I want to make a positive impact on the world by helping people in my community and being someone they can rely on. I think small actions matter just as much as big ones, and showing up consistently for others can really make a difference. Whether it’s helping out at school, volunteering, or just being there for a friend, I’ve learned that the little things add up. Growing up, I’ve seen how much a safe and supportive environment matters. When people feel supported, they have the confidence to work toward their goals. That’s why I want to do my part to create stronger communities. I want to be someone who leads by example, follows through on responsibilities, and encourages others to do the same. One experience that really shaped how I think about making a difference was when I helped organize a local food drive. At first, it felt like just another task, but seeing the families come in and leave with enough to eat really hit me. It wasn’t just about the food; it was about letting people know that someone cared and that their community had their back. That moment made me realize that impact doesn’t always have to be big or flashy; it’s about showing up and making life a little better for someone else. Volunteering has taught me a lot about how even small efforts can make an impact. Sometimes it’s just showing up, helping someone with a task, or listening to someone who needs it. I’ve realized that you don’t have to do something huge to make a difference; you just have to care and act. In the future, I want to pursue a career that lets me make a real impact on people’s lives. I’m drawn to roles that require discipline, responsibility, and leadership, where I can help create order and stability. But I know making a difference isn’t only about a career, it’s also about how I treat people day to day. I try to act with respect, integrity, and accountability in everything I do. Making a positive impact, to me, means helping others feel supported and motivated to reach their goals. It’s about leaving things better than I found them and doing what I can to make life easier for those around me. I know I won’t change the world overnight, but I believe that consistent effort, caring about others, and setting a good example can really add up. That’s the kind of difference I want to make.

My Christian faith has played a big role in shaping who I am and how I live my life. It’s not just something I say I believe; it affects how I handle challenges, how I treat people, and the choices I make every day. I’m not perfect, but my relationship with God gives me something steady to rely on when life feels uncertain. There have been times when I’ve felt stressed or unsure about what’s next, especially thinking about my future and the pressure to succeed. In those moments, my faith reminds me that I’m not in control of everything, and that’s okay. I’ve learned to pray, trust God’s plan, and keep moving forward even when I don’t have all the answers. That mindset has helped me stay focused instead of getting overwhelmed. Being a Christian has also shaped my values. I try to live with integrity, be honest, and treat people with respect, even when it’s not easy. It’s not about being perfect, it’s about trying to do what’s right. My faith holds me accountable and reminds me that my actions matter, especially when no one is watching. I want to be someone people can trust and depend on, and my faith pushes me to live that out. Another way my faith has helped me is by giving me purpose. I don’t just want to be successful for myself; I want my life to mean something. I want to make a difference and be someone who leads in a positive way. My faith has taught me that success isn’t just about achievements, but about your character and the impact you have on others. As I look toward my future career, I know my faith will continue to guide me. I’m interested in a path that involves discipline, leadership, and service, and those are all things my faith has already been helping me build. No matter what I do, I want to carry myself with strong values and make decisions based on what’s right, not what’s easiest. I know there will be challenges ahead, and there will be moments where I’m tested. In those situations, my faith will help me stay grounded. It will remind me to stay patient, stay focused, and not take shortcuts that go against my values. It also gives me confidence knowing that I’m not facing those challenges alone. Overall, my faith in God has helped me grow into a stronger and more disciplined person. It gives me direction, keeps me grounded, and reminds me of who I want to be. As I move forward in life, I know my faith will continue to guide me, not just in my career, but in the kind of person I become.

The change I want to see in the world is simple in idea, but powerful in impact: I want to see a world where people are accepted without having to explain or defend who they are. For LGBTQ+ individuals, acceptance is not always guaranteed. Even today, many people still face judgment, misunderstanding, or exclusion simply for being themselves. That is a reality I want to help change. Growing up, I’ve seen how words, attitudes, and assumptions can affect people more than others realize. Sometimes it’s not always direct discrimination; it can be silence, discomfort, or lack of understanding that makes someone feel like they don’t belong. Those moments add up, and they can make environments like school, work, or even home feel isolating instead of supportive. No one should have to question whether they are safe or accepted just for being who they are. The change I want starts with creating spaces where people feel seen and respected. That means normalizing conversations about identity, challenging stereotypes, and standing up when someone is being treated unfairly. Real change doesn’t just come from big movements; it comes from everyday actions. It’s in the way people treat each other, the language they use, and whether they choose to include or exclude others. I believe this change matters because acceptance directly affects opportunity. When someone feels supported, they are more confident, more willing to take risks, and more able to focus on their goals. On the other hand, when someone feels judged or excluded, it can hold them back from reaching their full potential. Education, careers, and personal growth should never be limited by fear of being misunderstood. I try to reflect the change I want to see through my own actions. I make an effort to treat everyone with respect, regardless of their background or identity. I don’t believe in judging people based on assumptions, and I try to be someone others feel comfortable around. Whether that means including someone who feels left out, listening without judgment, or speaking up when something isn’t right, I believe small actions can make a big difference. Creating a more accepting world isn’t just about one group; it benefits everyone. When people are free to be themselves, communities become stronger, more diverse, and more understanding. Differences should not divide us; they should help us learn from each other. The world may not change overnight, but progress starts with individuals who are willing to care, speak up, and take action. I want to be part of that progress. I want to help create a future where no one feels like they have to hide who they are to be accepted, a world where respect and understanding are the norm, not the exception.

My name is Destiny, and I’ve always been someone who notices problems and wants to fix them. Growing up homeschooled, I didn’t have the same structure that other students get, so I had to figure out how to manage schoolwork, volunteering, sports, and JROTC all at once. Some days, it felt overwhelming, but I learned that challenges aren’t just obstacles; they’re chances to see what I’m capable of. One of the hardest but most rewarding experiences was during my third year of JROTC. I had been promoted to a high rank, which meant leading younger cadets, helping plan events, and making sure everything ran smoothly. At the same time, I was volunteering with Merritt Island Little League, which had struggled to keep practices and games organized. Coaches were frustrated, parents were confused, and kids were missing practices. I decided to help, but I didn’t know if I could handle it all. I started by breaking everything into small steps. For JROTC, I focused on drills, reviewing leadership materials, and helping cadets a little each day instead of trying to do it all at once. For Little League, I made a color-coded calendar, checklists for coaches, and reminders for parents. I even made cheat sheets for coaches with tips for managing time and delegating tasks. It wasn’t fancy, but it worked. Seeing kids show up on time and knowing I had made that happen made me feel proud, and even the coaches laughed and said, “Destiny, you might be better at this than I am!” Asking for help was another lesson. I reached out to mentors, older cadets, and my parents for advice. Their guidance helped me refine my plans and made the workload feel achievable. By staying organized, asking questions, and taking things step by step, I succeeded in JROTC and improved the Little League system at the same time. These experiences taught me that problem-solving isn’t just about ideas, it’s about patience, creativity, and caring about people. That’s why I want to be a criminologist in the FBI. It’s not just about catching criminals; it’s about analyzing problems, thinking creatively, and helping people in real ways. It’s a lot like leading cadets or organizing Little League; it takes planning, persistence, and figuring out solutions even when things feel impossible. If I had unlimited resources, I would want to make STEM and forensic education more accessible for students like me. I’d create a mobile STEM lab that travels to homeschooled students, underfunded schools, and community centers. Students could do hands-on experiments in biology, chemistry, computer science, and forensic science, guided by mentors and connected through a virtual platform to share ideas. It would help students see what they’re capable of and give them confidence to follow their dreams. The challenges I’ve faced haven’t held me back; they’ve shaped me. They taught me to be resourceful, patient, and persistent. Every time I organize a schedule, lead a cadet, or solve a problem, I’m preparing for bigger challenges in life and in my career. I want to take that same determination and creativity into college, the FBI, and the work I’ll do to make the world safer and better.

My name is Destiny, and I’ve always been the type of person who notices problems and wants to figure out how to fix them. Growing up homeschooled, I didn’t have classmates to lean on all the time, so I had to get creative with how I learned and solved things. Honestly, it made me more independent, and I realized I actually enjoy solving problems. It’s kind of like a puzzle, and there’s nothing better than seeing something I came up with actually work. One example of this was with Merritt Island Little League. They were having a hard time keeping track of practices, games, and volunteer schedules. Coaches and parents kept getting confused, and kids were missing practices because no one knew what was going on. I decided to make a color-coded calendar and a simple messaging system to remind families about games and practices. I even made small checklists for coaches to mark off completed tasks. It wasn’t anything fancy or high-tech, but it worked. Seeing kids show up on time, parents relieved, and coaches happy made me feel like I had actually made a difference. It was the first time I really understood how a simple idea could solve a real problem for a lot of people at once. Volunteering at a local horse ranch taught me a similar lesson. New volunteers would sometimes forget steps in the daily care routine, which caused confusion and safety concerns. I made a step-by-step guide with pictures for each task, from feeding to grooming. New volunteers could follow it easily, and everyone worked together better. The ranch manager even told me it saved hours each week and made everyone feel more confident. It made me realize creativity isn’t just about inventing something new; it’s about seeing a problem and figuring out a way to fix it. If I had unlimited resources, I would want to make STEM education more accessible for students like me. Not everyone has schools with labs or teachers who can guide them, and some students don’t realize how capable they are until later. I would create a mobile STEM lab that travels to homeschooled students, underfunded schools, and community centers. It would have hands-on experiments in chemistry, biology, computer science, and forensic science, so students could actually learn by doing. Mentors could guide them, and there could even be a virtual part so students from all over could share ideas and compete in fun challenges. I think this would help creative students see what they can do and give them confidence to follow their dreams. For me, creativity has always been about more than ideas. It’s about taking a problem, thinking differently, and making life a little better for myself and the people around me. Whether it’s helping Little League run smoother, keeping the horse ranch organized, or imagining a mobile STEM lab, I’ve learned that solving problems takes patience, persistence, and caring about others. I want to keep using my creativity to help people, solve problems, and make a difference wherever I can.

My name is Destiny, and I’ve always been curious about why people do what they do and how the world works. That curiosity is what sparked my interest in becoming a criminologist with the FBI. I’ve always been fascinated by solving problems, analyzing evidence, and understanding people to help others and make communities safer. For me, STEM isn’t just about science and technology; it’s about using tools like data, research, and critical thinking to make real, tangible changes in the world. Being homeschooled has had its challenges. Sometimes I felt isolated from other students, and I didn’t always have the same access to resources that public school students have. But it also taught me to be independent and motivated. Balancing schoolwork, JROTC, softball, and volunteering wasn’t easy, but it forced me to manage my time, prioritize responsibilities, and stay disciplined. I’ve learned that even when things feel overwhelming, pushing through and staying consistent is the only way to succeed. Those skills have shaped me into a more determined, organized, and confident person. JROTC has been a major part of my growth over the past three years. Earning a high rank taught me responsibility, leadership, and accountability. First Sergeant Torres has been a mentor who guided me through challenges, pushed me to set higher standards for myself, and showed me how to lead by example. Through JROTC, I’ve learned to think critically, stay calm under pressure, and work as part of a team, all skills I know will be essential in my future career as a criminologist. Volunteering has also been a huge influence on my life. I’ve helped at Merritt Island Little League, teaching kids skills, encouraging teamwork, and seeing the joy on their faces when they succeed. I’ve also helped at a local horse ranch, assisting with daily care and mentoring younger volunteers. These experiences taught me patience, empathy, and the importance of supporting others, even in small ways. I’ve realized that helping others, whether it’s through guidance, encouragement, or teaching, is just as important as any career goal, and I want to carry that mindset into my work with the FBI. STEM excites me because it allows me to use logic, research, and problem-solving to make a real difference. In my future career as a criminologist, I will analyze evidence, identify patterns, and work to solve cases that affect real people’s lives. I want to contribute to justice and safety in a way that combines my curiosity, skills, and passion for helping others. Every problem I solve or question I answer, brings me closer to the person I want to be and the career I hope to have. Receiving the Julie Adams Scholarship would mean a lot to me. It would help me focus on my education, explore STEM classes and forensic science opportunities, and prepare for college without the heavy stress of financial concerns. Julie Adams inspired young women to pursue STEM, and I want to honor her legacy by working hard, following my dream, and showing that determination, curiosity, and persistence can make a real impact. STEM isn’t just a subject I enjoy; it’s a tool to solve problems, help people, and make a difference. That’s why I am so passionate about it, and why I am committed to pursuing a career as an FBI criminologist. Every class I take, every problem I solve, and every skill I learn brings me closer to making that vision a reality.

My name is Destiny, and I’m a homeschooled high school senior. Over the past few years, I’ve learned a lot about balancing school, sports, JROTC, and volunteering, and how much effort it takes to stay disciplined and responsible. I’ve also learned how important it is to support others and be a leader, whether that’s mentoring younger kids or helping teammates on the field. These experiences have helped me grow and shape who I am today. I want to pursue a career in criminal justice and forensic science. I’ve always been interested in how the justice system works and how people in these careers make a real difference in their communities. I want to help protect people, stand up for those who can’t fight for themselves, and make sure justice is served. My volunteer work has shown me that even small actions can have a big impact. Helping kids at Merritt Island Little League or lending a hand at a horse ranch taught me patience, responsibility, and how much it matters to encourage others. Those experiences make me even more excited to have a career where I can help people on a larger scale. Being homeschooled hasn’t always been easy. There were times I felt isolated from my peers and unsure if I was doing enough. Balancing JROTC, softball, volunteering, and schoolwork felt overwhelming at times, and I had to learn how to manage my time and stay focused. Mentors like First Sergeant Torres have made a huge difference, teaching me to keep going, even when things feel impossible, and to trust myself. Facing these challenges taught me resilience, patience, and that hard work can really pay off. What I’ve learned is that making a difference isn’t just about a job; it’s about showing up for people every day. I try to do that in everything I do, whether it’s helping a teammate with softball, teaching kids new skills at Little League, or helping out at the horse ranch. I want to carry that same mindset into my career, leading with integrity and trying to make a positive impact wherever I go. Receiving the Valerie Rabb Scholarship would help me continue my education without worrying as much about finances. It would allow me to focus on growing my skills and pursuing a career where I can truly make a difference. Like Mrs. Rabb, I hope to leave a legacy of helping others, being kind, and giving my best in everything I do.

The movie that has had the greatest impact on my life is Hidden Figures. From the first time I watched it, I was struck by how three brilliant women, who faced both racial and gender discrimination, refused to let society define their worth or limit their potential. Watching Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson break barriers at NASA showed me that persistence, intelligence, and courage can overcome even the hardest obstacles. I have faced my own challenges growing up, and although my obstacles were different, the lessons in Hidden Figures resonated deeply with me. Being homeschooled meant I sometimes felt isolated from peers, extracurricular opportunities, and the resources traditional students often have. But like the women in the movie, I’ve learned to push forward, find creative solutions, and take ownership of my education. Watching those women solve impossible problems under pressure reminded me that dedication, curiosity, and a refusal to give up can lead to real achievement, no matter the circumstances. The movie also inspired me to think about leadership in a new way. I realized that leadership isn’t just about being in charge or having the loudest voice; it’s about using your talents to make a difference, supporting others, and standing up for what is right. In my own life, I’ve tried to apply this lesson through JROTC, where I’ve worked hard to be a supportive cadet while taking on leadership responsibilities. Volunteering with Merritt Island Little League and helping at a horse ranch has given me the chance to mentor younger kids and share skills and confidence, just as the women in the movie lifted each other to reach their goals. Hidden Figures also showed me the importance of perseverance when facing setbacks. The women in the movie encountered repeated obstacles, yet they kept moving forward, learning, and proving themselves. I’ve taken that mindset into my academics, sports, and volunteer work, understanding that challenges are not roadblocks; they’re opportunities to grow. It has motivated me to keep pushing, even when things get hard, and to support others in doing the same. This movie has shaped the way I approach life, education, and leadership. It taught me to be courageous, to value my talents, and to use them not just for personal success, but to create positive impact in the world. It inspires me to continue working toward my goals in higher education and beyond, driven by curiosity, determination, and the belief that even small actions can contribute to something much bigger. Hidden Figures didn’t just entertain me; it opened my eyes to the power of persistence, learning, and helping others. It showed me that no matter where you start, dedication and heart can create opportunities and change lives, including your own.

The teacher who has had the biggest impact on my life is First Sergeant Torres, my JROTC instructor. From the very first day in his class, I knew this wasn’t just about uniforms, drills, or memorizing regulations; it was about learning discipline, leadership, and how to push myself beyond what I thought was possible. First Sergeant Torres didn’t just teach commands; he taught life lessons, and the way he led by example changed the way I approach everything in my life. One moment I’ll never forget happened during a tough drill exercise. I had been struggling with confidence and kept worrying that I would mess up in front of the unit. I felt nervous and scared, and part of me just wanted to quit. First Sergeant Torres noticed and pulled me aside. He didn’t make me feel embarrassed or small; he encouraged me. He reminded me that mistakes aren’t failures, that confidence comes from trying, and that I had the strength to push through my fear. When I returned to the drill, I was nervous, but I focused on his words and gave it my best. Not only did I complete the drill successfully, but I also felt a sense of pride I had never felt before. That moment taught me that resilience isn’t just about being tough; it’s about trusting yourself, learning from challenges, and refusing to let fear hold you back. First Sergeant Torres has shaped how I lead and how I treat others. His lessons go beyond JROTC. Whether I’m volunteering with younger kids at Merritt Island Little League, helping out at a horse ranch, balancing softball with schoolwork, or taking on responsibilities at home, I think about the things he taught me: show up even when it’s hard, stay focused even when things get messy, and lift others around you. He taught me that leadership isn’t about being the loudest or the fastest; it’s about showing others that you care, setting a good example, and helping people succeed. One of the things I admire most about First Sergeant Torres is how he sees potential in people before they see it in themselves. He challenged me to step out of my comfort zone, take risks, and believe in myself. His guidance has shaped not just my time in JROTC, but the way I approach life. I now face challenges with confidence, work to help others whenever I can, and try to make a positive impact on my community in every way I can. First Sergeant Torres taught me that learning doesn’t stop at the classroom or the drill field; it’s about growth, courage, and perseverance. Because of him, I’ve learned to trust myself, to serve others with intention, and to approach every opportunity with determination. I hope to carry his lessons into college and beyond, using the discipline, courage, and leadership skills he inspired in me to make a difference, lead with integrity, and continue growing into the person I want to become.

Growing up, I faced challenges at home that forced me to grow up faster than most kids my age. Domestic violence was a part of my life, and there were times when I felt scared, alone, and powerless. Some days it felt like no one could understand what I was going through, and it was hard to imagine a future where I could feel safe and in control. But over time, I realized that these experiences didn’t define me; they taught me how to be strong, to keep going even when things felt impossible, and to look for ways to take care of myself and others. Those challenges taught me resilience in a way nothing else could. I learned to stay calm when things got tough, to speak up for myself, and to find little ways to create stability in my life. I also became more aware of the struggles of others. Volunteering became a way to channel that empathy. From helping younger kids at Merritt Island Little League feel confident and included, to assisting at a horse ranch, I found that even small acts of support could make a big difference. Helping others reminded me that I could take the pain I had experienced and turn it into something positive. Education has always felt like my way forward. Being homeschooled has taught me independence and discipline, while JROTC, softball, and volunteering have taught me leadership, teamwork, and perseverance. I know that going to college will give me more than just knowledge; it will give me freedom, opportunity, and the tools to create a life I choose for myself. It’s a chance to take everything I’ve learned from my experiences and use it to build a future I’m proud of. I want to study criminology and forensic science because I want to help people feel safe and supported, especially those who, like me, have faced fear or trauma. I want to use what I learn to make a real difference in my community, to support people who need guidance, and to be a voice for those who might not feel like they have one. Higher education is the bridge that will allow me to turn the struggles I’ve faced into motivation, strength, and purpose. Receiving the Hazel & Olive Sweet Horizon Scholarship would help me focus on my goals without worrying about finances. It would also remind me that my story matters and that my determination to grow and help others is recognized. I am ready to take the next step, pursue my dreams, and build a future where my past doesn’t hold me back, but pushes me forward.

When I first joined my Christian forensics club, I didn’t really know what to expect. I thought it was just about giving speeches and competing in debates, but it quickly became so much more than that. It taught me how to organize my thoughts, speak clearly, and, most importantly, share my faith in ways that are genuine and meaningful. I learned that speaking about Christianity isn’t just about quoting Bible verses, it’s about connecting with people, listening to their perspectives, and showing Christ’s love through both my words and my actions. One of my favorite parts of speech and debate has been mentoring younger students in the club. I remember helping a freshman prepare for her first debate. She was nervous and kept saying she wasn’t sure she could do it. We spent time together going over her speech, practicing delivery, and talking about why her message mattered. When she finally stood up in front of the judges and delivered her speech with confidence, I felt proud, not because of me, but because she had discovered her own voice. That moment reminded me that sharing faith isn’t always about standing on a stage; it’s about encouraging others and helping them feel confident in who they are. Speech and debate have also taught me patience and discipline. Preparing for competitions takes a lot of time, focus, and effort, and balancing that with JROTC, softball, volunteering, and schoolwork hasn’t always been easy. But these experiences taught me how to work hard, stay organized, and persevere even when things feel overwhelming. I’ve realized that sharing my faith works the same way. It’s not always easy to live out my beliefs, but consistent small actions, encouraging a teammate, volunteering with kids, or just listening to someone, can have a big impact. Through these experiences, I’ve learned that my faith isn’t something separate from the way I live my life; it’s at the center of everything I do. Speech and debate have given me tools to communicate that faith clearly, but it has also reminded me that the most important part is living it. I hope to take what I’ve learned into college and beyond: to keep sharing Christ’s love, helping others find their voice, and showing kindness and understanding in all situations. Being part of Christian forensics has prepared me to speak with confidence, lead with humility, and live my faith every day. I hope I can continue to grow, learn, and inspire others, just like Kathy Springer did through her life of service, dedication, and love.

I am a homeschooled high school senior, and my experiences have shaped me into someone who values independence, responsibility, and service to others. Being homeschooled has taught me how to manage my own time, set goals for myself, and stay disciplined even without the structure of a traditional classroom. It also gave me the flexibility to explore my passions, like volunteering, sports, and leadership opportunities, while preparing for the next steps in my life, including college and a future in the United States Air Force. For the past three years, I have been involved in JROTC, where I have earned a high rank and developed skills that go far beyond drills and uniforms. JROTC taught me that leadership is about more than giving instructions; it’s about encouraging people, helping them reach their potential, and stepping up when someone needs support. I’ve taken these lessons into every part of my life. For example, while volunteering with Merritt Island Little League, I noticed younger players who were shy or unsure of themselves. Some didn’t know how to cheer, participate, or feel like they belonged. I made it a point to encourage them, celebrate their efforts, and show them that they were capable. Watching them gain confidence and start to shine on the field reminded me how important it is to be present for others, even in small ways. I have also volunteered at a horse ranch, helping care for animals and maintain the property. This experience taught me patience, consistency, and the value of hard work. It also gave me time to reflect on how service isn’t always glamorous, but it is meaningful. Even small contributions, whether helping a teammate, caring for an animal, or encouraging someone who is struggling, can make a real difference in the world. Sports have been another central part of my life. Playing softball has taught me teamwork, perseverance, and resilience. It has shown me that success isn’t just about individual performance but about lifting up others and contributing to the team. Combining athletics with volunteering, academics, and JROTC has required a lot of dedication, but it has also shown me that when you are committed to your goals and to helping others, you can achieve more than you ever imagined. This scholarship would help me continue pursuing my dreams without the constant stress of financial concerns. It would allow me to focus on my studies, my leadership roles, and my volunteer work, all while preparing for college and my future in the Air Force. It would also give me the chance to continue mentoring others and serving my community, creating positive experiences and opportunities for those around me. I am inspired by Kalia D. Davis and her unwavering work ethic, kindness, and drive to excel. I want to carry those same values forward in my own life by giving my best in everything I do, lifting those around me, and striving to leave a positive mark on my community. This scholarship would not only help me pursue my goals, but it would also allow me to honor her legacy by living with ambition, compassion, and a commitment to helping others succeed.

I’ve always felt a pull to help people in meaningful ways. Growing up, I noticed how even small gestures, like encouraging someone who’s struggling or taking the time to listen, can completely change how they feel about themselves. I’ve seen this firsthand through volunteering. Whether it was helping younger players at Merritt Island Little League gain confidence, assisting at a horse ranch by caring for the animals and maintaining the property, or helping with school and community projects, I realized that showing up for someone or offering guidance can have a bigger impact than you might think. These experiences made me want to pursue a career where I could make a real difference in people’s lives, which is why I plan to study criminology and sociology in college. With my degree, I want to serve people who are struggling, overlooked, or facing challenges beyond their control. I’m especially interested in helping youth and vulnerable populations feel supported and empowered. I want to be the kind of person who provides guidance, encouragement, and resources so that others have a chance to grow and succeed, even when life feels unfair or overwhelming. I want to focus not only on addressing immediate challenges but also on creating long-term solutions that give people confidence and hope for their future. Being homeschooled has taught me independence, self-discipline, and responsibility, but my three years in JROTC, where I earned a high rank, have strengthened my leadership skills even further. JROTC has shown me that leadership is about more than giving orders; it’s about setting a positive example, helping others reach their potential, and stepping up when someone needs guidance. These lessons have carried over into all areas of my life. On the softball field, I encourage my teammates, and in volunteer activities, I strive to make everyone feel included and valued. I’ve learned that helping others succeed can be just as important as achieving your own goals. I hope to create programs that combine mentorship, education, and community involvement, programs that give people the tools and confidence to overcome challenges and build better futures for themselves. I want to be someone who notices when others feel left out, offers support when needed, and helps people see their own potential. Ultimately, my goal is simple: to serve others. Whether through mentoring, volunteering, working within the justice system, or eventually serving in the Air Force, I want to make a lasting, positive difference in people’s lives. This scholarship would help me take the next step toward that goal by providing the support I need to pursue my education and continue making an impact in my community.

I am a homeschooled high school senior, and my experiences have taught me the importance of independence, responsibility, and hard work. Over the years, I’ve been able to explore my passions in ways that fit my learning style, which has prepared me for the challenges of college and beyond. I’m planning to pursue a degree in criminology while working toward a career in the United States Air Force, where I hope to serve my country while continuing to make a difference in people’s lives. Being part of JROTC for the past three years has been one of the most defining experiences of my high school career. Through the program, I’ve earned a high rank, learned how to lead by example, and developed skills like discipline, accountability, and teamwork. JROTC has shown me that leadership isn’t just about giving orders, it’s about supporting the people around you, staying calm under pressure, and inspiring others to do their best. These lessons carry into every part of my life, from volunteering to playing softball, and have helped me become someone who genuinely wants to uplift others. Volunteering has also been a big part of who I am. I’ve worked with Merritt Island Little League, helping younger players feel included and confident, and spent time at a horse ranch assisting with caring for animals and maintaining the property. Even small acts, like encouraging a child who feels left out or taking the time to teach someone a new skill, have made a big difference. These experiences have shown me that giving your time and attention can be just as important as giving money or resources; it can change the way someone feels about themselves and their place in the world. If I could start my own charity, it would focus on helping kids and teens who feel overlooked or disconnected. The goal would be to create a safe and welcoming space where they could feel seen, supported, and encouraged to be themselves. Volunteers would mentor youth, organize events, and help run programs like tutoring, team-building activities, and recreational sports. I want to give young people the kind of encouragement that can change how they see themselves and their potential, because I know how powerful it is to feel noticed and valued. At the end of the day, I want to make a difference, whether that’s through the Air Force, through volunteering, or through a program like the charity I hope to create. I want to follow in the footsteps of people like Aserina Hill, who gave selflessly to support others’ dreams. Her legacy shows that even small acts of generosity can ripple outward, and I hope to do the same in my own way.

One of the biggest challenges that has shaped who I am today is learning how to stand confidently in who I am, even when I feel different from those around me. As a homeschooled student and someone balancing academics, athletics, volunteering, and three years of JROTC, there have been moments when I felt out of place or underestimated. Instead of letting that hold me back, I chose to use it as motivation. That challenge taught me resilience, self-discipline, and the importance of proving to myself, not others, that I am capable of achieving my goals. Through three years in JROTC, where I have earned a high rank, I have developed leadership skills that impact every part of my life. JROTC has taught me discipline, accountability, and how to lead by example. It’s not just about rank, it’s about responsibility. I’ve learned how to stay calm under pressure, support those around me, and step up when leadership is needed. These lessons carry into my everyday life, whether I’m on the softball field, volunteering, or working toward my future in the United States Air Force. JROTC has also strengthened my commitment to serving others. Through my volunteer work with Merritt Island Little League, a horse ranch, and other smaller community efforts, I’ve learned that leadership is rooted in service. Helping younger players feel included, working hard behind the scenes, and simply showing up for people has shown me that making a difference doesn’t always require recognition; it requires consistency and heart. JROTC reinforced that mindset by teaching me that true leaders put others before themselves. If I were the world’s next superhero, my theme song would be “Unstoppable” by Sia. That song represents my journey and mindset. No matter the obstacles, doubts, or challenges I face, I keep pushing forward. The message of strength, resilience, and refusing to give up reflects who I am and who I strive to be every day. It reminds me that even when things feel difficult, I have the power to keep going and overcome. Looking toward the future, my goal is to join the United States Air Force and pursue a career that allows me to serve something greater than myself. The discipline, leadership, and values I’ve gained through JROTC have prepared me for that path and will continue to guide me as I move forward. I want to be someone who leads with strength but also with compassion, someone who uplifts others while staying focused on the mission. Overall, my experiences, especially in JROTC, have shaped me into a determined and service-driven individual. The challenges I’ve faced have made me stronger, and the lessons I’ve learned have prepared me not only for a military career but for a life of leadership, purpose, and impact.

Kindness in Action One of the most meaningful moments of kindness in my life didn’t come with recognition; it came quietly, in a moment where someone just needed to feel seen. While volunteering with Merritt Island Little League, I noticed a younger player who stayed on the edges of everything. During practices, they rarely spoke. During games, they didn’t celebrate. It was like they were there, but not really included. I recognized that feeling immediately, because I’ve experienced what it’s like to feel different or out of place. Instead of letting that continue, I chose to step in, not in a big, dramatic way, but in small, consistent ones. I stood next to them during drills, talked to them, encouraged them, and made sure to celebrate every small thing they did right. I wanted them to know that someone noticed them, that they mattered. Over time, I watched something change. They started smiling more. They spoke up. They joined in. It wasn’t just about softball anymore; it was about belonging. That moment stayed with me because it showed me how powerful simple kindness can be. You don’t have to change someone’s whole life in one moment; you just have to be the reason they feel like they’re not invisible anymore. That’s the kind of person I strive to be in every space I walk into, and it’s the same mindset I will carry with me into my future in the Air Force: to serve, to uplift, and to make sure no one feels left behind. Creating Connection Creating connections has always mattered deeply to me, especially because I know what it feels like to stand on the outside looking in. As a homeschooled student, I’ve often been in environments where I was “the different one.” It would have been easy to stay quiet, keep to myself, or try to blend in, but instead, I chose to be someone who brings people together. Through softball, volunteering, and everyday interactions, I’ve made it a priority to include others, speak to those who are left out, and create a space where people feel comfortable being themselves. At the horse ranch where I volunteered, I worked alongside people from different backgrounds and age groups. Not everyone connected easily at first, but I made an effort to talk with everyone, help where I could, and create a positive environment. Something as simple as starting conversations or encouraging teamwork made a difference in how people interacted. Slowly, it became a place where people felt more open and connected instead of separate. I’ve learned that belonging doesn’t happen by accident; it happens when someone chooses to create it. Whether it’s inviting someone into a conversation, encouraging a teammate, or simply being kind when it’s not expected, those small actions build something bigger. That’s the impact I want to continue making in my life. As I pursue a future in the Air Force, I want to be someone who brings people together, supports those around me, and leads with both strength and compassion. To me, leadership isn’t just about authority; it’s about making sure everyone feels valued, included, and part of something bigger than themselves.

If I had the opportunity to start a business with my deceased sibling, I would choose to create something centered around serving others, specifically, a community-focused cafe and outreach space. This wouldn’t just be a place to grab food or drinks, but a welcoming environment where people could come for support, encouragement, and connection. We would partner with local organizations, offer free meals on certain days, and create opportunities for people in need to feel seen and valued. I would choose this kind of business because the bond between siblings is built on trust, shared memories, and unconditional love. Being able to build something meaningful together would be a way to reflect those values and turn them outward to help others. It would represent not only who we were as individuals, but what we stood for: kindness, generosity, and making a difference in people’s lives. Losing a sibling is something that never fully goes away, but I believe purpose can grow even through pain. This business would be a way to honor their life and carry their memory forward in a positive and impactful way. Every act of service, every person helped, and every life touched would be a reminder that their presence still matters. Ultimately, this business wouldn’t just be about success or profit; it would be about legacy. It would allow me to keep my sibling’s spirit alive while continuing to serve others, which is something deeply important to me. Through this, I would turn loss into something meaningful and ensure that their impact continues to reach far beyond what we could have imagined.