Growing up in a family deeply connected to the military, particularly through my father's service in the Navy, I've been profoundly influenced by the sacrifices and challenges faced by those who serve. My father's journey as a veteran, however, has brought the realities of military life into sharp focus, especially in terms of mental health. My dad's return from service brought with it the invisible wounds of war, namely PTSD. He retired before I was born, and did not start going to therapy until two years ago. Witnessing his struggles has been both a poignant and enlightening experience. It's given me a firsthand understanding of the toll military service can take on mental health and the critical need for support and resources within the military community. There is a dire need for mental health awareness and resources, and I am passionate about advocating for veterans' mental health aid. Despite his battles with PTSD, my father has been a beacon of inspiration. He's dedicated himself to aiding fellow veterans in navigating the complexities of mental health challenges. Through his work at the VA Hospital and his advocacy efforts, he's tirelessly worked to destigmatize PTSD and other mental illnesses among veterans. His commitment not only to seeking help for himself but also to encouraging others to do the same has been nothing short of remarkable. I have been inspired watching him take training courses on mental health and implicate things he has learned into training staff and police specifically at the VA Hospital. Observing my father's journey has taught me invaluable lessons in resilience, empathy, and the power of sharing our stories. It's reinforced my belief in the importance of mental health awareness and support, particularly within the military community and support for veterans and currently enlisted members as well. I've seen firsthand the transformative impact that seeking help and support can have, and I'm deeply grateful for the opportunity to learn from my father's experiences. As I navigate my own path, I'm committed to continuing my father's legacy of service and advocacy. I'm passionate about raising awareness around mental health issues within the military community and ensuring that those who have served receive the support and resources they need to thrive. My father's journey has not only shaped my understanding of the sacrifices made by military members but has also inspired me to make a difference in the lives of others, just as he has done. Behind enemy lines and behind enemies in your mind.

For seven long years, my life was consumed by a relentless battle against postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), a heart condition that turned each day into a grueling struggle. The physical symptoms—dizziness, fatigue, and an erratic heartbeat—were daunting enough on their own, and the emotional toll that truly weighed me down. In the hallways of my school, I became known as the "heart monitor kid," a label that felt like a heavy weight on my shoulders. Unable to participate fully in sports or keep up with my peers, I felt isolated and frustrated, the target of constant taunts and teasing. Each day felt like an uphill battle against both my own body and the judgments of others. I had to wear baggy shirts so nobody saw my heart monitor, and as a young female that was embarrassing and fueled the bullying. Yet, even in the darkest moments, I found moments of solace and strength. It was during those challenging years that I discovered a newfound appreciation for the little things in life. Simple pleasures that others took for granted— walking without having to sit down, taking a shower without a chair—became moments of profound gratitude and joy. I learned to cherish every small victory, every fleeting moment of normalcy, as precious gifts to be treasured. This lesson became more engrained to me after I had a serious blackout, where I stopped breathing and had to be rushed to a hospital by ambulance. I will never forget that night, I truly thought my life would be over. We still to this day do not know what caused such a horrific blackout, but I recovered from it after a few days in the hospital. This, along with the years of battling my condition, made me realize I needed to live for myself. Through the crucible of chronic illness, I unearthed a resilience I never knew I possessed. I refused to allow my condition to define me or dictate my future. Instead, I adopted a mantra that became my guiding light: "I have POTS, but POTS doesn't have me." It was a daily battle, a conscious choice to reclaim control over my life and my happiness. In the face of adversity, I learned the power of resilience and the importance of perspective. While I couldn't control my circumstances, I could control how I responded to them. I refused to be defined by my illness; instead, I allowed it to be a part of me, but not the entirety of me. A profound memory is my 17th birthday party, where I wore a shirt that showed my heart monitor because I refused to let my POTS take control of my special day. With each passing day, I grew stronger, more resilient, and more determined to overcome the obstacles in my path. I sought out resources and support systems to help me navigate the challenges of living with POTS. I surrounded myself with friends and loved ones who offered unwavering support and encouragement, lifting me up when I felt overwhelmed by the weight of my circumstances. Today, as I reflect on those challenging years, I am grateful for the lessons they taught me. I am stronger, more compassionate, and more appreciative of the beauty and fragility of life. While my struggle with POTS will always be a part of my story, it no longer defines who I am or what I can achieve. And for that, I am eternally grateful. Against medical advice, I defied the limitations of my postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) and embarked on a journey into the gym. What began as cautious steps evolved into a passion for bodybuilding. I am eight months into my gym journey, and I am able to feel confident and healthy in my body today; I've shattered my own expectations, transforming from someone who couldn't endure a workout without fainting spells into a dedicated female bodybuilder, empowered by resilience and determination. I have faced bullying for my heart condition and monitor, and even as a woman lifting weights, but I have never felt so free and more myself. Now, I am fighting to bring back Women's Club Lacrosse at my college I will attend in the fall, and will be on sports teams. This defied the odds, as I faced years never being able to play sports and now I will be able to pursue my dream of playing lacrosse and continuing my journey with bodybuilding.

For seven years of my life, I battled a formidable opponent: postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), a heart condition that turned my daily existence into a relentless struggle. Each day felt like an uphill battle against my own body, as I grappled with dizziness, fatigue, and an erratic heartbeat. But perhaps even more challenging than the physical symptoms was the emotional toll it took on me. Being sick every day was not just a personal battle; it became a defining aspect of my identity, particularly during my school years. I was the "heart monitor kid," the one who couldn't participate fully in sports or keep up with my peers. The constant taunts and teasing from classmates only exacerbated my sense of isolation and frustration. Or, having to wear loose, baggy clothes so nobody could see my monitor. However, amidst the darkness of those years, I found a glimmer of light: a newfound appreciation for the little things in life. Simple activities that others took for granted—a walk in the park without having to stop and sit, having a sleepover with friends without worrying about POTS episodes, even the feeling of taking a shower without having to use a chair—became moments of profound gratitude and joy for me. I learned to cherish every small victory, every fleeting moment of normalcy, as precious gifts to be treasured. Through the crucible of chronic illness, I discovered a resilience I never knew I possessed. I refused to let my condition define me or dictate my future. Instead, I embraced the mantra: "I have POTS, but POTS doesn't have me." It was a daily battle, a conscious choice to reclaim control over my life and my happiness. In the face of adversity, I learned the power of resilience and the importance of perspective. I realized that while I couldn't control my circumstances, I could control how I responded to them. I refused to be defined by my illness; instead, I let it be a part of me, but not the entirety of me. I felt myself breaking free when on my 16th birthday, I wore a shirt that showed my heart monitor rather than covering it up. Today, as I reflect on those challenging years, I am grateful for the lessons they taught me. I am stronger, more compassionate, and more appreciative of the beauty and fragility of life. While my struggle with POTS will always be a part of my story, it no longer defines who I am or what I can achieve. And for that, I am eternally grateful.

Growing up in a family deeply connected to the military, particularly through my father's service in the Navy, I've been profoundly influenced by the sacrifices and challenges faced by those who serve. My father's journey as a veteran, however, has brought the realities of military life into sharp focus, especially in terms of mental health. My dad's return from service brought with it the invisible wounds of war, namely PTSD. Witnessing his struggles has been both a poignant and enlightening experience. It's given me a firsthand understanding of the toll military service can take on mental health and the critical need for support and resources within the military community. He retired before I was born, so PTSD was growing over the course of my childhood, unknown to me. Despite his battles with PTSD, my father has been a beacon of inspiration. He's dedicated himself to aiding fellow veterans in navigating the complexities of mental health challenges. Through his work at the VA Hospital and his advocacy efforts, he's tirelessly worked to destigmatize PTSD, veteran suicide, and other mental illnesses among veterans. His commitment not only to seeking help for himself but also to encouraging others to do the same has been nothing short of remarkable. He began his journey with therapy two years ago and has been able to help other veterans start therapy as well. This was not an easy step for him to take, but once he began down this path he realized that your mind can be an enjoyable place to be and it is okay to talk about things. Observing my father's journey has taught me invaluable lessons in resilience, empathy, and the power of sharing our stories. It's reinforced my belief in the importance of mental health awareness and support, particularly within the military community. In the military, you must compartmentalize, which leaves veterans with mental disorders, which are slowly becoming talked about. I've seen firsthand the transformative impact that seeking help and support can have, and I'm deeply grateful for the opportunity to learn from my father's experiences. As I navigate my own path, I'm committed to continuing my father's legacy of service and advocacy. I'm passionate about raising awareness around mental health issues within the military community and ensuring that those who have served receive the support and resources they need to thrive. My father's journey has not only shaped my understanding of the sacrifices made by military members but has also inspired me to make a difference in the lives of others, just as he has done.

My experience with mental health, particularly during my high school years, has profoundly shaped my goals, relationships, and understanding of the world. Enduring extreme bullying during that time left me grappling with anxiety, hindering my ability to thrive in the traditional school environment. Eventually, the severity of the situation led me to make the difficult decision to transition to homeschooling. This period of adversity acted as a catalyst for personal growth and resilience. Despite the challenges I faced, I refused to let them define me or dictate my future. Instead, I channeled my experiences into a fierce determination to succeed, vowing to reclaim the sense of confidence and self-worth that had been stripped away by bullying. Entering college, I was fueled by an even greater ambition to excel academically and make the most of every opportunity. The scars of my past experiences served as a reminder of the importance of resilience and perseverance. I was determined to not only overcome the obstacles in my path but to surpass them, striving to be the best version of myself in every aspect of my life. Through my journey with mental health, I gained a deeper understanding of the world and the complexities of human interaction. I learned firsthand the devastating impact of cruelty and the power of empathy and kindness. This newfound understanding has shaped the way I approach relationships, prioritizing compassion, understanding, and support in my interactions with others.

As a Native American, my journey has been shaped by a rich tapestry of experiences, from the challenges of identity to the celebration of cultural heritage. Growing up, I grappled with the struggle of reconciling my ethnic identity with how others perceived me. Despite my deep connection to my Native American roots, I often found myself confronted with skepticism from those who judged my appearance as not fitting their preconceived notions of what a Native American should look like. This struggle with identity was a profound and often isolating experience. It forced me to confront questions of belonging and authenticity, as I navigated a world where my cultural heritage was both cherished and misunderstood. Yet, through these challenges, I discovered a resilience and determination to embrace my identity on my own terms. One of the most significant turning points in my journey was the decision to actively engage with my ethnic community and immerse myself in its cultural traditions. Despite the doubts and criticisms of others, I sought out opportunities to learn about my heritage, whether through participating in tribal events, connecting with elders, or studying the history and traditions of my people. Through these experiences, I discovered a profound sense of belonging and pride in my cultural identity. I found strength in the resilience of my ancestors, who endured centuries of hardship and adversity yet preserved their traditions and values. I learned to see myself not as an outsider, but as a vital part of a vibrant and diverse community with a rich history and heritage. Favorite cultural events, such as powwows and traditional ceremonies, became not only sources of joy and celebration but also opportunities for connection and belonging. These gatherings provided a space where I could fully embrace my identity, surrounded by others who shared my heritage and understood the significance of our cultural traditions. Today, my involvement in my ethnic community is not just a source of personal fulfillment, but also a driving force in my life. It has shaped my values, my aspirations, and my commitment to advocating for the rights and well-being of Indigenous peoples everywhere. Through education, activism, and cultural preservation efforts, I am dedicated to honoring the legacy of my ancestors and ensuring that their voices are heard and their stories are told. In embracing my Native American identity, I have discovered a profound sense of purpose and belonging. Despite the challenges and obstacles I have faced along the way, I am grateful for the opportunity to walk the path of my ancestors and to carry their legacy forward into the future. Through perseverance, resilience, and a deep connection to my cultural heritage, I am proud to stand as a Native American and to celebrate the richness and diversity of Indigenous cultures around the world.

Growing up in a financially strained environment, the road to higher education has been paved with numerous challenges that have tested my resolve and determination. Despite the obstacles, I refused to let financial limitations hinder my dreams of pursuing a college education. However, my commitment to education was put to the test when I was forced to withdraw from my intended school due to financial constraints. This setback, while disheartening, only fueled my determination to forge ahead and find alternative paths to achieve my goals. Throughout my academic journey, I have excelled in various areas, particularly in leadership, academic achievement, and resilience. Despite facing adversity, I have demonstrated unwavering perseverance and a relentless pursuit of excellence. As a leader in my community, I have actively engaged in extracurricular activities and volunteer work, showcasing my ability to inspire and mobilize others towards a common goal. I have been an active member of the National Honor Society and Vice President of the French National Honor Society. My intended field of study is political science and international affairs, a discipline that has always fascinated me with its complexities and global implications. Upon graduation, my goal is to make a meaningful impact in the field, leveraging my knowledge and skills to contribute to the advancement of global diplomacy and security. One of the changes I aspire to accomplish in my field is to promote gender equality and diversity, particularly in leadership positions within organizations such as the CIA. As a high-ranking female in the CIA, I aim to break barriers and pave the way for future generations of women in national security and intelligence. Additionally, I am committed to driving change by advocating for policies and strategies that enhance national security and mitigate threats from foreign adversaries. On a personal level, I aspire to write a book before I graduate, making an entertaining thriller novel on topics related to politics, international relations, and national security. Through education and continuous learning, I am confident that I can achieve these goals and make a lasting impact in my field and beyond. With dedication, perseverance, and a steadfast commitment to my aspirations, I am prepared to overcome any obstacles that may arise on the path to success. I believe my education can allow me to pursue my goal of becoming a published author. The journey to higher education has been anything but easy. Growing up in a financially disadvantaged household, the prospect of attending college we knew was doable, but would place a huge financial strain. I am fortunate that I always knew I could attend college, but also knew I had to work to make it happen. However, my passion for learning and my unwavering determination to succeed propelled me forward, despite the numerous challenges I faced along the way. One of the biggest obstacles I encountered on my journey was the financial strain that threatened to derail my plans for higher education. Despite working multiple jobs and applying for scholarships, the cost of tuition and living expenses proved to be overwhelming. As a result, I was forced to make the difficult decision to withdraw from my intended school and explore alternative options. Although this setback was disheartening, it ultimately served as a catalyst for personal growth and resilience. Rather than succumbing to defeat, I refused to let financial limitations define my future. Instead, I channeled my determination into finding creative solutions to achieve my goals. With a renewed sense of purpose, I began exploring other colleges and universities that offered more affordable tuition rates and financial aid opportunities. After extensive research and careful consideration, I found a school that not only met my academic needs but also provided the financial support I needed to pursue my dreams. Futhermore, I believed I could find my true potential at this school and could feel it ended up being the right choice. Throughout this process, I learned the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and resilience in the face of adversity. Despite the setbacks and challenges I encountered, I remained steadfast in my commitment to higher education, refusing to let obstacles stand in the way of my aspirations. In addition to overcoming financial limitations, I have also excelled in various areas of my academic and personal life. As a leader in my community, I have demonstrated strong communication skills, effective problem-solving abilities, and a passion for making a difference. Whether volunteering at local organizations or leading student National Honor Societies on campus, I have always been dedicated to serving others and creating positive change in my community. Academically, I have consistently strived for excellence, earning top grades and accolades for my academic achievements. From my coursework in advanced classes, and my two-year internship outside of the classroom, I have always pursued learning opportunities that challenge and inspire me to grow as a scholar and a leader. I understand the value of educational experiences inside and outside of the classroom, and a member of the Presidential Emerging Leadership Program at my college I will attend in the fall. Looking ahead, my goal is to leverage my education and experiences to make a meaningful impact in the field of political science and international affairs. As a future leader in organizations such as the CIA, I am committed to promoting gender equality, diversity, and inclusion in national security and intelligence. By advocating for policies and strategies that enhance global security and mitigate threats from foreign adversaries, I hope to contribute to a safer, more peaceful world for future generations. In pursuit of these goals, I am willing to drive positive change both within my field and for myself. Whether through advocacy, research, or community engagement, I am dedicated to making a difference and leaving a lasting legacy that inspires others to pursue their dreams. With perseverance, dedication, and a steadfast commitment to excellence, I am confident that I can overcome any obstacles and achieve my goals in higher education and beyond.

If I could implore everyone to read just one book, it would undoubtedly be "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald. This American classic, set against the backdrop of the roaring twenties, holds a mirror up to society, reflecting its flaws, aspirations, and the elusive nature of the American Dream. Most importantly, how quickly corruption can lead to downfall. Fitzgerald's masterpiece encapsulates the essence of the Jazz Age, a time of excess, wealth, and disillusionment. Through the enigmatic Jay Gatsby and the narrator, Nick Carraway, the novel delves into themes of love, ambition, and the pursuit of happiness. Yet, beneath the glitz and glamour of the era lies a profound commentary on the emptiness of materialism and the hollowness of superficiality. This goes into the ever-prevalent theme of whether money buys happiness. What makes "The Great Gatsby" so timeless is its relevance to society across generations. Despite being written nearly a century ago, its themes remain strikingly pertinent today. In an age defined by social media, celebrity culture, and the relentless pursuit of wealth, the novel serves as a cautionary tale, urging readers to question the true value of their aspirations as well as intentions within themselves and others. When I read this book in my junior year of high school, it became my very favorite novel. It serves as a real story and a lesson. By compelling readers to confront these uncomfortable truths in an entertaining way, "The Great Gatsby" fosters empathy, introspection, and a deeper understanding of human nature. It challenges us to examine our own values and priorities, prompting meaningful conversations about wealth inequality, the pursuit of happiness, and the nature of the American Dream itself.