I’ve spent almost my whole life in Chesapeake Beach, Maryland. Living so close to the Chesapeake Bay has given me many opportunities to experience all that the bay offers. In elementary school, we had several field trips each year exploring the bay, including trips to Brownies Beach, Fishing Creek, Calvert Marine Museum, and Jefferson Patterson Park. At Brownies Beach, we learned about erosion and hunted for fossils. At fishing Creek, we explored natural oyster beds and learned of their importance and even helped to plant a new oyster bed. At the Calvert Marine Museum and Jefferson Patterson Park, we were able to have hands-on experiences as we studied marine life and the abundant natural resources in our county. I believe that these experiences, along with family camping trips each year, gave me my love of nature and of the outdoors. Throughout my four years in high school, I have been enrolled in the engineering program, Project Lead the Way. During one of our units, we researched and designed a rooftop green space. Since completing this project, I have become increasingly aware of the issues of climate change, pollution, and resource depletion and how they are urgent challenges that require immediate action. Because of this, I decided to take part in our school’s AP Environmental Science curriculum during my senior year so that I could explore these issues further. In this class, we are learning a great deal about climate change and the problems associated with it. The green industry is at the forefront of developing innovative solutions that can help address these issues. I want to be involved in finding solutions to these challenges and then designing green spaces that will not only preserve our natural resources but also enhance them for years to come. I am passionate about the green industry, as I have always enjoyed spending time outside, pursuing various activities such as football, golf, hiking, and water sports. This passion has driven me to pursue a degree in Landscape Architecture at a university where I was also invited to take part in their Scholars Program. Through this program, I have chosen to study how the environment, technology, and the economy all intersect in developing responsible strategies for sustainable designs. I recognize the importance of protecting our planet and preserving its natural resources for future generations. By working together and leveraging the latest technology and knowledge, we can create a more sustainable and resilient future for all.