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Chanel Taylor

965

Bold Points

1x

Finalist

Bio

My name is Chanel, and I’ve been a dental assistant for 20 years a career that’s allowed me to help people feel confident about their smiles every day. I live in South Carolina with my wonderful son, who inspires me to keep reaching for new goals. Now, I’m thrilled to be going back to school to earn my degree in public health and continue growing, both for myself and for my family. I can’t wait to see what the future holds!

Education

South University-Columbia

Bachelor's degree program
2024 - 2027
  • Majors:
    • Public Health

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Bachelor's degree program

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Public Relations and Communications

    • Dream career goals:

    • dental assistant

      Vista Smiles
      2014 – Present11 years

    Public services

    • Volunteering

      Neighborhood HOA — Voting member
      2025 – Present
    Healing Self and Community Scholarship
    I have seen the pain of someone struggling with their mind but unable to afford help. It is heartbreaking, because no one should have to fight alone or choose between care and basic needs. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and my dream is to make it accessible to everyone no matter where they live or what they earn. My plan begins in the community. I would create free or low-cost mental health programs in schools, community centers, and churches places where people already feel welcome and safe. Bringing help close to home removes a major barrier to care. For rural and underserved areas, I would set up mobile mental health units offering counseling, crisis support, and education. When care comes to people instead of expecting them to travel, more lives can be reached. I would also build affordable online counseling services and free support groups, so distance, transportation, or busy schedules don’t prevent anyone from talking to someone who understands. Education is key. Simple workshops could teach stress management, coping skills, and how to recognize early signs of mental health issues. The earlier help starts, the better the outcome. Most importantly, we must fight stigma. People should feel safe sharing their struggles without fear or shame. If I can bring hope, care, and understanding to even one person who feels alone, that would be my greatest gift to the world.
    Bick First Generation Scholarship
    Some moments in life change you forever, and for me, those moments shaped not only who I am, but why I fight so hard to reach my dreams. Being a first-generation student means I am breaking new ground in my family. No one before me has had the chance to go to college, so there is no guidebook at home for how to do it. I am figuring out every step application, financial aid, class schedules on my own. It has not been easy, but it has been worth it. I carry both the challenge and the pride of knowing that I am building a path not just for myself, but for my son and the generations that come after us. My journey has been shaped by powerful life experiences both beautiful and difficult. One of the hardest times was watching my 91-year-old great-grandmother struggle with Alzheimer’s disease. She was a strong and wise woman who raised a family and loved to share stories from her life. Slowly, the disease took away her memories, her independence, and pieces of the person we knew. My family cared for her with patience and love until she passed. That experience taught me compassion, empathy, and the importance of supporting both patients and their families. Another life-changing moment came when my son was born very early just 1 pound, 10 ounces. He spent months in the hospital fighting for his life. I watched the doctors, nurses, and specialists work with skill and kindness to keep him alive and help him grow stronger. Those professionals did not just treat him; they gave me hope during some of the darkest days. My son is now a healthy 12-year-old, but I will never forget the way healthcare workers changed our lives. These experiences lit a fire in me. They helped me realize that I want to be part of the healthcare field not just treating illness, but educating people, preventing disease, and connecting with communities in need. For many years, I have worked as a dental assistant, caring for patients and making them feel comfortable. Now, my goal is to earn my degree in public health so I can help more people in more ways. As a first-generation student, the road is challenging. I work while going to school, and I am a parent at the same time. There are late nights, tired mornings, and moments when the balance feels impossible. But I remind myself why I am doing this for my family, for the people I will help in the future, and for the meaningful career I am building. This scholarship would ease the financial load and let me focus on my studies. More importantly, it would be a reminder that others believe in my potential.
    Henry Respert Alzheimer's and Dementia Awareness Scholarship
    You never truly understand the impact of Alzheimer’s disease until it touches someone you love. For me, that happened when my 91-year-old great-grandmother was diagnosed. She was strong, wise, and full of stories from her long life. She had raised a family, worked hard, and lived through times most people today have only read about. But as Alzheimer’s developed, it began to slowly take away the precious memories that made her who she was. At first, the changes seemed small. She would misplace things, repeat the same question several times, or forget the right word for something. But over time, the changes became bigger. She started to forget names, faces, and even familiar places. Sometimes she would look at me with confusion in her eyes, unsure if she knew who I was. Those moments were hard and sad because I knew she loved us, but the disease was erasing her memory. Eventually, Alzheimer’s made it difficult for her to do everyday tasks. She needed help getting dressed, eating meals, and walking around. My family came together to care for her, taking turns and offering as much love and patience as we could. It was challenging, but it also brought us closer. We learned to appreciate small victories like the joy of seeing her smile when she recognized one of us or when she hummed a song from her younger days. Watching her struggle was one of the most emotional experiences of my life. Alzheimer’s doesn’t just hurt the person living with it it affects the whole family. It taught me patience in a way no other experience could. I learned how important it is to be gentle, to listen, and to accept what someone can and cannot remember. The experience with my great-grandmother sparked something inside me. I realized how powerful healthcare can be not just in treatment, but in providing comfort, understanding, and dignity. Seeing the nurses, doctors, and caregivers work with her inspired me. They helped keep her safe, eased her fear, and supported our family through tough times. I wanted to be like them. I wanted to make a difference for others facing illness and difficulty, whether in a hospital, clinic, or community setting. That is why I am working toward a career in healthcare, with a focus on public health. I want to help families understand diseases like Alzheimer’s and provide education on prevention and care. I want to create programs that support both patients and the loved ones who care for them. My great-grandmother’s Alzheimer’s journey showed me that medicine is more than science it’s also kindness, patience, and compassion. Although Alzheimer’s took her memories, it could never take her spirit or the lessons she taught me. She inspired me to dedicate my future to helping others feel seen, supported, and valued. Her struggle has become my motivation, and I plan to carry her love and courage into every step of my healthcare career.
    RELEVANCE Scholarship
    I truly believe that every experience in life changes us and helps shape the person we become. My personal challenges have not only shaped me they have given me a strong passion to work in healthcare and make a real difference in people’s lives. My journey has been filled with moments of struggle, hope, and joy, and each moment has pushed me toward my dream. I started working as a dental assistant in 2006. For many years, I have cared for patients in a way that makes them feel safe, respected, and understood. I have learned how important it is to slow down, listen, and show kindness. Many people come to the dentist feeling nervous or afraid, but with patience and compassion, I am able to make them feel more at ease. Those daily connections with people made me realize that I wanted to do more in healthcare not just in a dental office, but for entire communities. The biggest challenge of my life came when my son was born very early at only 1 pound 10 ounces. We spent months in the hospital, and every single day felt uncertain. I watched my tiny baby fight for his life, and I also watched the amazing doctors, nurses, and specialists who worked tirelessly to help him survive. They cared for him, but they also cared for me and my family. They showed us compassion when we were scared, and they gave us hope when we needed it most. That experience changed the way I see healthcare. It showed me that medicine is not just about treatment it is about human connection. It is about holding someone’s hand during their hardest days and being their source of comfort and guidance. My son is now 12 years old, strong, and healthy. Every time I look at him, I am reminded of how healthcare professionals changed our lives. I decided I wanted to be one of those people the kind who makes someone feel seen, supported, and valued during difficult times. That is why I am now working toward a bachelor’s degree in public health. Public health looks beyond individual treatment and focuses on prevention, education, and making sure everyone has the tools and resources they need to be healthy. I want to use my education, skills, and personal experiences to create programs that teach healthy habits, support families through medical challenges, and reach underserved communities who often go without proper care. My journey has given me both professional skills and a compassionate heart. I know what it feels like to face fear and uncertainty, and I know how powerful it is to have someone by your side who truly cares. I am excited to take my experiences and use them to make a positive impact in healthcare helping people stay healthy, feel supported, and know they are never alone.
    Priscilla Shireen Luke Scholarship
    Giving back has always been important to me because I believe we all have a responsibility to help others when we are able. Right now, I give back in different ways, both in my work and in my personal life. As a dental assistant, I take time with each patient to make sure they feel cared for and understood. Many people are nervous about going to the dentist, so I try to be gentle, patient, and encouraging. I believe kindness and compassion can make people feel safe and respected, no matter what type of care they are receiving. I see my role not just as someone who helps during procedures, but as someone who makes the experience better for the patient. Outside of work, I give back by supporting and encouraging families who are going through health challenges. Because my own child was born very early and faced serious medical struggles, I understand how overwhelming and lonely it can feel. When I meet parents who are dealing with similar situations, I listen to them, share my story, and try to give hope. I volunteer my time to help with community health events when possible, such as free dental check-up days or wellness fairs, so that people can get the care and information they need. In my family, I give back by teaching my son the importance of kindness and service. We help with local drives to collect food, clothing, or school supplies for families in need. I believe that even small efforts can make a big difference for someone who is struggling. In the future, my goal is to make an even bigger impact through my career in public health. I am working toward my bachelor’s degree in public health so that I can serve communities in a broader way. Public health focuses on prevention, education, and making sure important resources are available to everyone not only those who can afford them. I want to develop programs that teach healthy habits, such as good nutrition, exercise, and regular health check-ups. I plan to work with families to help them understand illnesses and how to manage them, just the way I had to learn to manage my son’s care when he was small. I want to improve access to health information in underserved areas, especially where people may not know what help is available. I also want to be a voice for people who often feel unheard. My experiences as a mother of a medically fragile child and as a healthcare worker have shaped my belief that health should never be a privilege it should be a basic right. By combining my personal experiences, professional skills, and education, I plan to continue giving back and helping others live healthier, safer, and happier lives. I believe that every act of care, no matter how small, has the power to create a ripple effect that can change the world.
    Equity Elevate Scholarship
    My life has been full of experiences that have shaped who I am and the goals I have today. In 2006, I began working as a dental assistant. Over the years, I have learned how to help people with care and kindness, how to pay attention to details, and how to be patient. Working closely with patients has taught me that health is one of the most valuable things in life. It has also made me want to do more—not just for individuals, but for whole communities. When I was 23, I made a big change. I moved from New York to South Carolina. It was hard to leave behind my family and friends, but it opened the door to a new chapter in my life. Soon after moving, I got married, and together we started a family. The most life-changing moment for me was the birth of our miracle child. He was born weighing only 1 pound 10 ounces. He spent months in the hospital, and every day was a struggle. We didn’t know if he would survive, but he fought hard. Those months were full of fear, hope, and prayer. Today, he is 12 years old, healthy, strong, and full of life. That experience changed me forever. I learned the meaning of strength, patience, and love. I saw how important good healthcare is for families, and how much difference caring doctors, nurses, and other health professionals can make. This opened my eyes to a bigger dream working in public health to help people get the care, education, and support they need. That is why I went back to school to work toward a bachelor’s degree in public health. Public health is not just about treating illness. It’s about preventing it, educating people, and making sure communities have the resources they need to live healthy lives. My years as a dental assistant have given me hands-on skills in caring for people. My experience as a mother has given me empathy and the ability to understand what families go through when faced with health challenges. I know the fear of sitting by a hospital bed, hoping for good news. I also know the joy of seeing recovery and progress. My career goal is to use my skills, education, and personal experiences to make a difference in the lives of others. I want to promote health, teach prevention, and make healthcare easier to reach. My journey from moving to a new state, building a family, raising a miracle child, and working in healthcare has led me here. I am ready to take the next step and turn my passion into action, helping communities live healthier, stronger, and happier lives.
    I Can and I Will Scholarship
    My experience with mental health has had a big impact on my beliefs, my relationships, and what I want to do in my career. Growing up, I saw how mental health can affect not just one person, but an entire family. My father-in-law is a Vietnam veteran, and he has struggled with the memories and pain from his time in the war. Watching him deal with things like anxiety, nightmares, and sadness taught me that mental health is just as important as physical health. At first, I didn’t really understand what he was going through. Sometimes he would get quiet or upset for reasons I couldn’t see. But over time, I learned to be more patient and understanding. I realized that people can look fine on the outside but still be hurting inside. This changed the way I think about others. Now, I try not to judge anyone too quickly because I know everyone has their own struggles. Seeing my father-in-law’s journey made me believe that it’s okay to ask for help. He started talking to counselors and other veterans, and I saw how much it helped him to share his feelings. It also brought our family closer together. We learned to listen better and support each other, even when we didn’t have all the answers. I became more open about my own feelings, too. If I was having a hard day, I felt safer talking about it instead of keeping it inside. These experiences have shaped my relationships with friends and family. I try to be someone people can trust and talk to. I know how important it is to feel heard and understood. When someone tells me they’re struggling, I don’t try to “fix” them I just listen and let them know they’re not alone. I’ve learned that sometimes, just being there for someone is the best thing you can do. My experience with mental health has also influenced my career goals. I want to work in a field where I can help others who are facing tough times. Whether it’s in healthcare, counseling, or community service, I want to make a difference by supporting people’s mental and emotional well-being. I believe that everyone deserves kindness and respect, no matter what they’re going through. I am especially interested in helping veterans and their families. Seeing what my father-in-law went through showed me how much support they need. Many veterans carry invisible wounds, and I want to be part of the solution by raising awareness and offering help. Overall, my journey with mental health both my own and my family’s has made me more compassionate and understanding. It has taught me that healing takes time and that nobody should have to face their struggles alone. These lessons guide me every day, in my relationships and in my dreams for the future. I hope to use what I’ve learned to bring comfort and hope to others, just like my family and community have done for me.
    Addie Lanta’s Scholarship
    When I was just 10 years old, my family decided to adopt a dog. We went to the North Shore Animal Shelter, I was excited and a little nervous because we had never had a dog before. That’s where we met Goldie, a sweet beagle mix with big brown eyes and soft floppy ears. She looked at my brother and I with so much hope and love that we knew right away she was meant to be part of our family. Bringing Goldie home was one of the happiest days of my life. She was shy at first, but soon she started wagging her tail and exploring every corner of our house. Goldie quickly became everyone’s best friend. She loved to cuddle on the couch, play in the backyard, and go for long walks around the neighborhood. Every morning, she would greet us with a wagging tail and happy barks, making even the hardest days feel brighter. Goldie was more than just a pet she was truly a member of our family. She was there for every birthday, holiday, and special moment. When I was sad or worried, Goldie always seemed to know. She would curl up next to me and rest her head on my lap, making me feel safe and loved. Her gentle presence helped me through tough times, like when I struggled with school or felt lonely. She taught me what it means to care for someone else and to be patient and kind. As I grew older, Goldie was always by my side. She watched me grow from a child into an adult, and I watched her grow older too. Even as she slowed down, she still wanted to be close to us, always ready for a belly rub or a treat. Taking care of Goldie as she aged taught me about responsibility and unconditional love. It wasn’t always easy, but I wouldn’t trade those moments for anything. Goldie brought so much joy and laughter into our home. She had a funny way of howling when she wanted attention and loved chasing after squirrels in the yard, even though she never caught one. She made friends with all the neighbors and their pets, and everyone who met her loved her gentle spirit. We were lucky to have Goldie as part of our family for 16 wonderful years. Saying goodbye to her was one of the hardest things we ever had to do, but I am grateful for every memory we shared. Goldie taught me about loyalty, friendship, and the simple happiness that comes from loving and being loved. Even now, I think about Goldie often. She will always have a special place in my heart. Having her in my life made me a better person, and I will always cherish the time we spent together. Goldie showed me that family isn’t just about people it’s about the love we share, no matter what.
    Sherman S. Howard Legacy Foundation Scholarship
    My church has always been a very important part of my life. In fact, it feels like this church has been part of my family since the beginning of time. My parents, grandparents, and even great-grandparents have all been members. Growing up, I spent many Sundays sitting in the same pews as they did, listening to stories about faith, kindness, and helping others. The church was not just a building for us it was a second home where we learned how to care for people and support our community. From a young age, I saw my family volunteering at church events, helping with food drives, and visiting people who were sick or lonely. They taught me that serving others is one of the most important things you can do in life. I remember helping pack food boxes for families in need, collecting clothes for donation, and singing in the choir during special services. These experiences made me realize how good it feels to help someone else and how much of a difference even small acts of kindness can make. As I got older, I started to take on more responsibility at church. I helped organize events, worked with children in Sunday school, and joined groups that visited nursing homes. Each time I volunteered, I felt closer to my community and more connected to the people around me. I learned that service isn’t just about giving things it’s about giving your time, your attention, and your heart. One thing that has really changed in recent years is how we attend church. Because of busy schedules and sometimes because of health concerns, it’s not always possible to be there in person. That’s why being able to join church services through Facebook has been so wonderful. Even when I can’t sit in the pews, I can still listen to the sermons, sing along with the music, and pray with everyone else. It makes me feel like I am still part of the church family, no matter where I am. Attending church online has also shown me new ways to serve. Sometimes, I share encouraging messages or prayers with friends on Facebook. Other times, I help spread the word about church events or community needs by sharing posts. This helps more people get involved and reminds them that they are not alone. My church has truly shaped who I am today. It has taught me to be kind, generous, and caring. It has given me the courage to step up and help others, both inside and outside the church walls. Most importantly, it has shown me that service is not just something you do once in a while it’s a way of life. I am grateful for my church and for the chance to stay connected through technology. No matter where I go, I carry the lessons and love from my church with me, and I try every day to make my community a better place because of it.
    Leading Through Humanity & Heart Scholarship
    Part 1 I have worked as a dental assistant since 2006, helping people take care of their teeth and health. Over the years, I have learned how important it is to be kind, patient, and to listen carefully to others. These values guide me every day and make me want to help even more people live healthier lives. Seeing how much good health can change someone’s life made me want to go back to school for a public health degree even though I was nervous because I am older than most students. My experiences have taught me that everyone deserves good care and respect, no matter who they are. I am passionate about health and wellness because I want to make a real difference in people’s lives by supporting them and giving them the information they need to stay healthy. Part 2 Empathy means being able to understand how someone else feels and caring about what they are going through. It’s not just feeling sorry for someone it’s really trying to see things from their point of view. In healthcare jobs like dentistry and public health, empathy is very important. When we show empathy, patients feel safe, respected, and more willing to talk about their problems. This helps us give better care. As a dental assistant, I often meet people who are scared or worried about visiting the dentist. By listening to them and showing I care, I help them feel more comfortable. This makes it easier for them to get the treatment they need. Empathy also helps when working with people from different backgrounds, because it reminds me to respect their beliefs and needs. In public health, empathy is important because we work with whole communities, not just one person at a time. We need to understand what people in the community are facing like money problems, language barriers, or lack of access to doctors so we can create programs that really help them. Empathy helps us see people as individuals, not just numbers or cases. Going back to school for public health was a big step for me. I was nervous because I am older than most students, but my experience as a dental assistant helped me feel confident. I realized that my background lets me connect with people in a special way and share helpful ideas. To make sure my work always puts people first, I focus on listening carefully and working together with others. I ask questions to learn what people really need and try to include everyone in finding solutions. I also keep learning new things so I can do my job better. Empathy is at the heart of everything I do. It helps me remember that every person has their own story and challenges. By caring and understanding, I hope to help people and communities become healthier and happier.
    Christina Taylese Singh Memorial Scholarship
    My name is Chanel, and I am excited to share a little about myself and my goals for the future. Right now, I work as a dental assistant. I have been in this job for many years, and I really enjoy helping people take care of their teeth and feel comfortable at the dentist. Every day, I meet people from all walks of life, and I see how important good health is not just for your mouth, but for your whole body. Working in dentistry has taught me a lot about health. I have learned that small habits, like brushing and flossing every day, can make a big difference over time. I also see that many people do not know how much their oral health affects their overall health. For example, problems with your teeth and gums can sometimes lead to bigger health issues, like heart disease or diabetes. This made me realize that there is a need for more education and support when it comes to health, not just in the dental office, but everywhere in our communities. Because of this, I have decided to go back to school and earn my degree in public health. Public health is a field that focuses on keeping entire communities healthy, not just treating people when they are sick. People who work in public health teach others about healthy habits, help prevent diseases, and work to make sure everyone has access to the care they need. I want to be part of this important work because I believe that everyone deserves a chance to live a healthy life. I chose public health because I want to help more people than I can in the dental office alone. I want to reach families, schools, and workplaces to share information about how to stay healthy. I hope to work on programs that teach kids about eating healthy foods, getting enough exercise, and taking care of their teeth. I also want to help adults learn about things like quitting smoking, managing stress, and going to regular check-ups. Sometimes, people just need a little support or information to make better choices, and I want to be someone who helps provide that. Another reason I am interested in public health is because I have seen how hard it can be for some people to get the care they need. Some families do not have insurance, or they live far away from doctors and dentists. In public health, I can work to make healthcare easier to reach for everyone, no matter where they live or how much money they have. Going into public health feels like the right path for me because I care deeply about helping others. My experience as a dental assistant has given me a strong foundation, and now I am ready to learn even more so I can make a bigger impact. I am excited to use what I learn to help my community become healthier and happier. My dream is to inspire others to take small steps toward better health and to show them that change is possible, one day at a time.
    Dr. Steve Aldana Memorial Scholarship
    I currently work in dentistry, and every day I see how important health is to people’s lives. As a dental assistant, I help patients take care of their teeth and gums, but I also talk with them about healthy habits that can make a big difference. I believe that good health starts with small steps, just like Dr. Steve Aldana teaches. His message about making small, daily changes really inspires me because I have seen how little things like brushing, flossing, or choosing water over soda can lead to big improvements over time. My goal is to earn my bachelor’s degree in public health. I want to learn more about how to help people live healthier lives, not just in the dental office, but everywhere. Public health is all about helping communities stay healthy by teaching people about good habits, preventing disease, and making sure everyone has access to care. With this degree, I will be able to reach more people and share the message that health doesn’t have to be complicated. It can start with simple choices we make every day. In my job now, I already try to encourage patients to take care of themselves. I explain how brushing twice a day, flossing, and eating less sugar can protect their teeth and their overall health. Sometimes, people feel overwhelmed by big changes, so I focus on small steps they can do right away. For example, I might suggest starting with flossing just once a week and then slowly building up. When people see progress, they feel proud and want to keep going. This is exactly what Dr. Aldana talks about making health changes that are easy to stick with. When I finish my degree in public health, I hope to work in programs that teach families and communities about wellness. I want to help schools create healthy environments for kids, support workplaces in offering wellness activities, and work with local groups to spread information about nutrition, exercise, and mental health. I believe that everyone deserves to know how to take care of themselves, and sometimes all it takes is someone to show them how simple it can be. I am passionate about helping others because I know how hard it can be to make changes, especially when life gets busy or stressful. My own journey has taught me that small steps matter. Whether it’s drinking more water, taking a walk after dinner, or getting enough sleep, these habits add up. I want to use my education to help people find what works for them and support them along the way. Dr. Aldana’s mission is close to my heart. I want to continue his work by showing people that powerful health improvements come from small, everyday actions. In dentistry, I see the results of good and bad habits, and I know that change is possible. With my public health degree, I will have more tools to help people build healthier lives, one step at a time. My dream is to make a real difference in my community by sharing knowledge, offering support, and inspiring others to believe in themselves. Health is for everyone, and together, we can make lasting changes that improve lives.
    Harvey and Geneva Mabry Second Time Around Scholarship
    My name is Chanel, and I am 39 years old. I grew up on Long Island, New York, where I spent most of my childhood and early adult life. In 2009, I made a big decision to move to Columbia, South Carolina. It was not easy to leave everything I knew behind, but I wanted a fresh start and new opportunities for myself. The biggest blessing in my life is my son. He is now 13 years old, but his story is truly special. When he was born, he was a super preemie. He weighed only 1 pound and 10 ounces. Those first days and months were very hard and scary. I remember spending so much time in the hospital, hoping and praying that he would be okay. There were many nights when I felt afraid and alone, but my son kept fighting. His strength gave me hope, and he showed me what it means to never give up. Today, he is healthy and strong, and I am so proud of him. He is my miracle and the reason I work hard every day. Since 2006, I have worked as a dental assistant. I love my job because I get to help people feel comfortable and cared for when they come to the dentist. I know that many people are nervous about dental visits, so I always try to be kind and gentle. My job has taught me patience, understanding, and how important it is to listen to others. Over the years, I have met many wonderful patients and coworkers who have helped me grow as a person. For a long time, my main focus was taking care of my son and working to support us. I put my dreams on hold because I wanted to make sure he had everything he needed. Now that he is older and doing well, I finally have the chance to think about my own future. I decided to go back to school because I want to earn a degree and open new doors for myself. This is something I have wanted for a long time, but I never felt like the timing was right until now. Going back to school is a big step for me. I am excited but also a little nervous. I know it will be hard work, but I am ready for the challenge. I want my son to see that his mom is brave and determined. I want him to know that it’s never too late to chase your dreams or learn something new. By going back to school, I hope to show him that anything is possible if you believe in yourself and keep trying. This journey is not just for me it is for my son, too. I want him to be proud of me and to know that I did this for both of us. I hope my story inspires him and maybe even others to never give up, no matter what life brings. With love, hope, and hard work, we can overcome anything. I am grateful for this chance to grow and make a better life for our family.
    College Student Challenge Scholarship
    I decided to write this essay as if I worked in a health insurance call center. Working in a health insurance call center can be stressful, especially when people are dealing with important issues about their health and money. Lately, I have noticed that our team has been arguing a lot over small things. Sometimes these arguments get loud, and people start shouting at each other. Even though I am not the supervisor, I care about our team and want to help make things better. As someone who has worked here for a while and knows everyone well I believe I can use my own skills and qualities to help calm things down and bring us back together. First, I know how important it is to talk to people in a kind and respectful way. When I see two coworkers starting to argue, I try to step in and remind them to speak calmly and listen to each other. Sometimes, just having someone there to slow things down can stop an argument from getting worse. I always try to listen to both sides and let everyone share how they feel. I think people just want to be heard, and when they feel like someone understands them they are less likely to get angry. Another thing I do is show empathy. Working in a call center is hard, and we all have tough days. If someone is upset, I try to ask if they are okay or if something happened that made their day harder. Sometimes, people are upset about things outside of work, and a little kindness goes a long way. I also try to remind others that we are all on the same team and that we should support each other instead of fighting. When conflicts happen I do my best to stay neutral. I don’t take sides or blame anyone. Instead, I focus on finding a solution that works for everyone. For example, if two people are arguing about who should take a difficult call, I might suggest we take turns or help each other out. I encourage my teammates to look for solutions instead of focusing on the problem. This helps us move forward and keeps things from getting stuck in negativity. I also try to lead by example. I stay calm even when things get busy or stressful. I treat everyone with respect, no matter what. I hope that by acting this way, others will follow my lead. Sometimes, I organize short team meetings where we can talk about what’s going well and what we can improve. I encourage everyone to share their ideas and thank them for their hard work. Celebrating small wins helps boost morale and reminds us that we are doing a good job. I keep a positive attitude. I know that every day won’t be perfect, but I try to focus on the good things. I remind my team that we are helping people every day, and that matters. When someone does something nice or handles a tough call well, I make sure to point it out. A little encouragement can make a big difference. Even though I am not the supervisor, I believe I can help reduce conflict in our call center by using good communication, empathy, fairness, and a positive attitude. By working together and supporting each other, we can create a better place to work for everyone.
    Chanel Taylor Student Profile | Bold.org