My name is Bryanna Batts and I plan on using my unique talents and skills by being kind and creating a production studio with a mental health initiative to uplift stories for positive change. Growing up was not the most pleasant due to being bullied and my parents' frequent deployments, I felt very alone. However, even as a little girl I tried to not let those things stop me because of what my grandmother instilled in me. I was always told that being honest and kind is more important than what people think about you. Honestly, if it wasn't for the strength of my grandmother I don't think I would be half of the woman I am today. My childhood made me strong but my grandmother made me kind and I am inspired to pass that along to every person I encounter. When I was 13 years old I was sexually assaulted and honestly, I felt that I had no purpose. It was the hardest thing I ever went through and I know the feeling of losing your mind after a traumatic experience such as being sexually abused. I remember one day I was being bullied so much that I ran out of my classroom and hid in the bathroom as I burst into tears. I remember it like it was yesterday, saying those sweet words that my grandmother always would tell me before slumber. “I am kind and loving no matter what the world thinks”. At that moment I remember deciding no matter how much life is getting me down, I'm going to be kind because I'm in a relationship with myself first. I wake up with myself, think before I speak, or even feel not the greatest feelings with Bryanna, first. I began to teach myself how I wanted to be treated. From that day forward I fell in love with performing, specifically singing and acting. It was my refuge when the world was turning upside down. I felt my life had meaning in that art hall that was tucked away from all of the darkness. It was a haven and I was able to create more than the ones I was seeing or hearing. From that day forward I knew my purpose was to inspire others through performing and create safe spaces for others to be authentically themselves! I am a part of a women's group, where we all share our experiences about adulting, domestic violence and healing. Each week we have new updates and lessons we've learned from our day-to-day lives. I always let them know that no matter what life throws at you, it's how you take it & mold it into your own. I always remind the ladies to know their real power of being themselves, no matter what and no one can take away their true powers. I know the power of kindness is real because I've seen it play out in my real day-to-day life. I know life isn't easy but I truly believe that what sets me apart is that I am simply just me. I’m a young woman trying to figure out life and not letting life drag me down but walking hand and hand with life itself. I know my job isn't done because I woke up another day and I believe it's to be myself as simply Bryanna. and to inspire others that no matter what happens to you, you can always choose to be kind and truly yourself, and I wouldn't want it any other way.

I'm pursuing an acting career because I love being a vessel. I love the journey from the beginning to the end of human development. The surprises of truth and existence excite me and have grown me more as an artist and a person. I've realized from acting that humans never stop developing, and that's how I pursue my future and career. Acting and performance have made me realize, in the darkest times of my life, that I can truly be a light but also a beacon for change, conversation, or simply being seen. Growing up, I didn't feel seen, not just because I was one of the few black girls in my classes but because of my mental struggles and shortcomings, for which I had no language to express my feelings. Acting gave me a stage, a voice, and a choice. My goal is to truly become the best performer I can be and create that feeling that I got after seeing my first Broadway play. I want to be challenged through and through because I know I'll never grow within my comfort zone. I want to speak truth and life into every person I get to step into. Furthermore, I hope to expand my goals into creating a production studio and having mental health as the initiative to cultivate the next generation of artists, especially by having a workplace for inclusivity. Thus far I've accomplished being cast in many short films, plays, and musicals! Even an opera, which was so cool! I've been taking professional acting and dance classes and completing my studies at Virginia Commonwealth University with a BFA in Theatre Performance. All in all, I love what I do and want to do it for as long as I can.

My name is Bryanna Batts, and I am honored to have this opportunity to share my story with you. I have a deep-rooted passion for understanding and uplifting people. With this passion, I have actively pursued the art of acting, where I have discovered the power of empathy and compassion in performance. Acting has opened many doors in my development, allowing me to explore the intricacies of human existence and connect with others on a profound level. My journey with acting has had many challenges. Growing up as a Navy brat, I felt the absence of my parents, both physically and emotionally, because of their deployments. Additionally, I have faced the lasting effects of childhood sexual assault, which has shaped my perspective and resilience in my journey. With the transformative power of the arts, what once was an escape has taught me the importance of compassion, understanding, and mental health. In my educational pursuits, I am majoring in Business and Theatre Performance at Virginia Commonwealth University. My ultimate goal is to integrate the arts with mental health initiatives, using storytelling and performance as vehicles for healing and personal growth. I believe that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, deserves the opportunity to thrive and blossom. That is why my involvement in community programs, such as my city and college choir and theater programs, has focused on how I can leave a lasting impression and touch the hearts of the audience. In these community spaces, I have witnessed the impact the arts can have on families facing adversity. I am humbled by the opportunity to make a positive impression, touch lives, and instill hope where it may be scarce. It is my responsibility to ensure that each person who encounters my performances feels seen, understood, and inspired. As a young performer who is still learning her craft, receiving professional training from esteemed production and performance arts companies is among my top accomplishments. These experiences have not only grown my skills but have also deepened my ability to become a significant role model for others through embodying a character. As I continue to perfect my craft, I am constantly reminded of the transformative potential that lies within storytelling, and I am committed to using my voice to challenge societal norms and promote healing. I dream of opening my own production studio, where I can spark meaningful conversations about mental health through the art that is produced. I hope that through my work, individuals who have faced hardships will find solace, validation, and the courage to pursue their dreams. If granted this scholarship, I would use the funds to work on expanding my education and personal growth. As a first-generation college student, relieving the weight of student loans would provide a better opportunity to pursue a path to graduate school at Yale University, which is my dream school to earn a Master of Fine Arts and Business to make my ambitions a reality. With this plan, I intend to invest in my development, so that I can uplift others. With the support of this scholarship, I will continue to cultivate empathy, compassion, and understanding, so that I can be a beacon of hope for those who need it most.

My name is Bryanna Batts, and I am honored to have this opportunity to share my story with you. I have a deep-rooted passion for understanding and uplifting people. With this passion, I have actively pursued the art of acting, where I have discovered the power of empathy and compassion in performance. Acting has opened many doors in my development, allowing me to explore the intricacies of human existence and connect with others on a profound level. My journey with acting has had many challenges. Growing up as a Navy brat, I felt the absence of my parents, both physically and emotionally, because of their deployments. Additionally, I have faced the lasting effects of childhood sexual assault, which has shaped my perspective and resilience in my journey. With the transformative power of the arts, what once was an escape has taught me the importance of compassion, understanding, and mental health. In my educational pursuits, I am majoring in Business and Theatre Performance at Virginia Commonwealth University. My ultimate goal is to integrate the arts with mental health initiatives, using storytelling and performance as vehicles for healing and personal growth. I believe that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, deserves the opportunity to thrive and blossom. That is why my involvement in community programs, such as my city and college choir and theater programs, has focused on how I can leave a lasting impression and touch the hearts of the audience. In these community spaces, I have witnessed the impact the arts can have on families facing adversity. I am humbled by the opportunity to make a positive impression, touch lives, and instill hope where it may be scarce. It is my responsibility to ensure that each person who encounters my performances feels seen, understood, and inspired. As a young performer who is still learning her craft, receiving professional training from esteemed production and performance arts companies is among my top accomplishments. These experiences have not only grown my skills but have also deepened my ability to become a significant role model for others through embodying a character. As I continue to perfect my craft, I am constantly reminded of the transformative potential that lies within storytelling, and I am committed to using my voice to challenge societal norms and promote healing. I dream of opening my own production studio, where I can spark meaningful conversations about mental health through the art that is produced. I hope that through my work, individuals who have faced hardships will find solace, validation, and the courage to pursue their dreams. If granted this scholarship, I would use the funds to work on expanding my education and personal growth. As a first-generation college student, relieving the weight of student loans would provide a better opportunity to pursue a path to graduate school at Yale University, which is my dream school to earn a Master of Fine Arts and Business to make my ambitions a reality. With this plan, I intend to invest in my craft and development, so that I can uplift others using hard-earned skills. With the support of this scholarship, I will continue to cultivate empathy, compassion, and understanding, so that I can be a beacon of hope for those who need it most.

This is just a sketch, and that's all I can truly say. I have a genuine appreciation for art in all its forms – from the elegance of marble sculptures to the charm of stop-motion animations and even the rawness of finger paintings. However, sketching holds a special place in my heart because it allows me to bring a picture to life. Through sketches, I can create entire worlds on a page. It was through sketching that I found myself posing as a live model for art anatomy classes at university, which was truly inspiring. And perhaps most importantly, sketching provided an escape from the chaotic reality of my childhood, drowning out the constant noise of arguments with the simple act of putting pencil to paper. The moment I picked up my pencil and began drawing, life seemed to stand still. Starting with a dot, a dash, and then gradually adding curves and shapes, I could conjure up my own Picasso-esque artwork featuring a captivating dark princess riding a falcon, defying the cliché choice of horses. Sketching allowed me to create a world beyond myself, igniting a passionate flame within me, especially when my favorite TV show played in the background. Yes, you guessed it right – Teen Titans, just the greatest tv show ever! I have great memories of watching cartoons, a juice box always within reach while sketching whatever appeared on the TV screen. I particularly adored characters like Popeye, the Sailor Man, and the Teen Titans. Popeye reminded me of my grandfather, the embodiment of simple kindness, who always made time for me. And the enigmatic Raven from Teen Titans resonated with me deeply as she, despite being a demon's child, yearned to do good in the world alongside her friends – she made me feel seen. Now, I must confess that the pandemic created challenges for me, but even before that, I was struggling in every aspect of my life. I had lost my appetite, my motivation to get out of bed, and my will to live. And that's the truth. Then, that Christmas, my father gifted me a framed sketch signed by a local artist, which reminded me of the kindness I had experienced through my grandfather. That small act of compassion reignited my passion for sketching. I began to remember what brought meaning to my life, realizing that I could always pick up the pencil again, no matter how long it had been idle. As I embarked on my sketches once more, I stuck to my tried-and-true routine: tuning in to my favorite cartoons and letting my imagination shape the life I wished to see on paper. Yes, I'll admit I often turned on Teen Titans, but who can blame me? The show is fantastic! With each stroke of my pencil, I portrayed Raven, symbolizing the flicker of hope that gradually rekindled within me. The meaning of life started making sense again. Looking back on my childhood, I know the realization that growing up wasn't easy, but it was just a small part of my life. I could look back and still create. This particular sketch may not be my best work, but it holds a special place in my heart because it emerged during my darkest moments and ultimately saved my life. I firmly believe that art withstands time, and I desire to continue creating, one sketch at a time.

My name is Bryanna Batts and my experience with mental health has shaped me by creating a passion for understanding and uplifting people. I have dedicated my life to pursuing the art of performance and serving others, where I have discovered the power of empathy and compassion. Acting in particular has opened many doors in my growth as a human being and allowed me to explore the intricacies of human existence and connect with others on a profound level. My journey with acting has had many challenges. Growing up as a Navy brat, my parents physically and emotionally were not present due to their deployments. Additionally, I have faced the lasting effects of childhood sexual assault, which has shaped my perspective and resilience in my journey. With the transformative power of the arts, what once was an escape has taught me the importance of compassion, understanding, and mental health. During my childhood, I recall being awakened by unfamiliar noises that shook me from my dreams. As young children, we are often warned about imaginary monsters lurking in our closets and ghouls coming to harm us. However, these sounds were different—startling screams, the clatter of dishes being thrown, and words that were forbidden for someone my age to utter. I soon realized that it was Mommy and Daddy's arguments. Even at 8 years old, I understood that this wasn't normal, and I struggled to grasp the true meaning of normalcy in relationships. Growing up I didn't feel safe at home and I struggled still. I tried to refrain from judging my parents and instead looked for understanding. I vividly recall asking my father the question that burned in my young mind: "Why do you and Mommy fight?" His response was simple and honest—he shared that his parents used to fight. At a young age, I understood that I will have to become my advocate and attempt to be a mediator to bring an end to their conflicts. Mental health is not a topic that my parents' generation talked about and it wasn't until I turned nineteen that I had to face my mental health crisis. I struggle with the realization of how much strength I gained as a child. I am a survivor of sexual assault and with that, I have been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety. The memories still haunt me—I vividly recall being kicked in the stomach as a young child by one of my parents when I finally mustered the courage to reveal that someone had touched me inappropriately. I was mentally confused—why was I being punished for speaking up? That kick left more than a bruise but an opening for forgiveness and healing. I understand from that moment the issue is much deeper than the announcement of pain and abuse. It begs the question: how do we effectively address such matters and bring positive change? In my educational pursuits, I am majoring in Business and Theatre Performance at Virginia Commonwealth University. My goal is to integrate the arts with mental health initiatives, using storytelling and performance as vehicles for healing and personal growth. I believe that every human being, regardless of their circumstances, deserves the opportunity to thrive and blossom. That is why my involvement in community programs, such as my city and college choir and theater programs, has focused on how I can leave a lasting impression and touch the hearts of the audience. In these community spaces, I have witnessed the impact the arts can have on families facing adversity. I am humbled by the opportunity to make a positive impression, touch lives, and instill hope where it may be scarce. It is my responsibility to ensure that each person who encounters my performances feels seen, understood, and inspired. As a young performer who is still learning her craft, receiving professional training from esteemed production and performance arts companies is among my top accomplishments. These experiences have grown my skills and deepened my ability to become a significant role model for others through embodying a character. As I continue to perfect my craft, I am constantly reminded of the transformative potential of storytelling. I am committed to using my voice to challenge societal norms and promote healing. I dream of opening my very own production studio, where I can spark meaningful conversations about mental health through the art that is produced. I hope that through my work, individuals who have faced hardships will find solace, validation, and the courage to pursue their dreams.

My name is Bryanna Batts and I leverage my uniqueness by being kind and authentic to myself and every person I meet. Growing up was not the most pleasant due to being bullied and my parent's frequent deployments, I felt immensely alone. However, even as a child, I tried to not let those things stop me because of what my grandmother instilled in me. I was always told that honesty and kindness are more important than what people think about you. Honestly, if it wasn't for the strength of my grandmother I don't think I would be half of the woman I am today! My childhood made me strong but my grandmother made me kind and I am inspired to pass that along to every person I encounter. When I was 13 years old I was sexually assaulted and honestly, I felt that I had no purpose. It was the hardest thing I ever went through and I know the feeling of losing your mind after a traumatic experience such as being sexually abused. I remember one day I was being bullied so much that I ran out of my classroom and hid in the bathroom as I burst into tears. I remember it like it was yesterday, saying those sweet words that my grandmother always would tell me before slumber. “I am kind and loving no matter what the world thinks”. At that moment I remember deciding no matter how much life is getting me down, I'm going to be kind because I'm in a relationship with myself first. I wake up with myself, think before I speak, or even feel not the greatest feelings with Bryanna, first. I began to teach myself how I wanted to be treated. From that day forward I fell in love with performing, specifically singing and acting. It was my refuge when the world was turning upside down. I felt my life had meaning in that art hall that was tucked away from all of the darkness. It was a haven and I was able to create more than the ones I was seeing or hearing. From that day forward I knew my purpose was to inspire others through performing and create safe spaces for others to be authentically themselves! I am part of a women's group, where we all share our experiences about adulting, domestic violence, and healing. Each week we have new updates and lessons we've learned from our day-to-day lives. I always let them know that no matter what life throws at you, it's how you take it & mold it into your own. I own I am in control of my behavior and it's okay to not be perfect all the time! I always remind the ladies to know their real power of being themselves; no matter what, no one can take away their true powers. I know the power of kindness is real because I've seen it play out in my real day-to-day life. I know life isn't easy but I truly believe that what sets me apart is that I am simply just me. I’m a young woman trying to figure out life and not letting life drag me down but walking hand and hand with life itself. I know my job isn't done because I woke up another day and I believe it's to be myself as simply Bryanna. and to inspire others that no matter what happens to you, you can always choose to be kind and truly yourself, and I wouldn't want it any other way!

My name is Bryanna Batts, and my experience, in addition, hasn't been easy, but it's been worth it. During my childhood, there were numerous counts of abuse, such as physical, physiological, and most frequently, sexual abuse. My parents were both in the military, and I often felt distant from them, both physically and mentally, due to their deployments. They were both a tad older but had the same behavior as children. My home was warm, but it wasn't safe near anyone because of the possibility of being hit by anything flying by. My addiction began at about 13. I dared to tell my parents about being sexually abused by a classmate. However, I was surprised to be kicked in the stomach for speaking the truth. I truly had no will to live, and I tried to go into a deep and final slumber at 13. I was taken to the hospital and revived, but from there I didn't know that, by saving my life, I was still dealing with addiction. At only 13, I was told my life was over and I was a whore for being sexually abused. I began to constantly take pills just to not feel anything. I would try to drink a whole bottle of cough medicine and then mix it with pills to make concoctions that could finally do the trick. I finally got to the point where I realized this would not kill me, but I didn't know the ramifications of my patterns with pills would continue to be a problem. Even at the slightest inconvenience, I realized that if I didn't have an extra stash of painkillers, I would feel as if I couldn't breathe. I was also afraid to let anyone know about how I was struggling because no one was there for me when I needed them in the first place, so why begin now? One day, however, I was put into chorus and theater just because I needed extra electives during that semester. Strangely, I knew from the moment I stepped into the class that I had found my calling. That semester I was required to audition for "Annie", the Musical, and to my surprise, I was up for the lead role of Annie. However, not having any prior experience, I was okay with being a secondary character named Tessie. With the catchphrase "Oh my goodness, oh my goodness"! From that opening night on, I knew I had a reason to live and a reason to quit taking pills. That night, I realized it wasn't about how much pain I was in, but what I chose. And I chose my gifts: singing and acting. Going through that experience was life-changing. In the beginning, it felt as if no one in the world cared about me, especially being that young and enduring such pain. With time, I realized that I'm not the only one who can relate to pain. It may not be exactly what I went through, but everyone has felt the pain that words cannot describe. Performing gave me the words and freedom to say that there is beauty and power inside because of the pain. Heartache has meaning behind it, and art has cultivated it. It's a constant that is always accumulating in a positive light. I realized I wanted to help others by being a vessel for truth, honesty, and pain. I've dedicated my life to the arts because it's bigger than just me; it's for everyone. However, especially for little Bryanna, who didn't think she would make it, to her surprise she did.

I'm passionate about theater and dance because they saved my life, and I fell in love with being a vessel for the truth. As a young girl, I was very imaginative and quite goofy! I would cultivate elaborate sets and fight aliens and life was worthwhile! However, these sets stopped at various times because of being abruptly awakened by unfamiliar noises. As a young child, I was often warned about imaginary monsters lurking in my closet and ghouls coming to harm me. However, these sounds were different—screams, the sound of dishes being thrown, and words that were forbidden for someone my age to speak. The climate in my home was often confronted with tension, and I soon realized that these were the sounds of my parents' frequent arguments. At a young age, I understood that this wasn't normal, and I struggled to grasp the true meaning of life. Growing up, I didn't feel seen or heard by my parents, but I would hold back from passing judgment on my parents and instead look for understanding. I remember asking my father the question, "Why do you and Mommy fight?" His response was simple but honest—he shared that his parents used to fight. At the age of merely eight, I comprehended I had to become my advocate and a skilled mediator to bring an end to their conflicts. I used to study my parents and create alternate narratives in my head to get through my day. Every time yelling occurred, I would create beautiful dances and scenes that I would play wildly in my mind. I was mostly inspired as a young child from the movie Coraline, to play a game that I finally won through the chaos of arguments and disagreements. A game where I could shape shift and evolve into whoever and whatever I wanted, all at once! I craved the truth that I could get lost in. As I got older, I realized I was stepping into character without knowing it! I would look all around and be in a world of my own and knock down walls and create skyscrapers and some have told me I have a wild imagination because of this curiosity to create. However, once I saw my first play, it was very iconic, if I might add–Annie; I realized I could do this forever! Ever since that play, I've made it my mission to become the best artist I can be by remaining curious as I have been since a child. I fell in love with acting because of its ability to bring awareness, honesty and how it brought me on my healing journey. I realize how much strength I had to gain during my childhood and learned to accept that I am a survivor of sexual assault. As a result, I have been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety. However, getting to become different characters and being their vessel for truth has shown me that no matter what life throws at me. I can decide what I throw back and I'm on a mission to inspire others so that they know they can imagine a greater life and get there, with truth, play, and imagination.

My name is Bryanna Batts, and I am honored to have this opportunity to share my story with you. I have a deep-rooted passion for understanding and uplifting people. With this passion, I have actively pursued the art of acting, where I have discovered the power of empathy and compassion in performance. Acting has opened many doors in my development, allowing me to explore the intricacies of human existence and connect with others on a profound level. My journey with acting has had many challenges. Growing up as a Navy brat, I felt the absence of my parents, both physically and emotionally, because of their deployments. Additionally, I have faced the lasting effects of childhood sexual assault, which has shaped my perspective and resilience in my journey. With the transformative power of the arts, what once was an escape has taught me the importance of compassion, understanding, and mental health. In my educational pursuits, I am majoring in Business and Theatre Performance at Virginia Commonwealth University. My ultimate goal is to integrate the arts with mental health initiatives, using storytelling and performance as vehicles for healing and personal growth. I believe that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, deserves the opportunity to thrive and blossom. That is why my involvement in community programs, such as my city and college choir and theater programs, has focused on how I can leave a lasting impression and touch the hearts of the audience. In these community spaces, I have witnessed the impact the arts can have on families facing adversity. I am humbled by the opportunity to make a positive impression, touch lives, and instill hope where it may be scarce. It is my responsibility to ensure that each person who encounters my performances feels seen, understood, and inspired. As a young performer who is still learning her craft, receiving professional training from esteemed production and performance arts companies is among my top accomplishments. These experiences have not only grown my skills but have also deepened my ability to become a significant role model for others through embodying a character. As I continue to perfect my craft, I am constantly reminded of the transformative potential that lies within storytelling, and I am committed to using my voice to challenge societal norms and promote healing. I dream of opening my own production studio, where I can spark meaningful conversations about mental health through the art that is produced. I hope that through my work, individuals who have faced hardships will find solace, validation, and the courage to pursue their dreams. If granted this scholarship, I would use the funds to work on expanding my education and personal growth. As a first-generation college student, relieving the weight of student loans would provide a better opportunity to pursue a path to graduate school at Yale University, which is my dream school to earn a Master of Fine Arts and Business to make my ambitions a reality. With this plan, I intend to invest in my development, so that I can uplift others using hard-earned skills. With the support of this scholarship, I will continue to cultivate empathy, compassion, and understanding, so that I can be a beacon of hope for those who need it most.

My name is Bryanna Batts and I am committed to tackling my current student loan debt and preparing for the future. As a first-gen and minority student, I understand how vital it is to lessen financial strain when going after higher education. Currently, I have about 37,000 dollars in student debt, and I'm trying to constantly search for new opportunities for funding for my education. I am searching for financial support to significantly decrease my reliance on loans. By carefully researching and applying for scholarships and grants, I realized that they can reduce the financial load and minimize the financial pressure. I refuse to quit because respectfully I didn't get this far. My childhood was a turmoil of domestic and sexual abuse. Personally, instead of letting it stop me, I was to be a beacon of hope for other students who have been through the same things as well. I Specifically have been targeting scholarships that align with my values and morals to truly connect with prompts because I want to truly inspire everyone. I am hoping to further my education at universities such as Yale, Columbia, and Harvard for a master's in business and performance. To accomplish this, I will research financial aid options, including scholarships and grants, particularly for graduate students. By actively seeking financial aid, I plan to decrease the amount of debt I incur during graduate school. Obtaining this scholarship will be a huge relief and permit me to go on with my education without the burden of student debt. As a first-generation college student, no one in my family has ever done this and I have siblings who I know I want to help in the future, and being financially stable now can help me provide for them later in the future. I'm personally making myself more knowledgeable of more opportunities to receive funding from jobs as divergent as nannying to house cleaning. I am well aware that receiving this scholarship would reduce so much stress and give me the ability to give additional attention to my craft. I've never had the opportunity to primarily focus on my studies without looking for additional income and always having to balance a full-time job and schoolwork can be very difficult. I will be able to go after internships or research opportunities that fit my ambitions, even if they are unpaid or barely remunerated. This flexibility will significantly improve my learning journey and open the doors to valuable experiences that can shape my career growth. In conclusion, I am actively working to resolve my current student debt through scholarships, grants, and financial management.

I am currently engaged in the process of writing a play titled "Pupils" that aims to initiate discussions surrounding mental health in the wake of catastrophic events. Its central focus is on cultivating the ability to accurately identify and navigate emotions, thereby fostering a generational change. I am deeply passionate about facilitating this type of interaction within the community as it promotes unity and encourages conversations among individuals with diverse experiences. Rather than merely advocating for change, I firmly believe in taking proactive steps to become the change itself. My connection to this topic stems from my time at Virginia Tech, where I witnessed the profound impact of a devastating event that unfolded on campus. It was an unimaginable tragedy, as a student unleashed gunfire on multiple parts of the campus. This left an indelible mark on the university community, affecting not only those who were present but also permeating the lives of every individual associated with the institution. From freshmen who had never encountered such violence before, to tenured staff members whose work became entwined with the sorrowful memory of April 16th, 2007, the trauma was palpable. During my college years, I vividly recall sitting in a class and sharing my discomfort about certain areas of the campus following the shooting. However, instead of receiving empathy or understanding, my professor responded with a dismissive remark, stating that "you had to be there" to truly comprehend the impact. Although his analogy cast a shadow of concern over our professor's well-being, I didn't interpret it as disrespectful or malicious behavior. It was on that day that I realized the far-reaching effects of such tragic events, affecting individuals in ways that are often beyond our imagination. Motivated by these experiences, I am currently engaged in collecting real-time data to further my research on how catastrophic incidents shape the well-being of individuals. Working closely with colleagues, friends, and acquaintances, I am dedicated to crafting an authentic narrative that delves into the profound implications of emotional intelligence, or rather, the lack thereof, which constitutes a global issue. Often referred to as generational trauma, the long-term repercussions of emotional ignorance have been substantiated time and time again. As a consequence, we are witnessing alarming increases in mental health issues, suicide rates, and domestic violence cases. Through a harmonious fusion of scientific understanding and artistic expression, I firmly believe we can forge a world where emotions are not confined to a vast, turbulent ocean within us, but rather a captivating horizon brimming with opportunities for growth and healing. By shedding light on the significance of emotional intelligence, my play aims to inspire audiences, provoke introspection, and ultimately contribute to a society that values and prioritizes emotional well-being. As I continue on this journey, collaborating with individuals from various backgrounds, I am committed to the pursuit of knowledge and truth, seeking to unravel the intricate connections between life events and personal well-being. Together, we can bring about transformative change and ensure that emotional intelligence becomes an integral part of our collective human experience.

Community service and disaster relief are two integral components of humanitarian work that play a critical role in providing support and assistance to individuals and communities during times of crisis. My passion for this field was sparked by personal experiences that highlighted the significance of these initiatives and my desire to make a positive impact in the world. The recent E3 tornado that hit my hometown only reinforced my conviction about the importance of community and the dire need for disaster relief efforts. Growing up in an area prone to natural disasters, I witnessed firsthand the impact that these emergencies can have on individuals and communities. Seeing families struggle to rebuild their lives after hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods ignited in me a desire to help those most affected by these disasters. My parent's and relatives' involvement in community service activities further solidified my commitment to giving back to my community. In college, I participated in several community service projects that allowed me to connect with people from diverse backgrounds, appreciate the richness of human experience, and witness firsthand how small acts of kindness can have a profound impact on people's lives. Through community service, I realized that building stronger, more resilient communities requires human connection and support. The recent tornado in my hometown was one of the most devastating disasters to hit our community in recent memory. Yet, amidst the destruction, the community came together to support each other in ways that inspired me. I saw neighbors help each other clear debris, volunteers distribute food and supplies, and first responders work tirelessly to ensure everyone's safety. The tornado emphasized the true power of human connection and the importance of disaster relief efforts. Through volunteering at local shelters and food banks and participating in disaster relief efforts, I have been able to give back to my community and gain valuable skills in communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Looking ahead, I plan to continue my involvement in community service and disaster relief work by participating in more initiatives focused on disaster preparedness and volunteering at local shelters and food banks. In conclusion, community service and disaster relief work are essential in providing support and assistance to individuals and communities during times of crisis. My passion for this field stems from personal experiences and a desire to make a positive impact in the world. The recent tornado in my hometown highlighted the importance of community and the need for disaster relief efforts. Through my involvement in various initiatives, I have seen firsthand the impact that this work can have on individuals and communities, and I am committed to doing my part to make a positive impact in the world.

I have always had a deep passion for acting and storytelling. It's been with me for as long as I can remember. I love the power of storytelling and how it can impact people's lives. Acting is a way to connect with people on a deeper level and to help them see the world from a different perspective. It's not just a job, it's a calling. As a woman of color, I understand the challenges that come with pursuing a career in the entertainment industry. There are many barriers to entry, including limited opportunities for people from underrepresented communities. However, I strongly believe that representation matters, and I want to use my platform as an actor to inspire others, especially women of color, that their dreams are possible. I want to be a role model for young people who may not see themselves represented in the media. I want to show them that their stories matter and that they too can pursue a career in the entertainment industry. By sharing my own experiences and struggles, I hope to inspire others to follow their dreams and to help break down the barriers that have kept underrepresented communities from achieving success in the industry. In addition to acting, I have a long-term goal of opening my own production company. I want to create a space where diverse voices are heard and celebrated, and where underrepresented communities can see themselves represented on screen. As part of my mission, I want to offer paid internships to young people who are interested in pursuing a career in the entertainment industry, but may not have the financial means or connections to do so. By providing these opportunities, I hope to give back and help the next generation of creatives get a foot in the door. Ultimately, my passion for acting and desire to inspire others, especially women of color, drives me to pursue a career in the entertainment industry. I believe that representation matters, and I want to be a part of a movement that is changing the industry for the better. My long-term goal of opening my own production company and offering paid internships is a testament to my commitment to diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry. In conclusion, my love for acting and storytelling is rooted in my desire to connect with people and impact their lives. My desire to inspire others, especially women of color, comes from my own experiences and the recognition that there are many barriers to entry in the entertainment industry. My goal of opening my own production company and offering paid internships is a testament to my commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable industry for future generations. I am driven by a passion for storytelling and a desire to make a difference in the world, and I believe that acting and producing can be powerful tools for achieving that goal.