Oh, how I love to take walks on the beach! I always look forward to school breaks because my family and I travel to enjoy the magical waves that rejuvenate our spirits and allow for moments to reflect. The cool sand engulfs my feet as I walk along the beach. I watch as the crests of the waves push the seashells close to me. My eyes grasp the sun's beauty as it bids goodbye to the coastline. This beautiful scenery allows me to reminisce about my learning experiences- coming out of my shell. I bend to pick up an obscure shell laying amid many others. It mirrored a presence that couldn't be overlooked. I see myself compared to this shell as I set out to become a cheerleader. How did I get here? I am shy, inexperienced, and have very little interest in cheering. However, I did watch my sister participate for two years. I realized how much fun she had making new friends, mastering new skills, creating new cheers, managing a schedule, and staying on track with her studies. I reluctantly tried out and waited for the roster to post on a Friday afternoon. It was a surprise to me to see my name printed on the roster. Immediately, I knew the start of my freshman year would be interesting. Practices began, and I struggled to keep up with my teammates. I wanted to quit and drop the shell. But, they chose me and I was determined to uphold my part in the team. I learned to love cheer, both football and basketball. This realization allowed me to try out for captain, and I made it all four years. Pausing my steps, my feet sink into the wet, cool sand as the waves crash around me. The tide rolls back, but I quickly grasp at a shell trying to escape my reach. At a glance, it looked undesirable, but I added it to my collection. Like my language arts course, I dared to drop out but continued to ride the wave. With hesitation and challenges, I struggled to achieve my desired goals. While completing my assignments, I received overwhelming feedback, which made me want to give up. However, with each critique, I devoted myself to improving in the areas that needed attention. Although the semester seemed endless, my final results showed determination. Like the shells that endured the ocean’s challenges, I have faced many obstacles head-on and participated in many activities that once seemed unattainable. Growing up in a single-parent household, I watched my mother work tirelessly at two jobs, ensuring that we had the basics. My sister and I saw her sacrifices and struggles, so we helped with household chores and babysitting to contribute and support our family. Receiving the Kalia D. Davis Scholarship would be an honor, and it would significantly impact my life and education. Kalia represented determination, resilience, living, loving, laughing, learning, and legacy. I would embrace the opportunity to build upon my character to be like her. Additionally, it would alleviate some of the financial burdens of college, which would help me to focus on my studies and continue pursuing my dream with the same perseverance and strength that have shaped my journey. Kalia, you are an inspiration! With this scholarship, I am committed to honoring your memory and legacy. I will continue to strive for excellence, uplift others, stroll the beach, collect my seashells, and enjoy the sunset (like you). Thank you for considering my application. ~Cayla