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Fenet Deresu

1x

Finalist

Bio

My name is Fenet Deresu. I am a determined student committed to earning a degree in exercise science and continuing on to a Physician Assistant masters program to become a Pediatric PA. My passion for helping children drives my dedication to higher education and motivates me to work hard toward my goals. I am enthusiastic in all I pursue, loyal to my commitments, and adventurous in taking on new challenges that help me grow. I am fully committed to achieving my goals and using my education to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families.

Education

St Cecilia Academy

High School
2022 - 2026

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Bachelor's degree program

  • Majors of interest:

    • Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Medicine

    • Dream career goals:

      Sports

      Track & Field

      Varsity
      2021 – 20265 years

      Public services

      • Volunteering

        Preston Taylor Ministries and Cottage Cove — Youth Volunteer
        2025 – 2026

      Future Interests

      Volunteering

      Kristinspiration Scholarship
      Education, to me, is more than just a requirement or a stepping stone. It is the promise my parents built their lives around. I was born into a family of Ethiopian immigrants, and my story begins long before I was born. My parents lived through multiple wars, carrying trauma that shaped who they became. In the early 2000s, they came to the United States, leaving beyond everything familiar in search of something better. Starting over in a new country was not an easy task. It required courage, sacrifice, and an unshakeable belief that their children's lives could be different. Growing up, I did not always fully understand the weight of what they have done. I just saw how hard they worked. Long hours, constant exhaustion, and a level of sacrifice that often went unspoken. They gave their whole lives for me and my sister, putting our needs, our futures, and our opportunities above everything else. Their love showed itself not through words, but through actions. Through every early morning and late night, they were building something for us. My parents want the best for us in a way that goes beyond simple success. They do not want us to follow in their footstep. They want us to go further than they ever could. They want us to exceed them and reach heights they never had the chance to reach. That expectation has shaped how I view education. It is not something I take lightly, because I know it exists because of everything they gave up. Education is important to me because it represents possibility. It is the one thing that can transform struggle into progress. While my parents had to focus on survival, I had the opportunity to focus on growth. Through education, I can learn, think critically, and build a future that is not limited by the hardships they faced. Every lesson I learn feels connected to their sacrifices, like I am continuing a story they started but could not finish. There is also a personal side to what education means to me. Growing up in a household shaped by trauma and resilience, emotions were not always openly expressed. Strength was valued, but vulnerability was often hidden. Education has given me more than knowledge. It has given me a voice. It has helped me understand myself and the world around me in ways I never could before. It has shown me that growth is not just about success, but also about becoming a completer and more aware person. The legacy I hope to leave is deeply connected to everything my parents have given me. I want to honor their sacrifices by turning their struggles into something meaningful. I want to be someone who not only succeeds but also creates opportunities for others. Whether it is through helping my family, supporting my community, or inspiring others who come from similar backgrounds, I want my impact to matter. More than anything, I want my legacy to reflect progress. My parents built the foundation through hard work and sacrifice. I want to build on that foundation with education, growth, and purpose. I want to create a life where future generations do not just survive, they thrive. Education is my way forward. It is how I carry my parents' dreams while also creating my own. It is the bridge between their past and future, and through it, I hope to build a legacy that makes everything they ever gave to me worth it.
      Kalia D. Davis Memorial Scholarship
      Growing up I have learned that success is not only about talent or opportunity, but about grit, discipline, and the determination to keep going even when the days feel long. Much of who I am today has been shaped by the responsibilities I carry, the people I care for, and the goals I have set for my future. I strive every day to be someone who works hard, shows kindness, and makes a positive difference in the lives of others. My daily routine has taught me resilience in ways I never expected. I live nearly an hour from my school, which means my days often begin around 5:15 in the morning and do not end until close to 6:45 in the evening after practices and activities. Spending so many hours away from home requires discipline, time management, and perseverance. There are days when I feel tired, but I remind myself why I keep pushing forward. I want to build a future that reflects my values: dedication, service to others, and a commitment to growth. I also hope that by working hard, I can set an example for my younger sister and show her that determination can carry you through even the longest of days. Service and compassion are also important parts of my life. I love working with children and being someone they can look up to and feel safe around. Teaching Sunday school has been one of the most meaningful experiences for me. Watching the excitement on their faces as they learn and grow in their faith reminds me of how important patience and encouragement can be. I also volunteer in an afterschool program for underserved children where we help with homework, play games, and create a safe space for them after school. Being able to support and encourage young kids in this way has shown me the impact that kindness and guidance have on someone's life. Throughout my life, I have also learned how adversity can shape a person’s perspective. Losing my cousin, who was also my best friend, at a young age was one of the most difficult experiences I have faced. That loss taught me that life is fragile and that every moment matters. Over time I learned that time heals all, and the experience helped me grow stronger and more appreciative of the people around me. Receiving this scholarship would greatly help me pursue my dream of attending college. Higher education will allow me to continue growing academically while preparing for a career where I can serve others and give back to my community. However, the financial cost of college is a challenge for my family. This scholarship would ease that burden and allow me to focus on my education, my goals, and the opportunities ahead. I am committed to working hard, supporting those around me, and making the most of every opportunity I am given. With the help of this scholarship, I will be able to take the next step toward building a future where I can continue to grow, lead, and serve others.
      Monroe Justice and Equality Memorial Scholarship
      Improving relationships between law enforcement agencies and the African American population in the United States is an important step toward building safer and more united communities. For many African Americans, trust in law enforcement has been affected by both history and personal experiences. Due to this, it is important for police departments to focus on rebuilding trust through communication, fairness, and genuine involvement in the communities they serve. One way law enforcement agencies can improve relationships is by focusing on community policing. Community policing means officers are present in neighborhoods not only during emergencies, but also during everyday events. When officers attend community meetings, school programs, or local events, they become more familiar to the people of the community that they serve. Instead of only seeing police during intense stressful situations, community members are able to interact with them in a more positive and relaxed environment. These kinds of interactions can help break down misunderstandings and make both sides feel more comfortable with each other. Another important step is transparency. When incidents involving police happen, communities want honesty and clear communication. If departments are open about their policies, investigations, and decisions, as legally as they can be, they can help people feel like their concerns are being taken seriously. Tools such as body cameras can also help make sure situations are handled with fairness. When people know that officers are being held accountable, it can slowly rebuild trust that may have been lost. Training is also very important. Police officers face difficult situations every day, so having the right training can make a huge difference. Training in areas like the de-escalation of a situation, communication, and cultural awareness can help officers better understand the communities they work in. When officers know how to handle tense situations calmly and respectfully it can prevent conflicts and create safer outcomes for everyone involved. Working with community leaders is another helpful way to strengthen relationships. Leaders in places like churches, schools, and youth organizations often have stronger and more stable connections with the people in their communities. When law enforcement partners with these leaders, they can better understand the concerns and needs of African American communities. Programs that involve mentoring young people or supporting community activities can also help show that the officers do care about more than just doing their job. Building trust between law enforcement and African American communities will take time of course, but it is possible. Through honest communication, better training, community involvement, and accountability, police departments can begin repairing relationships and create stronger connections with the communities that they serve.
      Brooks Martin Memorial Scholarship
      The most difficult part of growing up in an emotionally absent household wasn’t what was said, but what wasn’t. In a home where emotions were hidden behind closed doors, I became an expert at hiding my feelings. Not because I wanted to, but because I learned that the only safe way to live was through concealing my emotions. My parents always taught me that vulnerability was a risk I could not afford. I was born into a family of Ethiopian immigrants; growing up, my parents harbored profound trauma, having lived through multiple wars. In the early 2000s, they moved to the U.S., where starting a new life wasn't easy. Their pasts influenced me in both good ways and bad. The tough demeanor they formed strengthened my ability to regulate my emotions, but this strength slowly evolved into suppression and numbness. One phrase I heard more often than a child should was, “Stop crying, it won't solve your problems.” From a young age, I was taught that emotions that were not joyful were to be felt privately or not at all. Shedding tears was a weakness, and emotions were unauthorized. At just 12 years old, Eba, a cousin I considered my best friend, suffered a major head injury and fell into a coma. Being only 9 myself, I was confused about what that meant. The doctors told me he was only sleeping and should wake up soon, and as a kid I always thought he must be exhausted to take a nap that lengthy. For weeks, we visited him in the hospital, and I watched as none of the adults showed any emotion, which I considered to mean that the situation wasn't critical. Exactly a month later, I woke up to the news that Eba had passed away. My heart shattered, and all I wanted to do was cry, but it was my understanding that that would show weakness. The only time tears were acceptable was at his funeral, which I took advantage of. After that, all mentions or thoughts of Eba were shut down. On Christmas, my cousins did a challenge, and I remember saying, “I bet Eba would’ve been able to do it.” Everyone went silent, and I was immediately told not to speak of him. I was confused. It seemed that everyone erased him from their memory, so I too went silent when it came to Eba. Every year, I would silently acknowledge his death anniversary, and the only thing I would think was, “Stop crying it won’t bring him back.”  The more emotionally mature I became, the more I came to realize that emotions are healthy, natural, and meant to be felt. I learned that the more I bottled it up inside, the harder it would burst when I allowed it to come out. Blocking my emotions made me feel as though I had the higher ground on life because I wasn't tangled in my feelings, but over time I began to feel the unhealthy repercussions, and they had a major impact. I was once told, “The only way to get through the pain is to feel the pain.” And as scary as this sounded, it was truly life-changing for me. Of course, I love my parents abundantly, and they have worked strenuously to get our family to where we are today. The things that happened to them and the way that they are is not their fault, but it was only after I experienced a major kind of self-growth that I was able to break the cycle of emotional absence and grow to feel more deeply.
      Hester Richardson Powell Memorial Service Scholarship
      Resilience is not always shown through big, dramatic moments. Sometimes it is demonstrated through quiet consistency and the willingness to keep going even when the days feel long and exhausting. I have tried to demonstrate that kind of resilience for my little sister through the discipline and determination it takes to manage our daily routine. My sister and I live about fifty-five minutes away from our schools, which means our days start very early. Most mornings begin around 5:15 a.m., long before the sun comes up. By the time we get home, especially on days when we have sports practice after school, it is often around 6:45 p.m. Being gone for more than thirteen hours every day can be tiring both mentally and physically. There are many moments when I would rather stay in bed a little longer or skip a difficult practice, but I remind myself why we do it. I know that my attitude affects how my sister sees these long days. Instead of complaining I try to show gratitude for the opportunity we have to attend a school that challenges us and prepares us for the future. I also try to stay committed to my responsibilities, whether that means finishing homework after a long practice or continuing to push myself during a workout even when I am tired. These choices may seem small, but they require grit, discipline, perseverance. Through this routine, I hope to show my sister that resilience is about purpose. We go through these long days because we value our education and want to create opportunities for ourselves. At the same time, sports teach us to take care of our bodies, work as a team and stay dedicated to something that requires effort and consistency. When she sees me continue to push forward, I hope it reminds her that hard work now can build a stronger future. More than anything, I want my sister to understand that resilience does not mean life is easy. It means choosing to keep moving forward even when it is difficult. By showing up each day, staying disciplined, and keeping a positive mindset, I hope to inspire her to approach challenges with the same determination and confidence. I also hope she understands that resilience is not something you are simply born with. It is something you build over time through small choices and daily effort. Every early morning, long drive, and late evening helps shape our work ethic and strengthen our character. If my example can encourage her to stay focused on her goals and believe in her ability to overcome challenges, then those long days are more than worth it.
      Sarah Eber Child Life Scholarship
      Facing adversity at a young age can change the way someone sees the world. For me, that moment came when my cousin, who was also my best friend, passed away from a brain injury when we were children. At the time, I did not fully understand what had happened. I was confused, angry, and frustrated. It felt unfair that someone so full of life could suddenly be gone. As a child, I had always believed that the people I loved would always be there, so losing him made me realize something I had never considered before. Life does not last forever. In the beginning, I did not know how to process the loss. I remember feeling like the bright spark of childhood had suddenly dimmed. I questioned why something like this could happen, especially to someone so young. My plan of action was not clear at first because grief is something that takes time to understand. Over time, however, I learned to cope by leaning on my family and allowing myself to grow through the experience. Slowly, I began to see that although the pain never completely disappears, it can shape who you become in meaningful ways. As I grew older, my perspective on the situation began to change. Instead of only seeing the loss, I began to see the lessons it taught me about life, empathy, and resilience. I realized how fragile life truly is and how important it is to care for others while we have the opportunity. That understanding helped me develop a deeper sense of compassion for people who are hurting or facing difficult situations. This experience also played a major role in shaping my future goals. Witnessing the pain and confusion that can come with a serious medical injury made me want to help others who are going through similar situations. It sparked my desire to want to enter the medical field and eventually become a pediatric physician assistant. I want to work with children who are suffering and provide them with care, comfort, and hope during some of the hardest moments of their lives. Although losing my cousin was one of the most difficult experiences I have ever faced, it ultimately change my perception of life in a profound way. It taught me that while life can be fragile, it can also inspire purpose. Through time, growth, and healing, I have learned to carry that experience with me as motivation to help others and make a difference in the lives of children and their families.
      Ava Wood Stupendous Love Scholarship
      "Kindness in Action": One act of kindness that meant a lot to me was something simple. Almost every day after school, I would take my best friend's younger sister home. It may not seem like a big gesture, but it meant a lot to their family and to me. Their family has always done so much for me. They welcomed me into their home, supported me, and treated me like one of their own. When I realized how busy things could get for them, with siblings working and their mother having meetings, I wanted to help in any way I could. Taking her home from school was a small way for me to give back and make their days a little easier. What made those moments special was the time we spent together during the ride home. She would tell me about her day at school, the things that made her laugh, and the little problems that felt big to her. Listening to her reminded me how important it is for people to feel heard and cared for. Those conversations were simple, but they always warmed my heart. Over time, that routine brought us closer. It reminded me that kindness does not always have to be something huge or dramatic. Sometimes the most meaningful acts are the quiet, consistent ones that show someone they matter. Being able to support a family that has supported me meant everything, and those small moments of connection are something I will always treasure. "Boldly, Unapologetically Me": One of the biggest moments where I chose to be unapologetically myself came when I was deciding what to study in college. My parents hoped I would become a doctor, and for a long time I felt pressure to follow that path. I respect their dreams for me, but deep down I knew my heart was leading me somewhere different. What I truly want is to become a pediatric physician assistant. I have always loved working with children and caring for them, and I want a career where I can make a difference in their lives while maintaining balance in my own life. More than anything, I hope to be a mother someday. Family is incredibly important to me, and I have always valued the time I spend with the people I love. Choosing the path of becoming a pediatric PA felt right because it would allow me to care for children through my work while also protecting the time I hope to spend with my future family. Standing by this decision was not always easy. It meant being honest about what I wanted instead of simply following expectations. But choosing a path that reflects who I truly am has made me more confident in my goals and in myself. Being unapologetically me means building a life that reflects my values: caring for others, nurturing family, and pursuing a career that allows me to do both wholeheartedly.
      Rev. Ethel K. Grinkley Memorial Scholarship
      For as long as I can remember, my life has been rooted in faith. Growing up in the church was not just about attending services each week. It was about learning how to care for others, how to forgive, and how to lead with humility. As a nondenominational Christian, my faith continues to grow as I grow. I am constantly learning what it truly means to live out what I believe, not just speak about it. Faith for me is active. It is something that should be visible in the way I treat people and in the way I respond to challenges. I am someone who brings energy into the spaces I enter. I approach life with excitement and curiosity, always ready to try something new or take on a challenge. At the same time I value loyalty deeply. The people and commitments in my life matter to me, and I stand by them with consistency and dedication. I believe those traits allow me to build strong relationships and create trust within any community I am part of. One of the experiences that shaped my perspective the most was serving with Preston Taylor Ministries. Through their afterschool program, I worked with underserved children who needed support both academically and emotionally. I helped with homework, played games, and simply listened when they needed someone to hear them. A few kind words or extra patience during a difficult assignment could change a child's entire attitude about themselves. That experience taught me that making a difference does not always require something big or dramatic. Often, it begins with showing up consistently and caring intentionally. When I think about making a positive impact on the world, I do not picture one grand moment. I picture a lifetime of steady service and work. Through love, I want to create spaces where people feel safe, valued, and understood. Through faith, I want to remain grounded in the purpose and guided by principles that do not shift with the circumstances. Through community service, I want to continue investing in people who may not always receive the attention or support they deserve. I believe real change starts at the community level. By pouring into individuals, especially young people, we strengthen families and communities. My goal is to live in a way that reflects what I believe, to serve without expecting recognition, and to leave every place better than I found it. If I can consistently offer encouragement, integrity, and compassion, I know that impact will follow.
      Playmakers Nashville Scholarship
      My desire to major in exercise science comes from a genuine excitement about how the human body is designed to move, adapt, and grow stronger. From a young age, I have been curious about how the muscles coordinate with the bones and joints to create smooth, powerful movement. The structure of the body is both complex and beautifully organized. Every action, whether it is running, lifting, stretching, or simply standing upright, depends on systems working together with precision. Learning about this foundation has inspired me to pursue a field that studies movement not just for performance, but for lifelong health. What draws me most to exercise science is the connection between structure and function. Anatomy explains how the body is built, while physiology reveals how it responds to activity and training. Biomechanics shows how force and motion interact. Together, these areas create a deeper understanding of how to move efficiently and safely. I am fascinated by the body's ability to adapt. With consistent training, muscles strengthen, endurance increases, and coordination improves. With proper rehabilitation, injuries can heal and mobility can be restored. The science behind these changes motivates me to learn more and apply that knowledge in meaningful ways. I am committed to approaching this field with responsibility and discipline. Studying the human body requires careful attention to detail and a willingness to continually learn. Health related fields demand accuracy and thoughtful application because the well being of others can be directly affected. I plan to hold myself to high academic standards so that the guidance I provide in the future is grounded in research and sound understanding. Earning a degree in exercise science is not just about completing coursework. It is about developing the knowledge and judgment necessary to serve others with care and competence. Another reason I am drawn to this major is the opportunity to bring people together through movement and wellness. Physical activity has the power to connect individuals and build confidence. Whether in schools, athletic programs, or healthcare settings, promoting healthy habits can strengthen both individuals and the environments around them. I hope to be someone who encourages others to see exercise not as a chore, but as a valuable and empowering part of daily life. By helping others understand their bodies, I can contribute to spaces where growth and encouragement are prioritized. I am also motivated by the desire to speak up for preventative care and proper movement education. Many injuries and chronic issues develop because individuals lack knowledge about safe training or healthy routines. Through exercise science, I can promote awareness about injury prevention, posture, strength development, and long term wellness. Providing education and guidance allows people to take ownership of their health and feel confident in their physical abilities. Above all, I truly enjoy learning about movement. There is excitement in discovering how small adjustments can improve performance and reduce strain. Watching progress unfold through consistent effort is rewarding. Exercise science blends my intellectual challenge with practical impact, making it the perfect path for me to run my curiosity about the body's foundation into a future centered on health, and growth, and service.
      Playmakers Nashville x Nashville Predators Undergraduate Scholarship
      My desire to major in exercise science comes from a genuine excitement about how the human body is designed to move, adapt, and grow stronger. From a young age, I have been curious about how the muscles coordinate with the bones and joints to create smooth, powerful movement. The structure of the body is both complex and beautifully organized. Every action, whether it is running, lifting, stretching, or simply standing upright, depends on systems working together with precision. Learning about this foundation has inspired me to pursue a field that studies movement not just for performance, but for lifelong health. What draws me most to exercise science is the connection between structure and function. Anatomy explains how the body is built, while physiology reveals how it responds to activity and training. Biomechanics shows how force and motion interact. Together, these areas create a deeper understanding of how to move efficiently and safely. I am fascinated by the body's ability to adapt. With consistent training, muscles strengthen, endurance increases, and coordination improves. With proper rehabilitation, injuries can heal and mobility can be restored. The science behind these changes motivates me to learn more and apply that knowledge in meaningful ways. I am committed to approaching this field with responsibility and discipline. Studying the human body requires careful attention to detail and a willingness to continually learn. Health related fields demand accuracy and thoughtful application because the well being of others can be directly affected. I plan to hold myself to high academic standards so that the guidance I provide in the future is grounded in research and sound understanding. Earning a degree in exercise science is not just about completing coursework. It is about developing the knowledge and judgment necessary to serve others with care and competence. Another reason I am drawn to this major is the opportunity to bring people together through movement and wellness. Physical activity has the power to connect individuals and build confidence. Whether in schools, athletic programs, or healthcare settings, promoting healthy habits can strengthen both individuals and the environments around them. I hope to be someone who encourages others to see exercise not as a chore, but as a valuable and empowering part of daily life. By helping others understand their bodies, I can contribute to spaces where growth and encouragement are prioritized. I am also motivated by the desire to speak up for preventative care and proper movement education. Many injuries and chronic issues develop because individuals lack knowledge about safe training or healthy routines. Through exercise science, I can promote awareness about injury prevention, posture, strength development, and long term wellness. Providing education and guidance allows people to take ownership of their health and feel confident in their physical abilities. Above all, I truly enjoy learning about movement. There is excitement in discovering how small adjustments can improve performance and reduce strain. Watching progress unfold through consistent effort is rewarding. Exercise science blends my intellectual challenge with practical impact, making it the perfect path for me to run my curiosity about the body's foundation into a future centered on health, and growth, and service.
      Playmakers Nashville x Athletes Unlimited Scholarship
      My desire to major in exercise science comes from a genuine excitement about how the human body is designed to move, adapt, and grow stronger. From a young age, I have been curious about how the muscles coordinate with the bones and joints to create smooth, powerful movement. The structure of the body is both complex and beautifully organized. Every action, whether it is running, lifting, stretching, or simply standing upright, depends on systems working together with precision. Learning about this foundation has inspired me to pursue a field that studies movement not just for performance, but for lifelong health. What draws me most to exercise science is the connection between structure and function. Anatomy explains how the body is built, while physiology reveals how it responds to activity and training. Biomechanics shows how force and motion interact. Together, these areas create a deeper understanding of how to move efficiently and safely. I am fascinated by the body's ability to adapt. With consistent training, muscles strengthen, endurance increases, and coordination improves. With proper rehabilitation, injuries can heal and mobility can be restored. The science behind these changes motivates me to learn more and apply that knowledge in meaningful ways. I am committed to approaching this field with responsibility and discipline. Studying the human body requires careful attention to detail and a willingness to continually learn. Health related fields demand accuracy and thoughtful application because the well being of others can be directly affected. I plan to hold myself to high academic standards so that the guidance I provide in the future is grounded in research and sound understanding. Earning a degree in exercise science is not just about completing coursework. It is about developing the knowledge and judgment necessary to serve others with care and competence. Another reason I am drawn to this major is the opportunity to bring people together through movement and wellness. Physical activity has the power to connect individuals and build confidence. Whether in schools, athletic programs, or healthcare settings, promoting healthy habits can strengthen both individuals and the environments around them. I hope to be someone who encourages others to see exercise not as a chore, but as a valuable and empowering part of daily life. By helping others understand their bodies, I can contribute to spaces where growth and encouragement are prioritized. I am also motivated by the desire to speak up for preventative care and proper movement education. Many injuries and chronic issues develop because individuals lack knowledge about safe training or healthy routines. Through exercise science, I can promote awareness about injury prevention, posture, strength development, and long term wellness. Providing education and guidance allows people to take ownership of their health and feel confident in their physical abilities. Above all, I truly enjoy learning about movement. There is excitement in discovering how small adjustments can improve performance and reduce strain. Watching progress unfold through consistent effort is rewarding. Exercise science blends my intellectual challenge with practical impact, making it the perfect path for me to run my curiosity about the body's foundation into a future centered on health, and growth, and service.
      Playmakers Nashville x INSBANK Scholarship
      My desire to major in exercise science comes from a genuine excitement about how the human body is designed to move, adapt, and grow stronger. From a young age, I have been curious about how the muscles coordinate with bones and joints to create smooth, powerful movement. The structure of the body is both complex and beautifully organized. Every action, whether it is running, lifting, stretching, or simply standing upright, depends on systems working together with precision. Learning about this foundation has inspired me to pursue a field that studies movement not just for performance, but for lifelong health. What draws me most to exercise science is the connection between structure and function. Anatomy explains how the body is built, while physiology reveals how it responds to activity and training. Biomechanics shows how force and motion interact. Together, these areas create a deeper understanding of how to move efficiently and safely. I am fascinated by the body's ability to adapt. With consistent training, muscles strengthen, endurance increases, and coordination improves. With proper rehabilitation, injuries can heal and mobility can be restored. The science behind these changes motivates me to learn more and apply that knowledge in meaningful ways. I am committed to approaching this field with responsibility and discipline. Studying the human body requires careful attention to detail and a willingness to continually learn. Health related fields demand accuracy and thoughtful application because the well being of others can be directly affected. I plan to hold myself to high academic standards so that the guidance I provide in the future is grounded in research and sounds understanding. Earning a degree in exercise science is not just about contemplating course work. It is about developing the knowledge and judgement necessary to serve others with care and competence. Another reason I am drawn to this major is the opportunity to bring people together through movement and wellness. Physical activity has the power to connect individuals and build confidence. Whether in schools, athletic programs, or healthcare settings, promoting healthy habits can strengthen both individuals and the environments around them. I hope to be someone who encourages others to see exercise not as a chore, but as a valuable and empowering part of daily life. By helping others understand their bodies, I can contributes to spaces where growth and encouragement are prioritized. I am also motivated by the desire to speak up for preventative care and proper movement education. Many injuries and chronic issues develop because individuals lack knowledge about safe training techniques or healthy routines. Through exercise science, I can promote awareness about injury prevention, posture, strength development, and long term wellness. Providing education and guidance allows people to take ownership of their health and feel confident in their physical abilities. Above all, I truly enjoy learning about movement. There is excitement in discovering how small adjustments can improve performance and reduce strain. Watching progress unfold through consistent effort is rewarding. Exercise science blends intellectual challenge with practical impact, making it the perfect path for me to turn my curiosity about the body's foundation into a future centered on health, growth, and service.
      Evangelist Nellie Delores Blount Boyce Scholarship
      I am an enthusiastic, loyal, and adventurous person who values meaningful relationships and purposeful work. I approach life with energy and curiosity, always looking for opportunities to grow and challenge myself. Whether in academics, service, or personal experiences, I try to give my full effort and remain committed to the goals I set. Loyalty is important to me because I believe in standing by the people and responsibilities entrusted to me. Being adventurous allows me to step outside of my comfort zone, try new things, and embrace challenges that shape me into a stronger and more compassionate individual. My primary goal for the future is to obtain a degree in exercise science and, after completing my undergraduate studies, enter a Physician Assistant master's program. Ultimately, I hope to become a Pediatric Physician Assistant. I am especially interested in exercise science because it provides a strong foundation in understanding the human body, movement, injury prevention, and overall health. I believe this field will prepare me academically and practically for the rigorous coursework and clinical training required in a PA program. It will always equip me with the knowledge to promote wellness and preventative care, which are vital in pediatric medicine, I am deeply committed to pursuing higher education because I view it as both a privilege and a responsibility. Education opens doors to opportunities that allow individuals to serve others in meaningful ways. For me, higher education is not only about earning a degree, but about developing the know ledge, discipline, and critical thinking skills necessary to make a lasting impact. I am motivated to work hard in college so that i can gain the qualifications and experiences needed to care for children and support families during difficult times. I understand that becoming a Pediatric PA requires dedication, resilience, and years of preparation, and I am fully prepared to commit myself to that journey. My desire to work with children is deeply personal. Ever since my cousin passed away in a tragic accident when he was a child, I have carried a strong sense of a compassion for children and families who are facing suffering. Experiencing that loss at a young age changed my perspective on life and strengthened my resolve to be someone who can provide comfort, care, and hope during moments of fear and uncertainty. I value the lives of children immensely because they represent potential, innocence, and the future. I want to be present for them in times when they feel vulnerable and need reassurance. With my degree and future training, I hope to work in a pediatric setting where i can combine medical knowledge with empathy. I want to build trust with young patients, ease their anxieties, and advocate for their well being. Beyond diagnosing and treating illness, I hope to educate families about prevention, healthy habits, and long term care. My ultimate goal is to serve children not only as a healthcare provider, but as a source of encouragement and stability in their lives. Through higher education and professional training, I am determined to turn my passion for helping children into a lifelong career dedicated to healing and hope.