As a Family and Human Services major, I am deeply committed to raising awareness for domestic violence and taking meaningful actions to make a positive impact in the lives of those affected. Domestic violence is a pervasive issue that affects individuals and families across various socio-economic backgrounds, races, and cultures. It is essential to shed light on this problem, challenge societal norms, and work towards creating a safer and more supportive environment for survivors. To raise awareness for domestic violence, I plan to employ a multifaceted approach that encompasses education, advocacy, and community engagement. Firstly, I aim to utilize my academic knowledge and research skills to contribute to the body of literature on domestic violence. By conducting research, analyzing data, and disseminating my findings, I can contribute to a deeper understanding of the root causes, prevalence, and impact of domestic violence. This knowledge can inform policy changes, prevention strategies, and interventions to support survivors. Additionally, I plan to engage in community outreach and education initiatives to raise awareness about domestic violence. This could involve organizing workshops, seminars, or awareness campaigns in collaboration with local organizations, schools, and community centers. These initiatives would aim to educate individuals about the signs of domestic violence, available resources, and ways to support survivors. By equipping community members with knowledge and skills, we can create a network of informed individuals who can identify and respond to domestic violence situations effectively. In line with advocacy, I intend to actively support and collaborate with domestic violence organizations and shelters. By volunteering my time, skills, and resources, I can directly contribute to the support services provided to survivors. This could involve assisting with helpline services, facilitating support groups, or offering counseling to those affected. By being present and offering support, I can help survivors navigate the complex journey of healing and recovery. Furthermore, I recognize the power of storytelling in raising awareness and challenging societal attitudes toward domestic violence. Through various mediums such as writing, filmmaking, or public speaking, I aim to amplify the voices and experiences of survivors. By sharing their stories, I hope to humanize the issue, break down stereotypes, and inspire empathy and action among broader audiences. These narratives can also serve as a source of strength and validation for survivors who may feel isolated or unheard. In the long term, I aspire to contribute to policy changes and systemic interventions aimed at preventing domestic violence. By advocating for stronger legal protections, funding for support services, and comprehensive prevention programs, I aim to create lasting societal change. This involves working with policymakers, lawmakers, and other stakeholders to shape legislation and initiatives that prioritize the safety and well-being of survivors. Ultimately, my actions as a Family and Human Services major will help impact the lives of others by raising awareness, providing support, and advocating for change. By educating communities, supporting survivors, and working towards systemic improvements, I hope to create a society that is more informed, compassionate, and committed to preventing domestic violence. Together, we can create an environment where everyone can live free from fear, violence, and abuse.

Free speech plays a crucial role in fostering the intellectual and personal development of American college students. It creates an environment that encourages open dialogue, the exchange of diverse ideas, and the development of critical thinking skills. Preserving this fundamental right is essential to ensure a vibrant and inclusive campus atmosphere that values diversity of thought and promotes intellectual growth. Free speech serves as a catalyst for intellectual development by exposing students to a wide range of perspectives and ideas. It encourages them to question prevailing norms, challenges their own beliefs, and engage in rigorous intellectual debates. By allowing individuals to express their thoughts and opinions freely, students are exposed to a diverse array of viewpoints, which broadens their understanding of complex issues and encourages the exploration of new ideas. Moreover, free speech empowers students to develop their own identities and voices. It encourages self-expression, self-reflection, and the ability to articulate one's thoughts and beliefs effectively. By engaging in open and respectful discussions, students learn to express their opinions confidently and respectfully consider opposing viewpoints. This process of self-discovery and intellectual growth is vital for their personal development and prepares them to be active and informed participants in a democratic society. In my field of study, which focuses on social sciences, preserving free speech is of paramount importance. The social sciences thrive on the diversity of ideas and perspectives, as they aim to understand and address complex societal issues. By upholding free speech, we create an environment that encourages critical thinking and the examination of diverse perspectives. Additionally, extracurricular activities such as debate clubs, student organizations, and guest speaker events contribute significantly to the preservation of free speech on campus. These activities provide platforms for students to engage in thoughtful and respectful discussions, challenging each other's ideas and expanding their knowledge base. They foster an atmosphere of intellectual curiosity and encourage students to consider multiple viewpoints, ultimately enhancing their critical thinking skills. Furthermore, these activities also promote the appreciation of the diversity of thought. By inviting guest speakers with a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives, students are exposed to a broader spectrum of ideas and experiences. This exposure helps to challenge biases, break down stereotypes, and foster a climate that embraces the value of diverse perspectives. In conclusion, free speech is indispensable to the intellectual and personal development of American college students. It encourages critical thinking, fosters open dialogue, and promotes the exploration of diverse ideas. Preserving this fundamental right is essential to creating a vibrant and inclusive campus environment. Through my field of study and involvement in extracurricular activities, I contribute to the advancement of a diversity of thought and critical thinking, upholding free speech on campus and nurturing an environment where students can thrive intellectually and personally.

Working at a Suboxone clinic has exposed me to the devastating impact of drug abuse firsthand. Every day, I witness individuals who have fallen victim to the grip of addiction, struggling to regain control of their lives. This experience has deepened my understanding of the complexities surrounding substance abuse and reinforced my commitment to making a difference in the lives of those affected. At the Suboxone clinic, our primary focus is on assisting individuals who are battling opioid addiction. Suboxone, a medication that combines buprenorphine and naloxone, is prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment program to help individuals overcome their dependence on opioids. Witnessing the transformation of patients as they progress through their treatment journey has been both inspiring and humbling. One of the most striking aspects of working at the clinic is seeing the resilience and strength that individuals with addictions possess. Despite facing significant challenges and setbacks, they continue to show unwavering determination to overcome their addiction and rebuild their lives. Their stories of perseverance serve as a constant reminder of the incredible human spirit and the power of hope. Moreover, working at the clinic has provided me with a unique perspective on the underlying factors contributing to addiction. It has become evident that substance abuse is often rooted in deep-seated emotional pain, trauma, mental health disorders, or a combination of these factors. Understanding this connection has reinforced the importance of addressing addiction holistically, considering the individual's physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. My experiences at the Suboxone clinic have also shed light on the critical role of support systems in the recovery process. Witnessing the positive impact of counseling, group therapy, and peer support programs has emphasized the significance of a comprehensive approach to addiction treatment. These interventions provide individuals with the tools, coping mechanisms, and social connections necessary to navigate the challenges of recovery successfully. Furthermore, working at the clinic has highlighted the pressing need for increased access to addiction treatment and harm reduction services. It is disheartening to see individuals who are ready to make positive changes in their lives face barriers such as lack of resources, limited healthcare options, and societal stigma. This realization has fueled my passion for advocating for policies and initiatives that promote accessibility, stigmatization, and prevention. In conclusion, working at a Suboxone clinic has been a transformative experience that has deepened my understanding of drug abuse and its impact on individuals and communities. It has reaffirmed my commitment to pursuing a career in the field of addiction treatment and recovery support. By witnessing the resilience, determination, and strength of those struggling with addiction, I am inspired to be a catalyst for change, working towards a society that embraces compassion, support, and effective interventions to combat the devastating effects of substance abuse.

Becoming a social worker has been my long-standing aspiration, driven by my deep-rooted desire to positively impact the lives of individuals and communities facing various challenges. The scholarship opportunity before me represents a significant turning point in my pursuit of higher education and my journey toward achieving this noble goal. The field of social work encompasses the values and principles that resonate with me on a personal level. I firmly believe in every individual's inherent worth and dignity, and I am passionate about promoting social justice, equality, and empowerment. Through my studies, I aim to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to address the complex issues affecting our society, such as poverty, mental health, domestic violence, and discrimination. Moreover, this scholarship would offer me the opportunity to expand my horizons beyond the confines of the classroom. Social work is a field that thrives on practical experience, and financial assistance would allow me to participate in internships, community-based projects, and volunteering opportunities. These hands-on experiences would complement my theoretical knowledge and equip me with invaluable skills, fostering personal growth and professional development. Reflecting on a specific instance where I contributed to my community, I recall organizing a charity drive to provide essential supplies to a local homeless shelter. Witnessing the plight of the homeless population in my city deeply saddened me, and I felt compelled to act. Collaborating with friends and community members, we collected non-perishable food items, warm clothing, hygiene products, and blankets. We also organized a fundraising event to raise funds for the shelter's operational costs. The impact of this initiative on both the community and me was profound. Seeing the gratitude on the faces of those in need and witnessing the outpouring of support from individuals who joined our cause filled me with a sense of purpose and fulfillment. It solidified my belief in the power of collective action and reaffirmed my commitment to pursuing a career in social work. This experience taught me that even seemingly small contributions can have a significant ripple effect, positively transforming lives and fostering a sense of unity within a community. It also reinforced my understanding of the interconnectedness of social issues and the importance of addressing them holistically. Today, that experience continues to shape my perspective and fuel my determination to become a social worker. It reminded me that there is immense strength in compassion, empathy, and advocacy. With the support of this scholarship, I am eager to continue my academic journey, armed with the tools and resources to effect meaningful change and uplift the lives of those in need. In conclusion, my passion for social work and the financial assistance provided by this scholarship will enable me to pursue higher education, gain practical experience, and contribute to positive change in my community. I am grateful for the opportunity before me and eager to make a lasting impact as a dedicated social worker.

As a lacrosse player, I understand the importance of commitment, teamwork, and discipline both on and off the field. These values are essential to achieving success both as an individual player and as part of a team. Commitment is perhaps the most critical value in lacrosse. Without a strong commitment to the sport, it is difficult to achieve success. For me, this commitment means prioritizing lacrosse in my life, even when it requires sacrifices. Whether it means waking up early for practice or staying late for extra conditioning, I am willing to put in the work to achieve my goals. This commitment also extends to my academic and personal life, where I prioritize my responsibilities and work to achieve my goals. Teamwork is another crucial value in lacrosse, as it is a sport that requires a high level of collaboration and communication. As a player, I strive to be a supportive and positive teammate, encouraging my teammates and working to create a positive team dynamic. I understand that success on the field requires everyone to work together, and I am willing to do my part to support my team. This means being open to feedback, communicating effectively, and working hard to ensure that our team is successful. Finally, discipline is an essential value in lacrosse. The sport requires a high level of physical and mental discipline, and I work hard to cultivate this discipline both on and off the field. This means prioritizing my training, following a strict diet and workout routine, and working to improve my mental focus and resilience. It also means being disciplined in my personal life, maintaining a healthy work-life balance and managing my time effectively to ensure that I can meet my commitments both on and off the field. Off the field, I embody commitment, teamwork, and discipline in a variety of ways. In my academic life, I work hard to maintain a strong GPA and achieve academic success. This requires discipline and commitment to my studies, as well as teamwork and collaboration with my classmates and professors. In my personal life, I am committed to helping others and making a positive impact on my community. I volunteer regularly, working with local organizations to support underserved communities and help those in need. This commitment requires teamwork and collaboration with other volunteers and community members, as well as discipline to ensure that I can balance my volunteer work with my other responsibilities. Overall, I believe that embodying commitment, teamwork, and discipline is essential to success both on and off the lacrosse field. These values have helped me to achieve success in my athletic, academic, and personal life, and I believe that they will continue to be essential as I pursue my goals in the future. As a lacrosse player, I am committed to continuing to cultivate these values and to working hard to achieve my goals both on and off the field.

Volunteering has been a transformative experience for me, both personally and professionally. Through volunteering, I have been able to give back to my community and make a positive impact on the lives of others. It has also helped me to develop important skills such as teamwork, leadership, and communication. I enjoyed volunteering so much that I decided to pursue my master's in social work. One of the most significant ways that volunteering has changed my mindset is by giving me a greater sense of empathy and compassion. When working with individuals and communities in need, I have been able to gain a deeper understanding of their struggles and challenges. This has allowed me to see the world from different perspectives and to develop a greater appreciation for the diversity of human experience. Volunteering has also helped me to cultivate a sense of gratitude and humility. It is easy to take our privileges and blessings for granted, but working with those who have less has reminded me of the importance of being thankful for what I have and of using my resources to help others. In addition to these personal benefits, volunteering has also had a profound impact on my professional aspirations. It has allowed me to explore different career paths and to gain valuable experience in fields such as education, healthcare, and social work. Through these experiences, I have been able to develop a clearer sense of my values, strengths, and goals. However, as much as I love volunteering, it has also presented me with some financial challenges. Many of the volunteer programs and organizations that I have worked with require a significant financial investment, including travel expenses, program fees, and equipment costs. As a student with limited financial resources, this has made it difficult for me to pursue my passion for volunteering to the extent that I would like. That is why I need this scholarship financially. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to pursue my passion for volunteering without having to worry about the financial burden. It would give me the resources and support that I need to make a greater impact on the lives of others and pursue my professional goals. Additionally, this scholarship would help to alleviate some of the financial strain that comes with being a student. As a student, I am constantly juggling the demands of coursework, extracurricular activities, and part-time work. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus more fully on my studies and pursue academic and career opportunities without worrying about financial pressure. Ultimately, receiving this scholarship would mean the world to me. It would enable me to pursue my passion for volunteering and to make a difference in the world, while also providing me with the financial support that I need to achieve my academic and professional goals. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to apply for this scholarship, and I hope that you will consider me a deserving candidate.

Hi, my name is Cassandra Preston and I am applying for your scholarship. Currently I am studying family and human services at Towson University. I would then like to pursue my master’s in social work. I want to focus on children in foster care and make sure they have the resources to fulfill their goals. One of the hardest aspects of foster care is feeling like you are not wanted and there is no support. It is mostly a mental fight which I could help the battle after getting my masters in social work. Receiving a scholarship would make a significant difference for me in my pursuit of higher education. As a student, I have always had a strong desire to learn and grow, but the financial burden of tuition and fees can be overwhelming. A scholarship would not only help to alleviate some of that burden but would also allow me to focus more fully on my studies and pursue my academic and career goals without worrying about financial strain. Additionally, receiving a scholarship would be a great honor and recognition of my hard work and dedication, motivating me to continue striving for excellence. Overall, a scholarship would provide me with the support and resources I need to achieve my full potential and make a positive impact on my community and the world. During my time working with children in South Africa, I had the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to my community. As a volunteer at a local after-school program, I was tasked with helping children with their homework, organizing educational activities, and providing emotional support. One particular experience that stands out in my mind was working with a young girl who was struggling with her schoolwork. Despite her best efforts, she was falling behind in her classes and becoming increasingly discouraged. I spent extra time with her, working through difficult concepts and providing encouragement and support. Over time, she began to improve in her studies and her confidence grew. Seeing her succeed was incredibly rewarding and reminded me of the positive impact that can be made through small acts of kindness and support. That experience in South Africa has had a lasting impact on me. It taught me the importance of being patient, compassionate, and dedicated when working with others. It also highlighted the importance of education and the difference it can make in a child's life. Since then, I have remained passionate about working with children and supporting their academic and emotional growth. Additionally, my time in South Africa exposed me to a different culture and way of life, broadening my perspective and deepening my understanding of the world. It was a humbling experience that reinforced my commitment to serving others and making a positive impact in my community. Overall, my experience working with children in South Africa was a transformative one that has left a lasting impact on me. It has shaped my values, beliefs, and career aspirations and has inspired me to continue making a difference in the world

Being a maverick in a social work setting means taking a unique and innovative approach to solving problems and addressing the needs of clients. It involves challenging traditional ways of thinking and being willing to take risks to create positive change. Here are some ways to be a maverick in a social work setting: Embrace creativity: Instead of sticking to the tried and true methods of social work, be open to exploring new approaches and techniques. This might mean using art therapy, drama therapy, or other non-traditional methods to engage with clients and help them achieve their goals. Build relationships: Social work is all about building relationships with clients and other professionals. As a maverick, you can take this one step further by building relationships with community leaders, policymakers, and other stakeholders to create more comprehensive solutions to social problems. Be a problem-solver: Don't shy away from complex problems. Instead, see them as opportunities to innovate and find new solutions. Be willing to take risks and try out new ideas to see what works best. Be culturally responsive: Being culturally responsive means understanding and respecting the diverse backgrounds and experiences of clients. As a maverick, you can take this further by actively seeking out new perspectives and experiences to inform your work. Foster collaboration: Collaboration is key to creating positive change in a social work setting. Be willing to work with colleagues from other disciplines and organizations to create more comprehensive solutions to social problems. Stay informed: Stay up-to-date on the latest research, trends, and best practices in social work. This will allow you to bring new ideas and approaches to your work and stay ahead of the curve. Challenge the status quo: Being a maverick means challenging traditional ways of thinking and doing things. Be willing to ask tough questions and push back against policies and practices that are not working. Take calculated risks: Being a maverick does not mean being reckless. Take calculated risks by carefully weighing the potential benefits and drawbacks of new ideas and approaches. Use data to inform your work: Data can provide valuable insights into the needs of clients and the effectiveness of social work interventions. Use data to inform your work and measure the impact of your innovations. Keep learning: Being a maverick in a social work setting requires a commitment to lifelong learning. Stay curious and continue to seek out new experiences, perspectives, and knowledge to inform your work. In conclusion, being a maverick in a social work setting requires a willingness to take risks, challenge traditional ways of thinking, and embrace innovation. By staying creative, building relationships, fostering collaboration, and staying informed, social workers can make a meaningful impact on the lives of clients and create positive change in the world.

As a prospective Master of Social Work student, I am deeply committed to making a meaningful impact on the lives of those in my community who are in need. Throughout my academic and professional journey, I have developed a strong passion for social justice and a desire to work toward a more equitable and inclusive society. My long-term career goal is to become a licensed clinical social worker and work with marginalized populations, such as individuals experiencing homelessness, domestic violence survivors, and those living in poverty. Many of these populations have experienced foster care and have been in the system. I also mainly want to focus on those who are in the system and provide resources for them to attain the best possible outcome. With my MSW degree, I plan to pursue a career in social work and leverage my knowledge, skills, and experience to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need. In the short term, I plan to use my MSW degree to gain experience in various social work settings, such as community mental health clinics, hospitals, and non-profit organizations. By doing so, I hope to develop a comprehensive understanding of the diverse needs of the community and the best practices to address these needs. One of my main goals is to provide therapy and counseling services to those who are struggling with mental health issues. I understand the importance of mental health in overall well-being and am committed to reducing the stigma associated with mental illness. I plan to use evidence-based practices, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and trauma-focused therapy, to provide effective treatment to clients. Another area of interest is community outreach and engagement. I believe in the power of community-led initiatives and plan to work with community members to identify their needs and co-create solutions that work best for them. I also plan to organize and facilitate workshops and support groups to provide education and resources to individuals and families in need. As a social worker, I also understand the importance of policy and advocacy in creating systemic change. I plan to use my knowledge and experience to advocate for policies that support social justice, such as affordable housing, access to healthcare, and social welfare programs. Overall, my MSW degree will equip me with the skills, knowledge, and experience to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those in need. I am passionate about working towards a more equitable and just society, and I am committed to using my skills to create a positive change in the world.

I have had Graves disease all my life. I did not know I had it until the day I tried to commit suicide. I was 17 and miserable. I hate how I look; my hair had been falling out, my eyes bug out of my face, my skin is abnormally pale, and my hands shaking for no reason. One night I prayed, I had never been religious before. I prayed that if I should live for God to let me know now. I heard nothing, so I swallowed a bunch of pills. Little did that I know would be on the bus going to school 15 minutes later. Arriving at school and heading to the bathroom where I had met up with my friends before school. All of a sudden, I started overdosing. I’m taken to the nurse and then an ambulance arrives. At the hospital, my parents arrive and one of the nurses is shocked about how young I am. I’m stabilized and am furious about how I even failed at this. Suddenly a doctor comes in and explains that she is going to run some tests because my throat looks so big. I started crying and yelling because I interpreted it as being called fat. In reality, it was my thyroid recking havoc on my body. “You have an autoimmune disease,” the doctor told me. “It’s called Graves Disease and causes depression, tremors, bulging eyes, losing hair, among other things.” Before this I didn’t even know what a thyroid was. I started crying tears of joy. I went to multiple doctors for depression, my eyes, and my hair. Yet none of the doctors offered a solution. Graves disease is when your thyroid produces too many hormones. It was so intense that if I did not go in that day, I would’ve died a week later. I was sent to a children’s ICU for a month. My entire time there I was on suicide watch, never allowed a second alone. It was miserable. About a week after leaving the ICU I got my thyroid completely removed. For an autoimmune disease that made my adolescence horrendous; I only take a pill once a day. After trying to take my own life and becoming even healthier as a result it gave me a reality check. I remember the night I prayed for some type of sign and being disappointed there was no work of a miracle. Then it hit me that my attempt was a miracle. I have felt a calling to help others through their toughest times. What I needed most during that period was someone who listened and understood. I want to be that person for other people now.

Playlist name: Graduate of 2020 1)Its not the same anymore - Rex Orange County 2)Lonely- Noah Cyrus 3)Everything Happens For a Reason- Madison Beer 4)mars- YUNGBLUD 5)Chasing Pavements- Adele