through one event. When I was young, I broke my arm and had to go through weeks of physical therapy. It was excruciatingly painful, yet if I wanted to be able to move my wrist again, I had to do it. This opened my eyes to the realm of physical therapy. Physical therapists and physical therapist assistants not only help people regain mobility but inspire others to also help themselves. This inspired me to go to college to become a physical therapist. Now when it come to college, I have learned a great many skills that will be beneficial to my future. The main three that college has given me the opportunity to better develop are leadership, community service, and citizenship. I had the opportunity to develop these skills by being a part of several different clubs and organizations on campus, as well as, from being the Student Government Association President and President of my college’s local chapter of the honor society Phi Theta Kappa. Another way my college experience has helped me develop leadership, community service, and citizenship skills is through volunteering. Since my freshman year till now, I volunteered with different programs on campus. I volunteered at the Oklahoma City Community College Food Pantry and Clothes Closet helping students get groceries and clothes, as well as, during Welcome Week showing new students how to get to their classes. By volunteering, people can learn empathy and patience, as well as develop a greater sense of who they are. This is because helping others is about going above one’s responsibly or obligation because it is about a commitment to making a positive difference in someone else’s life. It is about being an advocate for the greater good. These are all skills that I find are important. However, some of the best skills I have gained is working and communicating with people that are not like me. College creates this environment where students from different parts of the world come together and learn how to collaborate and interact. All of these skills I can apply in my future as a physical therapist. Thus, this scholarship is a great opportunity for me to be able to impact my follow students, classmates, and friends in the future when I one day become a Physical Therapist. Furthermore, I want to open my own physical therapy clinic. I want to do this, so I can give to others that are struggling the opportunity to work, gain experience, and follow their dreams just as I have been able to. My one and only real goal for my life is to be able to help others and this scholarship would be able to help me do that.

Seeing the email from one of my fellow student government officers, I wondered whether my disciplinary warning would be heeded or had I acted too late for this officer to correct his outrageous behavior. I had never encountered this type of unprofessional behavior before and have not since, however this situation taught me a great many lessons. Since starting college, I had been actively involved in the student government. However, during my last year before transferring from community college to university, I was elected to be the SGA President by my fellow students and SGA members. This is an honor that I take very seriously because as President of the SGA, I have a duty to my fellow students to advocate on their behalf, mentor and guide them to become empowering leaders, as well as, oversee and govern the student government. Furthermore, during my time in the SGA there was one overwhelming feeling, we are all in this together. It did not matter whether someone was new to the SGA, been a part of it for years, a faculty member or a student, everyone was accepted with open arms and treated with the upmost respect. This was a group I consider as close as family. However, this specific SGA officer did not embody this virtue. Upon being inducted as one of the SGA officers, this officer started acting in ways I am shocked to have seen. He started bullying SGA members and fellow officers, taking advantage of our SGA advisor, and staging a coup d’état to impeach and remove all of the other SGA officers, except himself. These are only a few of the many things that happened while this officer was a part of the SGA. As might be expected, this caused many issues among the SGA officers and members alike. Officers were resigning and stepping down from the SGA. Members were wanting to excommunicate and remove this officer from the SGA. I knew something had to be done, however I did not know what exactly to do. My mentor, the previous SGA President, gave me this advice, though trust is broken this person is a part of the SGA and it is the President’s responsibility to correct ill behavior so bad situations like this one can be mediated if at all possible. Upon receiving this advice, I knew exactly what I had to do. I had to meet this officer directly head-on to put a stop to this behavior. However, this did nothing to help mediate the situation. Upon opening the SGA officer’s email, I realized that I had acted too late. This officer was set in his ways and was unwilling to correct his behavior. This situation taught me a great many things about myself. I learned is that I must meet difficult situations head-on and not delay in taking action. This will be especially important in my future as a physical therapist because I may encounter difficult patients that I will need to directly tell what harm they are doing to themselves, even if it is a difficult topic to discuss. Furthermore, I learned is that as a leader I cannot allow team members to undermine other team members. This will be immensely important in my future because I want to be the owner of my own PT clinic. As such, I cannot allow toxic members to ruin the clinic’s culture and make it a hostile work environment. Lastly, for the future I must remember that the way I handle difficult situations can be the deciding factor to whether the situation becomes successful or disastrous.

Imagination is not just a thought, but also a driving force. I imagined myself doing many things in life, however the best thing I think I imagined for myself was not going to college but helping others. I am Breanna Conrad, one of four children of my parents, a college Junior at the University of Oklahoma and first generation college student. Neither of my parents have college degrees and I feel lucky that I have the opportunity to even attend college. I have always wanted to help others. As a child I would made blankets for dialysis patents. During middle school and high school, I would volunteer at the YMCA, make gift baskets for nursing home residents, lead free after school workshops for youth, and donate food for struggling families in my community. When I was a Senior in high school, I started a project to help babies in the hospital. I convinced my mom and neighbor to help me. Together, we made over 300 hats for the babies to help them regulate their body temperature. I had previously wanted to become a nurse, so I could help others. However, that career goal changed all through one event. When I was young, I broke my arm. I had to go through weeks of physical therapy. It was excruciatingly painful, yet, I had to do it. No one but myself was going to be able to move my wrist again. This opened my eyes to the role physical therapy had in helping others. Physical therapists and physical therapist assistants not only help people regain mobility but also inspire them to help themselves. For myself, it took dedication and determination to finish the physical therapy treatment all the way through. Several times I felt like quitting, however, my physical therapist and assistant helped me to keep going. As a result, I am now able to move the arm I broke much better than the one I didn't break. From then on, I have imagined myself going to college and having an impact in the physical therapy realm. This is why I am applying for this scholarship. This scholarship will help me pay for tuition and fees, which will allow me to continue attending college without the fear of looming expenses. By not having to worry about fees and expenses, I will be able to better focus on my studies, classes, homework, and assignment deadlines. Thus, I will have the opportunity to become a Physical Therapist and fulfill my dream of helping others.