My name is Brianna Grall and I am a sophomore in college at Anne Arundel Community College. I am majoring in business. Academics have always been an important part of my life as I love learning. I’ve maintained a 3.5 gpa all while working full time as a store manager. Balancing school full time and work full time has been challenging but I never back down from a challenge. I have discipline and dedication to expanding my mind and growing. Athletics have played a big role in shaping my drive. I played field hockey in middle school and in high school until Covid-19 hit, which caused my high school to halt organized sports. Field hockey taught me discipline, I showed up to practice everyday even if I was tired. It taught me teamwork, by working with other players who had different strengths and personalities. It also taught me passion, as I fell in love with the sport. I wasn’t just playing to compete, I played because I genuinely loved the game. It taught me what feeling passionate about something felt like, giving it my all, not because I had to, but because I wanted to. I’ve also given back through volunteer work. I volunteered at Meals on Wheels and was able to deliver food to seniors and people that were homebound. It taught me how powerful small actions can be. Being able to make people’s day with small acts of kindness was immensely rewarding. It reminded me how much I value kindness and compassion. Being a part of something that made people feel cared for and seen gave me a sense of purpose. It was truly an amazing experience and something I plan on continuing to participate in throughout my life. I am planning on transferring to a 4-year university in the fall and this scholarship would ease the financial stress. It would allow me to focus on the things that matter the most to me: my education, my personal growth, and my commitment to giving back. I’m working hard to build a life I can be proud of and any bit of support helps me get closer to that. Kalia’s story deeply resonated with me. Not only about her accomplishments but her kindness and the way she lived her life. She is someone I strive to be like, someone who is kind, encourages others, and never settles for anything but their best. To receive a scholarship in her name would mean so much. It would be a reminder to keep living boldly, loving deeply, and learning always.