Growing up as a military dependent demanded constant movement, adaptability, and resilience. My upbringing took me across the United States and abroad, including Virginia, California, Rhode Island, Nevada, Texas, Italy, and Japan. These experiences shaped my worldview, exposing me to diverse cultures, perspectives, and challenges. Through these transitions, I learned the value of community, the importance of service, and the power of education in creating meaningful change. I am pursuing a degree in Business Administration with an International Business Certificate at Texas A&M University today. My academic journey is complemented by hands-on experience through employment and extracurricular activities. I have applied my skills in various leadership roles, including managing group research projects, facilitating peer-to-peer collaboration, and contributing to case studies that analyze business innovations. Additionally, I am actively involved in initiatives promoting community engagement and global awareness, like the campus-wide ‘Big Event’ volunteering opportunity through the International Business Association (IBA). Each year, I lead a group of fellow Aggies in serving the Bryan-College Station area. International students experience the local culture in the process, as well. Such reinforces my commitment to a lasting impact on others, globally and locally. My next step in this journey is to participate in the Texas A&M Public Policy Internship Program (PPIP) in Washington, D.C., where I aim to intern with the Department of State, the Environmental Protection Agency, the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, or the U.S. Agency for International Development. This opportunity will provide invaluable insights into public policy, international relations, and government operations. It will also prepare me for graduate studies at the Bush School of Government and Public Service, where I aspire to earn a Master’s in International Affairs. My goal is to leverage my education and experiences to develop policies promoting international cooperation, environmental sustainability, and economic development. The core values of Text-Em-All—compassion, authenticity, and shared excellence—are principles that have guided my life. Compassion has driven me to create opportunities for others, such as founding a gymnastics club on a military base in Japan and advocating for a music program establishment at my high school. Authenticity has allowed me to remain true to my goals despite financial and personal obstacles, staying committed to my vision of public service. Shared excellence is evident in my collaborative efforts, like academic projects, extracurricular activities, and community initiatives. I firmly believe that true success is measured by the positive impact we have on others. Receiving the Text-Em-All Founders Scholarship would not only ease the financial burden of my education but also serve as a testament to the values I strive to uphold. With this support, I will continue to use my education and career to create meaningful change, advocating for policies that uplift communities and foster global collaboration. I am committed to using my knowledge, experiences, and passion to make a lasting difference—one that extends beyond myself and contributes to a brighter future for all.

Education has always been a key to breaking barriers and creating opportunities. However, pursuing higher education has been an uphill battle as a dependent in a military family with frequent relocations and financial struggles. Despite these challenges, my greatest achievement has been founding a gymnastics club on a U.S. Marine Corps base in Japan. This experience taught me resilience and leadership while solidifying the desire to make a meaningful, global impact through international business and public service. When my family moved to Japan, I faced the challenge of leaving behind my 10-year career as a competitive gymnast. The military base lacked a gymnastics program, leaving young athletes without an avenue to develop their skills. Recognizing this gap, I took the initiative to establish a gymnastics club. I coordinated with base officials, secured practice space, and recruited members. As the club grew, I took on mentorship roles for younger gymnasts. Witnessing the joy and growth of my teammates reinforced my belief in the power of initiative and community-building. This experience taught me valuable lessons about perseverance, adaptability, and leadership. I learned how to navigate bureaucratic processes, advocate for resources, and build something meaningful from the ground up. It also showed me the importance of resilience. Challenges–financial, logistical, or personal–are inevitable, but overcoming them is possible with determination and creative problem-solving. Most importantly, I discovered my passion for making a difference by identifying needs and finding unique ways to meet them. My experience in Japan ignited my passion for business and public service, leading me to pursue a degree in Business Administration with an International Business Certificate at Texas A&M University. My ultimate goal is to work in international affairs, where I can help bridge economic and social gaps between communities. Whether through global commerce, public policy, or non-profit work, I want to ensure that opportunities are accessible to those who need them most. Earning my degree is the first step in achieving this vision, and financial assistance through scholarships like the WCEJ Thornton Foundation Low-Income Scholarship will help make this possible. My journey has been shaped by resilience, leadership, and a commitment to creating opportunities for others. Founding the gymnastics club in Japan was more than just an extracurricular achievement—it was a testament to the power of initiative and the ability to create change despite obstacles. As I continue my education and work towards a career in international business and public service, I am determined to uplift others and break barriers, just as I did on that military base. With the support of this scholarship, I will be one step closer to turning these aspirations into reality.

Military orders moved my two sisters, mom, dad, and me back and forth between the U.S. coasts and overseas every two years. Over time, we immersed ourselves in the diverse aspects of American culture and even ancient cultures. I experienced extensive travel, forged deep connections, and created unforgettable memories across eleven duty stations. Transitions came with a great deal of sacrifice, though. Moving around was a great source of instability as a young woman. Such a transitory lifestyle has demanded adaptability to my surroundings — including assimilation into host nations, resilience during times of uncertainty, and an unyielding commitment to my values. Victories and hardships shaped my personal, academic, and spiritual life, teaching me to thrive in a state of impermanence. Today, my experiences living in my homeland, Japan, and Italy give me the confidence to create a new home in College Station, Texas. Membership in the International Business Association (IBA) allows me to continue volunteering for my community, learn from professionals, and expand my network. I serve my church through the music program, too. The St. Mary’s Orchestra Club is a unique outlet to play my violin and proves instrumental to the weekly mass. One year, I joined the leadership team, organizing socials, conducting outreach, and communicating rehearsal details regularly. In my academics, I am pursuing higher education at Texas A&M University where I study business management. The Mays Business School has endless resources and tools to enhance my global lifestyle, embrace an entrepreneurial mindset, and unleash my creative abilities. At first glance, I have seemingly sowed stability in my physical, spiritual, and academic life. However, a traumatic episode at a Saturday football game with my sisters during my third semester at university highlighted this misconception. Onset fatigue and malnourishment propelled family intervention and voluntary admission into the Woodlands Spring Hospital that Saturday. Inpatient care revealed how dysfunctional I had grown to be out from under my parent's roof. Medical professionals diagnosed me with anorexia, amenorrhea, and depression. These diagnoses seemed so foreign and made me feel infinitely disconnected from myself. However, after rounds of group therapy, informational, and rehabilitation services, the fog that long-settled my mind began to dissipate. I started to understand and accept the reality of my illness. Something had to change. In that hospital, I celebrated Halloween, turned twenty years old, and embarked on my lifelong journey toward healing. My commitment to mental wellness motivates me to build a global career by earning a certification in international business. Newfound inspiration led me to an extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime study abroad program spanning Ushuaia, Argentina, and onto the fringes of the Polar Ice Caps in Antarctica. I am enrolled in a course during the fall semester to teach me about sustainability and prepare me for the winter field trip. Participation in the program, alongside international business coursework, will develop competency in the three pillars of sustainability and cultivate leadership skills in an environmentally sensitive location. This certification will also help me to stand out in my application to the Bush School of Government and Public Service. There, I will pursue a graduate degree in International Affairs. Funds from the Be Brave Scholarship will support my travels to Antarctica and Argentina, my long-term educational goals, and guarantee a global career after college.

Every two-year set of military orders moved me and my family back and forth between the U.S. coasts and overseas. Our highly transitory lifestyle allowed us to travel, create lifelong memories, and forge lasting friendships worldwide. Transitions came with a great deal of sacrifice, though. Countless heartbreaking goodbyes and life-changing events impacted me as a young woman. Moving around proved a great source of instability and demanded adaptability to my surroundings, resilience during times of uncertainty, and an unyielding commitment to my values. Today, my experiences as a military dependent provide me the strength, education, and confidence to grow roots in College Station, Texas. Membership in the International Business Association has allowed me to volunteer in my community, learn from professionals, and expand my network. I also serve my church through its music program. The St. Marys Orchestra Club provides the perfect outlet to play the violin while contributing to the weekly mass. In my academics, I am pursuing higher education at Texas A&M University where I study management full-time at the Mays Business School. At first glance, I have seemingly sowed stability in my physical, spiritual, and academic life. However, a traumatic episode at a Saturday football game with my sisters during my third semester at university highlighted this misconception. Onset fatigue and malnourishment propelled family intervention and voluntary admission into the Woodlands Spring Hospital that Saturday. Inpatient care revealed how dysfunctional I had grown to be out from under my parent's roof. Medical professionals diagnosed me with anorexia, amenorrhea, and depression. These diagnoses seemed so foreign and made me feel infinitely disconnected from myself. However, after rounds of group therapy, informational, and rehabilitation services, the fog that long-settled my mind began to dissipate. I started to understand and accept the reality of my illness. Something had to change. In that hospital, I celebrated Halloween, turned twenty years old, and embarked on my lifelong journey toward healing. Mental health awareness has allowed me to better my relationship with myself and others. I strive to practice self-care above all else, especially as a college student, daily. Each morning, I implement a skincare routine, rehearse positive affirmations, read a bible passage, and eat a healthy breakfast before diving into schoolwork – daily habits that are the silent architects of success. Mini breaks throughout the day serve to prevent burnout. Lately, I have enjoyed the benefits of Pilates on the body, mind, and soul. Each evening is a sacred time to recharge my battery, too. My sisters and I often eat dinner together to catch up and check in with one another. As introverts, we also retire to our rooms for alone time. I choose to read before shutting off the lights before 21:30. My everyday life as a college student is designed to maintain balance. Although my situation may only sometimes be harmonious, I am confident in my ability to adjust when necessary and take appropriate action. As a result of my commitment to mental wellness, I am motivated to build a global career by earning a certification in international business. Newfound inspiration led me to an extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime study abroad program spanning Ushuaia, Argentina, and onto the fringes of the Polar Ice Caps in Antarctica. I am enrolled in a course during the fall semester to teach me about sustainability and prepare me for the winter field trip. This certification will ensure a career that supports sustainable business practices. The Mental Health Importance Scholarship funds will support my undergraduate endeavors and guarantee a global contribution beyond college.

Bird by Bird, by Anne Lamott, is an essential modern classic on writing that has inspired readers and writers alike since 1994. Lamott delivers homespun advice and hard truths about authorship through well-developed satire. Most notably, Lamott quotes E.L. Doctorow in her chapter called Short Assignments to emphasize the importance of process management. Doctorow compares nighttime driving to the writing process – how they are handled one step at a time. She adds, “You don't have to see where you're going…just…two or three feet ahead of you” (Annie Lamott, Bird by Bird). While she interpreted Doctorow’s metaphor as advice on writing, I interpreted this tidbit from Doctorow as commentary on faith. Living comfortably and intentionally in the unknown is a state of being everyone should strive to master. Military orders moved my two sisters, mom, dad, and me back and forth between the U.S. coasts and overseas every two years. Over time, we immersed ourselves in the diverse aspects of American culture and even ancient cultures. I experienced extensive travel, forged deep connections, and created unforgettable memories across eleven duty stations. Transitions came with a great deal of sacrifice, though. It was easy for me to focus on people no longer in my life, the hardships of changing schools, and the difficulty of deployments. For instance, when I moved to Japan, I was almost immediately met with the reality that, after ten years, my career as a competitive gymnast was over. A lack of community resources and infrastructure in the new Marine Corps base did not support a legitimate gymnastics team. However, I was determined to continue my skills while building up the community. My sisters and I found a certified gymnastics instructor and worked with the base Morale, Welfare, & Readiness to start a small club. At first, we comprised the entirety of the program. Over time, it doubled, then tripled. It is enjoyed by many young girls today. Such is why faith, a prevalent theme of Lamott's novel, is universal. With the wisdom from novels like hers, I am successful. Today, my experiences living in my homeland, Japan, and Italy give me the confidence to create a new home in College Station, Texas. Membership in the International Business Association has allowed me to volunteer in my community, learn from professionals, and expand my network. I also serve my church through the music program. The St. Mary’s Orchestra Club is a unique outlet to play my violin and proves instrumental to the weekly mass. In my academics, I am pursuing higher education at Texas A&M University. I study management, with an entrepreneurial focus, at the Mays Business School to further my worldly lifestyle. I want to build a global career by earning a certification in international business. To do so, I am embarking on an extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime study abroad program spanning Ushuaia, Argentina, and onto the fringes of the Polar Ice Caps in Antarctica. I am enrolled in a course during the fall semester to teach me about sustainable business and prepare me for the winter field trip. It is a unique addition to my international business certification that aids my graduate school application. Participation in the program, alongside international business coursework, will develop competency in the three pillars of sustainability and cultivate leadership skills in an environmentally sensitive location. As long as I take life bird by bird, funds from the Barbara Cain Literary Scholarship will support my travels to Antarctica and Argentina, enhance my undergraduate degree, guarantee a global contribution beyond college, and nurture my love for reading. Citation: Lamott, Anne. Bird by Bird. Anchor Books, 1997.

Every two-year set of military orders moved me and my family back and forth between the U.S. coasts and overseas. This transitory lifestyle immersed us in the diverse aspects of American, Japanese, and Italian cultures. We were fortunate enough to travel to several countries, create lifelong memories, and make friends along the way. Transitions came with a great deal of sacrifice, though. Many heartbreaking goodbyes, the end of my competitive gymnastics career, and a plethora of life-changing events impacted me as a young woman. This great source of instability demanded adaptability to my surroundings, resilience during times of uncertainty, and an unyielding commitment to my values. Life as a military dependent gave me the confidence to grow roots in College Station, Texas. Membership in the International Business Association has allowed me to volunteer in my community, learn from professionals, and expand my network. I also serve my church through its music program. The St. Mary’s Orchestra Club is an amazing outlet for me to play my violin while contributing to the weekly mass. In my academics, I am pursuing higher education at Texas A&M University where I study management full-time at the Mays Business School. I seemingly sowed stability in my physical, spiritual, and academic life. However, I had left one vital area of well-being unchecked. A traumatic episode at a Saturday football game with my sisters during my third semester at university made this abundantly clear. It was also the momentum needed for my family to intervene. Growing concerns about my health led to my voluntary admission into the Woodlands Spring Hospital that day. A week of inpatient care revealed how dysfunctional I had grown to be out from under my parent's roof. Medical professionals diagnosed me with anorexia, amenorrhea, and depression. While I supposed a decline in my mental health, I was not aware of the severity. These diagnoses seemed so foreign and made me feel infinitely disconnected from myself. However, after rounds of group therapy, informational, and rehabilitation services, the mind fog began to dissipate. I started to understand and accept the reality of my illness. Something had to change. In that hospital, I celebrated Halloween, turned 20, and embarked on my lifelong journey toward healing. My experience inspired me to build a global career by earning a certification in international business. Newfound motivation led to an extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime study abroad program spanning Ushuaia, Argentina, and onto the fringes of the Polar Ice Caps in Antarctica. I am enrolled in a course during the fall semester to teach me about sustainable business and prepare me for the winter field trip. Not only is it a unique addition to my certification in international business, but it is also a chance to spread Agape love to the South Pole. Participation in the program, alongside international business coursework, will develop competency in the three pillars of sustainability and cultivate leadership skills in an environmentally sensitive location. With a strong vision of sustainability guiding my business career path, I desire to apply the first-hand experience and knowledge gained from the remote fieldwork completed in a naturally unsustainable environment to one concerning natural resource evolution and conservation. Funds from the Joy Of Life Inspire’s AAA Scholarship will support my travels to Antarctica and Argentina, enhance my entrepreneurial-focused management degree, and guarantee a global contribution beyond college.

Military orders moved my two sisters, mom, dad, and me back and forth between the U.S. coasts every two years. We familiarized ourselves with the diverse aspects of American culture and met many people along the way. The U.S. Navy also sent us overseas where we were immersed in two contrasting ancient cultures﹣which were on separate continents and opposite sides of the world. We had the amazing opportunity to visit other nations and explore cultures there. These transitions came with a great deal of sacrifice, though. Many heartbreaking goodbyes, deaths, and a plethora of life-changing events changed us forever. Although moving around was a great source of instability as a young woman, I encountered incredible, rare opportunities to lead others. For instance, when I moved to Japan, I was almost immediately met with the reality that, after ten years, my career as a competitive gymnast was over. A lack of normal community resources and infrastructure in the new Marine Corps base did not support a legitimate gymnastics team. However, I was determined to continue my skills while building up the community. My sisters and I found a certified gymnastics instructor and worked with the base MWR to start a small club. At first, we comprised the entirety of the program. Over time, it doubled and tripled, with many young girls enjoying it today. This inspired us to begin a music program at our new school in Italy one year later. Victories and hardships shaped my personal, academic, and spiritual life, teaching me to thrive in a state of impermanence. Today, my experiences living in my homeland, Japan, and Italy give me the confidence to create a new home in College Station, Texas. Membership in the International Business Association allows me to volunteer in my community, learn from professionals, and expand my network. I also serve my church through the music program. The St. Mary’s Orchestra Club is an amazing outlet for me to play my violin while contributing to the weekly mass. In my academics, I am pursuing higher education at Texas A&M University. I study management, with an entrepreneurial focus, at the Mays Business School to further my worldly lifestyle. This winter, I am embarking on an extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime study abroad program spanning Ushuaia, Argentina, and onto the fringes of the Polar Ice Caps in Antarctica. A fall semester course will teach me about sustainable business and prepare me for the field trip. Such a transitory lifestyle has demanded adaptability to my surroundings — including assimilation into host nations, resilience during times of uncertainty, and an unyielding commitment to my values. I know this to be the reason for my success today. Funds from the Combined Worlds Scholarship will support my travels to Antarctica and Argentina, enhance my entrepreneurial-focused management degree, and guarantee a global contribution beyond college.

Military orders moved my two sisters, mom, dad, and me back and forth between the U.S. coasts every two years. We familiarized ourselves with the diverse aspects of American culture and met many people along the way. The U.S. Navy also sent us overseas where we were immersed in two contrasting ancient cultures on separate continents and opposite sides of the world. Our amazing transitions between Japan, Italy, and the United States came with considerable sacrifice, though. Many heartbreaking goodbyes, deaths, and a plethora of life-changing events changed us forever. Although moving around was a great source of instability as a young woman, I encountered incredible, rare opportunities to lead others. For instance, when I moved to Japan, I was almost immediately met with the reality that, after ten years, my career as a competitive gymnast was over. A lack of normal community resources and infrastructure in the new Marine Corps base did not support a legitimate gymnastics team. However, I was determined to continue my skills while building up the community. With that, my sisters and I found a certified gymnastics instructor and worked with the base MWR to start a small club. At first, we comprised the entirety of the program. Over time, it doubled, then tripled. Today, it accommodates the dreams of many young girls and is kept alive by other female community leaders. Such a transitory lifestyle has demanded adaptability to my surroundings — including assimilation into host nations, resilience during times of uncertainty, and an unyielding commitment to my values. Today, my experiences give me the confidence to start a life in College Station, Texas. My experiences gave me the confidence to grow roots in College Station, Texas. Membership in the International Business Association has allowed me to volunteer in my community, learn from professionals, and expand my network. I also serve my church through its music program. The St. Mary’s Orchestra Club is an amazing outlet for me to play my violin while contributing to the weekly mass. In my academics, I am pursuing higher education at Texas A&M University where I study management full-time at the Mays Business School. I want to build a global career by earning a certification in international business. To do so, I require financing to embark on an extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime study abroad program spanning Ushuaia, Argentina, and onto the fringes of the Polar Ice Caps in Antarctica. I am enrolled in a course during the fall semester to teach me about sustainable business and prepare me for the winter field trip. Not only is it a unique addition to my certification in international business, but it is also a door to limitless, unimaginable possibilities for natural preservation. Participation in the program, alongside international business coursework, will develop competency in the three pillars of sustainability and cultivate leadership skills in an environmentally sensitive location. With a strong vision of sustainability guiding my business career path, I desire to apply the first-hand experience and knowledge gained from the remote fieldwork completed in a naturally unsustainable environment to one concerning natural resource evolution – especially as civilization moves beyond planet Earth. Civilization needs competent leaders to prioritize the planet and its resources. Scholarship funds from Ms. Nell signal a great gesture of female empowerment in leadership roles. It will encourage my travels to Antarctica and Argentina, enhance my business administration degree, and guarantee a global contribution beyond college.

Every two-year set of military orders moved me and my family back and forth between the U.S. coasts and overseas. This transitory lifestyle immersed us in the diverse aspects of American, Japanese, and Italian cultures. We were fortunate enough to travel to several countries, create lifelong memories, and make friends along the way. Transitions came with a great deal of sacrifice, though. Many heartbreaking goodbyes, the end of my competitive gymnastics career, and a plethora of life-changing events impacted me as a young woman. This great source of instability demanded adaptability to my surroundings, resilience during times of uncertainty, and an unyielding commitment to my values. My experiences gave me the confidence to grow roots in College Station, Texas. Membership in the International Business Association has allowed me to volunteer in my community, learn from professionals, and expand my network. I also serve my church through its music program. The St. Mary’s Orchestra Club is an amazing outlet for me to play my violin while contributing to the weekly mass. In my academics, I am pursuing higher education at Texas A&M University where I study management at the Mays Business School. I seemingly sowed stability in my physical, spiritual, and academic life. However, I had left one vital area of well-being unchecked. A traumatic episode at a Saturday football game with my sisters during my third semester at university made this abundantly clear. It was also the momentum needed for my family to intervene. Growing concerns about my health led to my voluntary admission into the Woodlands Spring Hospital that day. A week of inpatient care revealed how dysfunctional I had grown to be out from under my parent's roof. Medical professionals diagnosed me with anorexia, amenorrhea, and depression. While I supposed a decline in my mental health, I was not aware of the severity. These diagnoses seemed so foreign and made me feel infinitely disconnected from myself. However, after rounds of group therapy, informational, and rehabilitation services, the mind fog began to dissipate. I started to understand and accept the reality of my illness. Something had to change. In that hospital, I celebrated Halloween, turned 20, and embarked on my lifelong journey toward healing. Mental health awareness has allowed me to better my relationship with myself and others. Specifically, I can now converse with many of my relatives and friends who struggle with similar illnesses. Learning about their experiences makes me feel safe, secure, and loved. Attenuation to this aspect of wellness is now a top priority of mine every day. I strive to practice self-care above all else. As a result, I am inspired to build a global career by earning a certification in international business. Newfound motivation led to an extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime study abroad program spanning Ushuaia, Argentina, and onto the fringes of the Polar Ice Caps in Antarctica. I am enrolled in a course during the fall semester to teach me about sustainable business and prepare me for the winter field trip. This unique addition to my international business certification is made possible by my commitment to mental betterment. Funds from the Mental Health Empowerment Scholarship will support my travels to Antarctica and Argentina, enhance my entrepreneurial-focused management degree, and guarantee a global contribution beyond college.

Military orders moved my two sisters, mom, dad, and me back and forth between the U.S. coasts every two years. We familiarized ourselves with the diverse aspects of American culture and met many people along the way. The U.S. Navy also sent us overseas where we were immersed in two contrasting ancient cultures on separate continents and opposite sides of the world. Our amazing transitions between Japan, Italy, and the United States came with considerable sacrifice, though. Many heartbreaking goodbyes, deaths, and a plethora of life-changing events changed us forever. Although moving around was a great source of instability as a young woman, I encountered incredible, rare opportunities to lead others. For instance, when I moved to Japan, I was almost immediately met with the reality that, after ten years, my career as a competitive gymnast was over. A lack of normal community resources and infrastructure in the new Marine Corps base did not support a legitimate gymnastics team. However, I was determined to continue my skills while building up the community. With that, my sisters and I found a certified gymnastics instructor and worked with the base MWR to start a small club. At first, we comprised the entirety of the program. Over time, it doubled, then tripled. Today, it accommodates the dreams of many young girls and is kept alive by other female community leaders. Such a transitory lifestyle has demanded adaptability to my surroundings — including assimilation into host nations, resilience during times of uncertainty, and an unyielding commitment to my values. Victories and hardships shaped my personal, academic, and spiritual life, teaching me to thrive in a state of impermanence. Today, my experiences give me the confidence to create a new home in College Station, Texas. Membership in the International Business Association allows me to volunteer in my community, learn from professionals, and expand my network. I also serve my church through the music program. The St. Mary’s Orchestra Club is an amazing outlet for me to play my violin while contributing to the weekly mass. In my academics, I am pursuing higher education at Texas A&M University. There, I study management, with an entrepreneurial focus, at the Mays Business School. I want to build a global career by earning a certification in international business. To do so, I am embarking on an extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime study abroad program spanning Ushuaia, Argentina, and onto the fringes of the Polar Ice Caps in Antarctica. I am enrolled in a course during the fall semester to teach me about sustainable business and prepare me for the winter field trip. Not only is it a unique addition to my certification in international business, but it is also a door to limitless, unimaginable possibilities for natural preservation. Participation in the program, alongside international business coursework, will develop competency in the three pillars of sustainability and cultivate leadership skills in an environmentally sensitive location. With a strong vision of sustainability guiding my business career path, I desire to apply the first-hand experience and knowledge gained from the remote fieldwork completed in a naturally unsustainable environment to one concerning natural resource evolution – especially as civilization moves beyond planet Earth. Civilization needs competent leaders to prioritize the planet and its resources. Funds from A Man Helping Women Helping Women Scholarship will support my travels to Antarctica and Argentina, enhance my entrepreneurial-focused management degree, and guarantee a global contribution beyond college.

Military orders moved my two sisters, mom, dad, and me back and forth between the U.S. coasts every two years. We familiarized ourselves with the diverse aspects of American culture and met many people along the way. The U.S. Navy also sent us overseas where we were immersed in two contrasting ancient cultures﹣which were on separate continents and opposite sides of the world. Transitions came with a great deal of sacrifice, though. Many heartbreaking goodbyes, deaths, and a plethora of life-changing events changed us forever. Although moving around was a great source of instability as a young woman, I encountered incredible, rare opportunities to lead others. For instance, when I moved to Japan, I was almost immediately met with the reality that, after ten years, my career as a competitive gymnast was over. A lack of normal community resources and infrastructure in the new Marine Corps base did not support a legitimate gymnastics team. However, I was determined to continue my skills while building up the community. With that, my sisters and I found a certified gymnastics instructor and worked with the base MWR to start a small club. At first, we comprised the entirety of the program. Over time, it doubled, tripled, and is enjoyed by many young girls today. Additionally, the high school on base was brand new and highly under-staffed. This meant that any hope of a traditional orchestra program was willful at best. I have been playing violin since the 3rd grade, so I couldn’t let this obstacle stop me either. For this reason and in the continued community-building effort, my sisters and I started a small string ensemble at the high school. This attempt inspired many others to join and assemble other music groups. Our musical endeavors contributed to a larger emphasis on the performing arts overseas. Such a transitory lifestyle has demanded adaptability to my surroundings — including assimilation into host nations, resilience during times of uncertainty, and an unyielding commitment to my values. Today, my experiences living in my homeland, Japan, and Italy give me the confidence to create a new home in College Station, Texas. Membership in the International Business Association allows me to take charge in my community, learn from professionals, and expand my network. I also serve my church through the music program. The St. Mary’s Orchestra Club is an amazing outlet for me to play my violin while contributing to the weekly mass. In my academics, I am pursuing higher education at Texas A&M University. I study management, with an entrepreneurial focus, at the Mays Business School to further my worldly lifestyle. I want to build a global career by earning a certification in international business. To do so, I am embarking on an extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime study abroad program spanning Ushuaia, Argentina, and onto the fringes of the Polar Ice Caps in Antarctica. I am enrolled in a course during the fall semester to teach me about sustainable business and prepare me for the winter field trip. Participation in the program, alongside international business coursework, will develop competency in the three pillars of sustainability, contribute to a certification in international business, and cultivate leadership skills in an environmentally sensitive location. With a strong vision of sustainability guiding my business career path, I desire to apply the first-hand experience and knowledge gained from the remote fieldwork completed in a naturally unsustainable environment to one concerning natural resource evolution. Scholarship funds from the Scholarship Institute’s Annual Women’s Leadership Scholarship will support my travels to Antarctica and Argentina, enhance my entrepreneurial-focused management degree, and guarantee a global contribution beyond college.

As a military dependent, every two-year set of orders moved me and my family back and forth between the U.S. coasts where I met many people and absorbed the diverse aspects of American culture. I spent a significant part of my life overseas, too, immersed in two contrasting ancient cultures﹣which were on separate continents and opposite sides of the world. With these transitions came a great deal of sacrifice, though. Many heartbreaking goodbyes, the end of my competitive gymnastics career, and a plethora of life-changing events impacted me as a young woman. Although this was a great source of instability growing up, I encountered incredible, rare opportunities to explore my love for travel, having traversed 19 countries in counting. Such a transitory lifestyle has demanded adaptability to my surroundings — including assimilation into host nations, resilience during times of uncertainty, and an unyielding commitment to my values. One of my values is my faith. Through it all, I lean heavily on the Catholic Church. No matter where we are, my family always ensures Sunday mass. This is a reliable ritual I depend on for spiritual guidance. Church is a place for me to serve my soul and the community. Overall, I find great comfort in this fixed aspect of my life. Today, my experiences living in my homeland, Japan, and Italy give me the confidence to create a new home in College Station, Texas. Membership in the International Business Association has allowed me to volunteer in my community, learn from professionals, and expand my network. I also serve my church through the music program. The St. Mary’s Orchestra Club is an amazing outlet for me to play my violin while contributing to the weekly mass. In my academics, I am pursuing higher education at Texas A&M University. I study management, with an entrepreneurial focus, at the Mays Business School to further my worldly lifestyle. I want to build a global career by earning a certification in international business. To do so, I am embarking on an extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime study abroad program spanning Ushuaia, Argentina, and onto the fringes of the Polar Ice Caps in Antarctica. I am enrolled in a course during the fall semester to teach me about sustainable business and prepare me for the winter field trip. Not only is it a unique addition to my certification in international business, but also a door to limitless, unimaginable possibilities to spread my faith. Participation in the program, alongside international business coursework, will develop competency in the three pillars of sustainability and cultivate leadership skills in an environmentally sensitive location. With a strong vision of sustainability guiding my business career path, I desire to apply the first-hand experience and knowledge gained from the remote fieldwork completed in a naturally unsustainable environment to one concerning natural resource evolution – especially as civilization moves beyond planet Earth. Moreover, an international business career calls me to proclaim God's word. I want to reach people worldwide as I build my career. Funds from the Building a Better World Scholarship will support my travels to Antarctica and Argentina, enhance my environmental resource management degree, and guarantee the global diffusion of Catholicism.

My father commanded the US Navy’s first E-2D Hawkeye squadron﹣the VAW-125 Tigertails – out in southern, more rural Japan during my early teenage years. Our family, alongside hundreds of other Navy families, were stationed in Iwakuni to relocate an entire Navy Air Wing to the new Marine Corps Air Station built around us as we lived there. As the Commanding Officer’s family, we held a lot of responsibility in building up the naval community which meant that our level of involvement was crucial to its foundations. Even during difficult times, I enjoyed contributing my services wherever I could for the spouses and their families. This proved crucial during long deployments which are particularly hard on families overseas. Due to the lack of normal community resources and infrastructure common in the U.S., I was almost immediately met with the reality that, after ten years, my career as a competitive gymnast was over. Though I no longer could compete as part of a legitimate team, I was determined to continue my skills all the while building up the community. With that, my father found a certified gymnastics instructor and military spouse on base to work with the base MWR which eventually started a small girls' gymnastics club. My sisters and I composed half of the club in the beginning. The club tripled in the first few months and is enjoyed by many young ladies today. In addition, I tried out and joined the cheer team for the Matthew C. Perry Samurai with the intent of recreating a competitive mental outlet as well as making an attempt at preserving my physicality. Despite his heavy workload, my dad attended every football game to support me. His comforting presence made this new and daunting sport exciting. My father was the Aggie band drum major at Texas A&M University in college, valuing music heavily. Thus, he involved us in the orchestra at a young age. We played stringed instruments through preschool, elementary, and middle school. However, the high school in Japan was brand new, and largely unstaffed, so any hope of a traditional orchestra program was wishful at best. Like the gymnastics situation, we couldn’t let this stop us either. For that reason and the continued community-building effort, we started a small ensemble at the High School. Again, the three of us composed half of the music group. After a couple of semesters, the program gained traction, groups multiplied, and productions ramped up. Without his help, Iwakuni would not have known the joy of music. Our time in Japan is one of many instances of perseverance. Whether we lived in the homeland, Western Europe, or the Far East, my father impressed discipline and resilience in his family. He instilled strength and wisdom amid great sacrifice. He pushed my sisters and me to see the rare, incredible opportunities that came with it, too. Having traversed 19 countries in counting, I explored my love for travel as I lived abroad. Amidst many heartbreaking goodbyes, the end of my competitive gymnastics career, and a plethora of life-changing events, my dad taught us to remember our values even when adaptability was crucial, assimilation into host nations proved complex, and times of uncertainty produced strain. My father taught us to embrace both victories and hardships which empowers us to thrive in a state of impermanence to this day.

Bird by Bird, by Anne Lamott, is an essential modern classic on writing that has inspired readers and writers alike since 1994. Lamott delivers homespun advice and hard truths about authorship through well-developed satire. Most notably, Lamott quotes E.L. Doctorow in her chapter ‘Short Assignments’ to emphasize the importance of process management. Doctorow compares nighttime driving to the writing process – how both should be handled one step at a time. She adds, “You don't have to see where you're going…just…two or three feet ahead of you.” (Annie Lamott, Bird by Bird). While she interpreted Doctorow’s metaphor as advice on writing, I interpreted this tidbit from Doctorow as commentary on faith. Living comfortably and intentionally in the unknown is a state of being everyone should strive to master. As a military dependent, every two-year set of orders moved my family back and forth between the U.S. coasts where I met many people and absorbed the diverse aspects of American culture. I spent a significant part of my life overseas, too, immersed in two contrasting ancient cultures﹣which were on separate continents and opposite sides of the world. With these transitions came a great deal of sacrifice, though. Many heartbreaking goodbyes, the end of my competitive gymnastics career, and several life-changing events impacted me as a young woman. Although this was a great source of instability growing up, I encountered incredible, rare opportunities to explore my love for travel, having traversed 19 countries in counting. Such a transitory lifestyle has demanded adaptability to my surroundings — including assimilation into host nations, resilience during times of uncertainty, and an unyielding commitment to my values. Victories and hardships shaped my personal, academic, and spiritual life, teaching me to thrive in a state of impermanence. Such is why faith, a major theme of Lamott’s novel, is universal.

As a military dependent, every two-year set of orders moved me and my family back and forth between the U.S. coasts where I met many people and absorbed the diverse aspects of American culture. I spent a significant part of my life overseas, too, immersed in two contrasting ancient cultures﹣which were on separate continents and opposite sides of the world. With these transitions came a great deal of sacrifice, though. Many heartbreaking goodbyes, the end of my competitive gymnastics career, and a plethora of life-changing events impacted me as a young woman. Although this was a great source of instability growing up, I encountered incredible, rare opportunities to explore my love for travel, having traversed 19 countries in counting. Such a transitory lifestyle has demanded adaptability to my surroundings — including assimilation into host nations, resilience during times of uncertainty, and an unyielding commitment to my values. Victories and hardships shaped my personal, academic, and spiritual life, teaching me to thrive in a state of impermanence. Today, my experiences living in my homeland, Japan, and Italy give me the confidence to create a new home in College Station, Texas. Membership in the International Business Association has allowed me to volunteer in my community, learn from professionals, and expand my network. I also serve my church through the music program. The St. Mary’s Orchestra Club is an amazing outlet for me to play my violin while contributing to the weekly mass. In my academics, I am pursuing higher education at Texas A&M University. I study management, with an entrepreneurial focus, at the Mays Business School to further my worldly lifestyle. My life came to a grinding halt when family concerns for my health led to voluntary admission into the Woodlands Spring Hospital during my third semester at university. Or at least it seemed that way. A week of inpatient care revealed how dysfunctional I had grown to be out from under my parent's roof. Medical professionals diagnosed me with anorexia, amenorrhea, and depression. Although I was aware of the decline in my mental state, I did not know how severe my state was at the time. These diagnoses seemed so foreign and made me feel infinitely disconnected from myself. However, after rounds of group therapy, informational, and rehabilitation services, the mind fog began to dissipate. I started to understand and accept my condition. Things needed to change. In that hospital, I celebrated Halloween, turned 20, and embarked on my lifelong journey toward healing. Mental health awareness has allowed me to better my relationship with myself and others. Specifically, I can now sympathize and converse with many of my relatives who struggle with similar illnesses. Learning about their experiences makes me feel infinitely safe, secure, and loved. Attenuation to this aspect of wellness is now a top priority of mine every day. I strive to take care of myself first above all else. Journaling, meditation, and other activities are incorporated into my daily routine to preserve and nourish my mind, body, and soul. Such allows me to approach all areas of my life from a happier, healthier standpoint. My experience inspired me to build a global career by earning a certification in international business. Newfound motivation led to an extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime study abroad program spanning Ushuaia, Argentina, and onto the fringes of the Polar Ice Caps in Antarctica. I am enrolled in a course during the fall semester to teach me about sustainable business and prepare me for the winter field trip. Not only is it a unique addition to my certification in international business, but it is also a door to limitless, unimaginable possibilities for my future. Participation in the program, alongside international business coursework, will develop competency in the three pillars of sustainability and cultivate leadership skills in an environmentally sensitive location. With a strong vision of sustainability guiding my business career path, I desire to apply the first-hand experience and knowledge gained from the remote fieldwork completed in a naturally unsustainable environment to one concerning natural resource evolution – especially as civilization moves beyond planet Earth. Scholarship funds from the Ethel Hayes Destigmatization of Mental Health Scholarship will support my travels to Antarctica and Argentina, enhance my entrepreneurial-focused management degree, and guarantee a global contribution beyond college.

Bird by Bird, by Anne Lamott, is an essential modern classic on writing that has inspired readers and writers alike since 1994. Lamott delivers homespun advice and hard truths about authorship through well-developed satire. Most notably, Lamott quotes E.L. Doctorow in her chapter ‘Short Assignments’ to emphasize the importance of process management. Doctorow compares nighttime driving to the writing process – how both should be handled one step at a time. She adds, “You don't have to see where you're going…just…two or three feet ahead of you.” (Annie Lamott, Bird by Bird). While she interpreted Doctorow’s metaphor as advice on writing, I interpreted this tidbit from Doctorow as commentary on faith. Living comfortably and intentionally in the unknown is a state of being I desire to master. As a military dependent, every two-year set of orders moved me and my family back and forth between the U.S. coasts where I met many people and absorbed the diverse aspects of American culture. I spent a significant part of my life overseas, too, immersed in two contrasting ancient cultures﹣which were on separate continents and opposite sides of the world. With these transitions came a great deal of sacrifice, though. Many heartbreaking goodbyes, the end of my competitive gymnastics career, and several life-changing events impacted me as a young woman. Although this was a great source of instability growing up, I encountered incredible, rare opportunities to explore my love for travel, having traversed 19 countries in counting. Such a transitory lifestyle has demanded adaptability to my surroundings — including assimilation into host nations, resilience during times of uncertainty, and an unyielding commitment to my values. Such is why faith is a major theme of Lamott’s novel that stood out. Today, my experiences living in my homeland, Japan, and Italy give me the confidence to create a new home in College Station, Texas. Membership in the International Business Association has allowed me to volunteer in my community, learn from professionals, and expand my network. I also serve my church through the music program. The St. Mary’s Orchestra Club is an amazing outlet for me to play my violin while contributing to the weekly mass. In my academics, I am pursuing higher education at Texas A&M University. I study management, with an entrepreneurial focus, at the Mays Business School to further my worldly lifestyle. I want to build a global career by earning a certification in international business. To do so, I am embarking on an extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime study abroad program spanning Ushuaia, Argentina, and onto the fringes of the Polar Ice Caps in Antarctica. I am enrolled in a course during the fall semester to teach me about sustainable business and prepare me for the winter field trip. Not only is it a unique addition to my certification in international business, but it is also a door to limitless, unimaginable possibilities for my future. Participation in the program, alongside international business coursework, will develop competency in the three pillars of sustainability and cultivate leadership skills in an environmentally sensitive location. With a strong vision of sustainability guiding my business career path, I desire to apply the first-hand experience and knowledge gained from the remote fieldwork completed in a naturally unsustainable environment to one concerning natural resource evolution – especially as civilization moves beyond planet Earth. Taking life ‘bird by bird’ and funding from the Servant Ships Scholarship will support my travels to Antarctica and Argentina, enhance my entrepreneurial-focused management degree, and guarantee a global contribution beyond college. Works Cited Lamott, Anne. Bird by Bird. Anchor Books, 1997.

As a military dependent, every two-year set of orders moved me and my family back and forth between the U.S. coasts where I met many people and absorbed the diverse aspects of American culture. I spent a significant part of my life overseas, too, immersed in two contrasting ancient cultures﹣which were on separate continents and opposite sides of the world. With these transitions came a great deal of sacrifice, though. Many heartbreaking goodbyes, the end of my competitive gymnastics career, and a plethora of life-changing events impacted me as a young woman. Although this was a great source of instability growing up, I encountered incredible, rare opportunities to explore my love for travel, having traversed 19 countries in counting. Such a transitory lifestyle has demanded adaptability to my surroundings — including assimilation into host nations, resilience during times of uncertainty, and an unyielding commitment to my values. Victories and hardships shaped my personal, academic, and spiritual life, teaching me to thrive in a state of impermanence. Today, my experiences living in my homeland, Japan, and Italy give me the confidence to create a new home in College Station, Texas. Membership in the International Business Association has allowed me to volunteer in my community, learn from professionals, and expand my network. I also serve my church through the music program. The St. Mary’s Orchestra Club is an amazing outlet for me to play my violin while contributing to the weekly mass. In my academics, I am pursuing higher education at Texas A&M University. I study management, with an entrepreneurial focus, at the Mays Business School to further my worldly lifestyle. I want to build a global career by earning a certification in international business. To do so, I am embarking on an extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime study abroad program spanning Ushuaia, Argentina, and onto the fringes of the Polar Ice Caps in Antarctica. I am enrolled in a course during the fall semester to teach me about sustainable business and prepare me for the winter field trip. Not only is it a unique addition to my certification in international business, but it is also a door to limitless, unimaginable possibilities for my future. Participation in the program, alongside international business coursework, will develop competency in the three pillars of sustainability and cultivate leadership skills in an environmentally sensitive location. With a strong vision of sustainability guiding my business career path, I desire to apply the first-hand experience and knowledge gained from the remote fieldwork completed in a naturally unsustainable environment to one concerning natural resource evolution – especially as civilization moves beyond planet Earth. Scholarship funds from the Helping Hearts Foundation will support my travels to Antarctica and Argentina, enhance my entrepreneurial-focused management degree, and guarantee a global contribution beyond college.

I am a military dependent to my father, an active duty member of the United States Navy. Coast-to-coast and global assignments amount to twelve duty stations across my lifetime. Each had unique opportunities, countless life lessons, and extraordinary experiences to offer. One of my most notable times was in Iwakuni, a city surrounding a Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) in southern, more rural Japan. My father commanded the US Navy’s first E-2D Hawkeye squadron﹣the VAW-125 Tigertails. Our family, alongside hundreds of other Navy families stationed there, relocated an entire Navy Air Wing to a new base being built around us as we lived there. As the Commanding Officer’s family, we were primarily responsible for establishing the naval presence. Our level of involvement became crucial to its foundations. I discovered enjoyment through service﹣especially for the spouses during long deployment periods when volunteer babysitting and hosting “get-togethers” were effective morale boosters. Due to the lack of common community resources and infrastructure found in the U.S., I was almost immediately met with the reality that, after ten years, my career as a competitive gymnast was over. Though I no longer could compete as part of a legitimate team, I was determined to continue my skills while building up the community. With that, my sisters and I found a certified gymnastics instructor and a military spouse on base and worked with the base Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) to start a girl's gymnastics club. We began with two one-hour weekly sessions limited to stretching, tumbling, and a small beam. After a few months, the program accumulated enough funds to buy more mats and a set of parallel bars. Participation grew steadily over the years – attracting over twenty members. Such was enough to score us a vault. Although small in numbers, the program largely satisfied my passion for the sport and is enjoyed by many other young girls today. Most recently, I have settled in College Station, Texas. I am attending Texas A&M University there. The Aggie community here comprises individuals who all share the core values of respect, loyalty, integrity, excellence, leadership, and selfless service. I have always subscribed to such ideals but have grown increasingly inspired since my arrival. I am particularly committed to serving my community through a consistent membership in the International Business Association. This organization provides many educational, leadership, and networking opportunities to create business leaders. Namely, the ‘Buddy Program’ is a chance to serve the international population new to Aggie traditions and life in America. I can help incoming students navigate simple tasks like grocery shopping or learning football yells. My past experiences as a military dependent help me empathize with those in unfamiliar situations, too. I also give back to my parish through the St. Mary’s Orchestra Club. We are a small group that performs bi-weekly for the Sunday mass. The ability to provide music for the church brings me pure fulfillment because I know that St. Mary's is a place for many to find spiritual support. The opportunity to contribute here is meaningful beyond words. Overall, this scholarship will support my ability to attend college while giving back to others.

My high school career began in Iwakuni, a small city surrounding a Marine Corps Air Station in southern, more rural Japan. My father commanded the US Navy’s first E-2D Hawkeye squadron﹣the VAW-125 Tigertails. Our family, alongside hundreds of other Navy families, were stationed there to relocate an entire Navy Air Wing to a new base being built around us as we lived there. The naval community’s foundations relied heavily on our involvement as the Commanding Officer’s family. I enjoyed contributing my services wherever I could for the spouses and their families, especially during long deployment periods when times are demanding on families overseas. Due to the lack of typical community resources and infrastructure found in the U.S., I was almost immediately met with the reality that, after ten years, my career as a competitive gymnast was over. Though I no longer could compete as part of a legitimate team, I was determined to continue my skills while building up the community. With that, my sisters and I found a certified gymnastics instructor and worked with the base Morale Welfare and Recreation (MWR) to start a small girl's gymnastics club. I then joined the cheer team for the Matthew C. Perry Samurai with the intent of recreating a competitive mental outlet as well as making an attempt at preserving my physicality. Since the high school on base was brand new and not yet fully staffed, hopes of a traditional orchestra program declined. I have been playing violin since the third grade, so I couldn’t let this stop me either. In the continued community-building effort, we started a small ensemble at the high school. With this massive amount of change, I experienced homesickness for the first time. As one who has transitioned to eleven duty stations, a family is a place I like to call home, and we were away for far too long. No sooner did we receive another set of orders that had us scheduled to leave mid-school year for Naples, Italy. I had spent a semester laying down roots for replanting yet again. After two years of travel and adventure in Europe, my father took command of Naval Air Station Fallon, Nevada. Such was another sacrifice for my twin and me because we spent our senior year at a new school. However, I viewed this as an opportunity to focus on writing college and scholarship applications. Because of my perseverance, I now attend Texas A&M University. There, I am studying at the Mays Business School, volunteering as a member of the International Business Association, and playing the violin for the St. Mary’s Orchestra Club. With the help of this scholarship, I believe my plan to earn a degree in business management, study abroad, and pursue extracurricular activities is possible. Extraordinary experiences abroad and in the homeland as a military dependent shaped my personal, academic, and spiritual life – giving me the confidence to succeed anywhere and everywhere I go.

I am a military dependent to my father, an active duty member of the United States Navy. Coast-to-coast and global assignments amount to twelve duty stations across my lifetime. Each had unique opportunities, countless life lessons, and extraordinary experiences to offer. One of my most notable times was in Iwakuni, a city surrounding a Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) in southern, more rural Japan. My father commanded the US Navy’s first E-2D Hawkeye squadron﹣the VAW-125 Tigertails. Our family, alongside hundreds of other Navy families, were stationed there to relocate an entire Navy Air Wing to a new base being built around us as we lived there. As the Commanding Officer’s family, we were primarily responsible for establishing the naval presence. Our level of involvement became crucial to its foundations. I discovered enjoyment through service﹣especially for the spouses during long deployment periods when volunteer babysitting and hosting “get-togethers” were effective morale boosters. Due to the lack of common community resources and infrastructure found in the U.S., I was almost immediately met with the reality that, after ten years, my career as a competitive gymnast was over. Though I no longer could compete as part of a legitimate team, I was determined to continue my skills while building up the community. With that, my sisters and I found a certified gymnastics instructor and a military spouse on base and worked with the base Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) to start a girl's gymnastics club. We began with two one-hour weekly sessions limited to stretching, tumbling, and a small beam. After a few months, the program accumulated enough funds to buy more mats and a set of parallel bars. Participation grew steadily over the years – attracting over twenty members. Such was enough to score us a vault. Although small in numbers, the program largely satisfied my passion for the sport and is enjoyed by many other young girls today. Most recently, I have settled in College Station, Texas. I am attending Texas A&M University there. The Aggie community here comprises individuals who all share the core values of respect, loyalty, integrity, excellence, leadership, and selfless service. I have always subscribed to such ideals but have grown increasingly inspired since my arrival. I am particularly committed to serving my community through a consistent membership in the International Business Association. This organization provides many educational, leadership, and networking opportunities to create business leaders. Namely, the ‘Buddy Program’ is a chance to serve the international population new to Aggie traditions and life in America. I can help incoming students navigate simple tasks like grocery shopping or learning football yells. My past experiences as a military dependent help me empathize with those in unfamiliar situations, too. I also give back to my parish through the St. Mary’s Orchestra Club. We are a small group that performs bi-weekly for the Sunday mass. The ability to provide music for the church brings me pure fulfillment. Aside from my extracurricular work, I am studying at the Mays Business School to earn a degree in business administration. I have declared my major in management and plan to focus on the pre-law aspect. Thus, law school is very much in consideration. Although I have been fortunate enough to receive some of my father’s Post-9/11 Chapter 33 GI Bill benefits, this scholarship will help me to pursue a career in international policy in their absence in future semesters. In the meantime, I will capitalize on the university’s educational opportunities to become a positive international leader.

I grew up a military dependent – moving every two to three years from coast to coast in the United States and overseas. During that time, I underwent life-changing events that demanded adaptability to my surroundings, resilience during times of uncertainty, and an unrelenting commitment to my values. When times were less transitory, I enjoyed many different hobbies not limited to violin, guitar, crocheting, painting, sewing, refurbishing furniture, designing monthly planners, and plant propagation. Although I claim to be no expert at any one, I found immense fulfillment in design practices. The experiences had in several foreign nations propelled my creativity the most, though. New perspectives ranging from the ancient ruins of Rome to the urban steel settings of Brisbane and eclectic sights from old Slavok rule in Bratislava – all muddled with modern educational, political, and business centers influenced idea after idea. Namely, the Austrian Mirabell Palace Gardens in Salzburg inspired an apartment balcony I designed for my parents. I drew from the majestic topiaries and lush latices adorning the historic site. We frequently reminisce over the beauty of our outdoor living space. After visiting countless historic and modern structures, I have a newfound appreciation for their sustainable maintenance and unique stories. Nineteen countries and twelve duty stations later, I am in College Station attending Texas A & M University where I study management at the Mays Business School. A plethora of study-abroad opportunities and an international business certificate drive my focus here. Yet, accounting, information systems, and economics classes have inadvertently demanded change regarding my career path. I knew I needed to research my options when I stumbled upon the school newspaper handout highlighting the different colleges at A & M. No sooner did I discover the School of Architecture offering a change of major Master's program accepting all degree backgrounds. Inspired, I began emailing the deans and academic advisors for guidance in constructing a conducive degree plan. Proficiency in physics and introductory architectural history courses starting next spring will prepare me for my graduate studies. The Master's degree, concordant with a bachelor's in international business administration, will give me the tools to pursue a global career. I love to create, and if admitted to the School of Architecture, I plan to proceed beyond my pastimes and in a career that supports such. I want to study design thinking strategies, architectural history, theory, and criticism to build upon background knowledge acquired during my time overseas. I am confident in my abilities and this college's installment of disciplined visionary practices. A financial opportunity as great as this would allow me to complete the three years necessary for professional achievement.

I grew up moving every two to three years as a military dependent. Orders sent my family coast to coast in the United States, eastern Asia, and Europe. Each duty station brought about a plethora of life-changing events; I encountered incredible opportunities that demanded adaptability to my surroundings, resilience during times of uncertainty, and most of all, commitment to my values. The countless lessons I learned abroad and in the homeland shaped my personal, academic, and spiritual life, thus, giving me the confidence to succeed. My father commanded the US Navy’s first E-2D Hawkeye squadron, the VAW-125 Tigertails, in Iwakuni – a small city surrounding a Marine Corps Air Station out in a southern, more rural area of Japan. Our family, alongside hundreds of other Navy families, were purposefully stationed there to relocate an entire Navy Air Wing to a new base being built around us as we lived there. As the Commanding Officer’s family, we were responsible for building up the naval community, meaning our level of involvement was crucial to its foundations. I enjoyed contributing my services wherever I could for the spouses and their families, especially during long deployment periods when times are particularly trying overseas. My sisters and I, certified by the American Red Cross, watched children whose parents participated in community-building activities -- often designed to combat sentiments of isolation and cultivate camaraderie. Before we knew it, though, we received another set of orders that had us scheduled to leave mid-school year for Naples, Italy. Stability is something that I strove to achieve during times of uncertainty. I believe that discipline and a refusal to give up on my values brought me the closest to that. One of my values is my faith in the Catholic Church. No matter where we were, my family always ensured routine Sunday mass. This ritual proved especially important when I moved again before my senior year of high school – I leaned on the church for spiritual guidance. Sometimes this came in the form of service. Other times it simply meant attending church for an hour of reflection. Overall, I find great comfort in this fixed aspect of my life. Such values guide me in my personal and professional endeavors to this day. I commit to them as a full-time student at Texas A&M University where I study management at the Mays Business School. This department teaches the decision-making, organization, networking, and communication skills necessary to develop professionally. As a fairly visionary individual, I am choosing to concentrate on entrepreneurship in my undergraduate years. I hope to continue high levels of community engagement and allow for more creativity in my future career. Additionally, Mays offers an international business certificate which complements my past global experiences. Such a program will broaden the curriculum and grant me several study abroad opportunities – I recently joined the International Business Association to prepare and pursue a global mindset. In the long run, I plan to earn a degree in business administration, become a leader in the international workforce, and uphold upstanding traditions as an Aggie.

As a military dependent, I spent most of my life overseas immersed in two different distinct and ancient cultures﹣both of which were on two separate continents and opposite sides of the world. There, I experienced life-changing events and encountered incredible opportunities that demanded adaptability to my surroundings, resilience during times of uncertainty, and an unyielding commitment to my values. The countless lessons I learned living in Japan and Italy shaped my personal, academic, and spiritual life and, in turn, ignited a drive to serve others. My father commanded the US Navy’s first E-2D Hawkeye squadron, the VAW-125 Tigertails, in Iwakuni -- a small city surrounding a Marine Corps Air Station out in the southern, more rural area of Japan. Our family, alongside hundreds of other Navy families, were purposefully stationed there to relocate an entire Navy Air Wing to a new base being built around us as we lived there. As the Commanding Officer’s family, we were responsible for building up the naval community, meaning our level of involvement was crucial to its foundations. I enjoyed contributing my services wherever I could for the spouses and their families, especially during long deployment periods when times are particularly trying overseas. My sisters and I, certified by the American Red Cross, watched children whose parents participated in community-building activities -- often designed to combat sentiments of isolation and cultivate camaraderie. Before we knew it, though, we received another set of orders that had us scheduled to leave mid-school year for Naples, Italy. Despite the transition, I continued volunteer work through four honor societies. My service in the National Honor Society was most notable, though. I tutored elementary, middle, and high school students regularly in Math and English subjects. I also helped the Naples Support Site conduct safe vaccination events during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. The National Honor Society pushed me to take the initiative in my parish, too. I became a regular assistant teacher for the religious education classes and an activity coordinator for the children’s Vacation Bible Study program. My work in Naples proved fulfilling overall. The value of service guides me to this day. I commit to it as a full-time student at Texas A & M University, volunteer in the International Business Association, and a St. Mary’s Orchestra leadership team member. I firmly believe that helping others is a reward in and of itself due to the strong sense of purpose returned. Such a source of stability enhances my college experience, further develops leadership skills, and sustains the idea of community. This financial opportunity would allow me to maintain service and continue my education at the Mays Business School.

Bird by Bird, by Anne Lamott, is an essential modern classic on writing that has inspired readers and writers alike since 1994. Lamott’s ‘homespun advice’ serves to stimulate creative minds and dole out a few life lessons along the way. From first drafts to publication, Lamott conveys her iconic words of wisdom through well-developed satire. Her savory style delivers her messages in bite-size portions that reveal the nitty-gritty of being a writer and all the hard truths that come with it. This novel is perfect for both struggling writers who are in need of insight and beginning writers in desperate need of a reality check. What was truly surprising about this novel was her guidance' level of clarity. Oftentimes, when it comes to advice, many people implement general or vague ideas that are only helpful to a certain extent. Lamott managed to serve some of her most thoughtful suggestions without the exertion of loose concepts. Particularly, Lamott’s chapter on Perfectionism not only warned against dangers of suffocating your writing, but also addressed its toll on people’s quality of life. She cautions her readers about the inevitability of writer's block, false starts, and even jealousy and recommended writing groups, peer review, and different types of inspiration outlets. Overall, her genuine appeal to the reader and their basic struggles with writing served as a conduit to her message. Throughout the book, the author expresses the importance of patience. Despite her students’ eagerness for publication or the tedious drag of writing at the desk every single morning, Lamott stresses discipline and routine. She takes any misconceptions about a writer's life off the table and reveals the raw devotion necessary for successful writing. Lamott illustrates to the reader that good writing takes time; that good writers take it ‘bird by bird’.

As a military dependent, I move every two years which demands constant change in many aspects of my life - both complex and, other times, as fundamental as adjusting the furniture in my home. During transition periods, my family has dealt with property destruction by moving companies and square footage leaps that either require downsizing or new furniture purchases. Most of the time, all of the above occur. With that, I have adopted a furniture refurbishing hobby of which I restore pieces that have been worn or damaged to either sell or repurpose in our home. For instance, after unboxing a very beaten and scratched dresser, I decided to paint-strip, sand, and apply a fresh coat of paint. Although others may consider this laborious, I regard the process rewarding in its thrifty nature because I now have a piece that I can continue to reuse and enjoy. I also enjoy many other hobbies to include painting, reading, and playing the violin. One of my favorite hobbies is to work in my bullet journal. Ever since my friend bought me an Archer and Olive dotted notebook, I have fallen in love with creating weekly planners, spreads, trackers, and the endless possibilities of this pastime. Every month, I paint the cover art for the next four weeks and jot down upcoming events. Bullet journaling helps me to incorporate all of my other hobbies into my daily life because I can visualize and organize my thoughts - which makes the juggling of school, family, and extracurriculars more manageable, too. Not only is it a means of planning, but also a mode of relaxation. While I journal, I listen to an audiobook or calming music that allows me to unwind in my evenings. Overall, journaling gives me a pure sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.

On a personal level, I want to gain full financial independence in order to be fully self-supporting and security on my own terms. I hope to one day be fortunate enough to have a life similar to that of my parents. Their success has allowed them to afford a car, house, and most of all, a family. While I do not expect this right away or sometime in the near future, their model is certainly a great influence on my version of achieving success in life. I plan to work hard no matter the strife, in order to reach these goals. As for my academics, I intend to earn a four-year degree at the Mays Business School which will assuredly equip me with the knowledge and abilities to achieve both my personal and professional goals. I would like to be a part of an honors program by my junior year and maintain at least a 3.5 GPA throughout, too. I plan to apply my experience at Texas A&M and become an effective leader and positive influence in the global workforce. Such a reputable education along with my organizational, rudimentary, and communication skills will be conducive to such upper level positions. Additionally, my transitory past has greatly influenced my desire to work internationally. Having lived in two very distinct cultures and visited nineteen countries, I hope to continue my travel and worldly endeavors through a future career in international business.

It was sometime at the end of September during my 7th-grade year when the leader of my friend group, Alexis, invited us all to her 13th birthday party. As someone who moves every two years, I had not had much experience going out with friends. Thus, I was beyond excited to be invited. These friends were my whole sense of belonging and acceptance. I couldn’t miss out on the perfect opportunity to make new memories that only we shared. Since such occurrences rarely happened, I did not know what to expect when asking my parents for their approval. To my surprise, they didn’t say no. But, there was a catch. They asked if Sasha could come, too. Sasha is my twin sister. Despite being fraternal, we are inseparable. Together on our first day of school at the Shining Star Preschool. Together for our first violin lessons. Together earning a spot on the World Class Gymnastics Team. Our togetherness molds the very beings that we are. However, I couldn’t help but think: why did I have to invite my sister? This was my party. I was the one invited. These were my friends. It seemed exceedingly unfair that I had to share them. I decided against going to the birthday party after all. Despite my deep desire to go, I knew the decision was sound. Not only would it demonstrate respect for Sasha, but respect for myself. Looking back, it is difficult to grasp how I became so conflicted over what essentially came down to choosing family over friends. However, I would not be able to accept other people for their singularities; I would not be able to accept myself. For this reason, I believe that I am ready to responsibly assume independence and freedom in the future years to come.

My day starts at 05:30 to a vibrating alarm on my phone. I am generally a light sleeper so it does not take more than a rattle for my eyes to pop open. I immediately check emails before hopping on the Duolingo app. These language lessons generally get my brain going for the day so I try to stay on top of them. 06:00 I leave the comforts of my sheets, straighten them, then head to the kitchen to make breakfast. By 06:45 I am ready to begin my coursework. Around 08:30, I get dressed and complete some Bible study and prayer meditation. After that, I work on more of my daily assignments until 11:00. I make my lunch at this time and take an hour to myself before getting back to school work again. By this point in the day, my brain power is starting to diminish so I include a workout or activity of some sort at 14:00. At 15:00, I practice my violin, journal, or do a little sewing to cool off before hitting the shower. My evenings are dedicated entirely to family time. This consists of dinner, end-of-the-day chores, and dinner. Everyone clocks out at exactly 21:00. Such an exhaustive description of my day-to-day activities reflects my commitment to routine. Although a productive lifestyle, this structural approach to life can grow to be mundane. However, this regimen has taught me an immense amount of patience. This patience has allowed me to appreciate my everyday accomplishments. Without the patience to tend to my mental, physical, and spiritual needs, I would not experience the fulfillment and satisfaction essential to individual well-being.

I have always been told to invest in my future. Whether it was my mom, grandma, or some stranger on a television advertisement, this has been at the forefront of investing tips that I have truly taken to heart. As a young girl, I hoarded my money. I was always hesitant to make purchases knowing that that money could be put to better use later down the road. Although I did miss out on a few limited edition Barbies, I was right. After 18 years of saving, I was able to make a sizeable contribution to an IRA account. This decision will most assuredly allow me to make a financially secure retirement. Not only do I monetarily invest in my future, but also academically. In my house, reading is heavily encouraged - especially by my dad. He, at a young age, began collecting a library of Easton Press classics for his future children to enjoy. And that we do. I am fortunate enough to be supplied with a lifetime's worth of knowledge at my fingertips that will contribute to a better understanding of the world. Additionally, I have made a significant commitment to my studies in school. Having maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout my high school career has proven my true dedication to my professional future. Lastly, it should be taken into account the extracurriculars that I have participated in. These also contribute towards my future by expanding my capabilities as an individual. For example, music is a most prevalent part of my life. Since the fourth grade, I have participated in Orchestra and music lessons that have given me a skill to carry with me for life. I believe that hobbies, such as this, are essential to a well-rounded education that will be of great use indefinitely.

My day starts at 05:30 to a vibrating alarm on my phone. I am generally a light sleeper so it does not take more than a rattle for my eyes to pop open. I immediately check emails before hopping on the Duolingo app. These language lessons generally get my brain going for the day so I try to stay on top of them. 06:00 I leave the comforts of my sheets, straighten them, then head to the kitchen to make breakfast. By 06:45 I am ready to begin my coursework. Around 08:30, I get dressed and complete some Bible study and prayer meditation. After that, I work on more of my daily assignments until 11:00. I make my lunch at this time and take an hour to myself before getting back to school work again. By this point in the day, my brain power is starting to diminish so I include a workout or activity of some sort at 14:00. At 15:00, I practice my violin, journal, or do a little sewing to cool off before hitting the shower. My evenings are dedicated entirely to family time. This consists of dinner, end-of-the-day chores, and dinner. Everyone clocks out at exactly 21:00. Such an exhaustive description of my day-to-day activities reflects my commitment to routine. Although a productive lifestyle, this structural approach to life can grow to be mundane. However, this regimen has taught me an immense amount of patience. This patience has allowed me to appreciate my everyday accomplishments. Without the patience to tend to my mental, physical, and spiritual needs, I would not experience the fulfillment and satisfaction essential to individual well-being.

My day starts at 05:30 to a vibrating alarm on my phone. I am generally a light sleeper so it does not take more than a rattle for my eyes to pop open. I immediately check emails before hopping on the Duolingo app. These language lessons generally get my brain going for the day so I try to stay on top of them. 06:00 I leave the comforts of my sheets, straighten them, then head to the kitchen to make breakfast. By 06:45 I am ready to begin my coursework. Around 08:30, I get dressed and complete some Bible study and prayer meditation. After that, I work on more of my daily assignments until 11:00. I make my lunch at this time and take an hour to myself before getting back to school work again. By this point in the day, my brain power is starting to diminish so I include a workout or activity of some sort at 14:00. At 15:00, I practice my violin, journal, or do a little sewing to cool off before hitting the shower. My evenings are dedicated entirely to family time. This consists of dinner, end-of-the-day chores, and dinner. Everyone clocks out at exactly 21:00. Such an exhaustive description of my day-to-day activities reflects my commitment to routine. Although a productive lifestyle, this structural approach to life can grow to be mundane. However, this regimen has taught me an immense amount of patience. This patience has allowed me to appreciate my everyday accomplishments. Without the patience to tend to my mental, physical, and spiritual needs, I would not experience the fulfillment and satisfaction essential to individual well-being.

My day starts at 05:30 to a vibrating alarm on my phone. I am generally a light sleeper so it does not take more than a rattle for my eyes to pop open. I immediately check emails before hopping on the Duolingo app. These language lessons generally get my brain going for the day so I try to stay on top of them. 06:00 I leave the comforts of my sheets, straighten them, then head to the kitchen to make breakfast. By 06:45 I am ready to begin my coursework. Around 08:30, I get dressed and complete some Bible study and prayer meditation. After that, I work on more of my daily assignments until 11:00. I make my lunch at this time and take an hour to myself before getting back to school work again. By this point in the day, my brian power is starting to diminish so I include a workout or activity of some sort at 14:00. At 15:00, I practice my violin, journal, or do a little sewing to cool off before hitting the shower. My evenings are dedicated entirely to family time. This consists of dinner, end-of-the-day chores, and dinner. Everyone clocks out at exactly 21:00. Such an exhaustive description of my day-to-day activities reflects my commitment to routine. This structural approach to life brings me great fulfillment and satisfaction. Although such a mindset may be perceived to be restrictive, it, in truth, promotes the long-term mental, physical, and spiritual growth essential to my individual well-being.

It was sometime at the end of September during my 7th-grade year when the ‘leader’ of my friend group invited me to her 13th birthday party. As someone who moves every two years, I had not had much experience going out with friends. Therefore, I did not know what to expect when asking my parents for their approval. To my surprise, they didn’t say no, but there was a catch: Sasha had to come, too. Sasha is my twin sister. Despite being fraternal, we stick together. Together on our first day of school at the Shining Star Preschool. Together for our first violin lessons. Together earning a spot on the World Class Gymnastics Team. Our togetherness molds our very beings. But why did I have to invite my sister? This was my party. I was the one invited. These were my friends. It seemed exceedingly unfair that I had to share them. I craved independence, liberation, and individuality. It is difficult to grasp how I became so conflicted over what essentially came down to choosing family over friends. However, the 12-year-old me was suffering from a severely weak self-esteem and lack of confidence. From then on, I decided to approach how I treated Sasha in front of other people. Instead of being embarrassed by her quirks or flaws, I chose to embrace them in a way that let others know that she was an actual person. I noticed that people not only began to treat her better but also showed me the respect I deserve. Now, I have friends who seek out her friendship. Overall, I am able to attract the right kind of people - those who value family as much as I do.

As a military dependent, I move every two years. Living such a transient lifestyle has demanded constant change in many aspects of my life. The change I experience can be complex and other times be as fundamental as adjusting the furniture in my home. During transition periods, my family has dealt with property destruction by moving companies and square footage leaps that either require downsizing or new furniture purchases. Most of the time, all of the above occur. Nonetheless, these obstacles have caused frequent furniture buying and selling over time which becomes quite tedious. With that, I have adopted a furniture refurbishing hobby that has spared us a few expenses. I restore pieces that have been worn or damaged to either sell or repurpose in our home. For instance, after unboxing a very beaten and scratched dresser, I decided to restore it to a new and better condition. I first began with a paint-stripper, then prepped the wood surface by sanding, then applied a rejuvenating, fresh coat of paint. Although others may consider this laborious, I regard the process rewarding in its thrifty nature. Instead of throwing the dresser away and purchasing a new one, I now have a piece that I can continue to reuse and enjoy. I also enjoy many other hobbies to include painting, reading, and playing the violin. One of my favorite hobbies is to work in my bullet journal. Ever since my friend bought me an Archer and Olive dotted notebook, I have fallen in love with creating weekly planners, spreads, trackers, and the endless possibilities of this passtime. Every month, I paint the cover art for the next four weeks then map out my aspirations and any events for that period of time. Bullet journaling helps me to incorporate all of my other hobbies into my daily life, as well. Being able to visualize and organize my thoughts into this journal makes the juggling of school, family, and extracurriculars more manageable; I no longer feel overwhelmed at the various tasks I aspire to complete each day. Not only is it a means of planning, but also a mode of relaxation. While I journal, I listen to an audiobook or calming music that allows me to unwind in my evenings. Overall, journaling gives me a pure sense of accomplishment and satisfaction with the use of my time.

At the age of six, I was towed across the United States on a cross-country road trip alongside my twin, younger sister, parents, and grandparents who were crammed‐suitcases and all - into our Z-71 Chevrolet Tahoe. To this day, I am still unclear as to how that seven-seater vehicle made it all 2,800 miles without dismantling from underneath us. Nevertheless, we managed to hit almost every historical landmark between Rhode Island and California within two weeks. Yes, to clarify, we spent fourteen consecutive days together in a car. Somewhere between Mount Rushmore and Yosemite National Park ‐ a very vague statement resulting from my lack of remembrance‐my dad decided to pull over at a gas station given that it was the only one he’d seen for miles. One by one, my sisters and I peeled ourselves from the backbench and took a good stretch in the hot summer sun. Our mother took us to a very questionable bathroom facility which required an armory of baby wipes, hand sanitizer, and other assorted germ repellents to protecting us. Our favorite part of the road ride proceeded with potty time: snack time. The gas station was the holy grail of “no-no foods” that were solely excused on such a rare occasion. All three sets of eyes immediately locked on a treat most appealing in packaging that we refused to leave the building without. Although with much resistance from our mother, we purchased the pink frosted, multi-color sprinkled Animal crackers. Never would my mother regret a decision more than to cave to our beginning mouths. About forty-five minutes into the drive, my dad gazed into the rear-view mirror with what he expected to be his three beautiful young ladies enjoying an afternoon treat. However, he would be sorely mistaken. Sasha, to my left, demonstrated a slight heave which initiated a similar response from Layla on my right. The combination of my car sickness and that of my sisters - effectuated by those irresistible indulgences - initiated the first of the upheaval. All passengers witnessed what could only be described as the veritable volatile vomit convulsion; an apocalyptic episode of pink goo spewing consecutively from the mouths of the backseaters. Plastic bags, random containers, and anything with the potential to prevent the substance from contacting the Tahoe's carpeted floor were shoved back. Both the sight and the smell of stomach acid, sugar frosting, and what could only be perceived as leftover Wendy’s from three hours earlier drove every adult from the cabin before the vehicle could come to a complete stop. The scene of the crime was almost entirely erased with the help of three paper towel rolls and a few water bottles, but the remnants are still evident in patches of faint acid-induced discoloration inside. Although I was far too young to recall every event of that road trip, the recounted details burn vividly in my deepest of memories.

My main interest lies in the business career pathway. Specifically, I would like to enter the marketing field to become a marketer. Moving around as a military dependent frequently involved selling household items and furniture to meet specific weight requirements for my family’s shipments. Oftentimes, I faced deadlines of which 'for sale' items had to be sold and out of the house. Such a dilemma entailed quick and efficient work. The process of selling an item began with a photoshoot. I first staged the object in front of a makeshift backdrop. I would then promote it with a prop, capture and edit the photos, and post the products on the local Facebook page as a medium of advertisement. It was important for me to pay close attention to the demographic, as well ﹣ I based all of my product description details and visual appeals on what I believed matched the community around me. More times than not, the particular consumer market was composed of families similar to mine. Those packing in and out of houses at a relatively fast rate need functional, multipurpose goods to supplement their new living situations. Such products I was willing to provide to my community. The second part of distribution involved interaction with possible customers. My mom played an essential role in coordinating the schedule with potential buyers. She conducted this portion for safety purposes, of course. My mother also managed the status of sold and unsold products. Our teamwork allowed me the necessary amount of focus and time for my tasks. I handled the clients one-on-one, engaging them with the item of interest for a final sale. Usually, I would describe its past purposes and the other various benefits it may reap. Bargaining was not necessary, though, since we advertised a final price. However, I would offer my services for transporting the product. In the end, I was there for the production, advertisement, and sale of the product. I saw the process every step of the way ﹣ enjoying every part. These aspects of human interaction, design, and advertisement encompass a wide range of my daily interests that I believe a career in marketing will satisfy. Moreover, a degree in business will grant me access to the knowledge and skills that employers demand. Such an education will also translate across many roles and industries ﹣ promising a positive outlook for future opportunities in a marketing career.

As a military dependent, I move every two years. Living such a transient lifestyle has demanded constant change in many aspects of my life. The change I experience can be complex and other times be as fundamental as adjusting the furniture in my home. During transition periods, my family has dealt with property destruction by moving companies and square footage leaps that either require downsizing or new furniture purchases. Most of the time, all of the above occur. Nonetheless, these obstacles have caused frequent furniture buying and selling over time which becomes quite tedious. With that, I have adopted a furniture refurbishing hobby that has spared us a few expenses. I restore pieces that have been worn or damaged to either sell or repurpose in our home. For instance, after unboxing a very beaten and scratched dresser, I decided to restore it to a new and better condition. I first began with a paint-stripper, then prepped the wood surface by sanding, then applied a rejuvenating, fresh coat of paint. Although others may consider this laborious, I regard the process rewarding in its thrifty nature. Instead of throwing the dresser away and purchasing a new one, I now have a piece that I can continue to reuse and enjoy.

This is a multimedia piece in which magazine clippings and gold paint operate to create the visual illusion of a sand dune-ridden landscape. Color, shape, and texture impacted each decision when handing the space and eventually brought about unity. The idea is greatly inspired by the Russian painter Wassily Kadinsky and his abstract geometric style. Although a tiresome topic, to say the least, the pandemic is what prompted me to create this work. My family and I, at the time, were stationed in Naples, Italy by military orders. There, we experienced heavy restrictions mandated by the Italian decree. For five months, Italians and Americans alike were unable to leave our homes for any reason excluding work, medical, or for living essentials such as food. Thankfully, we own two dogs that allowed us to take a trip around our apartment building two to three times a day. The lockdown demanded a great deal of patience which is a skill that I employed when creating this work. I began the project over the winter break of 2020 to keep me entertained in the absence of virtual school. Each individual scrap of paper﹣carefully cut and precisely pasted﹣contributed to what would eventually be the final product. Whether it be a part of my personal or professional life, I plan to continue creating art well into my future for the peace of mind and gratification that it brings me. Regardless of the circumstances, I will have an escape; a medium of tranquility that I can always depend on. I believe that a career in marketing would facilitate my artistic vision in the workplace and, thus, bring me great fulfillment.