I want to go into the mental health field, dealing with patients who suffer from rare diseases or chronic illness. I plan to improve the lives of others through a career in healthcare by advocating for mental health care that is compassionate, accessible, and fully integrated into overall treatment—especially for individuals living with rare diseases. While rare conditions often bring complex physical challenges, the emotional and psychological toll can be just as overwhelming. I want to help create a healthcare environment where mental health is not treated as secondary, but as a vital part of healing and long-term well-being. People with rare diseases frequently face uncertainty, delayed diagnoses, and a sense of isolation that few others truly understand. These experiences can lead to anxiety, depression, and feelings of invisibility within the healthcare system. I am especially motivated to support these individuals by addressing not only their medical needs but also the mental health struggles that accompany living with a condition that is misunderstood or overlooked. By validating their experiences and offering consistent emotional support, I hope to help patients feel seen, heard, and empowered. I envision helping people by creating safe, trusting spaces where they can openly discuss both their physical symptoms and emotional challenges. Whether someone is coping with the stress of ongoing treatments, the fear of an uncertain future, or the frustration of explaining their condition repeatedly, mental health support can make a meaningful difference in their resilience and quality of life. When patients feel emotionally supported, they are often better equipped to manage their illness, advocate for themselves, and stay engaged in their care. Beyond individual support, I hope to contribute to reducing the stigma surrounding both mental illness and rare diseases through education and advocacy. Too often, patients feel pressured to appear “strong” while silently struggling. By encouraging open conversations about mental health, I want to help normalize seeking support and promote early intervention—especially for those whose rare conditions place them at higher risk for emotional distress. Ultimately, I see my future in healthcare as an opportunity to restore hope in moments when patients feel overwhelmed by circumstances beyond their control. By addressing mental health alongside physical care, I aim to help individuals with rare diseases not only survive, but truly live—building resilience, confidence, and a sense of purpose. My goal is to support patients in finding strength in their journey and believing that they deserve both understanding and healing, in every sense of the word.

Even though “The Life of a Showgirl” isn’t a real Taylor Swift album, thinking about her career in the spotlight, the performance that really sticks with me is her 2019 AMA “Artist of the Decade” medley. It was like a mini career retrospective, moving through songs from Fearless to Lover, and it felt really emotional to see all her eras in one performance and the way that she mixed them so perfectly. What made it even more powerful was the context—she was dealing with the whole masters situation at the time, and starting with “The Man” gave the show this mix of celebration and quiet defiance. I loved the little details too, like her shirt listing all her albums. Along with every fan making detailed outfits to fit to each of the albums. I also loved the environment of everyone trading bracelets and helping on other. She turned a regular award show performance into a statement about her career and what she’s been through. But what really got me was how real it felt; she wasn’t overdoing it, and the audience’s reactions made the whole thing hit even harder. It was just a perfect mix of nostalgia, pride, and authenticity.

My experience with mental health has shaped almost every part of who I am today—my goals, my relationships, and the way I see the world. There was a long period of my life where I was really struggling with myself. I dealt with self-harm and went through multiple suicide attempts, and at the time, it felt like I was stuck in a cycle I couldn’t escape. My thoughts were constantly overwhelming, and I didn’t know how to handle the pain I was carrying, let alone explain it to anyone else. Eventually, my mental health struggles led me to psychiatric wards. At first, I was scared and angry about being there. It felt like hitting rock bottom, and I honestly didn’t believe anything good could come from it. But being there forced me to slow down in a way I never had before. For once, I couldn’t distract myself or avoid what was going on inside my head. I had to sit with my thoughts, feelings, and past experiences and really start understanding myself. Inside the psych wards, I began doing the hardest work I’ve ever done—working on myself from the inside out. Through therapy, group sessions, and just having time to reflect, I started recognizing unhealthy patterns and learning better ways to cope. I learned how to communicate my emotions instead of hurting myself, how to ask for help without feeling weak, and how to give myself grace on days when things still felt heavy. It wasn’t a quick fix, but it was real progress. When I finally left, I didn’t come back the same person. In a lot of ways, I came back better than ever—not because everything was suddenly perfect, but because I had grown. My worldview completely shifted. Going through that level of darkness made me incredibly grateful for even the smallest things. I started appreciating being alive in a way I never had before—waking up in the morning, feeling sunlight, having conversations, laughing, and just existing without constant pain. Things I used to overlook suddenly felt meaningful. My relationships changed too. I became more open, honest, and understanding with the people around me. I learned how important vulnerability is and how much strength it actually takes to be real about your struggles. I’m more patient now, more empathetic, and more aware that everyone is fighting battles you can’t always see. Most importantly, my goals changed. I don’t just want to get through life anymore—I want to live it fully and intentionally. I want to keep growing, keep healing, and be someone who can support others the way I once needed support myself. My mental health journey was painful and messy, but it shaped me into someone stronger, more self-aware, and deeply grateful for life. It taught me that even after the darkest moments, real growth and hope are possible.

Watching my mom navigate life as a single parent taught me the true meaning of work ethic, sacrifice, and unconditional love, and those lessons have shaped who I am today. From a young age, I saw how hard she worked to provide for my brother and me, often taking on long hours and exhausting days without ever complaining, because she believed that perseverance was the foundation for a better future. Even when finances were tight and stress weighed heavily on her, she never allowed those struggles to overshadow her role as a mother. What inspired me most was her ability to balance relentless hard work with being fully present in our lives. No matter how tired she was or how demanding her job became, she always showed up. She attended every school event, from parent-teacher conferences and award ceremonies to sports games, concerts, and assemblies, making sure my brother and I knew that we were her top priority. I remember scanning the crowd at events and instantly feeling relief and motivation when I saw her there, because her presence reminded me that my efforts mattered. My mom showed me that dedication is not just about working hard to survive, but about committing yourself fully to the people and goals you care about. She modeled responsibility by managing bills, schedules, and responsibilities on her own, while also teaching us independence by encouraging us to work hard in school and believe in ourselves. Even on days when she was stretched thin, she never missed an opportunity to support my brother’s activities or celebrate our achievements, no matter how small. Her consistency taught me discipline, time management, and resilience, lessons that have directly influenced my approach to education. When I feel overwhelmed by academic pressure or financial concerns about college, I think of her pushing forward despite obstacles far greater than my own. She taught me that success is not defined by how easy the path is, but by the determination to keep going when it is difficult. Because of her example, I have learned to value hard work, empathy, and commitment, and I strive to carry those values with me into higher education. My mom’s sacrifices created opportunities she never had for herself, and her unwavering support gave me the confidence to pursue my educational dreams. Everything I do academically is a reflection of the work ethic she instilled in me and the love she showed by always being there, proving that even in hardship, dedication and perseverance can build a strong foundation for the future.

One coach in my life had a huge impact on who I am today, both as an athlete and as a person. When I first started playing basketball, I had little ability since I started late, I didn’t always believe in myself. I was scared to mess up and worried too much about what others thought. My coach noticed that right away. She was tough, loud, and demanding, but she also cared about everyone succeeding in their own way more than anyone I’d ever met. Practices were intense, and she never let anyone take a play off. At the time, it wasn’t always easy to deal with, but I later realized she pushed us because she truly believed in us. When I made mistakes, she didn’t give up on me or treat me like I didn’t belong. Instead, she challenged me to be better and reminded me that one bad play didn’t define me. She would always say “you can’t score unless you shoot.” I remember one game where I had a rough performance and felt like I let my teammates down. I was frustrated and embarrassed, but my coach pulled me aside and told me to keep my head up and trust myself. That small moment meant a lot to me. It helped me understand that confidence and effort matter just as much as talent. That’s one of the reasons Dave Sutton’s story really connects with me. Like Dave, my coach had a big personality, a big heart, and always wanted the best for her players. She cared about us on and off the field and wanted us to succeed in life, not just in sports. She taught me to be accountable, to work hard even when it’s uncomfortable, and to support the people around me. I try to carry those lessons with me every day. I lead by encouraging my teammates, helping younger players when I can, and staying positive even when things don’t go my way. I give my best effort whether I’m starting or on the bench, and I try to be the kind of teammate I would want to have. This scholarship represents everything a great coach stands for, heart, toughness, and belief in others. I hope to honor Dave Sutton’s legacy by continuing to fight through challenges, lift others up, and give back to the teams and communities that have given so much to me.

For as long as I can remember, I felt like I was running a race that no one else could see. I worked hard, stayed up late, and pushed myself to get good grades, but it always felt harder for me than for everyone else. Despite my academic success, I struggled deeply with focus, motivation, and organization. I often described it as trying to listen to one voice in a room full of noise. When I began to suspect I had ADHD, I reached out for help — but for years, doctors didn’t believe me. They saw that my grades were really good and assumed I couldn’t possibly have it. What they didn’t see was the toll it took. I spent hours re-reading the same page, forgetting assignments, and constantly fighting frustration and self-doubt. My achievements came at the cost of exhaustion and anxiety. I began to believe that maybe I just needed to “try harder,” even though I was already giving everything I had. Eventually, I found a doctor who truly listened. After a thorough evaluation, I finally received an ADHD diagnosis and began treatment. Being believed — and receiving proper medication — completely changed my life. For the first time, I could focus without feeling overwhelmed. Tasks that once felt impossible became manageable. I wasn’t just surviving school anymore; I was thriving in it. This experience taught me the power of perseverance and self-advocacy. I learned that success isn’t about how easy things come to you, but how determined you are to overcome challenges. Having ADHD doesn’t define my limitations — it defines my strength. It pushed me to develop better time management, creativity in problem-solving, and empathy for others who struggle in silence. Today, I’m proud of how far I’ve come. My grades are still strong, but more importantly, I’ve found balance and confidence in myself. I’ve learned to see ADHD not as a barrier, but as a unique part of how my brain works — one that, with the right support, allows me to think outside the box and approach challenges differently. Getting the help I needed didn’t just improve my schoolwork; it gave me back my sense of self. And now, I’m ready to use what I’ve learned to continue succeeding and to help others find their own spark, too. That’s why I’m going into the mental health field to be able to provide the support that individuals like me needed.

One of the most meaningful experiences I’ve had with a coach came during a time when I was struggling both with my confidence and performance. I remember a season where nothing seemed to go right for me, I partially tore my acl and mcl, then when I finally got that healed my first day back at practice I dislocated my finger. I thought I was gonna be so behind for the next year and I just kept thinking what I did wrong to get to this point where I’m stuck at the bench. mistakes on the court carried over into how I felt about myself off the court. Instead of letting me give in to frustration, my coach pulled me aside and reminded me that setbacks are part of growth. She challenged me to see mistakes not as failures but as opportunities to get better. She pushed me to work harder in practice, but just as importantly, she encouraged me to believe in myself when I didn’t. That balance of high expectations and genuine care changed how I approached not just sports, but life. What stayed with me most was that my coach never measured success only by the scoreboard. She valued effort, attitude, and resilience, and she showed me that those qualities are just as important as talent. By holding me accountable while also lifting me up, she helped me rediscover my love for the game and reminded me of my own potential. I try to carry those same traits forward in how I live my life today. Like David, I believe in working hard and pushing myself to be the best I can be, but I also believe in lifting others up along the way. Whether it’s encouraging a teammate, supporting a friend who is struggling, or simply showing kindness, I know that effort and heart can leave a lasting impact. I strive to be someone who challenges others to grow while also making them feel seen and supported. The lesson my coach taught me was that toughness and compassion can go hand in hand. This remains one of the most valuable influences in my life. It showed me that leadership is not about being the loudest or the strictest, but about inspiring others to bring out their best while knowing you truly care about them. That’s the kind of person I want to be, and the kind of values I hope to carry forward in everything I do.

I do not plan on pursuing a degree in criminal justice, but I do plan on pursuing a degree in psychology. For most of my high school career so it’s always an important to me to give back to my community. It’s not just an academic choice for me, but a commitment to serving those in the community who are in need. Mental health is often overlooked or misunderstood, yet it is at the foundation of a person’s ability to live a healthy, fulfilling life. Too many people suffer silently, whether due to stigma, lack of access to resources, or simply not knowing where to turn. With my degree, I hope to break down some of those barriers and be a source of support, guidance, and healing for individuals who are struggling. My first goal is to work directly with people who are experiencing challenges such as anxiety, depression, or trauma. Many individuals feel isolated when dealing with these issues, and I want to create a safe space where they feel heard and validated. By applying evidence-based psychological principles and combining them with genuine empathy, I hope to help individuals learn coping strategies, build resilience, and discover strengths within themselves that they may not realize they have. Beyond one-on-one support, I want to take an active role in outreach and education. Mental health challenges don’t just affect individuals; they affect families, workplaces, and the community as a whole. By offering workshops, support groups, and educational programs, I hope to make mental health resources more accessible. Normalizing conversations about psychological well-being can reduce stigma and encourage more people to seek help before their struggles become overwhelming. I am also passionate about working with underserved populations, including those who may not have consistent access to mental health services. Communities facing poverty, discrimination, or systemic barriers often have fewer resources, yet their need for psychological support is just as great, if not greater. I want to use my degree to advocate for equity in mental health care and help close the gap by providing compassionate, culturally sensitive support. Ultimately, my goal in studying psychology is not only to understand human behavior but to use that understanding to make a difference. Healing happens not only in the counseling room but also through fostering community resilience and compassion. If I can help even a few people feel less alone, more empowered, and better equipped to handle life’s challenges, I will feel I have fulfilled my purpose. Psychology gives me the tools, but my heart gives me the drive to serve.

I’ve played many sports over the years, including basketball cross country, volleyball, and track and field. I played sports all through high school but one of the hardest setbacks I’ve faced was missing an entire year of sports because I was admitted to a residential treatment facility to address my mental health struggles. At the time, I felt like I was losing a huge part of my identity. Sports had always been my outlet, a way to connect with teammates and push myself physically and mentally. Having that taken away left me feeling isolated and unsure of who I was without the game. During treatment, I was forced to step away from the structure and excitement of competing and instead turn inward. It was incredibly difficult to watch my teammates continue to practice and play while I was working on my recovery. At first, I felt like I was falling behind and losing opportunities. But as the months went on, I realized that the time away was teaching me something valuable: sports were more than just an activity I participated in—they were a passion that fueled me, a community that grounded me, and a source of joy that I had taken for granted. When I finally returned to sports after treatment, I came back with a new perspective. I no longer saw practices as a chore or games as just another commitment on my schedule. Instead, I appreciated every moment on the field or court because I knew what it felt like to have that taken away. My setback gave me a deeper gratitude and love for the game. It also showed me that my mental health had to come first if I wanted to succeed in any part of my life, including athletics. This experience turned into a moment of growth and empowerment because it reminded me that I am resilient. I learned that stepping away to take care of myself is not a weakness—it is a strength that allows me to return to the things I love even stronger. Missing a year of sports was painful, but it helped me see that my passion runs deeper than wins and losses. Today, I carry that lesson with me in everything I do: I give my best effort not just because I want to succeed, but because I know how much it means to even have the chance to play.

When I was 14 I was sexually assaulted, my life felt like it was falling apart piece by piece. Depression made even the smallest daily tasks feel impossible, and I struggled to see a future for myself. Over time, the weight of my emotions became unbearable, and I turned to self-harm as a way to cope with feelings I didn’t yet know how to manage. Eventually, I reached a point where I could no longer carry this pain alone, and I tried to end things. I was placed in emergency psych wards and then eventually entered a residential treatment facility. That decision was one of the hardest I have ever made, but it became the turning point in my journey toward recovery. Being in residential treatment was both overwhelming and transformative. For the first time, I was in a safe space where I could confront the reality of my depression and learn healthier coping strategies. The structure of the program, the guidance of compassionate staff, and the support of peers who shared their own struggles helped me realize that I was not alone. I learned practical skills like grounding techniques, journaling, and crisis planning, which gave me tools to manage intense emotions. Just as importantly, I discovered that asking for help is not a weakness but a sign of strength. Recovery, I have learned, is not a straight line. There have been days when the old thoughts felt loud, and moments when progress felt slow. But treatment helped me build a foundation that I continue to strengthen every day. My recovery plan now includes regular therapy, maintaining a daily routine that supports my mental health, and surrounding myself with people who uplift and encourage me. I also prioritize activities that bring me peace and fulfillment, like creative expression and physical exercise. These commitments remind me that healing is ongoing but always possible. My experiences with depression and recovery have not only shaped who I am but also inspired my future goals. I want to turn my struggles into something meaningful by helping others who are going through similar challenges. This is why I plan to pursue a degree in psychology, with the ultimate goal of becoming a mental health professional. I want to work directly with individuals who are struggling with depression, self-harm, or other mental health conditions, providing the kind of support and guidance that once helped me. In my studies, I hope to focus on trauma-informed care and evidence-based interventions that empower individuals to build resilience. Beyond academics, I am committed to volunteering and gaining hands-on experience in community mental health settings, where I can learn how to translate my knowledge into practical, compassionate care. My dream is to create spaces where people feel safe, validated, and capable of healing—spaces that reduce stigma and offer hope to those who feel hopeless. This scholarship would not only help me afford tuition but would also serve as a symbol of encouragement—a reminder that my journey has value and that my future can be dedicated to service. Financial support would give me the freedom to focus fully on my studies and training, allowing me to prepare myself to make the greatest possible impact in the field of psychology. I no longer see my past as something that defines me in a negative way. Instead, I see it as the foundation of my purpose. My battle with depression taught me resilience, compassion, and determination. I want to use those lessons to uplift others, helping them not just survive their darkest moments but find ways to grow beyond them.

I chose Lycoming College because I was drawn to the sense of community and the opportunity for meaningful connections that a smaller liberal arts college offers. Coming from a background where support systems and close relationships played a major role in my personal growth, I knew I would thrive in an environment where professors know their students by name and where collaboration is valued over competition. Lycoming’s commitment to individualized learning, small class sizes, and the freedom to explore multiple academic paths made it feel like the right fit for both my personal and academic goals. Along with the close-knit community I love the homey feel of the campus, i knew as soon as I stepped foot on the campus it was the right place. One of the biggest factors in my decision was the college’s liberal arts approach. I’ve always had a wide range of interests, from art to psychology to criminology, and I wanted to be in a place where I didn’t have to limit myself to just one field. I believe the liberal arts model encourages a more well-rounded education, where creativity, critical thinking, and social awareness are just as important as technical skills. At Lycoming, I’m planning to major in psychology, art, and possibly minor in criminology, with the goal of combining my academic passions with my personal values. Whether it’s through art, mental health advocacy, or community-based projects, I want to be part of something that brings about positive change. My personal journey also played a big role in my college decision. I’ve faced mental health struggles that, at times, made it difficult to envision my future. But through therapy, self-reflection, and the support of my community, I’ve gained a deep sense of resilience and purpose. I now see those challenges as strengths that give me insight and empathy. These qualities I hope to carry into my future career. I’m especially interested in using my education to help others facing similar challenges, possibly through art therapy, counseling, or nonprofit work focused on youth or mental health support. In addition to academics, I’m excited to engage in service and outdoor activities at Lycoming. I’ve always felt a strong connection to nature. I find myself going there when I need to reflect, recharge, and find inspiration. I’m also passionate about giving back through volunteer work, and I’m eager to get involved with campus organizations that align with those values. After graduation, I hope to pursue a career possibly in art therapy, community outreach, or mental health advocacy. My goal is to use my education and life experiences to support others, especially those facing challenges similar to those I’ve overcome myself.