1. Throughout my teenage years, I have struggled with generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. These mental health challenges made what should have been some of my most exciting years incredibly difficult. As hard as I tried, I could not combat these challenges on my own. At first, it felt embarrassing to have to admit that I needed to see a therapist; it meant that something was “wrong” with me. Fortunately, I did eventually agree to talk to a therapist, and I am incredibly grateful that I did. Talking to someone who understood the struggles my mind was going through was liberating. No longer did I feel that something was “wrong” with me; instead, I felt seen. Seeing the impact that my therapists had on me inspired me to pursue a career in mental health. As an already compassionate and empathetic individual, I hope to combine those skills with higher education to offer the same mental relief and comfort to others that was given to me. Through my own healing, I learned that mental health care is not about fixing what is broken, but about helping people feel seen and empowered. 2. I would advocate for mental health services to be covered by all insurance providers. Mental health is as important as physical health, yet many insurance providers do not cover the cost of therapy visits. Just like any form of health care, therapy is expensive, limiting who can access its benefits. However, insurance can make these costs more manageable. For example, when my family had to pay for my counseling visits out of pocket, it was around $100-200 per session. As someone who saw their therapist weekly or biweekly, the cost of therapy quickly became a financial burden for me and my family. However, when our insurance covered my visits, the cost was around $11 per session. This is such a dramatic decrease! A single visit went from the cost of a week’s worth of groceries to the cost of an overpriced cup of coffee. Imagine how many more people could access these resources if they were covered by their insurance! 3. As someone who accesses counseling services via teletherapy, I have had first-hand experience with both the benefits and challenges of teletherapy. Teletherapy is revolutionary in that it allows people to access mental health services from the comfort of their own homes or in rural communities where such resources may not be offered. For individuals with severe depression or mental illnesses like agoraphobia, teletherapy allows them to receive the care they need in an environment where they are most comfortable. Additionally, teletherapy allows individuals in smaller communities to access mental health resources that may only be provided in larger cities. Unfortunately, teletherapy is not a perfect substitute for in-person counseling. It does not offer the same level of connection that face-to-face interaction does. Nonverbal cues may not be picked up on, and intimacy may not be as strong. Additionally, communication and language barriers may limit the effectiveness of teletherapy. To expand access to diverse communities, teletherapy could offer therapy in a client’s preferred language. When patients feel comfortable and at ease, they are better able to express their needs and concerns. Understandably, it may not always be feasible to offer a patient a therapist who speaks their language. In these cases, trained interpreters can be used. Overall, teletherapy is breaking barriers and redefining mental health care. With continued innovation, teletherapy can ensure mental health support is accessible to people of all backgrounds.

Imagine trying to walk through a hallway lined with invisible trip wires. One wrong thought, one misplaced step, and alarms go off that only you can hear. Immediately, you are overcome with anxiety, panic, and dread. That is what living with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) feels like for me. When I first began exhibiting symptoms of OCD, I thought it was normal. I assumed every perfectionist deleted their completed assignments and restarted them because they did not “feel right.” However, when these thoughts began to spill into other aspects of my life, I knew something was wrong. Suddenly, these thoughts consumed my mind. Every room I was in, or any task I faced, was a maze; one wrong step and everything would come crumbling down. I lived with these symptoms for years until I reached a breaking point in eighth grade. The garage floor felt hard and cold against my feet as I got in and out of the car. I had already completed this sequence five or six times, but they all felt wrong. None of them satisfied the thoughts in my head. Each time I tried to walk away and just go inside, I was overcome with immense worry and panic that something horrible would happen, such as my family dying. It was exhausting, but I repeated the routine. Finally, on the 15th or 16th attempt, I felt like I exited the car “perfectly.” When I walked inside, my parents asked me why I was in the garage for 30 minutes. I collapsed to my knees and broke down. How could I explain that all these rituals or compulsions brought me a brief sense of relief – that for even a second, everything in my life was in order. That if I tried to ignore the obsessive thoughts and walk away, I felt a tightness in my chest and an invisible rope pulling me back to complete the ritual. It was at this moment that I reached my breaking point; I could not live my life falling victim to the imaginary dangers my mind convinced me of. After my breaking point, I started going to therapy and was eventually prescribed medication to control my symptoms. It has been nearly five years since this experience, and I have come so far. While I do still have some of those thoughts occasionally, I can more easily combat them and recognize that they are implausible. My experience with OCD showed me that life with a mental illness can feel like a prison. From the outside, it may appear that someone has everything together, but they may feel trapped and hopeless on the inside. This experience also taught me the value of mental health services like counseling and medication. It also inspired me to go into the field of social work to help others who are dealing with mental health struggles. Living with OCD has not been easy, but it has taught me resilience. I am no longer defined by my compulsions or the fear they once held over me. Instead, I carry my experience as a reminder that healing is possible and that no one should face their battles alone. I am not cured, but I am no longer controlled. I am healing, growing, and rebuilding my happiness. Most importantly, I know my mental health story is not one of fear, but of strength and hope.

Imagine trying to walk through a hallway lined with invisible trip wires. One wrong thought, one misplaced step, and alarms go off that only you can hear. Immediately, you are overcome with anxiety, panic, and dread. That is what living with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) feels like for me. When I first began exhibiting symptoms of OCD, I thought it was normal. I assumed every perfectionist deleted their completed assignments and restarted them because they did not “feel right.” However, when these thoughts began to spill into other aspects of my life, I knew something was wrong. Suddenly, these thoughts consumed my mind. Every room I was in, or any task I faced, was a maze; one wrong step and everything would come crumbling down. I lived with these symptoms for years until I reached a breaking point in eighth grade. The garage floor felt hard and cold against my feet as I got in and out of the car. I had already completed this sequence five or six times, but they all felt wrong. None of them satisfied the thoughts in my head. Each time I tried to walk away and just go inside, I was overcome with immense worry and panic that something horrible would happen, such as my family dying. It was exhausting, but I repeated the routine. Finally, on the 15th or 16th attempt, I felt like I exited the car “perfectly.” When I walked inside, my parents asked me why I was in the garage for 30 minutes. I collapsed to my knees and broke down. How could I explain that all these rituals or compulsions brought me a brief sense of relief – that for even a second, everything in my life was in order. That if I tried to ignore the obsessive thoughts and walk away, I felt a tightness in my chest and an invisible rope pulling me back to complete the ritual. It was at this moment that I reached my breaking point; I could not live my life falling victim to the imaginary dangers my mind convinced me of. After my breaking point, I started going to therapy and was eventually prescribed medication to control my symptoms. It has been nearly five years since this experience, and I have come so far. While I do still have some of those thoughts occasionally, I can more easily combat them and recognize that they are implausible. My experience with OCD showed me that life with a mental illness can feel like a prison. From the outside, it may appear that someone has everything together, but they may feel trapped and hopeless on the inside. This experience also taught me the value of mental health services like counseling and medication. It also inspired me to go into the field of social work to help others who are dealing with mental health struggles. Living with OCD has not been easy, but it has taught me resilience. I am no longer defined by my compulsions or the fear they once held over me. Instead, I carry my experience as a reminder that healing is possible and that no one should face their battles alone. I am not cured, but I am no longer controlled. I am healing, growing, and rebuilding my happiness. Most importantly, I know my mental health story is not one of fear, but of strength and hope.

Imagine trying to walk through a hallway lined with invisible trip wires. One wrong thought, one misplaced step, and alarms go off that only you can hear. Immediately, you are overcome with anxiety, panic, and dread. That is what living with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) feels like for me. When I first began exhibiting symptoms of OCD, I thought it was normal. I assumed every perfectionist deleted their completed assignments and restarted them because they did not “feel right.” However, when these thoughts began to spill into other aspects of my life, I knew something was wrong. Suddenly, these thoughts consumed my mind. Every room I was in, or any task I faced, was a maze; one wrong step and everything would come crumbling down. I lived with these symptoms for years until I reached a breaking point in eighth grade. The garage floor felt hard and cold against my feet as I got in and out of the car. I had already completed this sequence five or six times, but they all felt wrong. None of them satisfied the thoughts in my head. Each time I tried to walk away and just go inside, I was overcome with immense worry and panic that something horrible would happen, such as my family dying. It was exhausting, but I repeated the routine. Finally, on the 15th or 16th attempt, I felt like I exited the car “perfectly.” When I walked inside, my parents asked me why I was in the garage for 30 minutes. I collapsed to my knees and broke down. How could I explain that all these rituals or compulsions brought me a brief sense of relief – that for even a second, everything in my life was in order. That if I tried to ignore the obsessive thoughts and walk away, I felt a tightness in my chest and an invisible rope pulling me back to complete the ritual. It was at this moment that I reached my breaking point; I could not live my life falling victim to the imaginary dangers my mind convinced me of. After my breaking point, I started going to therapy and was eventually prescribed medication to control my symptoms. It has been nearly five years since this experience, and I have come so far. While I do still have some of those thoughts occasionally, I can more easily combat them and recognize that they are implausible. My experience with OCD showed me that life with a mental illness can feel like a prison. From the outside, it may appear that someone has everything together, but they may feel trapped and hopeless on the inside. This experience also taught me the value of mental health services like counseling and medication. It also inspired me to go into the field of social work to help others who are dealing with mental health struggles. Living with OCD has not been easy, but it has taught me resilience. I am no longer defined by my compulsions or the fear they once held over me. Instead, I carry my experience as a reminder that healing is possible and that no one should face their battles alone. I am not cured, but I am no longer controlled. I am healing, growing, and rebuilding my happiness. Most importantly, I know my mental health story is not one of fear, but of strength and hope.

Imagine trying to walk through a hallway lined with invisible trip wires. One wrong thought, one misplaced step, and alarms go off that only you can hear. Immediately, you are overcome with anxiety, panic, and dread. That is what living with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) feels like for me. When I first began exhibiting symptoms of OCD, I thought it was normal. I assumed every perfectionist deleted their completed assignments and restarted them because they did not “feel right.” However, when these thoughts began to spill into other aspects of my life, I knew something was wrong. Suddenly, these thoughts consumed my mind. Every room I was in, or any task I faced, was a maze; one wrong step and everything would come crumbling down. I lived with these symptoms for years until I reached a breaking point in eighth grade. The garage floor felt hard and cold against my feet as I got in and out of the car. I had already completed this sequence five or six times, but they all felt wrong. None of them satisfied the thoughts in my head. Each time I tried to walk away and just go inside, I was overcome with immense worry and panic that something horrible would happen, such as my family dying. It was exhausting, but I repeated the routine. Finally, on the 15th or 16th attempt, I felt like I exited the car “perfectly.” When I walked inside, my parents asked me why I was in the garage for 30 minutes. I collapsed to my knees and broke down. How could I explain that all these rituals or compulsions brought me a brief sense of relief – that for even a second, everything in my life was in order. That if I tried to ignore the obsessive thoughts and walk away, I felt a tightness in my chest and an invisible rope pulling me back to complete the ritual. It was at this moment that I reached my breaking point; I could not live my life falling victim to the imaginary dangers my mind convinced me of. After my breaking point, I started going to therapy and was eventually prescribed medication to control my symptoms. It has been nearly five years since this experience, and I have come so far. While I do still have some of those thoughts occasionally, I can more easily combat them and recognize that they are implausible. My experience with OCD showed me that life with a mental illness can feel like a prison. From the outside, it may appear that someone has everything together, but they may feel trapped and hopeless on the inside. This experience also taught me the value of mental health services like counseling and medication. It also inspired me to go into the field of social work to help others who are dealing with mental health struggles. Living with OCD has not been easy, but it has taught me resilience. I am no longer defined by my compulsions or the fear they once held over me. Instead, I carry my experience as a reminder that healing is possible and that no one should face their battles alone. I am not cured, but I am no longer controlled. I am healing, growing, and rebuilding my happiness. Most importantly, I know my mental health story is not one of fear, but of strength and hope.

Steve Jobs stated, “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” Those who accomplish great feats are driven by a unique passion for what they do. During my sophomore year of high school, I fell in love with coaching soccer. Playing sports was an integral part of my childhood. I enjoyed exercising in the sun, socializing with friends, and celebrating victories with my team. Unfortunately, as I advanced into a competitive club league, I began to be very hard on myself and set unrealistic goals of perfection which were exacerbated by an overly critical coach. Practice after practice and game after game, I left feeling upset and defeated, even when we won. Because of this flawed mentality, it became increasingly important to have a supportive and positive coach. Throughout my years of soccer, basketball, and swimming, I had coaches who uplifted me and some who tore me down. These experiences motivated me to volunteer as a coach who not only develops the skills of those on the team but also exemplifies positive reinforcement. Two years ago, I began volunteering as a soccer and basketball coach for young children. Two times a week, I planned out practices and games and worked with a team of children to develop their soccer and basketball skills, teamwork, communication, and cooperation. When I began coaching, I found it discouraging when the children would not listen. Often, young five and six year olds would end up playing in the dirt or picking dandelions. Over time, I learned methods that helped me to be engaging, uplifting, and educational as a coach. I worked to ensure that all of my feedback was positive and uplifting. If a child made a mistake, I would attempt to compliment them for something they did well and then redirect the behavior or action that I had noticed. I observed that this method helps the children feel good about themselves while also understanding that they can improve on certain aspects of their skills. Neuroscience has demonstrated that this type of coaching is more effective and provides ancillary benefits outside of sports. As a coach, I was able to see firsthand the value of service and volunteering. Although I was only with the children I coached for a short while, I saw them grow in numerous ways. I saw their confidence in themselves grow throughout the season. I felt their love for the sport increase. I witnessed new friendships forming as a result of teamwork and cooperation. I saw shy, timid children become hard-working and confident soccer players. Coaching these children has helped me discover my love of teaching kids and helping them overcome their obstacles. The skills and passion for teaching I developed during my seasons of coaching have smoothly transferred over to my job as a piano teacher and youth camp counselor. I have noticed that my patience, empathy, leadership, and compassion have grown and become stronger throughout my experience working with children. These experiences that have molded me into the person that I am have also shaped my vision for the future. I see myself helping children for years to come as a mother, social worker, and teacher. No matter what I choose to do, I know the most important thing to me is making a positive and impactful difference in the lives of those I help.

Over the past few years, children with special needs have found a special place in my heart. My mom is a teacher in a classroom for children with severe autism, and I have spent the past year volunteering there. The first day I stepped into her classroom, a little boy named Carter came and sat on my lap, and my heart instantly melted. Ever since then, he has become my little best friend. Every time I enter the classroom, he runs up to give me a hug. I love reading with him, drawing, and helping him with his workbook. The time I have spent in that classroom has shown me how unique and incredible each child is. They are truly angels inside imperfect bodies. The more time I spend with these children, the deeper my love for them grows. In addition to volunteering in the classroom, I work part-time as a caregiver for a first-grade boy with autism. Twice a week, I spend the afternoon caring for him. At first, communication was difficult; he often cried or became frustrated when I did not understand what he needed. But as we spent more time together, we began to understand each other. I began to recognize his one-word statements and learned to use simple sign language to help with basic needs like hunger, thirst, or asking for help. Over time, he has become my little best friend, and I look forward to every hour I get to spend with him. These experiences have shaped my dreams and strengthened my desire to become a social worker who helps children with disabilities, specifically those with autism. I have come to love their sweet spirits and want to support them and their families, advocate for their needs, and help them access the resources they deserve. I also hope to be able to adopt a child with special needs one day. Many of these children lack the family support they need, and I want to be someone who can offer them love, stability, and belonging. Beyond my passion, I also have financial need. I worked part-time as a piano teacher and part-time caregiver while finishing high school, in order to save for college. Currently, I am a full-time student at the University of South Carolina. Any support I receive would help ease the burden of tuition and allow me to focus on serving others through my education. I am strongly committed to making a difference in the lives of those with special needs, and I am grateful for any opportunity that brings me closer to that goal.

Steve Jobs stated, “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” Those who accomplish great feats are driven by a unique passion for what they do. During my sophomore year of high school, I fell in love with coaching soccer. Playing sports was an integral part of my childhood. I enjoyed exercising in the sun, socializing with friends, and celebrating victories with my team. Unfortunately, as I advanced into a competitive club league, I began to be very hard on myself and set unrealistic goals of perfection which were exacerbated by an overly critical coach. Practice after practice and game after game, I left feeling upset and defeated, even when we won. Because of this flawed mentality, it became increasingly important to have a supportive and positive coach. Throughout my years of soccer, basketball, and swimming, I had coaches who uplifted me and some who tore me down. These experiences motivated me to volunteer as a coach who not only develops the skills of those on the team but also exemplifies positive reinforcement. Two years ago, I began volunteering as a soccer and basketball coach for young children. Two times a week, I planned out practices and games and worked with a team of children to develop their soccer and basketball skills, teamwork, communication, and cooperation. When I began coaching, I found it discouraging when the children would not listen. Often, young five and six year olds would end up playing in the dirt or picking dandelions. Over time, I learned methods that helped me to be engaging, uplifting, and educational as a coach. I worked to ensure that all of my feedback was positive and uplifting. If a child made a mistake, I would attempt to compliment them for something they did well and then redirect the behavior or action that I had noticed. I observed that this method helps the children feel good about themselves while also understanding that they can improve on certain aspects of their skills. Neuroscience has demonstrated that this type of coaching is more effective and provides ancillary benefits outside of sports. As a coach, I was able to see firsthand the value of service and volunteering. Although I was only with the children I coached for a short while, I saw them grow in numerous ways. I saw their confidence in themselves grow throughout the season. I felt their love for the sport increase. I witnessed new friendships forming as a result of teamwork and cooperation. I saw shy, timid children become hard-working and confident soccer players. Coaching these children has helped me discover my love of teaching kids and helping them overcome their obstacles. The skills and passion for teaching I developed during my seasons of coaching have smoothly transferred over to my job as a piano teacher and youth camp counselor. I have noticed that my patience, empathy, leadership, and compassion have grown and become stronger throughout my experience working with children. These experiences that have molded me into the person that I am have also shaped my vision for the future. I see myself helping children for years to come as a mother, social worker, and teacher. No matter what I choose to do, I know the most important thing to me is making a positive and impactful difference in the lives of those I help.

As I sat at the piano, plunking away at the keys, my grandma watched with amusement. She loved listening to me play the piano, even if all I could play was “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star.” She had played the piano her entire life, and I wanted to be able to play as amazing as she did one day. As she sat down next to me, she said, “Promise me that you’ll never stop playing the piano.” Without hesitation, I excitedly stated, “I promise!” Little did my five-year-old self know that this promise would affect my life for years to come. For years, I practiced the piano daily, always eager to learn more. Oftentimes, I would look ahead in my books and practice those songs as well. I practiced so much that I could eventually play many songs from memory. I loved playing the piano and getting lost in the music. If I were ever sad, nervous, bored, or even just happy, I could sit down and play all my cares away. Over time, piano became less of a chore or responsibility; it became a part of my life. During my seventh-grade year, I learned that my piano teacher was leaving for college. Many of her students had no one to take lessons from anymore. This gave me an idea that would shape the rest of my teenage years: I could become a piano teacher! My parents were supportive of my aspirations, but I could tell that other people did not believe that I was ready to take on such an enormous task. Month after month, I prepared myself. I practiced the piano religiously and soaked up every ounce of knowledge that I possibly could about the piano. Finally, the day came for me to teach my first student. I began with only one student, but that did not matter to me. My early lessons were awkward and unstructured, and I often worried that I was not fit to teach piano lessons; however, over time, I began to find a rhythm. I began gaining students rapidly and even had to create a waiting list. I was ecstatic! My dream had come true! Having taught piano lessons for five years now, I have learned many things. Now that I am comfortable with the teaching aspect, I can focus my attention on adapting my lessons to suit each individual student. For example, some of my students respond best to consistent positive reinforcement and reassurance, whereas others respond better to positive criticism. My journey as a piano teacher has taught me how to teach children as well as form meaningful relationships with them. My time spent teaching has helped me discover my love of working with children and helping them grow. Nothing makes me happier than seeing the look on their faces when they master a hard song or overcome a challenging line. This joy has led me to want to work with children in the future as a social worker. If I can make a positive difference in the life of even just one child, I will know that my time was worthwhile. Looking back, the promise that seemed so simple years ago was the reason that I found my love for helping children and teaching others.

Over the past few years, children with special needs have found a special place in my heart. My mom is a teacher in a classroom for children with severe autism, and I have spent the past year volunteering there. Most of the children in her classroom are nonverbal, like Rebecca. The first day I stepped into her classroom, a little boy named Carter came and sat on my lap, and my heart instantly melted. Ever since then, he has become my little best friend. Every time I enter the classroom, he runs up to hug me. I love reading with him, drawing, and helping him with his workbook. The time I have spent in that classroom has shown me how unique and incredible each child is. They are truly angels inside imperfect bodies. The more time I spend with these children, the deeper my love for them grows. In addition to volunteering in the classroom, I work part-time as a caregiver for a first-grade boy with autism. Twice a week, I spend the afternoon caring for him. At first, communication was difficult; he often cried or became frustrated when I did not understand what he needed. But as we spent more time together, we began to understand each other. I began to recognize his one-word statements and learned to use simple sign language to help with basic needs like hunger, thirst, or asking for help. Over time, he has become my little best friend, and I look forward to every hour I get to spend with him. These experiences have shaped my dreams and strengthened my desire to become a social worker who helps children with disabilities, specifically those with autism. I have come to love their sweet spirits and want to support them and their families, advocate for their needs, and help them access the resources they deserve. I also hope to be able to adopt a child with special needs one day. Many of these children lack the family support they need, and I want to be someone who can offer them love, stability, and a sense of belonging. Beyond my passion, I also demonstrate financial need. I worked part-time as a piano teacher and part-time caregiver while finishing high school to save for college. However, now I am a full-time college student at the University of South Carolina. Any support I receive would help ease the burden of tuition and allow me to focus on serving others through my education. I am strongly committed to making a difference in the lives of those with special needs, and I am grateful for any opportunity that brings me closer to achieving this goal.

Steve Jobs stated, “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” Those who accomplish great feats are driven by a unique passion for what they do. During my sophomore year of high school, I fell in love with coaching soccer. Playing sports was an integral part of my childhood. I enjoyed exercising in the sun, socializing with friends, and celebrating victories with my team. Unfortunately, as I advanced into a competitive club league, I began to be very hard on myself and set unrealistic goals of perfection which were exacerbated by an overly critical coach. Practice after practice and game after game, I left feeling upset and defeated, even when we won. Because of this flawed mentality, it became increasingly important to have a supportive and positive coach. Throughout my years of soccer, basketball, and swimming, I had coaches who uplifted me and some who tore me down. These experiences motivated me to volunteer as a coach who not only develops the skills of those on the team but also exemplifies positive reinforcement. Two years ago, I began volunteering as a soccer and basketball coach for young children. Two times a week, I planned out practices and games and worked with a team of children to develop their soccer and basketball skills, teamwork, communication, and cooperation. When I began coaching, I found it discouraging when the children would not listen. Often, young five and six year olds would end up playing in the dirt or picking dandelions. Over time, I learned methods that helped me to be engaging, uplifting, and educational as a coach. I worked to ensure that all of my feedback was positive and uplifting. If a child made a mistake, I would attempt to compliment them for something they did well and then redirect the behavior or action that I had noticed. I observed that this method helps the children feel good about themselves while also understanding that they can improve on certain aspects of their skills. Neuroscience has demonstrated that this type of coaching is more effective and provides ancillary benefits outside of sports. As a coach, I was able to see firsthand the value of service and volunteering. Although I was only with the children I coached for a short while, I saw them grow in numerous ways. I saw their confidence in themselves grow throughout the season. I felt their love for the sport increase. I witnessed new friendships forming as a result of teamwork and cooperation. I saw shy, timid children become hard-working and confident soccer players. Coaching these children has helped me discover my love of teaching kids and helping them overcome their obstacles. The skills and passion for teaching I developed during my seasons of coaching have smoothly transferred over to my job as a piano teacher and youth camp counselor. I have noticed that my patience, empathy, leadership, and compassion have grown and become stronger throughout my experience working with children. These experiences that have molded me into the person that I am have also shaped my vision for the future. I see myself helping children for years to come as a mother, social worker, and teacher. No matter what I choose to do, I know the most important thing to me is making a positive and impactful difference in the lives of those I help.

Over the past few years, children with special needs have found a special place in my heart. My mom is a teacher in a classroom for children with severe autism, and I have spent the past year volunteering there. The first day I stepped into her classroom, a little boy named Carter came and sat on my lap, and my heart instantly melted. Ever since then, he has become my little best friend. Every time I enter the classroom, he runs up to give me a hug. I love reading with him, drawing, and helping him with his workbook. The time I have spent in that classroom has shown me how unique and incredible each child is. They are truly angels inside imperfect bodies. The more time I spend with these children, the deeper my love for them grows. In addition to volunteering in the classroom, I work part-time as a caregiver for a first-grade boy with autism. Twice a week, I spend the afternoon caring for him. At first, communication was difficult; he often cried or became frustrated when I did not understand what he needed. But as we spent more time together, we began to understand each other. I began to recognize his one-word statements and learned to use simple sign language to help with basic needs like hunger, thirst, or asking for help. Over time, he has become my little best friend, and I look forward to every hour I get to spend with him. These experiences have shaped my dreams and strengthened my desire to become a social worker who helps children with disabilities, specifically those with autism. I have come to love their sweet spirits and want to support them and their families, advocate for their needs, and help them access the resources they deserve. I also hope to be able to adopt a child with special needs one day. Many of these children lack the family support they need, and I want to be someone who can offer them love, stability, and belonging. Beyond my passion, I also have financial need. I am working part-time as a piano teacher and part-time caregiver while finishing high school, in order to save for college. Any support I receive would help ease the burden of tuition and allow me to focus on serving others through my education. I am strongly committed to making a difference in the lives of those with special needs, and I am grateful for any opportunity that brings me closer to that goal.

As I sat at the piano, plunking away at the keys, my grandma watched with amusement. She loved listening to me play the piano, even if all I could play was “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star.” She had played the piano her entire life and I wanted to be able to play as amazing as she did one day. As she sat down next to me, she said, “Promise me that you’ll never stop playing the piano.” Without hesitation, I excitedly stated, “I promise!” Little did my five-year-old self know that this promise would affect my life for years to come. For years, I practiced the piano daily, always eager to learn more. Oftentimes, I would look ahead in my books and practice those songs as well. I practiced so much that I could eventually play many songs from memory. I loved playing the piano and getting lost in the music. If I was ever sad, nervous, bored, or even just happy, I could sit down and play all my cares away. Over time, piano became less of a chore or responsibility; it became a part of my life. During my seventh grade year, I learned that my piano teacher was leaving for college. Many of her students had no one to take lessons from anymore. This gave me an idea that would shape the rest of my teenage years: I could become a piano teacher! My parents were supportive of my aspirations, but I could tell that other people did not believe that I was ready to take on such an enormous task. Month after month, I prepared myself. I practiced the piano religiously and soaked up every ounce of knowledge that I possibly could about the piano. Finally, the day came for me to teach my first student. I began with only one student, but that did not matter to me. My early lessons were awkward and unstructured and I often worried that I was not fit to teach piano lessons; however, over time, I began to find a rhythm. I began gaining students rapidly and even had to create a waiting list. I was ecstatic! My dream had come true! Having taught piano lessons for five years now, I have learned many things. Now that I am comfortable with the teaching aspect, I can focus my attention on adapting my lessons to suit each individual student. For example, some of my students respond best to consistent positive reinforcement and reassurance, whereas others respond better to positive criticism. My journey as a piano teacher has taught me how to teach children as well as form meaningful relationships with them. My time spent teaching has helped me discover my love of working with children and helping them grow. Nothing makes me happier than seeing the look on their faces when they master a hard song or overcome a challenging line. This joy has led me to want to work with children in the future as a social worker. If I can make a positive difference in the life of even just one child, I will know that my time was worthwhile. Looking back, the promise that seemed so simple years ago was the reason that I found my love for helping children and teaching others.

Biology was never my forte, and I dreaded the idea of taking another biology class. I saw no point in spending another semester learning concepts I had already covered. I especially dreaded the lab portion of these classes. Professors often spent hours reviewing lecture material and leading us through tedious activities. However, stepping into Mrs. Madrazo’s class my Senior year forever changed my perspective. Her class felt different. She had a visible excitement for teaching, emotion in her voice, and an obvious love of learning. Her teaching style was different as well. Rather than lecture to us, she gave us lab materials and encouraged us to conduct the experiments ourselves. She engaged with us, eager to see our results and findings. Her passion for biology was contagious! Suddenly, I looked forward to labs. The one day per week that I got to sit in that class for hours and try new experiments was the highlight of my week. A few weeks into the semester, Mrs. Madrazo mentioned that she would be starting a research group that examined a species known as tardigrades, or water bears. The research group was intriguing, but I pushed aside my interest because biology was not part of my future career plans. For days, I regretted not signing up. Finally, I pushed my worries aside and decided to join. After all, no harm could come from trying something new. I fell in love with the research from the first day. Mrs. Madrazo oversaw the group and she brought the same passion to research that she did to teaching. She explained that her goal was not only for us to learn about tardigrades, but also to gain experience conducting field research, a valuable skill for when we transferred to a university. Although I was not majoring in biology, Mrs. Madrazo entirely changed my perspective. Her research opportunity allowed me to immerse myself in discovery and curiosity, opening my eyes to how much I could learn through research. I soon found myself excited and eager to research–something I had never anticipated feeling, especially in a field that once disinterested me. Although I had Mrs. Madrazo for only a semester, her passion for biology and learning left a lasting impact on me. She taught me that even when I am outside my comfort zone, I can thrive. She also taught me the value of research, and I now look forward to conducting research within the field of social work. Mrs. Madrazo reminded me that education and learning are not only about what we are naturally gifted at, but also about what we are willing to explore. Her influence inspired me to further pursue what I am passionate about: helping others. Mrs. Madrazo pursued her passion for biology by attending university and educating biology students. I want to do the same and continue my education and chase my passion for social work. After all, you must take a step into the unknown to unlock your full potential.

Steve Jobs stated, “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” Those who accomplish great feats are driven by a unique passion for what they do. During my sophomore year of high school, I fell in love with coaching soccer. Playing sports was an integral part of my childhood. I enjoyed exercising in the sun, socializing with friends, and celebrating victories with my team. Unfortunately, as I advanced into a competitive club league, I began to be very hard on myself and set unrealistic goals of perfection which were exacerbated by an overly critical coach. Practice after practice and game after game, I left feeling upset and defeated, even when we won. Because of this flawed mentality, it became increasingly important to have a supportive and positive coach. Throughout my years of soccer, basketball, and swimming, I had coaches who uplifted me and some who tore me down. These experiences motivated me to volunteer as a coach who not only develops the skills of those on the team but also exemplifies positive reinforcement. Two years ago, I began volunteering as a soccer and basketball coach for young children. Two times a week, I planned out practices and games and worked with a team of children to develop their soccer and basketball skills, teamwork, communication, and cooperation. When I began coaching, I found it discouraging when the children would not listen. Often, young five and six year olds would end up playing in the dirt or picking dandelions. Over time, I learned methods that helped me to be engaging, uplifting, and educational as a coach. I worked to ensure that all of my feedback was positive and uplifting. If a child made a mistake, I would attempt to compliment them for something they did well and then redirect the behavior or action that I had noticed. I observed that this method helps the children feel good about themselves while also understanding that they can improve on certain aspects of their skills. Neuroscience has demonstrated that this type of coaching is more effective and provides ancillary benefits outside of sports. As a coach, I was able to see firsthand the value of service and volunteering. Although I was only with the children I coached for a short while, I saw them grow in numerous ways. I saw their confidence in themselves grow throughout the season. I felt their love for the sport increase. I witnessed new friendships forming as a result of teamwork and cooperation. I saw shy, timid children become hard-working and confident soccer players. Coaching these children has helped me discover my love of teaching kids and helping them overcome their obstacles. The skills and passion for teaching I developed during my seasons of coaching have smoothly transferred over to my job as a piano teacher and youth camp counselor. I have noticed that my patience, empathy, leadership, and compassion have grown and become stronger throughout my experience working with children. These experiences that have molded me into the person that I am have also shaped my vision for the future. I see myself helping children for years to come as a mother, social worker, and teacher. No matter what I choose to do, I know the most important thing to me is making a positive and impactful difference in the lives of those I help.

Steve Jobs stated, “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” Those who accomplish great feats are driven by a unique passion for what they do. During my sophomore year of high school, I fell in love with coaching soccer. Playing sports was an integral part of my childhood. I enjoyed exercising in the sun, socializing with friends, and celebrating victories with my team. Unfortunately, as I advanced into a competitive club league, I began to be very hard on myself and set unrealistic goals of perfection which were exacerbated by an overly critical coach. Practice after practice and game after game, I left feeling upset and defeated, even when we won. Because of this flawed mentality, it became increasingly important to have a supportive and positive coach. Throughout my years of soccer, basketball, and swimming, I had coaches who uplifted me and some who tore me down. These experiences motivated me to volunteer as a coach who not only develops the skills of those on the team but also exemplifies positive reinforcement. Two years ago, I began volunteering as a soccer and basketball coach for young children. Two times a week, I planned out practices and games and worked with a team of children to develop their soccer and basketball skills, teamwork, communication, and cooperation. When I began coaching, I found it discouraging when the children would not listen. Often, young five and six year olds would end up playing in the dirt or picking dandelions. Over time, I learned methods that helped me to be engaging, uplifting, and educational as a coach. I worked to ensure that all of my feedback was positive and uplifting. If a child made a mistake, I would attempt to compliment them for something they did well and then redirect the behavior or action that I had noticed. I observed that this method helps the children feel good about themselves while also understanding that they can improve on certain aspects of their skills. Neuroscience has demonstrated that this type of coaching is more effective and provides ancillary benefits outside of sports. As a coach, I was able to see firsthand the value of service and volunteering. Although I was only with the children I coached for a short while, I saw them grow in numerous ways. I saw their confidence in themselves grow throughout the season. I felt their love for the sport increase. I witnessed new friendships forming as a result of teamwork and cooperation. I saw shy, timid children become hard-working and confident soccer players. Coaching these children has helped me discover my love of teaching kids and helping them overcome their obstacles. The skills and passion for teaching I developed during my seasons of coaching have smoothly transferred over to my job as a piano teacher and youth camp counselor. I have noticed that my patience, empathy, leadership, and compassion have grown and become stronger throughout my experience working with children. These experiences that have molded me into the person that I am have also shaped my vision for the future. I see myself helping children for years to come as a mother, social worker, and teacher. No matter what I choose to do, I know the most important thing to me is making a positive and impactful difference in the lives of those I help.

Steve Jobs stated, “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” Those who accomplish great feats are driven by a unique passion for what they do. During my sophomore year of high school, I fell in love with coaching soccer. Playing sports was an integral part of my childhood. I enjoyed exercising in the sun, socializing with friends, and celebrating victories with my team. Unfortunately, as I advanced into a competitive club league, I began to be very hard on myself and set unrealistic goals of perfection which were exacerbated by an overly critical coach. Practice after practice and game after game, I left feeling upset and defeated, even when we won. Because of this flawed mentality, it became increasingly important to have a supportive and positive coach. Throughout my years of soccer, basketball, and swimming, I had coaches who uplifted me and some who tore me down. These experiences motivated me to volunteer as a coach who not only develops the skills of those on the team but also exemplifies positive reinforcement. Two years ago, I began volunteering as a soccer and basketball coach for young children. Two times a week, I planned out practices and games and worked with a team of children to develop their soccer and basketball skills, teamwork, communication, and cooperation. When I began coaching, I found it discouraging when the children would not listen. Often, young five and six year olds would end up playing in the dirt or picking dandelions. Over time, I learned methods that helped me to be engaging, uplifting, and educational as a coach. I worked to ensure that all of my feedback was positive and uplifting. If a child made a mistake, I would attempt to compliment them for something they did well and then redirect the behavior or action that I had noticed. I observed that this method helps the children feel good about themselves while also understanding that they can improve on certain aspects of their skills. Neuroscience has demonstrated that this type of coaching is more effective and provides ancillary benefits outside of sports. As a coach, I was able to see firsthand the value of service and volunteering. Although I was only with the children I coached for a short while, I saw them grow in numerous ways. I saw their confidence in themselves grow throughout the season. I felt their love for the sport increase. I witnessed new friendships forming as a result of teamwork and cooperation. I saw shy, timid children become hard-working and confident soccer players. Coaching these children has helped me discover my love of teaching kids and helping them overcome their obstacles. The skills and passion for teaching I developed during my seasons of coaching have smoothly transferred over to my job as a piano teacher and youth camp counselor. I have noticed that my patience, empathy, leadership, and compassion have grown and become stronger throughout my experience working with children. These experiences that have molded me into the person that I am have also shaped my vision for the future. I see myself helping children for years to come as a mother, social worker, and teacher. No matter what I choose to do, I know the most important thing to me is making a positive and impactful difference in the lives of those I help.

Steve Jobs stated, “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” Those who accomplish great feats are driven by a unique passion for what they do. During my sophomore year of high school, I fell in love with coaching soccer. Playing sports was an integral part of my childhood. I enjoyed exercising in the sun, socializing with friends, and celebrating victories with my team. Unfortunately, as I advanced into a competitive club league, I began to be very hard on myself and set unrealistic goals of perfection which were exacerbated by an overly critical coach. Practice after practice and game after game, I left feeling upset and defeated, even when we won. Because of this flawed mentality, it became increasingly important to have a supportive and positive coach. Throughout my years of soccer, basketball, and swimming, I had coaches who uplifted me and some who tore me down. These experiences motivated me to volunteer as a coach who not only develops the skills of those on the team but also exemplifies positive reinforcement. Two years ago, I began volunteering as a soccer and basketball coach for young children. Two times a week, I planned out practices and games and worked with a team of children to develop their soccer and basketball skills, teamwork, communication, and cooperation. When I began coaching, I found it discouraging when the children would not listen. Often, young five and six year olds would end up playing in the dirt or picking dandelions. Over time, I learned methods that helped me to be engaging, uplifting, and educational as a coach. I worked to ensure that all of my feedback was positive and uplifting. If a child made a mistake, I would attempt to compliment them for something they did well and then redirect the behavior or action that I had noticed. I observed that this method helps the children feel good about themselves while also understanding that they can improve on certain aspects of their skills. Neuroscience has demonstrated that this type of coaching is more effective and provides ancillary benefits outside of sports. As a coach, I was able to see firsthand the value of service and volunteering. Although I was only with the children I coached for a short while, I saw them grow in numerous ways. I saw their confidence in themselves grow throughout the season. I felt their love for the sport increase. I witnessed new friendships forming as a result of teamwork and cooperation. I saw shy, timid children become hard-working and confident soccer players. Coaching these children has helped me discover my love of teaching kids and helping them overcome their obstacles. The skills and passion for teaching I developed during my seasons of coaching have smoothly transferred over to my job as a piano teacher and youth camp counselor. I have noticed that my patience, empathy, leadership, and compassion have grown and become stronger throughout my experience working with children. These experiences that have molded me into the person that I am have also shaped my vision for the future. I see myself helping children for years to come as a mother, social worker, and teacher. No matter what I choose to do, I know the most important thing to me is making a positive and impactful difference in the lives of those I help.

Steve Jobs stated, “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” Those who accomplish great feats are driven by a unique passion for what they do. During my sophomore year of high school, I fell in love with coaching soccer. Playing sports was an integral part of my childhood. I enjoyed exercising in the sun, socializing with friends, and celebrating victories with my team. Unfortunately, as I advanced into a competitive club league, I began to be very hard on myself and set unrealistic goals of perfection which were exacerbated by an overly critical coach. Practice after practice and game after game, I left feeling upset and defeated, even when we won. Because of this flawed mentality, it became increasingly important to have a supportive and positive coach. Throughout my years of soccer, basketball, and swimming, I had coaches who uplifted me and some who tore me down. These experiences motivated me to volunteer as a coach who not only develops the skills of those on the team but also exemplifies positive reinforcement. Two years ago, I began volunteering as a soccer and basketball coach for young children. Two times a week, I planned out practices and games and worked with a team of children to develop their soccer and basketball skills, teamwork, communication, and cooperation. When I began coaching, I found it discouraging when the children would not listen. Often, young five and six year olds would end up playing in the dirt or picking dandelions. Over time, I learned methods that helped me to be engaging, uplifting, and educational as a coach. I worked to ensure that all of my feedback was positive and uplifting. If a child made a mistake, I would attempt to compliment them for something they did well and then redirect the behavior or action that I had noticed. I observed that this method helps the children feel good about themselves while also understanding that they can improve on certain aspects of their skills. Neuroscience has demonstrated that this type of coaching is more effective and provides ancillary benefits outside of sports. As a coach, I was able to see firsthand the value of service and volunteering. Although I was only with the children I coached for a short while, I saw them grow in numerous ways. I saw their confidence in themselves grow throughout the season. I felt their love for the sport increase. I witnessed new friendships forming as a result of teamwork and cooperation. I saw shy, timid children become hard-working and confident soccer players. Coaching these children has helped me discover my love of teaching kids and helping them overcome their obstacles. The skills and passion for teaching I developed during my seasons of coaching have smoothly transferred over to my job as a piano teacher and youth camp counselor. I have noticed that my patience, empathy, leadership, and compassion have grown and become stronger throughout my experience working with children. These experiences that have molded me into the person that I am have also shaped my vision for the future. I see myself helping children for years to come as a mother, social worker, and teacher. No matter what I choose to do, I know the most important thing to me is making a positive and impactful difference in the lives of those I help.