In my family, mental health is a taboo subject. I love my family and am beyond grateful for all the experiences and opportunities they have provided me. But one thing is undeniable: we don’t process how we feel or what we feel. Although we try to instill an open communication policy, it never works. Everyone carries their secrets and a lie or two (or three). I would be lying if I said this hasn’t influenced the woman I am today. In 2020, right before the pandemic hit, my Mom and I moved to Florida. We were struggling with the fact that not only did COVID-19 isolate us, but we were entirely separated from any kind of support system. That summer, consequentially, was the summer I turned sixteen; and for the perfect sweet sixteen present, I had my first of many anxiety attacks. Regardless, it wasn’t until many months later that I came forward with the issues that I had developed. I was living with the feeling that (almost) everything around me was wrong and an all-consuming guilt that seemed to be eating me alive. These issues were exacerbated by my newfound inability to fall asleep and my sudden obsession with counting every calorie I consumed. And still, I continued to bury all of these feelings in the depths of my being, where they would remain for many years to come. I was ashamed of how long it took me to recognize that I was very mentally unwell overall. It took me a long time to realize I had scared myself into succeeding in high school and extracurricular activities out of immense fear of disappointing my loved ones. Every victory I achieved felt foreign like it wasn’t meant for me. I felt like the pawn wearing the victory crown of whoever helped me rise to the top. So, I decided to step back temporarily and refocus on myself and who I was. I promised myself that throughout the process of growing up (scary, I know), I would prioritize my mental health. The process of bettering my mental health was not ‘quick and simple’ like I had imagined it would be. In fact, it’s a process I work through each and every day. I still work towards forgiving myself for the decisions I have made. I still have to remind myself to let go of the heavy emotional baggage that was never mine to carry and remind myself not to pick up any more of it. I still have to remind myself that I am loved, and that isolation is unnecessary. And the silliest of all is that I often have to remind myself to breathe, an oh-so-simple task I often forget. But through this process of healing, I have found more of who I truly am; for myself, and not for anyone else. As a current college student, dedicating time to myself proves challenging. However, I know that it’s necessary, and I remind myself that I’m worth the time and effort. I challenge myself to continue journaling on the weekends. Additionally, I have begun to utilize university resources such as the counseling center, which allows me an outlet to voice my feelings when necessary. I have also found that my physical health and mental health influence each other immensely (wow, that’s been said before). Powerlifting, running, and intramural sports like soccer have helped me stay active while providing a much-needed mental break. And even when my body needs a break, I head outside and let the fresh air remind me: it will all be alright in the end.

In the past year, I have changed enormously as an individual and as a woman in business. By stepping away from who I thought I should be, I learned more about who I truly am. In the grand scheme of our world, I know very little. However, I have embraced every opportunity. I have dedicated myself to learning as much as possible, and I will continue to do so. Most importantly, I have learned from real people; I have learned by living. Eager for experience, I found myself itching to expand my network, discover cultures different from my own, and learn through real-world experiences. I applied for and was nominated for a semester study abroad program at the Universidad de Las Américas (UDLAP), located in Puebla, Mexico. Due to the generous scholarship award funded by BeaconMedaes, I was able to extend the program and further immerse myself into the global world of business using a new perspective. I can humbly say that BeaconMedaes provided me with a life-changing opportunity, lighting a fire within me. The year I spent in Mexico was the most enriching period of my life. The classes I took at UDLAP broadened my perspective substantially and challenged my cultural view of the world. My professors challenged my pre-existing ideas, prompting me to look and think globally. By stepping out of my comfort zone, I learned the importance of adaptability in all aspects of life. I am now able to set my sights on new and brighter horizons than I had ever imagined. My professional and personal selves have been shaped by a complex combination of leadership, service, employment, and academic experiences. These diverse experiences have provided me with the essential tools to succeed in the business world. I contribute a unique perspective crafted through cultural experiences and a business-oriented upbringing. I have always had ambitions, but now I have goals. I have found my drivers: the people and the possibilities. I plan to make a positive impact on the world by making modern products and practices more available and accessible across the world, specifically in the Americas. I believe investment opportunities present themselves daily, in people and in possibilities, for the future. I want to grow communities, guiding them in their journey toward sustainability. Most importantly, I want to connect communities through investment, trade, and innovation. There are incredible opportunities for furthered allyship between the United States, Mexico, and Canada as sovereign States. By pursuing a career in Management, with a concentration in International Business, I intend to utilize these opportunities for the benefit of all. I envision a future where equality and equity are key. By seeking the exchange of academic and practical knowledge as well as fostering meaningful connections, I will help nurture collective enrichment and professional development. I hope to be a harbinger of change. I am just one girl, but I truly believe that I can create a more equitable society, crushing barriers between people, countries, and continents.

The opportunity to travel, both domestically and internationally, provides immense learning opportunities. It allows us as humans to understand foreign cultures, values, languages, and customs. Each country and its smaller divisions, such as states and provinces, offer rich cultural heritage and diverse culture. Travel provides connection and a pathway to a smaller world. I grew up watching others experience a new culture for the first time. My family has hosted over 18 exchange students through the Rotary International foreign exchange program. Living with students and friends from other countries has broadened my view and appreciation of the world. I believe that, by opening our home to other ethnicities and nationalities, I have learned how to truly be an empathetic and understanding person. In the semester following my high school graduation, I traveled to the south of Chile for four months. There, I participated in an international work exchange where I worked as an intern farmhand at Santa Ángela Lechería. I was completely immersed in a new culture, one with different customs and a different language than my own. I spoke strictly Spanish during my time in Chile, and I learned how powerful being proficient in a second language truly is. Following the completion of my internship in Chile, I found myself itching to expand my network, experience cultures different from my own, and learn through real-world experiences. I applied for and was nominated for a two-semester study abroad program at the Universidad de Las Américas (UDLAP), located in Puebla, Mexico. One of the most valuable outcomes of living, working, and studying abroad was the ability to create new relationships with Spanish-speaking students, professors, and community members. I learned from real people; I learned by living. The year I spent in Mexico was the most enriching period of my life. The classes I took at UDLAP broadened my perspective substantially and challenged my cultural view of the world. My professors challenged my pre-existing ideas, prompting me to look and think globally. I am now able to set my sights on new and brighter horizons than I had ever imagined. Now, as a woman in business, I contribute a unique perspective crafted through cultural experiences and a business-oriented upbringing. Travel can be a transformative experience for open-minded individuals. Travel is enriching yet extremely humbling. It provides a view of the world on a greater scale, of Mother Nature as an interconnected entity, and of people as brothers and sisters. By stepping out of my comfort zone, I learned the importance of adaptability in all aspects of life. Through the process of adapting to new environments, I became a stronger and more independent woman. Most importantly, I learned that not fitting in is powerful; I do not need to be kept in a box. Respect and kindness are the only necessities in the world we live in, as they will always find us a friend.

We live in a world where change is imminent and unceasing. Factors such as globalization and capitalism are shaping human nature day by day, making the world a smaller place and intertwining our communities. Many view this concept negatively, casting a shadow on possibility. I believe that change should be embraced. It should be utilized as a tool and a guarantee that progress and development are possible. In the semester following my high school graduation, I traveled to the south of Chile for four months. There, I participated in an international work exchange where I worked as an intern farmhand at Santa Ángela Lechería. I was completely immersed in a new culture, one with different customs and a different language than my own. I spoke strictly Spanish during my time in Chile, and I learned how powerful being proficient in a second language truly is. The work challenged me; I was responsible for the care and maintenance of over 400 newborn calves. They held me accountable; I held them accountable. Following the completion of my internship in Chile, I found myself itching to expand my network, experience cultures different from my own and learn through real-world experiences. I applied for and was nominated for a two-semester study abroad program at the Universidad de Las Américas (UDLAP), located in Puebla, Mexico. One of the most valuable outcomes of living, working, and studying abroad was the ability to create new relationships with Spanish-speaking students, professors, and community members. I have learned from real people; I have learned by living. The most valuable lessons I have learned have been through others leading by example. There are two essential drivers of business success: the people and the possibilities. The added component is compassion. I want to share these core ideas by continuing to lead by example as a woman in business. I plan to make a positive impact on the world by making modern products and practices more available and accessible across the world, specifically in the Americas. I believe investment opportunities present themselves daily, in people and in possibilities, for the future. I want to grow communities, guiding them in their journey toward sustainability. Most importantly, I want to connect communities through investment, trade, and innovation. There are incredible opportunities for furthered allyship between the United States, Mexico, and Canada as sovereign States. By pursuing a career in International Business, I intend to utilize these opportunities for the benefit of all. I envision a future where equality and equity are key. By seeking the exchange of academic and practical knowledge as well as fostering meaningful connections, I will help nurture collective enrichment and professional development. I hope to be a harbinger of change. I am just one girl, but I truly believe that I can create a more equitable society, crushing barriers between people, countries, and continents.

My father figure, Mark Stern, has truly made his “Mark” on the world around him. He has dedicated his life to helping others. I truly believe that he lights up the path of anyone who comes his way. All my life, one man has been there for me every step of the way. He is the father who has always supported and taken care of me. He’s the one who has stood by my side through every phase of my life. He’s my support system and my safety net. My dad has given me every opportunity to succeed. He has provided me with the tools and materials to achieve every one of my dreams. I have dreamed of being like him since I was a little girl. He was my role model when I wore my little red ladybug rainboots, he was my role model when I learned to drive, and he’ll be my role model every day that ends with “y”. My father is a dedicated member of Rotary International. So far, he has hosted 19 foreign exchange students through the Rotary International program. He has opened our home to every nation, inspiring and shaping the youth of tomorrow. He has worked diligently to create a community that knows no borders, allowing us to find and understand common ground among each other. Because of people like him, our planet truly is a small world. His generosity ranges from big, philanthropic donations to small, everyday but extra special gestures. He has volunteered and donated countless hours to clubs, institutions, and nonprofits; for example, he spearheaded the design and construction of the cross-country course for the local university. He lives with a positive attitude, leading by example. I have watched him with learning, eager eyes. I’ve watched him hand out chocolates to workers, service officers, and strangers in New York City to make their day that much sweeter. I’ve watched him light up the crowd playing “Saturday in the Park” by Chicago. I’ve watched him take a stranger from crying to laughing. I’ve watched him with learning eyes. I see what many others see; he contains a certain joy that the years could never strip away. He makes the world a more wholesome and welcoming place. He is my father; but he’s also a business owner, a volunteer, a friend, a mentor, a scholar, a musician, a son, a brother, a husband, and a human. He is a shining example of what a good person is. My dad is so much more than just my dad; he is a good man. He’s the guy who spreads kindness, joy, and happiness throughout the world. He’s a giver and a provider. He’s the guy people call when they need a helping hand or a shoulder to cry on. The most special characteristic of my father is that he is a kid at heart. Wherever he goes, a laugh follows, and smiles shine around him. He can and will talk to anyone and everyone. His energy never ceases, the fun just never stops. Creativity accompanies his childlike wonder. He defies limits, finding new solutions and creating new possibilities through ingenuity, creativity, and determination. As he states, “I don’t color outside the lines, I push the lines out so there is more room to color inside of them.” For my father figure, Mark Stern, there are no limits.

My family owns and operates a small, versatile, entrepreneurial business that specializes in real estate and development. Eager to pursue knowledge and gain experience, I have worked closely alongside my family and mentors. I have been provided with countless first-hand opportunities, ranging from digital marketing, heavy-equipment operation, large-scale landscaping, payment collections, bookkeeping, and the management of real estate closings. Witnessing the joy and excitement of customers as they sign their property agreement, lease, or deed, has left a major impact on my professional and personal development. I firmly believe that business is far more than just numbers; at its core, business is about people. As the daughter of small business owners, I understand the value of connecting with people on an individual level. My upbringing has provided me with an innate desire to connect with, inspire, and lead others. I have been shown, not taught, what it truly means to be compassionate. In the semester following my high school graduation, I traveled to the south of Chile for four months. There, I participated in an international work exchange where I worked as an intern farmhand at Santa Ángela Lechería. I was completely immersed in a new culture, one with different customs and a different language than my own. I spoke strictly Spanish during my time in Chile, and I learned how powerful being proficient in a second language truly is. My work challenged me; I was responsible for the care and maintenance of over 400 newborn calves. They held me accountable, I held them accountable. Following the completion of my internship in Chile, I found myself itching to expand my network, experience cultures different from my own and learn through real-world experiences. I applied for and was nominated for a two-semester study abroad program at the Universidad de Las Américas (UDLAP), located in Puebla, Mexico. One of the most valuable outcomes of living, working, and studying abroad was the ability to create new relationships with Spanish-speaking students, professors, and community members. In January 2023 I began the position of treasurer for Sage Resources, Inc., a real estate development company. I have maintained this position to date. My responsibilities include sales and closing management, data entry, data filing, collections, informational research, expense tracking, communicating with customers, and ensuring timely payments. I play a crucial role in the collection of payments and the development of collection policies. I have learned from real people; I have learned by living. The most valuable lessons I have learned have been through others leading by example. There are two essential drivers of business success: the people and the possibilities. The added component is compassion. I want to share these core ideas by leading by continuing to lead by example as a woman in business. By seeking the exchange of academic and practical knowledge as well as fostering meaningful connections, I want to help nurture collective enrichment and professional development. I hope to be a harbinger of change capable. I am just one girl, but I truly believe that I am capable of creating a more equitable society, crushing barriers between people, countries, and continents.

My professional and personal selves have been shaped by a complex combination of leadership, service, employment, and academic experiences. These diverse experiences have provided me with the essential tools to succeed not only as a student but as a woman in business. I don’t color outside the lines; I push the lines out so there is more room to color inside of them. I have dedicated many years of my life to pursuing athletics. By passion and by nature, I had always considered myself to be a water skier. I have earned multiple state and regional titles, as well as earning the title of 2022 G5 Overall National Water Ski Champion. I dedicated myself completely and entirely to the sport, and as a result, I can say that I accomplished my childhood dream. I truly believe that the sport granted me an endless list of invaluable experiences and opportunities. Through water skiing, I have created lifelong connections including dear friends and wise mentors. However, I feel that it is essential to note that although water skiing may have shaped me, I no longer consider it to be who I am. As time progressed, the joys and dreams of my childhood devotion to the sport faded away. There were moments when I could not separate my own identity from water skiing. Almost two years have passed since I packed my skis away in August 2022. In this time, I have learned so much about the girl that I am and the woman that I want to be. Since packing my skis away I have visited three new countries, completed two international exchanges, and mastered fluency in my second language. In Osorno, Chile, I completed a work exchange on a fruit and dairy farm. In Mexico, I completed a year-long study abroad program at Universidad de Las Américas Puebla. Quite frankly, I have truly started learning and I don’t believe I will ever want to stop. Water skiing is my background. It is a piece in my puzzle that I will never be able to replace. The sport taught me how to adapt and flow just like the water itself. Yet, it also taught me how to dedicate myself, how to work hard, and how to be confident. My story is only just beginning, there are so many chapters left to be written. However, water skiing will always be part of my story. In the simplest of ways, people are complex. That is what makes them so special, that is their utter importance. Everyone has their own story. I believe that this simple, humane concept gets forgotten by the majority of business leaders today. However, I believe that there are two essential drivers of business success: the people and the possibilities. My family owns and operates a small, versatile, entrepreneurial business that specializes in real estate and development. Eager to pursue knowledge and gain experience, I have worked closely alongside my family and mentors. Countless first-hand opportunities have taught me that business is far more than just numbers; at its core, business is about people. By seeking the exchange of academic and practical knowledge as well as fostering meaningful connections, I want to help nurture collective enrichment and professional development. There are two essential drivers of business success: the people and the possibilities. By pursuing a career in business on the international level, I hope to be a harbinger of change capable. I am just one girl, but I truly believe that I am capable of creating a more equitable society, crushing barriers between people, countries, and continents.

When asked to describe kindness, I struggle to separate the concept and the self. For me, the importance of kindness and helping others lies deep within my soul and my individual identity. During the course of my childhood, my father and mother were essential members of countless volunteer organizations. A rewarding and enriching day in my childhood was a day that I spent helping people, my community, and my planet. As I began and continue to grow into the woman I am, I desire to follow in their footsteps. When I was young, I learned to appreciate the indescribable feeling of accomplishment that was accompanied by knowing I had served a purpose that day. I came to love this invaluable feeling. I came to love fulfilling a purpose outside of myself and my individual wants and needs. The value of volunteering, helping others, and giving back to my community is ingrained in my nature. It is the part of myself that I am the most proud of. I was raised helping others, and it is one of the things I am most thankful for. As a young woman, I value the days when I am able to help others. Yet, the concept of kindness and the efforts to help others are efforts so much greater than myself. I am enthralled to be a mere individual in a global community dedicated to creating a more equal, clean, fair, kind, and safe world for all. Because, in the end, helping others is not about me. Helping others is about sharing love. Helping others is about pushing aside indifferences. Helping others is about empathy. The rewards reaped from selflessness are not only beneficial to the recipient but also beneficial to the donor. Kindness is a spark that may grow into a mighty flame. I truly believe that kindness and selflessness can lead to increased happiness, improved well-being, and a stronger sense of connection with the global community. The effects of one small act of kindness inspire others, paving the way to a better society, one act at a time. Ultimately, the importance of kindness, helping others, and selflessness is about not only the large-scale impacts on the society as a whole. It is also about fostering a sense of community and promoting feelings of security. Positive, empathetic, and compassionate actions on a minor scale impact the global community. Kindness spreads like flame. The more sparks, the greater the fire.

From an early age, I have been immersed in the world of business. My peers grew up with chores and an allowance; I grew up with a job and a timesheet. Hard work was not seen as exceptional, it was the expectation. Instead of house rules, I was raised by “The Sage Way”, our corporate mission statement and values. These guiding principles taught me the importance of commitment to both the self and the organization. Through labor and diligence, I have cultivated a profound passion for business. My family owns and operates a small, versatile, entrepreneurial business that specializes in real estate and development. Eager to pursue knowledge and gain experience, I have worked closely alongside my family and mentors. I have been provided with countless first-hand opportunities, ranging from digital marketing, heavy-equipment operation, large-scale landscaping, payment collections, bookkeeping, and the management of real estate closings. One of the most valuable lessons I have learned is that knowledge is cumulative. I aspire to continuously form and strengthen the building blocks of my organization and myself. I am driven to select a career path that allows me to pursue new and challenging opportunities. As the daughter of small business owners, I believe that the customers should be held at the heart and soul of a company. Through experience, I have learned the value and importance of connecting with customers. Witnessing the joy and excitement of customers as they sign their property agreement, lease, or deed, has left a major impact on my professional and personal development. For me, the foundation and maintenance of relationships are the most rewarding aspects of a business career. It is through these connections, these bridges that we form, that we forge a reliable path toward profitability and expansion. I aim to provide value to customers, providing them with new opportunities and possibilities. Success in sales and marketing hinges on the support and satisfaction of clients and customers. I am determined to refine my interpersonal communication skills as I pursue a degree in sales, marketing, and business. The unwavering commitment that has always surrounded our family business has been a true source of inspiration. Following in the footsteps of those who have guided me, I have developed an innate desire to connect with, inspire, and lead others. I believe that a business-oriented career in sales, marketing, advertising, or international business would allow me to utilize my creative mind. The opportunities for growth, expansion, and positive change in sales and marketing will push me to improve as I strive for results. Now, more than ever, a path in sales or marketing holds the potential to shape the world, one client at a time. The word “passionate” fails to adequately describe how deeply I desire to provide value to the lives of future clients and customers. By making waves, fostering connections, and spearheading change, I know that I hold the power to transform the lives of those around me. I am motivated to pursue more knowledge, strengthen my existing skills, and learn new marketing strategies. A career in sales and marketing would allow my family’s corporation and me to reach new heights. Until then, I will set my sights on the horizon.