My relationship with nature and the earth has played a major role in shaping both my personal values and my long-term professional goals. I have developed a strong appreciation for the environment through experiences involving marine science, outdoor education, and conservation work. Nature has taught me the importance of responsibility, balance, and stewardship, while also helping me understand how connected humans are to the ecosystems around them. Because of these experiences, I decided to pursue a degree in Fisheries and Marine Sciences so I can build a career focused on protecting marine ecosystems, educating others, and contributing to environmental sustainability. Personally, nature provides me with a sense of peace, purpose, and curiosity. Spending time around oceans, waterways, wildlife, and outdoor environments has always helped me feel connected to something larger than myself. Whether I am diving, boating, exploring intertidal zones, or simply observing marine life, I am constantly reminded of how important healthy ecosystems are for both humans and wildlife. Nature also challenges me to think critically about the ways human actions impact the environment. Issues such as pollution, climate change, overfishing, habitat destruction, and invasive species have become increasingly important to me because I have seen how they affect ecosystems and communities that rely on natural resources. These experiences have motivated me to become more environmentally conscious in my daily life and inspired me to encourage others to value conservation as well. I believe relationships with nature are important because they help people understand that humans are not separate from the environment. Instead, we are deeply dependent on healthy ecosystems for food, recreation, economic stability, and overall wellbeing. Developing respect for nature encourages responsibility and reminds people that the choices we make today can affect future generations. Professionally, my relationship with nature directly influences the career path I hope to pursue. I am currently studying Fisheries and Marine Sciences because I want to combine my passion for marine ecosystems with scientific research, education, and environmental stewardship. Marine ecosystems are some of the most diverse and valuable environments on earth, yet they face many growing challenges. I want to contribute to protecting these ecosystems through conservation efforts, sustainable fisheries management, and public education. I believe science can play an important role in solving environmental problems, but I also believe communication and outreach are equally important. Scientific knowledge is most effective when it can be shared with communities in ways that encourage understanding and positive action. One of the experiences that strengthened my connection to nature was working as a Marine Biology Conservation Camp Instructor and Livery Attendant at the Gig Harbor Boat Shop. During this internship, I taught marine biology and conservation concepts to youth through hands-on learning experiences, guided tours, storytelling, and outdoor activities. I also helped educate campers about the impacts of pollution, climate change, and invasive species on marine ecosystems. Through these experiences, I realized how important environmental education can be in shaping the next generation’s attitudes toward conservation. Watching students become excited about marine life and curious about science showed me that even small educational experiences can inspire lifelong appreciation for nature. Teaching conservation also helped me understand the importance of leadership and service. I learned that protecting the environment is not only about scientific research, but also about helping people build meaningful relationships with the natural world. When people feel connected to nature, they are more likely to care about sustainability and environmental protection. This realization strengthened my desire to pursue a career where I can combine marine science with education and outreach. In the future, I hope to work in a field related to marine conservation, fisheries management, environmental education, or scientific outreach. I want to contribute to research and conservation projects that help protect marine ecosystems while also educating communities about sustainable practices. I am especially interested in finding ways to balance environmental protection with the needs of people who depend on marine resources for their livelihoods. I believe effective conservation requires collaboration between scientists, educators, policymakers, and local communities. Ultimately, my relationship with nature and the earth continues to shape who I am and who I hope to become. Nature has taught me responsibility, adaptability, curiosity, and respect for the interconnectedness of life. Through my education and future career, I hope to use these values to serve both people and the environment. My long-term goal is to help create a more sustainable future by protecting marine ecosystems, educating others about conservation, and encouraging stronger relationships between people and the natural world.

Service has always been an important part of my life because I believe helping others and making a positive impact on my community gives purpose to the work I do. To me, embodying a life of service means using my abilities, education, and experiences to improve the lives of others while also contributing to something larger than myself. Throughout my experiences working with youth, teaching marine conservation, and participating in environmental education programs, I have learned that service is not always about large actions. Sometimes it is about showing patience, sharing knowledge, encouraging others, and helping people feel connected to the world around them. These experiences helped shape my values and inspired me to pursue a career where I can continue serving both people and the environment. One of the most meaningful experiences I have had was working as a Marine Biology Conservation Camp Instructor and Livery Attendant at the Gig Harbor Boat Shop. During this internship, I taught marine biology concepts to youth through hands-on activities, storytelling, games, and guided learning experiences. I also provided vessel tours of the South Puget Sound and educated campers about marine ecosystems, invasive species, conservation, pollution, and climate change. Working with children from different backgrounds taught me the importance of communication, leadership, and adaptability. I realized that education can inspire young people to care about environmental conservation and motivate them to become future leaders in science and sustainability. Seeing students become excited about marine life and ask thoughtful questions showed me how impactful education and mentorship can be. In addition to teaching conservation concepts, I also learned the importance of responsibility and safety while working around boats and watercraft. Ensuring boating laws and safety procedures were followed required strong attention to detail and accountability. These experiences taught me that serving others also means protecting their safety and wellbeing. Whether it was helping campers feel comfortable on the water or teaching them about protecting marine ecosystems, I learned that service often involves building trust and creating positive experiences for others. My education in Fisheries and Marine Sciences at the University of Alaska Fairbanks will allow me to continue serving others through environmental stewardship, scientific research, and public education. Marine ecosystems are incredibly important for communities, economies, and wildlife, yet they face growing threats from pollution, climate change, habitat destruction, and overfishing. I want to use my education to help study and protect these ecosystems while also helping communities understand why conservation matters. I believe science should not stay only in laboratories or research papers. Scientists and marine professionals also have a responsibility to communicate information in ways that everyday people can understand and apply to their lives. I am especially interested in combining marine science with education and outreach. My experiences working with youth showed me how important it is to make science engaging and accessible. In the future, I hope to work in marine conservation, fisheries management, environmental education, or public outreach programs where I can continue teaching others about protecting marine environments. I also hope to inspire younger generations to become interested in science and conservation just as my mentors inspired me. I believe one of the greatest ways to serve others is by educating and empowering them to make informed decisions that positively impact their communities and the environment. Ultimately, embodying a life of service means dedicating myself to helping others, protecting natural resources, and contributing to a better future. Through my education and career goals, I hope to use science, leadership, and communication to make a meaningful difference in both people’s lives and the health of marine ecosystems.

I’ve been getting tattoos since I turned 18, and now, at almost 21, they reflect both my identity and my path in STEM. My tattoos represent my connection to the ocean and the reason I chose to pursue a degree in Fisheries and Marine Sciences at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. I am building a full mural of the ocean’s depth zones across my back—from the sunlit surface to the deep sea—symbolizing the complexity of marine ecosystems and the depth of knowledge I am working toward. One arm carries a custom pirate dive flag representing my passion for scuba diving, and the other features aquatic species that continue to inspire my academic and professional goals. Part of my confidence in expressing myself comes from my mother. She does not fit the stereotype of someone who would have tattoos and piercings—yet she does. Watching her move through professional and social spaces without apologizing for who she is taught me early on that appearance does not define capability or intelligence. That example influenced my own willingness to embrace my identity while pursuing a serious academic path. I also live with Tourette’s syndrome. Managing Tourette’s while earning my degree at UAF and working toward advanced scuba certifications has required discipline, resilience, and self-awareness. There have been moments when people made assumptions about my professionalism—whether because of my tattoos or my neurological condition. Learning to navigate and overcome those assumptions has been one of my biggest challenges. Rather than seeing those moments as setbacks, I have used them as motivation to let my work ethic, field skills, and academic performance speak first. Diving and earning multiple scuba certifications has strengthened my commitment to marine science. I don’t just want to study ocean ecosystems from a classroom; I want to work within them. Balancing rigorous coursework, field training, and managing Tourette’s has sharpened my time management and persistence. These experiences have shaped how I see my future in the field. I believe STEM advances when it welcomes diverse identities and perspectives. My alternative presentation and personal challenges have built adaptability, confidence, and empathy—qualities essential for collaboration and research. As I continue my education at UAF, I plan to contribute through field-based marine research and hands-on scientific work. At the same time, I hope to help expand the image of what a scientist looks like, demonstrating that professionalism and dedication are defined by curiosity, skill, and integrity—not appearance.

I am currently a Marine Biology student at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, entering my senior year. At UAF, my coursework has emphasized fisheries biology, aquatic ecosystems, and applied field research, and I have consistently demonstrated strong academic performance, including Dean’s List recognition. I am pursuing a career in fisheries and aquatic resource management in Alaska and I hope to assist with all aspects of fisheries fieldwork, including fish identification, biological sampling, data collection, and adherence to detailed sampling protocols. I am comfortable collecting age, sex, and length data, handling biological samples, maintaining accurate field records, and contributing to daily reports. In Alaska, I am particularly interested in participating in the Copper River Salmon Health Surveillance, Lake Fish Biomonitoring, and subsistence fisheries inventory projects, as these efforts combine fisheries science, food security, and ecosystem health—areas that closely match my academic focus. I am especially drawn to AITRC’s mission and its role in supporting Tribal resource management and subsistence fisheries. I have a strong respect for subsistence fishing practices and the cultural and food security importance they hold for Alaska Native communities. I would be honored to contribute to fisheries research that directly supports sustainable management and community needs in the Ahtna Region. What has helped me grow as a community member has been designing, leading, and continuing to a youth marine biology conservation camp through my role as a Conservation Camp Instructor and Livery Attendant at the Gig Harbor Boat Shop. I began this work in the summer of 2024 and have proudly returned for the summer of 2025 to build on its success. This experience has not only been a defining moment in my academic and professional journey—it’s also helped shape who I am as a leader, educator, and advocate. What makes this accomplishment even more meaningful is that I live with Tourette’s syndrome. I experience physical and vocal tics that can become more pronounced during moments of stress or excitement—exactly the kinds of moments that come with leading children, coordinating boat safety, and managing outdoor programming. But rather than seeing my disability as an obstacle, I’ve learned to see it as a source of strength. It’s made me more resilient, more adaptable, and more compassionate toward others facing challenges of their own. At the camp, I created a hands-on curriculum focused on marine biology, ocean conservation, boating safety, and ecosystem awareness. We explore tide pools, kayak through Puget Sound, study marine life, and talk about real-world environmental issues like climate change and pollution. I give vessel tours, teach kids how to respect the water, and encourage curiosity through interactive science lessons. Each activity is designed to connect young people with the ocean—and help them realize that they have a role in protecting it. This work has taught me that I have a deep passion for education and community engagement, as well as the ability to lead in unpredictable, fast-paced environments. I’ve learned how to guide with confidence, adapt to changing circumstances, and stay grounded in the values of safety, inclusion, and respect. I’ve also learned the importance of being open about my disability when appropriate. There have been moments when campers ask about my tics or notice my movements, and I use those moments as opportunities to show what resilience, self-acceptance, and leadership really look like. One of the most rewarding parts of this experience is hearing parents say their children came home talking about whales, eelgrass, and how they want to be marine biologists one day. That’s when I know I’ve made an impact—not just through science, but through connection.

I deserve this scholarship because I bring a mix of hands-on marine experience, leadership, and a strong drive to protect the waters that define my community. Through my work as a Marine Biology Conservation Camp Instructor and Dive-certified conservationist, I’ve learned how to connect people—especially youth—to the importance of ocean stewardship. My fieldwork in the Puget Sound has shown me how science, education, and technology can work together to make real change. What gives me an advantage is that I don’t just study the water—I live and work in it, from conducting intertidal surveys to teaching marine conservation firsthand. This scholarship would help me grow those efforts into a lifelong mission to protect and sustain our marine ecosystems.

I’m blending my love for the ocean with cybersecurity to help protect my community of those who love the ocean. So much of marine research and small-vessel work depends on tech now, and keeping that data safe really matters. I want to be a researcher, diver, and work with conservation crews to learn simple ways to protect their gear and info. When our ocean data’s secure, we can focus on what really counts—taking care of the sea itself. For me, it’s all about keeping both the water and the work that supports it safe.

Living with Tourette’s syndrome has had a significant impact on both my academic journey and my developing career—but not in the way most people might expect. While it has presented real challenges, especially in traditional classroom settings and social environments, Tourette’s has also made me more resilient, focused, and deeply motivated to succeed. In school, my tics sometimes made it hard to concentrate or participate in group activities without drawing attention. I often had to advocate for myself and find creative ways to stay engaged and succeed academically. But over time, I learned to work with my condition, not against it. I’ve found strategies that allow me to manage stress and stay on track—whether it’s finding calm in hands-on labs, taking breaks to reset, or using physical activity (like diving and boating) to regulate my nervous system. Tourette’s also shaped my decision to pursue marine biology. Being in the water—especially while scuba diving—is one of the few times when my tics completely disappear. I feel weightless, calm, and in control. That peacefulness gave me the confidence to pursue a field that’s physically demanding and often unpredictable. My disability helped me discover a career that doesn’t just work around my needs—it aligns with them. Career-wise, Tourette’s has helped me become a more empathetic leader. Through roles like Conservation Camp Instructor at the Gig Harbor Boat Shop, I’ve learned how to lead with patience and presence. When I’m working with kids or giving tours, I sometimes have tics. But I’ve learned to be open about them and show others—especially young people—that a disability doesn’t limit your potential. If anything, it strengthens your purpose. As I begin my junior year at the University of Alaska Fairbanks after transferring from Maine Maritime Academy, additional financial support would directly ease the burden of tuition, housing, travel, and essential field equipment. These funds would allow me to focus more fully on my coursework and research opportunities, especially in Arctic and sub-Arctic marine ecosystems—areas I’m eager to study because of their critical role in global ocean health. In addition to tuition and living expenses, financial support would help cover the costs of earning advanced scuba certifications and purchasing specialized gear required for research diving. As a student with a disability, having consistent access to physical therapy, stress management tools, and accommodations also plays a key role in my academic success. Additional funding would ensure that I can maintain the health and balance needed to manage Tourette’s while excelling in a demanding scientific field. Ultimately, I’m working toward earning a master’s degree in marine biology so I can contribute to ocean conservation research and make the marine sciences more inclusive. I want to be a scientist who not only studies and protects our oceans but also shows others—especially those with disabilities—that they belong in the field too. With financial support, I can stay on this path, give my best to my studies, and continue turning challenges into purpose.

My greatest achievement to date has been designing, leading, and continuing to grow a youth marine biology conservation camp through my role as a Conservation Camp Instructor and Livery Attendant at the Gig Harbor Boat Shop. I began this work in the summer of 2024 and have proudly returned for the summer of 2025 to build on its success. This experience has not only been a defining moment in my academic and professional journey—it’s also helped shape who I am as a leader, educator, and advocate. What makes this accomplishment even more meaningful is that I live with Tourette’s syndrome. I experience physical and vocal tics that can become more pronounced during moments of stress or excitement—exactly the kinds of moments that come with leading children, coordinating boat safety, and managing outdoor programming. But rather than seeing my disability as an obstacle, I’ve learned to see it as a source of strength. It’s made me more resilient, more adaptable, and more compassionate toward others facing challenges of their own. At the camp, I created a hands-on curriculum focused on marine biology, ocean conservation, boating safety, and ecosystem awareness. We explore tide pools, kayak through Puget Sound, study marine life, and talk about real-world environmental issues like climate change and pollution. I give vessel tours, teach kids how to respect the water, and encourage curiosity through interactive science lessons. Each activity is designed to connect young people with the ocean—and help them realize that they have a role in protecting it. This work has taught me that I have a deep passion for education and community engagement, as well as the ability to lead in unpredictable, fast-paced environments. I’ve learned how to guide with confidence, adapt to changing circumstances, and stay grounded in the values of safety, inclusion, and respect. I’ve also learned the importance of being open about my disability when appropriate. There have been moments when campers ask about my tics or notice my movements, and I use those moments as opportunities to show what resilience, self-acceptance, and leadership really look like. One of the most rewarding parts of this experience is hearing parents say their children came home talking about whales, eelgrass, and how they want to be marine biologists one day. That’s when I know I’ve made an impact—not just through science, but through connection. Academically, my journey has recently taken a new and exciting turn. After two years at Maine Maritime Academy, where I pursued a dual degree in Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations, I’ve transferred to the University of Alaska Fairbanks to start my junior year. I made this move to gain exposure to Arctic and sub-Arctic ecosystems and prepare for graduate-level research. The University of Alaska offers incredible opportunities to study the effects of climate change on marine environments—something I’m deeply passionate about—and I plan to pursue my master’s degree in marine biology after completing my undergraduate studies. Looking forward, I want to build a career that blends scientific research, conservation diving, and education. I want to conduct fieldwork that supports ocean preservation, particularly in vulnerable environments, and I want to mentor others—especially young people with disabilities—who may not see themselves represented in marine science. Scuba diving has been especially powerful for me; when I’m underwater, my tics almost disappear. I feel calm, strong, and fully connected to the ocean. It’s a gift I hope others with disabilities can experience, and I want to help design tools, programs, and pathways to make that possible. Ultimately, I want to be a marine biologist who doesn’t just study the ocean, but helps others fall in love with it—regardless of who they are or what challenges they face. Whether I’m collecting data in the field, writing research papers, or leading a beach cleanup with kids, I want my work to reflect the belief that science is for everyone and that the ocean belongs to all of us. Continuing the conservation camp into summer 2025 has been a full-circle moment for me. It represents growth, commitment, and the power of staying true to your path—even when that path isn’t always easy. Living with Tourette’s has taught me how to persevere, and my work in marine education has shown me the kind of difference I can make. I’m proud of where I’ve been, and even more excited for where I’m going.

When people talk about mental health, they usually focus on the person struggling with the illness. What they often overlook is how deeply it affects the people around them—especially family. My younger brother has been living with mental health challenges for most of his life. When he was just 11 years old, he had to be admitted to inpatient care. It was terrifying, confusing, and heartbreaking. I remember feeling helpless, unsure of what was happening, and desperate to make things better. That experience didn’t just impact him—it changed the dynamic of our entire family. My mom, a single parent, has carried the biggest share of the responsibility. She’s the one making sure my brother gets to therapy, takes his medications, and stays safe—emotionally and physically. But she doesn’t do it alone. I’ve always tried to support both of them in every way I can. When my brother is overwhelmed or on edge, I try to help him stay calm. Whether that means talking him through a rough moment, distracting him with something we both enjoy, or just sitting quietly with him, I do whatever it takes to make him feel safe and grounded. I do this not only to help him, but to take some of the weight off my mom’s shoulders. Now that I’m in college and my brother is in high school, I still make it a priority to stay close to him. We text and call regularly, and I remind him that no matter how far I am physically, I’m still his best friend and biggest supporter. I’ve always tried to be that steady presence in his life—someone who doesn’t see him as broken or difficult, but as someone worth showing up for every single time. Living through all of this hasn’t been easy. It’s shaped me in complex ways. I’ve experienced anxiety and emotional fatigue. I’ve missed out on things, carried guilt for wanting a break, and felt invisible when people only ask about him and never about me. But in spite of the hardship, or maybe because of it, I’ve grown into someone who sees people differently—especially students. At school, I find myself noticing when someone is quiet, withdrawn, or acting out. I’ve learned not to assume or judge, but to approach people with empathy. I know what it feels like to carry emotional weight that no one else sees. So when I meet students who seem to be struggling, I try to be kind, patient, and understanding. I know firsthand how far a little compassion can go, and I try to be the kind of person I needed when I was younger. Mental illness doesn’t only affect the person who’s been diagnosed. It sends shockwaves through the family, reshaping our roles, emotions, and everyday lives. I wish more people recognized that. Families like mine need support, too. We may not always show it, but we’re doing our best to hold everything together behind the scenes. I’m proud to be my brother’s sibling. I’m proud of how far we’ve come as a family. And I’m proud that through it all, I’ve learned to be someone who leads with empathy—not just at home, but in every space I step into.

Duty of service and responsibility to our nation. Every American must do what they can for their home, the United States. The Department of Defense’s mission requires the United States to be protected and understanding our oceans is a massive element to that. Being able to do what is needed is made possible by science and technology. I have Tourette’s and I am determined to inspire others with disabilities like me to use modern technology and scientific research to improve our oceans and protect the security of the United States. For me, dealing with my disability includes shaking. Technology such as scuba gear hides that and being in the water gives me confidence. I want to give others the same confidence by using technology along with being part of creating new technologies that make it possible for those with disabilities to do the same things that those without can in the world of research. Although I have wanted to be a marine biologist since 5th grade, after visiting the local aquarium, it was after high school when my Tourette's was at its most extreme that I realized the hurdles of working through life while managing a disability. Making and staying on the Dean’s List validated my academic abilities, along with my resistance and perseverance to not let my disability over power my future goals. Because I am working towards a stem dual degree, marine biology and small vessel operations, my 4-year BA has an additional year added on to it resulting in 5 required and streamlined years. Not only will I graduate with two degrees, but I will also have gone through all dive classes and leave with my Master Dive Certification, which I take classes on the weekend to finish. My interest in the ocean has made me realize the importance of marine technology in accessing the different parts of the ocean. Without the use of ROV’s and submersibles we wouldn’t be able to explore our ocean depths or collect experimental data in challenging, high-risk areas without endangering personnel. There is a growing need for environmental awareness and conservation and the government offers opportunities for people like me and backgrounds like mine to make a meaningful impact, from protecting marine ecosystems to supporting scientific research and even improving military readiness in marine environments. This summer, I was able to use leads from my community to obtain a summer internship with our local non-profit boat shop, working on boats, manning the livery, and designing and leading a summer camp children’s course on marine biology and conservation. I worked that during the day and in the evening, I had a job with our local non-profit YMCA camp working in the kitchen. Being able to learn locally allows me to give back to small businesses and non-profits. Although most of the Boat Shops positions are volunteer positions, being able to be on the pay roll allowed me to save money to pay for the fall term at Maine Maritime Academy.

Depression was part of my life at an early age due to being diagnosed with Tourette’s. I am determined to inspire others with disabilities like me to work past barriers they impose and the mental anguish thy cause when you are unable to control simple things that others take for granted. For me, dealing with my disability includes shaking. I have learned to use technology such as scuba gear to hide the shaking and gain confidence by being in the water. I choose to find safe alternatives now that keep me from feeling sad and angry with my disability. I want to give others the same confidence by using technology along with being part of creating new technologies that make it possible for those with disabilities to do the same things that those without can in the world of research. These past two years at Maine Maritime Academy have been rewarding and challenging at the same time. Making and staying on the Dean’s List has validated my academic abilities, along with my resistance and perseverance to not let my disability over power my future goals. Because I am working towards a stem dual degree, marine biology and small vessel operations, my 4-year BA has an additional year added on to it resulting in 5 required and streamlined years. Not only will I graduate with two degrees, but I will also have gone through all dive classes and leave with my Master Dive Certification, which I take classes on the weekend to finish. As you can imagine, five years add debt up fast. After college, it is my full intention to conduct field studies by manning a research vessel to study marine ecosystems, including coral reefs and deep-sea environments like the Mariana Trench. I want to make sure that my vessels are suitable and equipped for access to those in wheel chairs. Together, we will be able to gather data on water quality, marine species, and the health of coral reefs. Information collected can guide us on conservation strategies and policy decisions. I want to do my best to make it so there is a way for others to use technology and diversify the world in the realm of research with our oceans. My purpose in life is to give back to those in the disabled community like me and make it so we all have the means to research and provide advancements despite having a physical impairment. If we can work past our disabilities, than we can break the patterns we get into when we become depressed with the hand in life that we were given.

Overcoming by adaption and influence. I have Tourette’s and I am determined to inspire others with disabilities like me. Did you know that up to 85% of people with Tourette’s Syndrome will also experience co-occurring conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and anxiety. I experience anxiety with mine and often it is anxiety that exasperates it. In 7th grade I was diagnosed with Tourette’s syndrome and had an explanation for my uncontrollable body twitches. As a hardship that not many have faced, I can first-hand report that the only way it now affects my life is through the qualities I have learned because of the work I have put into not letting Tourette’s Syndrome get the better of me. Even though I still may twitch, I have persevered through it all and still fully complete any task put in front of me. There is no lack of determination when it comes to not feeling down and discouraged just because I know that any competitors I face are not dealing with the same issue as me. I push past none the less and complete tasks at full efficiency. Although I was diagnosed in middle school, it was after high school when my Tourette's was at its most extreme that I realized the hurdles of working through life while managing a disability. This past year was my freshman year at Maine Maritime Academy. Making and staying on the Dean’s List both semesters validated my academic abilities, along with my resistance and perseverance to not let my disability over power my future goals. My purpose in life is to give back to those in the disabled community like me and make it so we all have the means to research and provide advancements despite having a physical impairment. I am a dual major, Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations, and it is my intention to use technology along with be part of creating new technologies that make it possible for those with disabilities to do the same things those without can in the world of research. Marine technology, such as underwater ROV’s (remote operated vehicles), can make it so those who cannot walk can explore the deep ocean, as one example. My interest in the ocean has made me realize the importance of marine technology in accessing the different parts of the ocean. Without the use of ROV’s and submersibles we wouldn’t be able to explore our ocean depths, that includes those capable of walking and those who need assistance. Not everyone is going to be fully capable or the same. I want to do my best to make it so there is a way for others to use technology and diversify the world in the realm of research with our oceans. My purpose in life is to give back to those in the disabled community like me and make it so we all have the means to research and provide advancements despite having a physical impairment. College is very expensive, and the support of scholarships make it a little easier for those of us who struggle financially. Thank you.

I have Tourette’s and I am determined to inspire others with disabilities like me to use modern technology and scientific research to improve our oceans. Without a proper education, I would not be able to fulfill my purpose. For me, dealing with my disability includes shaking. Technology such as scuba gear hides that and being in the water gives me confidence. I want to give others the same confidence by using technology along with being part of creating new technologies that make it possible for those with disabilities to do the same things that those without can in the world of research. Although I have wanted to be a marine biologist since 5th grade, after visiting the local aquarium, it was after high school when my Tourette's was at its most extreme that I realized the hurdles of working through life while managing a disability. This past year was my freshman year at Maine Maritime Academy. Making and staying on the Dean’s List both semesters validated my academic abilities, along with my resistance and perseverance to not let my disability over power my future goals. Because I am working towards a stem dual degree, marine biology and small vessel operations, my 4-year BA has an additional year added on to it resulting in 5 required and streamlined years. Not only will I graduate with two degrees, but I will also have gone through all dive classes and leave with my Master Dive Certification, which I take classes on the weekend to finish. After college, it is my full intention to conduct field studies by manning a research vessel to study marine ecosystems, including coral reefs and deep-sea environments like the Mariana Trench. I want to make sure that my vessels are suitable and equipped for access to those in wheel chairs. Together, we will be able to gather data on water quality, marine species, and the health of coral reefs. Information collected can guide us on conservation strategies and policy decisions. I want to do my best to make it so there is a way for others to use technology and diversify the world in the realm of research with our oceans. My purpose in life is to give back to those in the disabled community like me and make it so we all have the means to research and provide advancements despite having a physical impairment. This summer, I was able to use leads from my community to obtain a summer internship with our local non-profit boat shop, working on boats, manning the livery, and designing and leading a summer camp children’s course on marine biology and conservation. I worked that during the day and in the evening, I had a job with our local non-profit YMCA camp working in the kitchen. Being able to learn locally allows me to give back to small businesses and non-profits. Although most of the Boat Shops positions are volunteer positions, being able to be on the pay roll allowed me to save money to pay for the fall term at Maine Maritime Academy. College is very expensive, and the support of scholarships make it a little easier for those of us who struggle financially. Thank you.

I have Tourette’s and I am determined to inspire others with disabilities like me to use modern technology and scientific research to improve our oceans. Without a proper education, I would not be able to fulfill my purpose. For me, dealing with my disability includes shaking. Technology such as scuba gear hides that and being in the water gives me confidence. I want to give others the same confidence by using technology along with being part of creating new technologies that make it possible for those with disabilities to do the same things that those without can in the world of research. Although I have wanted to be a marine biologist since 5th grade, after visiting the local aquarium, it was after high school when my Tourette's was at its most extreme that I realized the hurdles of working through life while managing a disability. This past year was my freshman year at Maine Maritime Academy. Making and staying on the Dean’s List both semesters validated my academic abilities, along with my resistance and perseverance to not let my disability over power my future goals. Because I am working towards a stem dual degree, marine biology and small vessel operations, my 4-year BA has an additional year added on to it resulting in 5 required and streamlined years. Not only will I graduate with two degrees, but I will also have gone through all dive classes and leave with my Master Dive Certification, which I take classes on the weekend to finish. After college, it is my full intention to conduct field studies by manning a research vessel to study marine ecosystems, including coral reefs and deep-sea environments like the Mariana Trench. I want to make sure that my vessels are suitable and equipped for access to those in wheel chairs. Together, we will be able to gather data on water quality, marine species, and the health of coral reefs. Information collected can guide us on conservation strategies and policy decisions. I want to do my best to make it so there is a way for others to use technology and diversify the world in the realm of research with our oceans. My purpose in life is to give back to those in the disabled community like me and make it so we all have the means to research and provide advancements despite having a physical impairment. This summer, I was able to use leads from my community to obtain a summer internship with our local non-profit boat shop, working on boats, manning the livery, and designing and leading a summer camp children’s course on marine biology and conservation. I worked that during the day and in the evening, I had a job with our local non-profit YMCA camp working in the kitchen. Being able to learn locally allows me to give back to small businesses and non-profits. Although most of the Boat Shops positions are volunteer positions, being able to be on the pay roll allowed me to save money to pay for the fall term at Maine Maritime Academy. College is very expensive, and the support of scholarships make it a little easier for those of us who struggle financially. Thank you.

I have Tourette’s and I am determined to inspire others with disabilities like me to use modern technology and scientific research to improve our oceans. For me, dealing with my disability includes shaking. Technology such as scuba gear hides that and being in the water gives me confidence. I want to give others the same confidence by using technology along with being part of creating new technologies that make it possible for those with disabilities to do the same things that those without can in the world of research. Although I have wanted to be a marine biologist since 5th grade, after visiting the local aquarium, it was after high school when my Tourette's was at its most extreme that I realized the hurdles of working through life while managing a disability. This past year was my freshman year at Maine Maritime Academy. Making and staying on the Dean’s List both semesters validated my academic abilities, along with my resistance and perseverance to not let my disability over power my future goals. Because I am working towards a stem dual degree, marine biology and small vessel operations, my 4-year BA has an additional year added on to it resulting in 5 required and streamlined years. Not only will I graduate with two degrees, but I will also have gone through all dive classes and leave with my Master Dive Certification, which I take classes on the weekend to finish. After college, it is my full intention to conduct field studies by manning a research vessel to study marine ecosystems, including coral reefs and deep-sea environments like the Mariana Trench. I want to make sure that my vessels are suitable and equipped for access to those in wheel chairs. Together, we will be able to gather data on water quality, marine species, and the health of coral reefs. Information collected can guide us on conservation strategies and policy decisions. I want to do my best to make it so there is a way for others to use technology and diversify the world in the realm of research with our oceans. My purpose in life is to give back to those in the disabled community like me and make it so we all have the means to research and provide advancements despite having a physical impairment. This summer, I was able to use leads from my community to obtain a summer internship with our local non-profit boat shop, working on boats, manning the livery, and designing and leading a summer camp children’s course on marine biology and conservation. I worked that during the day and in the evening, I had a job with our local non-profit YMCA camp working in the kitchen. Being able to learn locally allows me to give back to small businesses and non-profits. Although most of the Boat Shops positions are volunteer positions, being able to be on the pay roll allowed me to save money to pay for the fall term at Maine Maritime Academy.

Duty of service and responsibility to our nation. Every American must do what they can for their home, the United States. I am currently a sophomore at Maine Maritime Academy, which works directly with the Navy and Coast Guard. I am earning a dual degree for Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations. Not only will I have those two degrees but also, I will be graduating with my Master Divers License allowing me to be an essential member of any dive team. I am fortunate to have a strong military staff providing information and knowledge first hand from current and previous military personnel. Joining the military after college allows me the ability to combine scientific knowledge and practical skills in service of a greater cause. There is a growing need for environmental awareness and conservation and the military offers opportunities for people like me and backgrounds like mine to make a meaningful impact, from protecting marine ecosystems to supporting scientific research and even improving military readiness in marine environments. I am not sure as of yet which branch I will go into. I am researching what needs are out there based on my skills and abilities. I want to make sure that I can give back and provide a needed skill to the branch that requires and needs it the most. My Small Vessel Operations license can be valuable in roles for the Navy that require operating small boats for scientific research or other maritime missions. In the Coast Guard, my skills could be useful for monitoring and protecting U.S. waters, enforcing marine laws, and responding to environmental hazards. My ability to operate small vessels would also support search and rescue missions, ensuring the safety of both people and wildlife in coastal and open water environments. Having a master dive license opens the door to underwater missions critical to military and scientific endeavors. The Navy and Coast Guard often conduct underwater inspections, repairs, and salvage operations. With a master dive license, I could be involved missions like these, contributing the technical aspects of diving and the biological knowledge gained from my marine biology degree. I know that I have it in me to be one of the best service members for our country. My passions for the oceans and how it can be used to protect us along with how we can protect it, drive me towards a better tomorrow. By joining the military after college, I will be able to continue with my purpose in life. I see my contributions being a long-term goal and commitment. I want to leave a legacy of environmental stewardship for future generations. I want to make America proud of me and I want to do my part for our country. This scholarship would assist me with my tuition. I am a first-generation college student with a disability. I am and will overcome any hurdle that I am faced with. I appreciate and I am humbled by any generosity sent my way.

I have Tourette’s and I am determined to inspire others with disabilities like me to use modern technology to explore the world and make discoveries. My greatest achievement so far has been to overcome my challenges with Tourette’s Syndrome. Through focused efforts and determination, I have developed strategies that help me to cope with my tics. College causes me stress which cause my face to send out signals to the world that I am in a state of anxiousness. I start to blink rapidly and often shake. I start to make noises with my throat which are not only distracting to me, but to others around me who hear it. I uncontrollably twitch my body at random periods of the day and once I start to twitch, I can’t stop. It has hindered my ability to pay attention to tasks as the twitches are incredibly distracting and are able to physically stop me from paying attention if either my head jerks around or my eyes are held shut. Last year was my freshman year at Maine Maritime Academy. Making and staying on the Dean’s List both semesters validated my academic abilities, along with my resistance and perseverance to not let my disability over power my future goals. By the time I was finished with my first year, I had earned 45.5 credits, exceeding that of a typical freshman who would earn 12-15 per semester. Because I am working towards a stem dual degree, marine biology, and small vessel operations, my 4-year BA has an additional year added on to it resulting in 5 required and streamlined years. Not only will I graduate with two degrees, but I will also have gone through all dive classes and leave with my Master Dive Certification, which I take classes on the weekend to finish. This year, as a sophomore, my classes have intensified and I am focusing on learning as much as I can while at the same time continuing to remain on the Dean's List. My school is streamlined and pushes us to work harder to achieve more. My interest in the ocean has made me realize the importance of marine technology in accessing the different parts of the ocean. Without the use of ROV’s and submersibles we wouldn’t be able to explore our ocean depths, that includes those capable of walking and those who need assistance. After college, it is my full intention to conduct field studies by manning my own research vessel to study marine ecosystems, including coral reefs and deep-sea environments like the Mariana Trench. I want to make sure that my vessels are suitable and equipped for access to those in wheel chairs. Together, we will be able to gather data on water quality, marine species, and the health of coral reefs. Information collected can guide us on conservation strategies and policy decisions. This will be combined with working on technologies for others with disabilities to participate in the field studies. By leveraging and creating new technologies, we will be expanding the opportunities for disabled scientists, resulting in more diverse solutions. I want to do my best to make it so there is a way for others to use technology and diversify the world in the realm of research with our oceans. My purpose in life is to give back to those in the disabled community like myself and make it so we all have the means to research and provide advancements despite having a physical impairment.

Duty of service and responsibility to our nation. Every American must do what they can for their home, the United States. I am currently a sophomore at Maine Maritime Academy, which works directly with the Navy and Coast Guard. I am earning a dual degree for Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations. My Small Vessel Operations degree will give me my 200-ton license which will come from the Coast Guard. Not only will I have those two degrees but also, I will be graduating with my Master Divers License allowing me to be an essential member of any dive team. I am fortunate to have a strong military staff providing myself and my fellow peers with information and knowledge first hand from current and previous military personnel. For me, joining the military after earning my Marine Biology degree and obtaining a Small Vessel Operations license allows me the ability to combine scientific knowledge and practical skills in service of a greater cause. There is a growing need for environmental awareness and conservation and the military offers opportunities for people like me and backgrounds like mine to make a meaningful impact, from protecting marine ecosystems to supporting scientific research and even improving military readiness in marine environments. I am not sure as of yet which branch I will go into. I am researching what needs are out there based on my skills and abilities. I am lucky to have an advisor to assist me with this process. I also have some time in school before that can happen. I want to make sure that I can give back and provide a needed skill to the branch that requires and needs it the most. My Small Vessel Operations license can be valuable in roles for the Navy that require operating small boats for scientific research or other maritime missions. In the Coast Guard, my skills could be useful for monitoring and protecting U.S. waters, enforcing marine laws, and responding to environmental hazards. My ability to operate small vessels would also support search and rescue missions, ensuring the safety of both people and wildlife in coastal and open water environments. Having a master dive license opens the door to underwater missions critical to military and scientific endeavors. The Navy and Coast Guard often conduct underwater inspections, repairs, and salvage operations. With a master dive license, I could be involved missions like these, contributing the technical aspects of diving and the biological knowledge gained from my marine biology degree. I know that I have it in me to be one of the best service members for our country. My passions for the oceans and how it can be used to protect us along with how we can protect it, drive me towards a better tomorrow. By joining the military after college, I will be able to continue with my purpose in life. I see my contributions being a long-term goal and commitment. I want to leave a legacy of environmental stewardship for future generations. I want to make America proud of me and I want to do my part for our country. By awarding me this scholarship you will help me to reach my endgame. I have been applying for scholarships and loans and those are the means to my education. I do not have a family with a heavy pocketbook and therefore they cannot assist me with my tuition. I am a first-generation college student with a disability. I am and will overcome any hurdle that I am faced with. I appreciate and I am humbled by any generosity sent my way.

I have Tourette’s and I am determined to inspire others with disabilities like me to use modern technology to explore the world and make discoveries. For me, dealing with my disability includes shaking. Technology such as scuba gear hides that and being in the water gives me confidence. I want to give others the same confidence by using technology along with being part of creating new technologies that make it possible for those with disabilities to do the same things that those without can in the world of research. This past year was my freshman year at Maine Maritime Academy. Making and staying on the Dean’s List both semesters validated my academic abilities, along with my resistance and perseverance to not let my disability over power my future goals. By the time I was finished with my first year, I had earned 45.5 credits, exceeding that of a typical freshman who would earn 12-15 per semester. Because I am working towards a stem dual degree, marine biology, and small vessel operations, my 4-year BA has an additional year added on to it resulting in 5 required and streamlined years. Not only will I graduate with two degrees, but I will also have gone through all dive classes and leave with my Master Dive Certification, which I take classes on the weekend to finish. My school is streamlined and pushes us to work harder to achieve more. My interest in the ocean has made me realize the importance of marine technology in accessing the different parts of the ocean. Without the use of ROV’s and submersibles we wouldn’t be able to explore our ocean depths, that includes those capable of walking and those who need assistance. After college, it is my full intention to conduct field studies by manning my own research vessel to study marine ecosystems, including coral reefs and deep-sea environments like the Mariana Trench. I want to make sure that my vessels are suitable and equipped for access to those in wheel chairs. Together, we will be able to gather data on water quality, marine species, and the health of coral reefs. Information collected can guide us on conservation strategies and policy decisions. This will be combined with working on technologies for others with disabilities to participate in the field studies. By leveraging and creating new technologies, we will be expanding the opportunities for disabled scientists, resulting in more diverse solutions. I want to do my best to make it so there is a way for others to use technology and diversify the world in the realm of research with our oceans. My purpose in life is to give back to those in the disabled community like myself and make it so we all have the means to research and provide advancements despite having a physical impairment.

I have Tourette’s and I am determined to inspire others with disabilities like me to use modern technology to explore the world and make discoveries. For me, dealing with my disability includes shaking. Technology such as scuba gear hides that and being in the water gives me confidence. I want to give others the same confidence by using technology along with being part of creating new technologies that make it possible for those with disabilities to do the same things that those without can in the world of research. This past year was my freshman year at Maine Maritime Academy. Making and staying on the Dean’s List both semesters validated my academic abilities, along with my resistance and perseverance to not let my disability over power my future goals. By the time I was finished with my first year, I had earned 45.5 credits, exceeding that of a typical freshman who would earn 12-15 per semester. Because I am working towards a stem dual degree, marine biology, and small vessel operations, my 4-year BA has an additional year added on to it resulting in 5 required and streamlined years. Not only will I graduate with two degrees, but I will also have gone through all dive classes and leave with my Master Dive Certification, which I take classes on the weekend to finish. My school is streamlined and pushes us to work harder to achieve more. My interest in the ocean has made me realize the importance of marine technology in accessing the different parts of the ocean. Without the use of ROV’s and submersibles we wouldn’t be able to explore our ocean depths, that includes those capable of walking and those who need assistance. After college, it is my full intention to conduct field studies by manning my own research vessel to study marine ecosystems, including coral reefs and deep-sea environments like the Mariana Trench. I want to make sure that my vessels are suitable and equipped for access to those in wheel chairs. Together, we will be able to gather data on water quality, marine species, and the health of coral reefs. Information collected can guide us on conservation strategies and policy decisions. This will be combined with working on technologies for others with disabilities to participate in the field studies. By leveraging and creating new technologies, we will be expanding the opportunities for disabled scientists, resulting in more diverse solutions. I want to do my best to make it so there is a way for others to use technology and diversify the world in the realm of research with our oceans. My purpose in life is to give back to those in the disabled community like myself and make it so we all have the means to research and provide advancements despite having a physical impairment.

You don't see the real me, my authentic self. You don't see the things that make me who I am. What you see is a white male. That is it. I am more than what you see or think you know about me. What you also don't see is my passion for marine biology and conservation of our oceans. That is what I will paint you a picture of. Using my dual degrees, marine biology, and small vessel operations, along with my master scuba certifications, I plan to follow in the footsteps of the great Dr. Sylvia Earle and protect our ocean reefs, resulting in a fulfilling and impactful career path. I am currently a second year at Maine Maritime Academy. I plan on working just as hard as I did my freshman year, which was not easy to do. Last year I worked extremely hard and was very focused, resulting in making the Dean's list both semesters. By the time I was finished with my first year, I had earned 45.5 credits, exceeding that of a typical freshman who would earn 12-15 per semester. Because I am working towards a dual degree, my 4-year BA has an additional year added on to it resulting in 5 required and streamlined years. I am determined to leave school with a job offer from a company whose passions for the ocean are aligned to mine. This past summer I was hoping to get an internship with a REU program. Being a first year, I was unable to land one. Instead I obtained an internship with our local non-profit boat shop, working on boats, manning the livery, and leading a summer camp children’s course on marine biology and conservation. I worked that during the day and in the evening, I had a job with our local non-profit YMCA camp working in the kitchen. The next 4 summers I am going to try even harder to obtain a REU so that I can have hands-on, real-life research experience working to save and protect our oceans. After college, it is my full intention to conduct field studies by manning my own research vessel to study marine ecosystems, including coral reefs and deep-sea environments like the Mariana Trench. Not only will I be able to use my diver certifications to explore the ocean first hand and conduct underwater research, but I will be able to gather data on water quality, marine species, and the health of coral reefs. This information can inform us of conservation strategies and policy decisions. I intend to lead coral reef restoration projects. I will use techniques such as coral gardening and transplantation to help rehabilitate damaged reefs. It would be an honor to work with Dr. Earls group on Hope spots to protect and create more and to help them come back from damage and thrive. I want to leverage my passion for marine biology and the knowledge I am acquiring through formal training to make significant contributions to protecting the world's oceans and marine biodiversity. To do that I also want to use technology to make it possible for those with disabilities to do the same things that those without can in the world of research. Marine technology, such as underwater ROV’s (remote operated vehicles), can make it so those who cannot walk, can explore the deep ocean, and still perform under water research, as one example. I have Tourette’s and I am determined to inspire others with disabilities like me to use modern technology to explore the world and make continued discoveries. Our ocean needs everyone.

In the quaint town of Gig Harbor, where the waves seemed to always be in a gentle conversation with the shore, lived a boy named Dylan. At eleven years old, Dylan had an unshakeable love for marine biology, a passion that ignited whenever he gazed into the mysterious depths of the ocean. His bedroom was a tribute to the sea, adorned with posters of vibrant coral reefs, shelves lined with seashells, and a big, wobbly globe that spun endlessly, pointing out places he dreamed of exploring. Dylan’s motto was “What could go wrong?” A mantra he lived by with the enthusiasm of a sailor embarking on a grand voyage. It was a philosophy he used to embrace the unpredictable wonders of the ocean, and it often led him into the most fascinating—and occasionally peculiar—situations. One sunny afternoon, as Dylan meticulously examined the latest tide pool for signs of marine life, he found a curious, glistening object half-buried in the sand. It was an ornate, ancient-looking compass, its brass casing tarnished but still gleaming under the sunlight. The compass was peculiar—its needle spun erratically, never settling in one direction. Dylan’s eyes sparkled with excitement. “What could go wrong?” he thought, as he pocketed the compass and headed home. Later that evening, Dylan studied the compass under his desk lamp. It had strange markings around its edge, and the needle seemed to point in a direction other than north. Dylan’s imagination ran wild with possibilities. Could this be a treasure map? Or perhaps a magical compass leading to underwater adventures? The next morning, Dylan decided to test the compass’s mysterious capabilities. He packed a small bag with essentials: a notebook, a magnifying glass, a few snacks, and a water bottle. He slipped the compass into his pocket and set out toward the beach. His best friend, Kaleb, a fellow marine enthusiast with a sharp wit, met him along the way. “Morning, Dylan!” Kaleb greeted, his eyes scanning the compass. “What’s the adventure today?” “I found this compass,” Dylan explained, holding it up. “And I think it’s leading us somewhere amazing.” Kaleb raised an eyebrow. “You’re not planning to follow some old compass to find buried treasure, are you?” “Why not?” Dylan grinned. “What could go wrong?” They walked down the sandy path, the compass needle wobbling wildly as if it were having a fit. As they reached a secluded cove, the compass’s needle swung around and pointed toward a large, sunken rock formation. “Here!” Dylan declared, pointing. “The compass says this is the place.” The pair began to explore the area. With Kaleb’s help, they carefully moved the rocks and uncovered a small, hidden cave entrance, just big enough for them to crawl through. Inside the cave, it was dark but not too frightening. Dylan’s flashlight revealed a network of sparkling, mineral-rich walls. They followed the narrow passage until they stumbled upon a dazzling sight: an underground pool, its surface shimmering with a thousand tiny lights reflected from the bioluminescent algae. “Wow,” Kaleb whispered. “It’s like something out of a fantasy novel.” Just then, the water in the pool began to bubble and churn. Dylan and Kaleb exchanged wide-eyed glances as something emerged from the depths—a small, curious sea creature with translucent skin and a pair of luminescent fins. “It’s a sea sprite!” Dylan exclaimed, though he had only ever read about such creatures in books. The sprite floated gracefully above the water, examining the two intruders with its big, curious eyes. “Hello,” Dylan said tentatively. “We’re not here to cause any trouble. We’re just exploring.” The sea sprite made a soft, melodic sound that resonated through the cave. It appeared to be communicating with them, its gentle lights shifting in rhythm with the tones. The sprite then swam to the far end of the pool and touched a hidden lever on the wall. The stone shifted, revealing a hidden alcove with a chest. Kaleb and Dylan approached the chest, their hearts pounding with excitement. They carefully opened it, revealing not gold or jewels but a collection of old, weathered maps and scrolls, each detailing different parts of the ocean’s wonders. One map was a detailed illustration of a submerged reef brimming with exotic species and vibrant coral. “This is incredible,” Dylan said, his eyes wide with wonder. “These maps could lead to discoveries beyond our wildest dreams.” The sea sprite bobbed in agreement and then gently nudged a scroll towards them. It appeared to be a guide on how to preserve marine life and protect underwater habitats. The sprite’s message was clear: the true treasure was in safeguarding the ocean and its inhabitants. With newfound purpose, Dylan and Kaleb thanked the sea sprite, who floated back into the depths, its bioluminescent glow slowly fading. They made their way back to the beach, their hearts full of excitement and their minds brimming with plans. Over the following weeks, Dylan and Kaleb used the maps to explore and document new marine life around Gig Harbor. They shared their findings with the local marine conservation group, and the town began to embrace more environmentally friendly practices, inspired by the treasures Dylan and Kaleb had uncovered. The mysterious compass, which had led them on such a remarkable adventure, found a new home on Dylan’s desk, its needle now perfectly still as if it had fulfilled its purpose. Every time Dylan looked at it, he was reminded of the wondrous journey it had taken him on and the lessons learned about curiosity, exploration, and the importance of protecting the natural world. And so, with the mantra “What could go wrong?” still ringing in his ears, Dylan continued his adventures, knowing that sometimes, the greatest discoveries come from following a compass into the unknown, guided by curiosity and the promise of protecting the world he loved so much.

Using my dual degrees, marine biology, and small vessel operations, along with my master scuba certifications, I plan to follow in the footsteps of the great Dr. Sylvia Earle and protect our ocean reefs, resulting in a fulfilling and impactful career path. In 2014 Netflix released a documentary called “Mission Blue”. It is about Dr. Sylvia Earle, and her campaign to create a global network of protected marine sanctuaries. That was the year that I first knew I wanted to be a marine biologist. I had just visited the Seattle Aquarium and I fell in love with jellyfish. I may not have seen that Netflix special until a few years later, but when I did, the importance of what Dr. Earle has done and continues to do, stuck with me. This past year was my freshman year at Maine Maritime Academy. In that year I worked extremely hard and was very focused, resulting in making the Dean's list both semesters. By the time I was finished with my first year, I had earned 45.5 credits, exceeding that of a typical freshman who would earn 12-15 per semester. Because I am working towards a dual degree, my 4-year BA has an additional year added on to it resulting in 5 required and streamlined years. I am determined to leave school with a job offer from a company whose passions for the ocean are aligned to mine. This summer I was hoping to get an internship with a REU program. Being a first year, I was unable to land one. Instead I obtained an internship with our local non-profit boat shop, working on boats, manning the livery, and leading a summer camp children’s course on marine biology and conservation. I worked that during the day and in the evening, I have a job with our local non-profit YMCA camp working in the kitchen. The next 4 summers I am going to try even harder to obtain a REU so that I can have hands-on, real-life research experience working to save and protect our oceans. After college, it is my full intention to conduct field studies by manning my own research vessel to study marine ecosystems, including coral reefs and deep-sea environments like the Mariana Trench. Not only will I be able to use my diver certifications to explore the ocean first hand and conduct underwater research, but I will be able to gather data on water quality, marine species, and the health of coral reefs. This information can inform us of conservation strategies and policy decisions. I intend to lead coral reef restoration projects. I will use techniques such as coral gardening and transplantation to help rehabilitate damaged reefs. It would be an honor to work with Dr. Earls group on Hope spots to protect and create more that are protected to help them come back from damage and thrive. I want to leverage my passion for marine biology and the knowledge I am acquiring through formal training to make significant contributions to protecting the world's oceans and marine biodiversity. To do that I also want to use technology to make it possible for those with disabilities to do the same things that those without can in the world of research. Marine technology, such as underwater ROV’s (remote operated vehicles), can make it so those who cannot walk, can explore the deep ocean, and still perform under water research, as one example. I have Tourette’s and I am determined to inspire others with disabilities like me to use modern technology to explore the world and make continued discoveries. Our ocean needs everyone.

I have Tourette’s and I am determined to inspire others with disabilities like me to use modern technology to explore the world and make discoveries. For me, dealing with my disability includes shaking. Technology such as scuba gear hides that and being in the water gives me confidence. I want to give others the same confidence by using technology along with being part of creating new technologies that make it possible for those with disabilities to do the same things that those without can in the world of research. This past year was my freshman year at Maine Maritime Academy. Making and staying on the Dean’s List both semesters validated my academic abilities, along with my resistance and perseverance to not let my disability over power my future goals. By the time I was finished with my first year, I had earned 45.5 credits, exceeding that of a typical freshman who would earn 12-15 per semester. Because I am working towards a stem dual degree, marine biology, and small vessel operations, my 4-year BA has an additional year added on to it resulting in 5 required and streamlined years. Not only will I graduate with two degrees, but I will also have gone through all dive classes and leave with my Master Dive Certification, which I take classes on the weekend to finish. My school is streamlined and pushes us to work harder to achieve more. My interest in the ocean has made me realize the importance of marine technology in accessing the different parts of the ocean. Without the use of ROV’s and submersibles we wouldn’t be able to explore our ocean depths, that includes those capable of walking and those who need assistance. After college, it is my full intention to conduct field studies by manning my own research vessel to study marine ecosystems, including coral reefs and deep-sea environments like the Mariana Trench. I want to make sure that my vessels are suitable and equipped for access to those in wheel chairs. Together, we will be able to gather data on water quality, marine species, and the health of coral reefs. Information collected can guide us on conservation strategies and policy decisions. This will be combined with working on technologies for others with disabilities to participate in the field studies. By leveraging and creating new technologies, we will be expanding the opportunities for disabled scientists, resulting in more diverse solutions. I want to do my best to make it so there is a way for others to use technology and diversify the world in the realm of research with our oceans. My purpose in life is to give back to those in the disabled community like myself and make it so we all have the means to research and provide advancements despite having a physical impairment.

My greatest achievement so far has been to overcome my challenges with Tourette’s Syndrome. Through focused efforts and determination, I have developed strategies that help me to cope with my tics. College causes me stress which cause my face to send out signals to the world that I am in a state of anxiousness. I start to blink rapidly and often shake. I start to make noises with my throat which are not only distracting to me, but to others around me who hear it. I uncontrollably twitch my body at random periods of the day and once I start to twitch, I can’t stop. It has hindered my ability to pay attention to tasks as the twitches are incredibly distracting and are able to physically stop me from paying attention if either my head jerks around or my eyes are held shut. This past year was my freshman year at Maine Maritime Academy. In that year I worked extremely hard and was very focused, resulting in making the Dean’s list both semesters. Making and staying on the Dean’s List validated my academic abilities, along with my resistance and perseverance to not let my disability over power my future goals. By the time I was finished with my first year, I had earned 45.5 credits, exceeding that of a typical freshman who would earn 12-15 per semester. Because I am working towards a stem dual degree, marine biology, and small vessel operations, my 4-year BA has an additional year added on to it resulting in 5 required and streamlined years. Not only will I graduate with two degrees, but I will also have gone through all dive classes and leave with my Master Dive Certification, which I take classes on the weekend to finish. This summer, I was able to use leads from my community to obtain a summer internship with our local non-profit boat shop, working on boats, manning the livery, and leading a summer camp children’s course on marine biology and conservation. I work that during the day and in the evening, I have a job with our local non-profit YMCA camp working in the kitchen. Being able to learn locally allows me to give back to small businesses and non-profits. Although most of the Boat Shops positions are volunteer positions, being able to be on the pay roll allows me to save money to pay for the next term at Maine Maritime Academy. My hopes are to not be burdened with college debt when I graduate. Loans are the primary source of my tuition. This scholarship would help decrease those. My school, Maine Maritime Academy, is streamlined and pushes us to work harder to achieve more. My interest in the ocean has made me realize the importance of marine technology in accessing the different parts of the ocean. Without the use of ROV’s and submersibles we wouldn’t be able to explore our ocean depths, that includes those capable of walking and those who need assistance. After college, it is my full intention to conduct field studies by manning my own research vessel to study marine ecosystems, including coral reefs and deep-sea environments like the Mariana Trench. I want to make sure that my vessels are suitable and equipped for access to those in wheel chairs. Together, we will be able to gather data on water quality, marine species, and the health of coral reefs. Information collected can guide us on conservation strategies and policy decisions. This will be combined with working on technologies for others with disabilities to participate in the field studies.

My greatest achievement so far has been to overcome my challenges with Tourette’s Syndrome. Through focused efforts and determination, I have developed strategies that help me to cope with my tics. College causes me stress which cause my face to send out signals to the world that I am in a state of anxiousness. I start to blink rapidly and often shake. I start to make noises with my throat which are not only distracting to me, but to others around me who hear it. I uncontrollably twitch my body at random periods of the day and once I start to twitch, I can’t stop. It has hindered my ability to pay attention to tasks as the twitches are incredibly distracting and are able to physically stop me from paying attention if either my head jerks around or my eyes are held shut. This past year was my freshman year at Maine Maritime Academy. In that year I worked extremely hard and was very focused, resulting in making the Dean’s list both semesters. Making and staying on the Dean’s List validated my academic abilities, along with my resistance and perseverance to not let my disability over power my future goals. By the time I was finished with my first year, I had earned 45.5 credits, exceeding that of a typical freshman who would earn 12-15 per semester. Because I am working towards a dual degree, marine biology, and small vessel operations, my 4-year BA has an additional year added on to it resulting in 5 required and streamlined years. Not only will I graduate with two degrees, but I will also have gone through all dive classes and leave with my Master Dive Certification, which I take classes on the weekend to finish. This summer, I was able to use leads from my community to obtain a summer internship with our local non-profit boat shop, working on boats, manning the livery, and leading a summer camp children’s course on marine biology and conservation. I work that during the day and in the evening, I have a job with our local non-profit YMCA camp working in the kitchen. Being able to learn locally allows me to give back to small businesses and non-profits. Although most of the Boat Shops positions are volunteer positions, being able to be on the pay roll allows me to save money to pay for the next term at Maine Maritime Academy. My school, Maine Maritime Academy, is streamlined and pushes us to work harder to achieve more. My interest in the ocean has made me realize the importance of marine technology in accessing the different parts of the ocean. Without the use of ROV’s and submersibles we wouldn’t be able to explore our ocean depths, that includes those capable of walking and those who need assistance. After college, it is my full intention to conduct field studies by manning my own research vessel to study marine ecosystems, including coral reefs and deep-sea environments like the Mariana Trench. I want to make sure that my vessels are suitable and equipped for access to those in wheel chairs. Together, we will be able to gather data on water quality, marine species, and the health of coral reefs. Information collected can guide us on conservation strategies and policy decisions. This will be combined with working on technologies for others with disabilities to participate in the field studies. By leveraging and creating new technologies, we will be expanding the opportunities for disabled scientists, resulting in more diverse solutions. I refuse to let my disability define my potential.

Using my dual degrees, marine biology, and small vessel operations, along with my master scuba certifications, I plan to follow in the footsteps of the great Dr. Sylvia Earle and protect our ocean reefs, resulting in a fulfilling and impactful career path. In 2014 Netflix released a documentary called “Mission Blue”. It is about Dr. Sylvia Earle, and her campaign to create a global network of protected marine sanctuaries. That was the year that I first knew I wanted to be a marine biologist. I had just visited the Seattle Aquarium and I fell in love with jellyfish. I may not have seen that Netflix special until a few years later, but when I did, the importance of what Dr. Earle has done and continues to do, stuck with me. This past year was my freshman year at Maine Maritime Academy. In that year I worked extremely hard and was very focused, resulting in making the Dean's list both semesters. By the time I was finished with my first year, I had earned 45.5 credits, exceeding that of a typical freshman who would earn 12-15 per semester. Because I am working towards a dual degree, my 4-year BA has an additional year added on to it resulting in 5 required and streamlined years. I am determined to leave school with a job offer from a company whose passions for the ocean are aligned to mine. This summer I was hoping to get an internship with a REU program. Being a first year, I was unable to land one. Instead I obtained an internship with our local non-profit boat shop, working on boats, manning the livery, and leading a summer camp children’s course on marine biology and conservation. I worked that during the day and in the evening, I have a job with our local non-profit YMCA camp working in the kitchen. The next 4 summers I am going to try even harder to obtain a REU so that I can have hands-on, real-life research experience working to save and protect our oceans. After college, it is my full intention to conduct field studies by manning my own research vessel to study marine ecosystems, including coral reefs and deep-sea environments like the Mariana Trench. Not only will I be able to use my diver certifications to explore the ocean first hand and conduct underwater research, but I will be able to gather data on water quality, marine species, and the health of coral reefs. This information can inform us of conservation strategies and policy decisions. I intend to lead coral reef restoration projects. I will use techniques such as coral gardening and transplantation to help rehabilitate damaged reefs. It would be an honor to work with Dr. Earls group on Hope spots to protect and create more that are protected to help them come back from damage and thrive. I want to leverage my passion for marine biology and the knowledge I am acquiring through formal training to make significant contributions to protecting the world's oceans and marine biodiversity. To do that I also want to use technology to make it possible for those with disabilities to do the same things that those without can in the world of research. Marine technology, such as underwater ROV’s (remote operated vehicles), can make it so those who cannot walk, can explore the deep ocean, and still perform under water research, as one example. I have Tourette’s and I am determined to inspire others with disabilities like me to use modern technology to explore the world and make continued discoveries. Our ocean needs everyone.

I have Tourette’s and I am determined to inspire others with disabilities like me to use modern technology to explore the world and make discoveries. I want to educate those without disabilities so that they can work towards advancements for those with disabilities. For me, dealing with my disability includes shaking. Technology such as scuba gear hides that and being in the water gives me confidence. I want to give others the same confidence by using technology along with being part of creating new technologies that make it possible for those with disabilities to do the same things that those without can in the world of research. This past year was my freshman year at Maine Maritime Academy. In that year I worked extremely hard and was very focused, resulting in making the Dean’s list both semesters. By the time I was finished with my first year, I had earned 45.5 credits, exceeding that of a typical freshman who would earn 12-15 per semester. Because I am working towards a dual degree, marine biology, and small vessel operations, my 4-year BA has an additional year added on to it resulting in 5 required and streamlined years. Not only will I graduate with two degrees, but I will also have gone through all dive classes and leave with my Master Dive Certification, which I take classes on the weekend to finish. This summer, I was able to use leads from my community to obtain a summer internship with our local non-profit boat shop, working on boats, manning the livery, and leading a summer camp children’s course on marine biology and conservation. I work that during the day and in the evening, I have a job with our local non-profit YMCA camp working in the kitchen. Being able to learn locally allows me to give back to small businesses and non-profits. Although most of the Boat Shops positions are volunteer positions, being able to be on the pay roll allows me to save money to pay for the next term at Maine Maritime Academy. My school, Maine Maritime Academy is streamlined and pushes us to work harder to achieve more. My interest in the ocean has made me realize the importance of marine technology in accessing the different parts of the ocean. Without the use of ROV’s and submersibles we wouldn’t be able to explore our ocean depths, that includes those capable of walking and those who need assistance. After college, it is my full intention to conduct field studies by manning my own research vessel to study marine ecosystems, including coral reefs and deep-sea environments like the Mariana Trench. I want to make sure that my vessels are suitable and equipped for access to those in wheel chairs. Together, we will be able to gather data on water quality, marine species, and the health of coral reefs. Information collected can guide us on conservation strategies and policy decisions. This will be combined with working on technologies for others with disabilities to participate in the field studies. By leveraging and creating new technologies, we will be expanding the opportunities for disabled scientists, resulting in more diverse solutions. I want to do my best to make it so there is a way for others to use technology and diversify the world in the realm of research with our oceans. My purpose in life is to give back to those in the disabled community like myself and make it so we all have the means to research and provide advancements despite having a physical impairment.

Community and family go hand in hand. Community is anyone who comes together to make a shared interest the best that it can be. My parents’ friends and family are a community who support me and have been there to help me and make me the best that I can be. One thing that is significant to me about both of my community and family is that through my entire life, I have never felt like my dreams were unreachable. Those two groups have always been my biggest fans and have given me more than enough support to make me confident in what I become as an adult. After graduation, I was thrown a party to celebrate like many do. Even though there are no wealthy people in our community of family and friends, I was given gifts of money to help pay for my first semester at school. It was not a lot, but it was a lot from those who gave. I could not believe how supportive they were being. Not only that, but the words of encouragement and the constant calling and checking in on me my first year, that is something to be cherished. This past year was my freshman year at Maine Maritime Academy. In that year I worked extremely hard and was very focused, resulting in making the Deans list both semesters. By the time I was finished with my first year, I had earned 45.5 credits, exceeding that of a typical freshman who would earn 12-15 per semester. Because I am working towards a dual degree, marine biology and small vessel operations, my 4-year BA has an additional year added on to it resulting in 5 required and streamlined years. I am determined to leave school with a job offer from a company whose passions for the ocean are aligned to mine. I attend school in Maine despite being from Gig Harbor, Wa. I grew up in rural Key Peninsula my entire life. I was able to use leads from my community to obtain a summer internship with our local non-profit boat shop, working on boats, manning the livery, and leading a summer camp children’s course on marine biology and conservation. I worked that during the day and in the evening, I have a job with our local YMCA camp working in the kitchen. Being able to learn locally allows me to give back to small businesses and non-profits. Although most of the Boat Shops positions are volunteer positions, being able to be on the pay roll allows me to save money to pay for the next term at Maine Maritime Academy. My school, Maine Maritime Academy is streamlined and pushes us to work harder to achieve more. My interest in the ocean has made me realize the importance of marine technology in accessing the different parts of the ocean. Without the use of ROV’s and submersibles we wouldn’t be able to explore our ocean depths, that includes those capable of walking and those who need assistance. Not everyone is going to be fully capable in the same way. I want to do my best to make it so there is a way for others to use technology and diversify the world in the realm of research with our oceans. My purpose in life is to give back to those in the disabled community like myself and make it so we all have the means to research and provide advancements despite having a physical impairment.

I have Tourette’s. College causes me stress. Together, those things team up and cause my face to send out signals to the world that I am in a state of anxiousness. I start to blink rapidly and often shake. I start to make noises with my throat which are not only distracting to me, but to others around me who hear it. I uncontrollably twitch my body at random periods of the day and once I start to twitch, I can’t stop. It has hindered my ability to pay attention to tasks as the twitches are incredibly distracting and are able to physically stop me from paying attention if either my head jerks around or my eyes are held shut. It has taken me many years, but I have discovered multiple ways to bypass the twitching which include distracting myself and a strong mental fortitude. Anxiety will always be there, but it will not stop me. I am determined to inspire others with disabilities like me to use modern technology to explore the world and make discoveries. For me, dealing with my disability includes shaking. Technology such as scuba gear hides that and being in the water gives me confidence. I want to give others the same confidence by using technology along with being part of creating new technologies that make it possible for those with disabilities to do the same things that those without can in the world of research. This past year was my freshman year at Maine Maritime Academy. In that year I worked extremely hard and was very focused, resulting in making the Dean’s list both semesters. By the time I was finished with my first year, I had earned 45.5 credits, exceeding that of a typical freshman who would earn 12-15 per semester. Because I am working towards a dual degree in both Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations, my 4-year BA has an additional year added on to it resulting in 5 required and streamlined years. Not only will I graduate with two degrees, but I will also have gone through all dive classes and leave with my Master Dive Certification, which I take classes on the weekend to finish. After college, it is my full intention to conduct field studies by manning my own research vessel to study marine ecosystems, including coral reefs and deep-sea environments like the Mariana Trench. I will be able to gather data on water quality, marine species, and the health of coral reefs. This information can inform us of conservation strategies and policy decisions. This will be combined with working on technologies for others with disabilities to participate in the field studies. This summer I obtained an internship with our local non-profit boat shop, working on boats, manning the livery, and leading a summer camp children’s course on marine biology and conservation. I work that during the day and in the evening, I have a job with our local YMCA camp working in the kitchen. I am working very hard at securing funding for tuition by doubling up on summer jobs and applying for at least 5 scholarships a day. I currently need $24k to pay for this next year and this scholarship would help me to break that down even more. Alleviating the stress of tuition would allow me to focus on my studies and continue to make the Dean’s List each semester, resulting in the chance to be hired by top conservation companies based on my determination and hard work in school. Anxiety will be present, but it will not stop my dreams.

I have Tourette’s and I am determined to inspire others with disabilities like me to use modern technology to explore the world and make discoveries. I want to educate those without disabilities so that they can work towards advancements for those with disabilities. For me, dealing with my disability includes shaking. Technology such as scuba gear hides that and being in the water gives me confidence. I want to give others the same confidence by using technology along with being part of creating new technologies that make it possible for those with disabilities to do the same things that those without can in the world of research. This past year was my freshman year at Maine Maritime Academy. In that year I worked extremely hard and was very focused, resulting in making the Dean’s list both semesters. By the time I was finished with my first year, I had earned 45.5 credits, exceeding that of a typical freshman who would earn 12-15 per semester. Because I am working towards a dual degree in both Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations, my 4-year BA has an additional year added on to it resulting in 5 required and streamlined years. Not only will I graduate with two degrees, but I will also have gone through all dive classes and leave with my Master Dive Certification, which I take classes on the weekend to finish. College causes stress. The stress of passing classes or paying for tuition hit me hard. Stress causes my face to send out signals to the world that I am in a state of anxiousness. I start to blink rapidly and often shake. I start to make noises with my throat which are not only distracting to me, but to others around me who hear it. I uncontrollably twitch my body at random periods of the day and once I start to twitch, I can’t stop. It has hindered my ability to pay attention to tasks as the twitches are incredibly distracting and are able to physically stop me from paying attention if either my head jerks around or my eyes are held shut. It has taken me many years, but I have discovered multiple ways to bypass the twitching which include distracting myself and a strong mental fortitude. After college, it is my full intention to conduct field studies by manning my own research vessel to study marine ecosystems, including coral reefs and deep-sea environments like the Mariana Trench. I will be able to gather data on water quality, marine species, and the health of coral reefs. This information can inform us of conservation strategies and policy decisions. This will be combined with working on technologies for others with disabilities to participate in the field studies. This summer I obtained an internship with our local non-profit boat shop, working on boats, manning the livery, and leading a summer camp children’s course on marine biology and conservation. I work that during the day and in the evening, I have a job with our local YMCA camp working in the kitchen. I am working very hard at securing funding for tuition by doubling up on summer jobs and applying for at least 5 scholarships a day. I currently need $24k to pay for this next year and this scholarship would help me to break that down even more. Alleviating the stress of tuition would allow me to focus on my studies and continue to make the Dean’s List each semester, resulting in the chance to be hired by top conservation companies based on my determination and hard work in school.

I have Tourette’s and I am determined to inspire others with disabilities like me to use modern technology to explore the world and make discoveries. Disabilities come in all shapes and sizes. For me, dealing with my disability includes shaking. Technology such as scuba gear hides that and being in the water gives me confidence. I want to give others the same confidence by using technology along with being part of creating new technologies that make it possible for those with disabilities to do the same things that those without can in the world of research. This past year was my freshman year at Maine Maritime Academy. In that year I worked extremely hard and was very focused, resulting in making the Dean’s list both semesters. By the time I was finished with my first year, I had earned 45.5 credits, exceeding that of a typical freshman who would earn 12-15 per semester. Because I am working towards a dual degree in both Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations, my 4-year BA has an additional year added on to it resulting in 5 required and streamlined years. Not only will I graduate with two degrees, but I will also have gone through all dive classes and leave with my Master Dive Certification, which I take classes on the weekend to finish. College causes stress. The stress of passing classes or paying for tuition hit me hard. Stress causes my face to send out signals to the world that I am in a state of anxiousness. I start to blink rapidly and often shake. I start to make noises with my throat which are not only distracting to me, but to others around me who hear it. I uncontrollably twitch my body at random periods of the day and once I start to twitch, I can’t stop. It has hindered my ability to pay attention to tasks as the twitches are incredibly distracting and are able to physically stop me from paying attention if either my head jerks around or my eyes are held shut. It has taken me many years, but I have discovered multiple ways to bypass the twitching which include distracting myself and a strong mental fortitude. After college, it is my full intention to conduct field studies by manning my own research vessel to study marine ecosystems, including coral reefs and deep-sea environments like the Mariana Trench. I will be able to gather data on water quality, marine species, and the health of coral reefs. This information can inform us of conservation strategies and policy decisions. This will be combined with working on technologies for others with disabilities to participate in the field studies. This summer I obtained an internship with our local non-profit boat shop, working on boats, manning the livery, and leading a summer camp children’s course on marine biology and conservation. I work that during the day and in the evening, I have a job with our local YMCA camp working in the kitchen. I am working very hard at securing funding for tuition by doubling up on summer jobs and applying for at least 5 scholarships a day. I currently need $24k to pay for this next year and this scholarship would help me to break that down even more. Alleviating the stress of tuition would allow me to focus on my studies and continue to make the Dean’s List each semester, resulting in the chance to be hired by top conservation companies based on my determination and hard work in school.

As an undergraduate studying to become a marine biologist, I never imagined using math as much as I do. I had imagined that I was going to sail the seas and discover new creatures or save our oceans ever since I was in elementary school. Being in a stem field as I am, it is more than that. It requires using tools that focus on change such as calculus to be able to make the impact and predictions that help with protecting the ocean and the creatures that reside within it. One area that we study as scientists are the populations of different species. By using calculus, we can create models to predict how populations increase or decrease over time. We can use differential equations to figure out how many fish will be in a certain area in the future, considering factors like birth rates and predators. This allows us to make predictions that are more accurate. For fish to be able to thrive in a particular area they need to meet certain requirements such as adequate marine nutrients. Nutrients in the ocean, like oxygen and minerals, move and disperse. Calculus helps you understand how these nutrients travel and mix in the water. This is crucial for studying where marine life can thrive. You need to have proper nutrients for not only the animals but also the vegetation the animals live on. At times marine animals move from one location to another. Whales as an example will do this in particular patterns. We can use calculus to model these movements and study their migration patterns to understand why it is they are doing this. The same goes for other animals such as fish or even turtles. Pollution in our oceans can make the waters unlivable. If the ocean becomes to polluted, that area tends to loose its life. When ecosystems are disrupted from this, they become unhealthy and unhabitable. Calculus helps you calculate things like the total biomass, or the mass of all living things, in a particular area. This helps you understand the productivity and health of marine ecosystems. Thinking about ecosystems is important for us to see how one species might affect another species if it were to leave. If a food source was to leave an area, that might require the predator to have to leave also and set off a chain of events that would impact the whole ecosystem. Those population changes can be monitored or predicted with math. Another thing that is important for us to study are the ocean currents. We can use calculus to understand those currents.Currents are like rivers within the ocean. Current can affect everything from climate to where a marine animal can live. We as scientists can use calculus to predict current changes over a span of time and add in different factors such as how climate change might affect those currents. Humans can have significant impacts on marine life. Scientists can model a potential situation that has been known to happen, such as oil spills, and use math to find ways to minimize the damage it would cause. When it comes to a tool that a marine biologist or many other scientists rely on, calculus is a definite must have. We heavily rely on and will rely on using it to understand and make predictions in our field.

The year is 2053. You may have heard of me, not only as the scientist who's Tourettes sometimes get mistaken for head banging, but also as the scientist who has inspired others with disabilities like me to use modern technology to explore the world and make discoveries. Every day, for the last two years, I apply for at least 5 scholarships. Every day I stress about the fees and interest on loans that are holding students in a debt cloud. This scholarship would help relieve some of the stress that I carry. I am currently at home working 2 jobs for the summer so that I can try and raise enough to pay for my next semester. I work days as an intern at our local Boat Shop and nights I work at the YMCA Camp close to where I live. I am pursuing my dual degree in both small vessel operations, which will result in me getting my USCG license, and my bachelor’s in marine biology, which requires an additional year making my 4-year BA a 5-year BA. I am the first person to go to college in my family and I will graduate no matter the hurdle. This past year, my freshman year, was a whirlwind that came in fast, and passed by me before I had time to realize it. I went from one side of the country, growing up in Washington, and moved to Maine to attend Maine Maritime Academy. I was not prepared for how intense the school is. In high school I was in advanced classes, and they came easy to me. Easy enough that I didn’t really try. When I reflect on my first year as an undergraduate, I realize I had taken for granted just how easy life before Maine Maritime really was. Maine Maritime Academy has heightened my academic abilities. In the past year I have earned 42.5 credits, which is much higher than the average college student earning 12-15 per semester. With the additional class load comes additional tuition. I came to the school with my basic scuba certification. Spring semester I took my advanced class and will be getting certified for that when I return in the fall. I am signed up for my rescue diver certification also. It is my intention to become a Master Diver by the time I am finished with my junior year. Not only does it cost more to take these additional courses, but they are also in addition to the full load I am already working through. I take these courses on the weekends at the school. Even with the added year and the weekend classes, I have managed to make the Deans list both semesters last year. As a dual major, Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations, and it is my intention to use technology along with being part of creating new technologies that make it possible for those with disabilities to do the same things those without can in the world of research. Marine technology, such as underwater ROV’s (remote operated vehicles), can make it so those who cannot walk can explore the deep ocean, as one example. My interest in the ocean has made me realize the importance of marine technology in accessing the different parts of the ocean. Without the use of ROV’s and submersibles we wouldn’t be able to explore our ocean depths, that includes those capable of walking and those who need assistance. Fusion. As weird as it may sound, that is what Heavy Metal music is to me. I was diagnosed with Tourette's Syndrome at the beginning of 7th grade. I started not being able to control my facial and arm movements along with making noises from my throat that wouldn’t stop the prior summer. Heavy Metal being played in my car as I twitch creates a fusion of natural, unstoppable, body movements with the loud emphasis of anger and sometimes self pitty that I feel when I am not in control.

I have Tourette’s and I am determined to inspire others with disabilities like me to use modern technology to explore the world and make discoveries. Every day I apply for at least 5 scholarships. Every day I stress about the fees and interest on loans that are holding students in a debt cloud. This scholarship would help relieve some of the stress that I carry. I just finished my freshman year and I am currently at home working 2 jobs for the summer so that I can try and raise enough to pay for my next semester. As a dual major, Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations, and it is my intention to use technology along with be part of creating new technologies that make it possible for those with disabilities to do the same things those without can in the world of research. Marine technology, such as underwater ROV’s (remote operated vehicles), can make it so those who cannot walk can explore the deep ocean, as one example. My interest in the ocean has made me realize the importance of marine technology in accessing the different parts of the ocean. Without the use of ROV’s and submersibles we wouldn’t be able to explore our ocean depths, that includes those capable of walking and those who need assistance. This past year, my freshman year, was a whirlwind that came in fast, and passed by me before I had time to realize it. I went from one side of the country, growing up in Washington state, and moved to Maine to attend Maine Maritime Academy. I was not prepared for how intense the school is. In high school I was in advanced classes, and they came easy to me. Easy enough that I didn’t really try. When I reflect on my first year as an undergraduate, I realize I had taken for granted just how easy life before Maine Maritime really was. College is hard. College is a lot of work. A streamlined college is many more times harder than that. Maine Maritime Academy has truly heightened my academic abilities. In the past year I have earned 42.5 credits, which is much higher than the average college student earning 12-15 per semester. My favorite classes have been lab classes which typically last three hours each class. With the school being an academy, it is very specialized and does not waste any class spots with unnecessary subjects. Since I am pursuing my dual degree in both small vessel operations, which will result in me getting my USCG license, and my bachelor’s in marine biology, I am taking on an additional year making my 4-year BA a 5-year BA. As for funding, I imagine the freedom of being able to be the first person to go to college in my family and to know that the only thing I have to worry about is studying so that I get good grades and can be a top contender for companies who want to hire me as after graduation. I imagine this every time I apply for a scholarship. Every day I apply for at least 5 scholarships. Every day I hope to win.

Every day I apply for at least 5 scholarships. Every day I stress about the fees and interest on loans that are holding students in a debt cloud. This scholarship would help relieve some of the stress that I carry. I just finished my freshman year at Maine Maritime Academy, and I am currently at home working 2 jobs in Washington State for the summer so that I can try and raise enough to pay for my next semester. Maine Maritime Academy has heightened my academic abilities. In the past year I have earned 42.5 credits, which is much higher than the average college student earning 12-15 per semester. Since I am pursuing my dual degree in both small vessel operations, which will result in me getting my USCG license, and my bachelor’s in marine biology, I am taking on an additional year making my 4-year BA a 5-year BA. I have Tourette’s Syndrome. When it comes to college and the normal stresses a new freshman faces, my disability presents itself in a very visual manner. I do not have the funds to afford to take failed classes more than once. Paying for them the first time is a struggle, as it with most college students. I become very stressed at the thought of failing a test to the point of triggering my tics and causing them to flair. Nature is a massive help in curving my stress and dealing with my Tourette’s Syndrome. Due to my admiration for the sea, I find nothing more peaceful than diving under the surface and getting a firsthand experience of how the sea environment interacts with its self. I came to the school with my basic scuba certification. Spring semester I took my advanced class and will be getting certified for that when I return in the fall. I am signed up for my rescue diver certification also. It is my intention to become a Master Diver by the time I am finished with my junior year. Not only does it cost more to take these additional courses, but they are also in addition to the full load I am already working through. I take these courses on the weekends at the school. The beauty I find in watching fish swim, crabs walk, and anemones sway is something that can cure any kind of worry. If I am too far from the water or without equipment, then a walk through the woods, finding a trail somewhere or heading to the mountains to hike, can do the same job as diving. As someone who has lived near the woods for my entire life, it is very surreal to take a walk through the woods when no one else is around and witness the way that nature will take its course. I have had my discovery pass for Washington State since I was able to drive. There are times I find myself driving to the mountains, even alone , just to get a sense of calm. Some of the grandest walks I have taken occurred in places such as the woods around my school or in national parks such as Acadia in Maine. No matter where or what I am doing, a nice scenic view can always cure my anxiety. If I cannot get out in nature, I find it helpful to simulate the climbing thrill by going to the indoor climbing facilities. Both Maine and Washington have them and on a rainy day, that is where I head when I need to clear my head.

Technology for the disabled. I have Tourette’s and I am determined to inspire others with disabilities like me to use modern technology to explore the world and make discoveries. Disabilities come in all shapes and sizes. For me, dealing with my disability includes shaking. Technology such as scuba gear hides that and being in the water gives me confidence. I want to give others the same confidence. I am a dual major, Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations, and it is my intention to use technology along with be part of creating new technologies that make it possible for those with disabilities to do the same things those without can in the world of research. Marine technology, such as underwater ROV’s (remote operated vehicles), can make it so those who cannot walk can explore the deep ocean, as one example. My interest in the ocean has made me realize the importance of marine technology in accessing the different parts of the ocean. Without the use of ROV’s and submersibles we wouldn’t be able to explore our ocean depths, that includes those capable of walking and those who need assistance. This past year, my freshman year, was a whirlwind that came in fast, and passed by me before I had time to realize it. I went from one side of the country, growing up in Washington state, and moved to Maine to attend Maine Maritime Academy. I was not prepared for how intense the school is. In high school I was in advanced classes, and they came easy to me. Easy enough that I didn’t really try. When I reflect on my first year as an undergraduate, I realize I had taken for granted just how easy life before Maine Maritime really was. College is hard. College is a lot of work. A streamlined college is many more times harder than that. Maine Maritime Academy has truly heightened my academic abilities. In the past year I have earned 42.5 credits, which is much higher than the average college student earning 12-15 per semester. My favorite classes have been lab classes which typically last three hours each class. With the school being an academy, it is very specialized and does not waste any class spots with unnecessary subjects. Since I am pursuing my dual degree in both small vessel operations, which will result in me getting my USCG license, and my bachelor’s in marine biology, I am taking on an additional year making my 4-year BA a 5-year BA. As for funding, I imagine the freedom of being able to be the first person to go to college in my family and to know that the only thing I have to worry about is studying so that I get good grades and can be a top contender for companies who want to hire me as after graduation. I imagine this every time I apply for a scholarship. Every day I apply for at least 5 scholarships. Every day I hope to win.

Technology for the disabled. I have Tourette’s and I am determined to inspire others with disabilities like me to use modern technology to explore the world and make discoveries. Disabilities come in all shapes and sizes. For me, dealing with my disability includes shaking. Technology such as scuba gear hides that and being in the water gives me confidence. I want to give others the same confidence. I am a dual major, Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations, and it is my intention to use technology along with be part of creating new technologies that make it possible for those with disabilities to do the same things those without can in the world of research. Marine technology, such as underwater ROV’s (remote operated vehicles), can make it so those who cannot walk can explore the deep ocean, as one example. My interest in the ocean has made me realize the importance of marine technology in accessing the different parts of the ocean. Without the use of ROV’s and submersibles we wouldn’t be able to explore our ocean depths, that includes those capable of walking and those who need assistance. This past year, my freshman year, was a whirlwind that came in fast, and passed by me before I had time to realize it. I went from one side of the country, growing up in Washington state, and moved to Maine to attend Maine Maritime Academy. I was not prepared for how intense the school is. In high school I was in advanced classes, and they came easy to me. Easy enough that I didn’t really try. When I reflect on my first year as an undergraduate, I realize I had taken for granted just how easy life before Maine Maritime really was. College is hard. College is a lot of work. A streamlined college is many more times harder than that. Maine Maritime Academy has truly heightened my academic abilities. In the past year I have earned 42.5 credits, which is much higher than the average college student earning 12-15 per semester. My favorite classes have been lab classes which typically last three hours each class. With the school being an academy, it is very specialized and does not waste any class spots with unnecessary subjects. Since I am pursuing my dual degree in both small vessel operations, which will result in me getting my USCG license, and my bachelor’s in marine biology, I am taking on an additional year making my 4-year BA a 5-year BA. As for funding, I imagine the freedom of being able to be the first person to go to college in my family and to know that the only thing I have to worry about is studying so that I get good grades and can be a top contender for companies who want to hire me as after graduation. I imagine this every time I apply for a scholarship. Every day I apply for at least 5 scholarships. Every day I hope to win.

Technology for the disabled. I have Tourette’s and I am determined to inspire others with disabilities like me to use modern technology to explore the world and make discoveries. Disabilities come in all shapes and sizes. For me, dealing with my disability includes shaking. Technology such as scuba gear hides that and being in the water gives me confidence. I want to give others the same confidence. I am a dual major, Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations, and it is my intention to use technology along with be part of creating new technologies that make it possible for those with disabilities to do the same things those without can in the world of research. Marine technology, such as underwater ROV’s (remote operated vehicles), can make it so those who cannot walk can explore the deep ocean, as one example. My interest in the ocean has made me realize the importance of marine technology in accessing the different parts of the ocean. Without the use of ROV’s and submersibles we wouldn’t be able to explore our ocean depths, that includes those capable of walking and those who need assistance. This past year, my freshman year, was a whirlwind that came in fast, and passed by me before I had time to realize it. I went from one side of the country, growing up in Washington state, and moved to Maine to attend Maine Maritime Academy. I was not prepared for how intense the school is. In high school I was in advanced classes, and they came easy to me. Easy enough that I didn’t really try. When I reflect on my first year as an undergraduate, I realize I had taken for granted just how easy life before Maine Maritime really was. College is hard. College is a lot of work. A streamlined college is many more times harder than that. Maine Maritime Academy has truly heightened my academic abilities. In the past year I have earned 42.5 credits, which is much higher than the average college student earning 12-15 per semester. My favorite classes have been lab classes which typically last three hours each class. With the school being an academy, it is very specialized and does not waste any class spots with unnecessary subjects. Since I am pursuing my dual degree in both small vessel operations, which will result in me getting my USCG license, and my bachelor’s in marine biology, I am taking on an additional year making my 4-year BA a 5-year BA. As for funding, I imagine the freedom of being able to be the first person to go to college in my family and to know that the only thing I have to worry about is studying so that I get good grades and can be a top contender for companies who want to hire me as after graduation. I imagine this every time I apply for a scholarship. Every day I apply for at least 5 scholarships. Every day I hope to win.

Technology for the disabled. I have Tourettes and I am determined to inspire others with disabilities like me to use modern technology to explore the world and make discoveries. Disabilities come in all shapes and sizes. For me, dealing with my disability includes shaking. Technology such as scuba gear hides that and being in the water gives me confidence. I want to give others the same confidence. I am a dual major, Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations, and it is my intention to use technology along with be part of creating new technologies that make it possible for those with disabilities to do the same things those without can in the world of research. Marine technology, such as underwater ROV’s (remote operated vehicles), can make it so those who cannot walk can explore the deep ocean, as one example. My interest in the ocean has made me realize the importance of marine technology in accessing the different parts of the ocean. Without the use of ROV’s and submersibles we wouldn’t be able to explore our ocean depths, that includes those capable of walking and those who need assistance. When it comes to college and the normal stresses a new freshman faces, my disability presents itself in a very visual manner. My face sends out signals to the world that I am in a state of anxiousness. The way that I deal with this is very simple yet beyond helpful in numerous situations, all it takes is a step back, deep breaths, and a “I got this” ideology. No matter what stresses will always present themselves. It’s about how we respond to stresses that shows the strength of our character. I have a character that can fight through difficulties and come out a better person. Nature is a massive help in curving my stress and dealing with my Tourette’s Syndrome. Due to my admiration for the sea, I find nothing more peaceful than diving under the surface and getting a firsthand experience of how the sea environment interacts with its self. The beauty I find in watching fish swim, crabs walk, and anemones sway is something that can cure any kind of worry. If I am too far from the water or not with any equipment, then a walk through the woods can do the same job as diving. Today, there are so many people that need financial help to pay for college. I am no different. Every day I apply for at least 5 scholarships. Every day I stress about the fees and interest on loans that are holding students in a debt cloud. I imagine that I no longer have this worry and that my future is impactful on those with disabilities like me. Not everyone is going to be fully capable or the same. I want to do my best to make it so there is a way for others to use technology and diversify the world in the realm of research with our oceans.

Technology for the disabled. I have Tourettes and I am determined to inspire others with disabilities like me to use modern technology to explore the world and make discoveries. Disabilities come in all shapes and sizes. For me, dealing with my disability includes shaking. Technology such as scuba gear hides that and being in the water gives me confidence. I want to give others the same confidence. I am a dual major, Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations, and it is my intention to use technology along with be part of creating new technologies that make it possible for those with disabilities to do the same things those without can in the world of research. Marine technology, such as underwater ROV’s (remote operated vehicles), can make it so those who cannot walk can explore the deep ocean, as one example. My interest in the ocean has made me realize the importance of marine technology in accessing the different parts of the ocean. Without the use of ROV’s and submersibles we wouldn’t be able to explore our ocean depths, that includes those capable of walking and those who need assistance. When it comes to college and the normal stresses a new freshman faces, my disability presents itself in a very visual manner. My face sends out signals to the world that I am in a state of anxiousness. The way that I deal with this is very simple yet beyond helpful in numerous situations, all it takes is a step back, deep breaths, and a “I got this” ideology. No matter what stresses will always present themselves. It’s about how we respond to stresses that shows the strength of our character. I have a character that can fight through difficulties and come out a better person. Nature is a massive help in curving my stress and dealing with my Tourette’s Syndrome. Due to my admiration for the sea, I find nothing more peaceful than diving under the surface and getting a firsthand experience of how the sea environment interacts with its self. The beauty I find in watching fish swim, crabs walk, and anemones sway is something that can cure any kind of worry. If I am too far from the water or not with any equipment, then a walk through the woods can do the same job as diving. Today, there are so many people that need financial help to pay for college. I am no different. Every day I apply for at least 5 scholarships. Every day I stress about the fees and interest on loans that are holding students in a debt cloud. I imagine that I no longer have this worry and that my future is impactful on those with disabilities like me. Not everyone is going to be fully capable or the same. I want to do my best to make it so there is a way for others to use technology and diversify the world in the realm of research with our oceans.

Imagine the freedom of being able to be the first person to go to college in your family and knowing that the only thing you have to worry about is studying so that you get good grades and are a top contender for research companies to want to hire you as you after graduation. This is what I imagine every time I apply for a scholarship. Today, there are so many people that need financial help to pay for college. I am no different. Every day I apply for at least 5 scholarships. Everyday I hope that this scholarship is the one that I am chosen for. Every day I stress about the fees and interest on loans that are holding students in a debt cloud. I imagine that I no longer have this worry and that my future is impactful on those with disabilities like me. I am a dual major, Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations, and it is my intention to use technology along with be part of creating new technologies that make it possible for those with disabilities to do the same things those without can in the world of research. Marine technology, such as underwater ROV’s (remote operated vehicles), can make it so those who cannot walk can explore the deep ocean, as one example. My interest in the ocean has made me realize the importance of marine technology in accessing the different parts of the ocean. Without the use of ROV’s and submersibles we wouldn’t be able to explore our ocean depths, that includes those capable of walking and those who need assistance. I may not be able to ever actually be cured of Tourette’s Syndrome, but I have absolutely overcome my hardships faced by it. When it comes to college and the normal stresses a new freshman faces, my disability presents itself in a very visual manner. My face starts sending out signals to the world that I am in a state of anxiousness. The way that I deal with this is very simple yet beyond helpful in numerous situations, all it takes is a step back, deep breaths, and a “I got this” ideology. No matter what stresses will always present themselves. It’s about how we respond to stresses that shows the strength of our character. I have a character that can fight through difficulties and come out a better person. Nature is a massive help in curving my stress and dealing with my Tourette’s Syndrome. Due to my admiration for the sea, I find nothing more peaceful than diving under the surface and getting a firsthand experience of how the sea environment interacts with its self. If I am too far from the water or not with any equipment, then a walk through the woods can do the same job as diving. As someone who has lived near the woods for my entire life, it is very surreal to take a walk through the woods when no one else is around and witness the way that nature will take its course. Some of the grandest walks I have taken occurred in places such as the woods around my school or in national parks such as Acadia in Maine. No matter where or what I am doing, a nice scenic view can always cure my anxiety. Not everyone is going to be fully capable or the same. I want to do my best to make it so there is a way for others to use technology and diversify the world in the realm of research with our oceans.

The year is 2045. You know my name. Dylan Fraioli Why do you know my name? That's right, I have followed in the footsteps of Dr. Sylvia Earle and have carried on her life's work of launching 200 more "Hope Spots". Currently, I attend Maine Maritime Academy pursuing my dual degree in Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations. I have dreamt of going into the field since I went to the Seattle Aquarium when I was in 5th grade. I have the desire to go into the farthest depths of the ocean and discover what allows the species down there to live under intense pressure, harshly cold temperatures, low food, and with no vision. I wish to know if these species can shed light upon us and give ideas and inspiration for new ways to combat problems we are experiencing now like climate change. If I can discover and research the organisms that can replenish our world's situation then, and only then, can I truly believe that the hard work I put in to be given the opportunities that I will attain has come to a slow. The hard work I put in will never stop but it will slow once the world’s environment returns to an incline. To make a positive impact, you need to be able to show the world you can overcome obstacles of any magnitude. Obstacles we encounter in life will make us either stronger if we can overcome them or leave us struggling if we let them overcome us. I was diagnosed with Tourette's Syndrome at the beginning of 7th grade. I started not being able to control my facial and arm movements along with making noises from my throat that wouldn’t stop the prior summer. I was worried that having the disability to not control my movements would limit me from the dreams and hobbies I loved. I feared that I couldn't accomplish in academics, which anyone else could. However, I faced the fear head-on and overcame my difficulties. I took a physical disability and turned it into future-motivated years of many difficult AP classes and two semesters of dean’s list. I didn't stop or get discouraged when I realized that there would be challenges ahead of me. I didn’t makeup reasons why my ticks were happening, and I didn’t let the comments from people bother me. I went forward and earned my place in the minds of people not as the disabled student but as the student with 4 AP science classes and the largest knowledge of Marine Zoology in the school. Financial aid is a necessity for me to pay for college. With scholarships, I can lessen the amount of cost significantly from $250,000+. My family situation is split with no extra income able to help me financially. Without scholarships, I will be forced to take out large amounts of loans every year to keep up with my dream and passion. Scholarships are going to be the difference between our world without change and heading to unfixable destruction or saving the world and the organisms that live with it.

Mission Blue. In 2014 Netflix put out a documentary called " Mission Blue. It is about legendary oceanographer, marine biologist, environmentalist, and National Geographic Explorer-in-Residence Dr. Sylvia Earle and her campaign to create a global network of protected marine sanctuaries. Watching Dr. Sylvia Earle create Mission Blue and live out her dream through a mass number of other marine biologists, in her element, explore the deep and look for hope spots, hit me hard. I watch documentaries all the time but to see more than 100 different scientists gather in the Galapagos Islands to help her try and save the ocean, was pivotal. Mission Blue currently has 151 launched hope spots in the ocean. I had not heard of a Hope spot before this movie. A hope spot is a place in the ocean that needs special attention and is critical to the health of the ocean. Since seeing this documentary, I have been following Mission Blue and learning more about these underwater preserves with restrictions built in to help our ocean heal itself. My passion was fueled by this movie to learn more about a topic that I had no idea existed. Before the movie, It was my dream to go into the field since I went to the Seattle Aquarium when I was in 5th grade. I have a desire to go into the farthest depths of the ocean and discover what allows the species down there to live under intense pressure, harshly cold temperatures, low food, and with no vision. I wish to know if these species can shed light upon us and give ideas and inspiration for new ways to combat problems we are experiencing now like climate change. If I can discover and research on the organisms that can replenish our world's situation then, and only then, can I truly believe that the hard work I put in to be given the opportunities that I will attain has come to a slow. The hard work I put in will never stop but it will slow once the world’s environment returns to an incline. I want to be looked at and valued the way Dr. Sylvia Earle is. I attend Maine Maritime Academy as an undergraduate working on my dual degree in Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations. I do not want to be in a lab, I want to lead expeditions in the ocean with a research team that believes in me and what I am passionate about. This desire was enhanced by a film that I discovered. Taking it one step farther, I want to help improve technology for the disabled. I have Tourettes and I am determined to inspire others with disabilities like me to use modern technology to explore the world and make discoveries. Disabilities come in all shapes and sizes. For me, dealing with my disability includes shaking. Technology such as scuba gear hides that and being in the water gives me confidence. I want to give others the same confidence. My interest in the ocean has made me realize the importance of marine technology in accessing the different parts of the ocean. Without the use of ROV’s and submersibles we wouldn’t be able to explore our ocean depths, that includes those capable of walking and those who need assistance. Not everyone is going to be fully capable or the same. I want to do my best to make it so there is a way for others to use technology and diversify the world in the realm of research with our oceans.

Imagine the freedom of being able to be the first person to go to college in your family and knowing that the only thing you have to worry about is studying so that you get good grades and are a top contender for research companies to want to hire you as you after graduation. This is what I imagine every time I apply for a scholarship. Today, there are so many people that need financial help to pay for college. I am no different. Every day I apply for at least 5 scholarships. Everyday I hope that this scholarship is the one that I am chosen for. Every day I stress about the fees and interest on loans that are holding students in a debt cloud. I imagine that I no longer have this worry and that my future is impactful on those with disabilities like me. I am a dual major, Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations, and it is my intention to use technology along with be part of creating new technologies that make it possible for those with disabilities to do the same things those without can in the world of research. Marine technology, such as underwater ROV’s (remote operated vehicles), can make it so those who cannot walk can explore the deep ocean, as one example. My interest in the ocean has made me realize the importance of marine technology in accessing the different parts of the ocean. Without the use of ROV’s and submersibles we wouldn’t be able to explore our ocean depths, that includes those capable of walking and those who need assistance. I may not be able to ever actually be cured of Tourette’s Syndrome, but I have absolutely overcome my hardships faced by it. When it comes to college and the normal stresses a new freshman faces, my disability presents itself in a very visual manner. My face starts sending out signals to the world that I am in a state of anxiousness. The way that I deal with this is very simple yet beyond helpful in numerous situations, all it takes is a step back, deep breaths, and a “I got this” ideology. No matter what stresses will always present themselves. It’s about how we respond to stresses that shows the strength of our character. I have a character that can fight through difficulties and come out a better person. Nature is a massive help in curving my stress and dealing with my Tourette’s Syndrome. Due to my admiration for the sea, I find nothing more peaceful than diving under the surface and getting a firsthand experience of how the sea environment interacts with its self. If I am too far from the water or not with any equipment, then a walk through the woods can do the same job as diving. As someone who has lived near the woods for my entire life, it is very surreal to take a walk through the woods when no one else is around and witness the way that nature will take its course. Some of the grandest walks I have taken occurred in places such as the woods around my school or in national parks such as Acadia in Maine. No matter where or what I am doing, a nice scenic view can always cure my anxiety. Not everyone is going to be fully capable or the same. I want to do my best to make it so there is a way for others to use technology and diversify the world in the realm of research with our oceans.

Technology for the disabled. I have Tourettes and I am determined to inspire others with disabilities like me to use modern technology to explore the world and make discoveries. Disabilities come in all shapes and sizes. For me, dealing with my disability includes shaking. Technology such as scuba gear hides that and being in the water gives me confidence. I want to give others the same confidence. I am a dual major, Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations, and it is my intention to use technology along with be part of creating new technologies that make it possible for those with disabilities to do the same things those without can in the world of research. Marine technology, such as underwater ROV’s (remote operated vehicles), can make it so those who cannot walk can explore the deep ocean, as one example. My interest in the ocean has made me realize the importance of marine technology in accessing the different parts of the ocean. Without the use of ROV’s and submersibles we wouldn’t be able to explore our ocean depths, that includes those capable of walking and those who need assistance. I may not be able to ever actually be cured of Tourette’s Syndrome, but I have absolutely overcome my hardships faced by it. It took me many years, but I have discovered multiple ways to bypass the twitching which include distracting myself from the thought of twitching and a strong mental fortitude. When it comes to physical activities, I can persevere through my handicap and still have strong performances including a 1st place at a national BMX race, or other physical activities like scuba diving which are peaceful experiences and help me deal with issues like stress which can increase my twitching. When it comes to college and the normal stresses a new freshman faces, my disability presents itself in a very visual manner. I have no poker face. My face literally starts sending out signals to the world that I am in a state of anxiousness. The way that I deal with this is very simple yet beyond helpful in numerous situations, all it takes is a step back, deep breaths, and a “I got this” ideology. No matter what stresses will always present themselves. It’s about how we respond to stresses that shows the strength of our character. I have a character that can fight through difficulties and come out a better person. Nature is a massive help in curving my stress and dealing with my Tourette’s Syndrome. Due to my admiration for the sea, I find nothing more peaceful than diving under the surface and getting a firsthand experience of how the sea environment interacts with its self. The beauty I find in watching fish swim, crabs walk, and anemones sway is something that can cure any kind of worry. If I am too far from the water or not with any equipment, then a walk through the woods can do the same job as diving. As someone who has lived near the woods for my entire life, it is very surreal to take a walk through the woods when no one else is around and witness the way that nature will take its course. Some of the grandest walks I have taken occurred in places such as the woods around my school or in national parks such as Acadia in Maine. No matter where or what I am doing, a nice scenic view can always cure my anxiety. Imagine the freedom of being able to be the first person to go to college in your family and knowing that the only thing you have to worry about is studying so that you get good grades and are a top contender for research companies to want to hire you as you after graduation. This is what I imagine every time I apply for a scholarship. This is what success looks like to me. Today, there are so many people that need financial help to pay for college. I am no different. Every day I apply for at least 5 scholarships. Everyday I hope that this scholarship is the one that I am chosen for. Every day I stress about the fees and interest on loans that are holding students in a debt cloud. I imagine that I no longer have this worry and that my future is impactful on those with disabilities like me. Not everyone is going to be fully capable or the same. I want to do my best to make it so there is a way for others to use technology and diversify the world in the realm of research with our oceans.

Imagine the freedom of being able to be the first person to go to college in your family and knowing that the only thing you have to worry about is studying so that you get good grades and are a top contender for research companies to want to hire you as you after graduation. This is what I imagine every time I apply for a scholarship. Today, there are so many people that need financial help to pay for college. I am no different. Every day I apply for at least 5 scholarships. Everyday I hope that this scholarship is the one that I am chosen for. Every day I stress about the fees and interest on loans that are holding students in a debt cloud. I imagine that I no longer have this worry and that my future is impactful on those with disabilities like me. I am a dual major, Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations, and it is my intention to use technology along with be part of creating new technologies that make it possible for those with disabilities to do the same things those without can in the world of research. Marine technology, such as underwater ROV’s (remote operated vehicles), can make it so those who cannot walk can explore the deep ocean, as one example. My interest in the ocean has made me realize the importance of marine technology in accessing the different parts of the ocean. Without the use of ROV’s and submersibles we wouldn’t be able to explore our ocean depths, that includes those capable of walking and those who need assistance. I may not be able to ever actually be cured of Tourette’s Syndrome, but I have absolutely overcome my hardships faced by it. When it comes to college and the normal stresses a new freshman faces, my disability presents itself in a very visual manner. My face starts sending out signals to the world that I am in a state of anxiousness. The way that I deal with this is very simple yet beyond helpful in numerous situations, all it takes is a step back, deep breaths, and a “I got this” ideology. No matter what stresses will always present themselves. It’s about how we respond to stresses that shows the strength of our character. I have a character that can fight through difficulties and come out a better person. Nature is a massive help in curving my stress and dealing with my Tourette’s Syndrome. Due to my admiration for the sea, I find nothing more peaceful than diving under the surface and getting a firsthand experience of how the sea environment interacts with its self. If I am too far from the water or not with any equipment, then a walk through the woods can do the same job as diving. As someone who has lived near the woods for my entire life, it is very surreal to take a walk through the woods when no one else is around and witness the way that nature will take its course. Some of the grandest walks I have taken occurred in places such as the woods around my school or in national parks such as Acadia in Maine. No matter where or what I am doing, a nice scenic view can always cure my anxiety. Not everyone is going to be fully capable or the same. I want to do my best to make it so there is a way for others to use technology and diversify the world in the realm of research with our oceans.

My parents didn’t allow me to travel across the country to get a college experience, only to be heartbroken by the death of me due to a bicycle accident. The college experience often involves a mix of academic pursuits, social interactions, and navigating the campus environment. Cycling becomes a convenient and eco-friendly mode of transportation. However, the safety of cyclists is a pressing concern for those of us who rely on our bikes to get around campus. While new laws represent a positive step forward, their effectiveness hinges on widespread awareness, acceptance, and consistent enforcement. It is crucial for college communities to be informed about these regulations to create an environment where both cyclists and pedestrians can coexist safely. My college town is very small and law enforcement is not as abundant as in larger towns. Enforcement of laws are the locals’ responsibilities and when out of towners come in, that is when it gets dangerous. College campuses can implement comprehensive educational programs that cover topics such as proper cycling techniques, understanding the rights and responsibilities of cyclists, and promoting mutual respect among different road users. These programs can be incorporated into orientation sessions, campus events, and even integrated into academic coursework to ensure broad accessibility. In college life, personal responsibility takes on added significance. The often bustling and crowded nature of college campuses requires heightened awareness from cyclists, pedestrians, and drivers alike. Strategies such as reducing cycling speeds in densely populated areas, yielding to pedestrians, and using designated cycling paths can contribute to a safer campus environment. For me, like other college students, the choice to use a bike as a mode of transportation is often driven by convenience, cost-effectiveness, and a desire to reduce our carbon footprint. However, this decision comes with a responsibility to navigate the campus safely and consider the well-being of others. As a college student, using my bike involves not only understanding and adhering to existing laws but also actively seeking out educational resources to enhance my knowledge of safe cycling practices. Additionally, the college experience provides a unique opportunity for student-led initiatives and advocacy. As an out of state student, I can collaborate with campus authorities to raise awareness about cycling safety, propose improvements to infrastructure, and actively contribute to a culture of responsibility. By taking an active role in promoting cycling safety, we can ensure that their college experience aligns with the broader goal of creating a secure environment for all members of the campus community. Education plays a pivotal role in fostering a culture of responsibility and awareness. Comprehensive educational programs, coupled with personal responsibility, contribute to a safer campus environment for cyclists, pedestrians, and drivers alike. As a college student utilizing a bike for transportation, taking an active role in promoting cycling safety becomes not only a personal responsibility but also an opportunity to contribute to the well-being of the entire campus community. By navigating the intersection of laws, education, and personal responsibility, college campuses can create an environment where cycling is not only a convenient mode of transportation but also a safe and sustainable choice for all.

Imagine the freedom of being able to be the first person to go to college in your family and knowing that the only thing you have to worry about is studying so that you get good grades and are a top contender for research companies to want to hire you as you after graduation. This is what I imagine every time I apply for a scholarship. Today, there are so many people that need financial help to pay for college. I am no different. Every day I apply for at least 5 scholarships. Everyday I hope that this scholarship is the one that I am chosen for. Every day I stress about the fees and interest on loans that are holding students in a debt cloud. I imagine that I no longer have this worry and that my future is impactful on those with disabilities like me. I am a dual major, Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations, and it is my intention to use technology along with be part of creating new technologies that make it possible for those with disabilities to do the same things those without can in the world of research. Marine technology, such as underwater ROV’s (remote operated vehicles), can make it so those who cannot walk can explore the deep ocean, as one example. My interest in the ocean has made me realize the importance of marine technology in accessing the different parts of the ocean. Without the use of ROV’s and submersibles we wouldn’t be able to explore our ocean depths, that includes those capable of walking and those who need assistance. I may not be able to ever actually be cured of Tourette’s Syndrome, but I have absolutely overcome my hardships faced by it. When it comes to college and the normal stresses a new freshman faces, my disability presents itself in a very visual manner. My face starts sending out signals to the world that I am in a state of anxiousness. The way that I deal with this is very simple yet beyond helpful in numerous situations, all it takes is a step back, deep breaths, and a “I got this” ideology. No matter what stresses will always present themselves. It’s about how we respond to stresses that shows the strength of our character. I have a character that can fight through difficulties and come out a better person. Nature is a massive help in curving my stress and dealing with my Tourette’s Syndrome. Due to my admiration for the sea, I find nothing more peaceful than diving under the surface and getting a firsthand experience of how the sea environment interacts with its self. If I am too far from the water or not with any equipment, then a walk through the woods can do the same job as diving. As someone who has lived near the woods for my entire life, it is very surreal to take a walk through the woods when no one else is around and witness the way that nature will take its course. Some of the grandest walks I have taken occurred in places such as the woods around my school or in national parks such as Acadia in Maine. No matter where or what I am doing, a nice scenic view can always cure my anxiety. Not everyone is going to be fully capable or the same. I want to do my best to make it so there is a way for others to use technology and diversify the world in the realm of research with our oceans.

Imagine the freedom of being able to be the first person to go to college in your family and knowing that the only thing you have to worry about is studying so that you get good grades and are a top contender for research companies to want to hire you as you after graduation. This is what I imagine every time I apply for a scholarship. Today, there are so many people that need financial help to pay for college. I am no different. Every day I apply for at least 5 scholarships. Everyday I hope that this scholarship is the one that I am chosen for. Every day I stress about the fees and interest on loans that are holding students in a debt cloud. I imagine that I no longer have this worry and that my future is impactful on those with disabilities like me. I am a dual major, Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations, and it is my intention to use technology along with be part of creating new technologies that make it possible for those with disabilities to do the same things those without can in the world of research. Marine technology, such as underwater ROV’s (remote operated vehicles), can make it so those who cannot walk can explore the deep ocean, as one example. My interest in the ocean has made me realize the importance of marine technology in accessing the different parts of the ocean. Without the use of ROV’s and submersibles we wouldn’t be able to explore our ocean depths, that includes those capable of walking and those who need assistance. I may not be able to ever actually be cured of Tourette’s Syndrome, but I have absolutely overcome my hardships faced by it. When it comes to college and the normal stresses a new freshman faces, my disability presents itself in a very visual manner. My face starts sending out signals to the world that I am in a state of anxiousness. The way that I deal with this is very simple yet beyond helpful in numerous situations, all it takes is a step back, deep breaths, and a “I got this” ideology. No matter what stresses will always present themselves. It’s about how we respond to stresses that shows the strength of our character. I have a character that can fight through difficulties and come out a better person. Nature is a massive help in curving my stress and dealing with my Tourette’s Syndrome. Due to my admiration for the sea, I find nothing more peaceful than diving under the surface and getting a firsthand experience of how the sea environment interacts with its self. If I am too far from the water or not with any equipment, then a walk through the woods can do the same job as diving. As someone who has lived near the woods for my entire life, it is very surreal to take a walk through the woods when no one else is around and witness the way that nature will take its course. Some of the grandest walks I have taken occurred in places such as the woods around my school or in national parks such as Acadia in Maine. No matter where or what I am doing, a nice scenic view can always cure my anxiety. Not everyone is going to be fully capable or the same. I want to do my best to make it so there is a way for others to use technology and diversify the world in the realm of research with our oceans.

Technology for the disabled. Disabilities come in all shapes and sizes. For me, dealing with my disability includes shaking. Technology such as scuba gear hides that and being in the water gives me confidence. I want to give others the same confidence. I am a dual major, Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations, and it is my intention to use technology along with be part of creating new technologies that make it possible for those with disabilities to do the same things those without can in the world of research. Marine technology, such as underwater ROV’s (remote operated vehicles), can make it so those who cannot walk can explore the deep ocean, as one example. My interest in the ocean has made me realize the importance of marine technology in accessing the different parts of the ocean. Without the use of ROV’s and submersibles we wouldn’t be able to explore our ocean depths, that includes those capable of walking and those who need assistance. I may not be able to ever actually be cured of Tourette’s Syndrome, but I have absolutely overcome my hardships faced by it. It took me many years, but I have discovered multiple ways to bypass the twitching which include distracting myself from the thought of twitching and a strong mental fortitude. When it comes to physical activities, I can persevere through my handicap and still have strong performances including a 1st place at a national BMX race, or other physical activities like scuba diving which are peaceful experiences and help me deal with issues like stress which can increase my twitching. When it comes to college and the normal stresses a new freshman faces, my disability presents itself in a very visual manner. I have no poker face. My face literally starts sending out signals to the world that I am in a state of anxiousness. The way that I deal with this is very simple yet beyond helpful in numerous situations, all it takes is a step back, deep breaths, and a “I got this” ideology. No matter what stresses will always present themselves. It’s about how we respond to stresses that shows the strength of our character. I have a character that can fight through difficulties and come out a better person. Nature is a massive help in curving my stress and dealing with my Tourette’s Syndrome. Due to my admiration for the sea, I find nothing more peaceful than diving under the surface and getting a firsthand experience of how the sea environment interacts with its self. The beauty I find in watching fish swim, crabs walk, and anemones sway is something that can cure any kind of worry. If I am too far from the water or not with any equipment, then a walk through the woods can do the same job as diving. As someone who has lived near the woods for my entire life, it is very surreal to take a walk through the woods when no one else is around and witness the way that nature will take its course. Some of the grandest walks I have taken occurred in places such as the woods around my school or in national parks such as Acadia in Maine. No matter where or what I am doing, a nice scenic view can always cure my anxiety. Not everyone is going to be fully capable or the same. I want to do my best to make it so there is a way for others to use technology and diversify the world in the realm of research with our oceans.

You don't have to be able to walk on the moon to make a discovery. I have Tourettes and I am determined to inspire others with disabilities like me to use modern technology to explore the world and make discoveries. I am a dual major, Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations, and it is my intention to use technology along with be part of creating new technologies that make it possible for those with disabilities to do the same things those with out can in the world of research. Marine technology such as underwater ROV’s (remote operated vehicles) can make it so those who can not walk can explore the deep ocean, as one example. My interest in the ocean has made me realize the importance of marine technology in accessing the different parts of the ocean. Without the use of ROV’s and submersibles we wouldn’t be able to explore our ocean depths, that includes those capable of walking and those who need assistance. For me, dealing with my disability includes shaking. Technology such as scuba gear hides that and being in the water gives me confidence. I want to give others the same confidence.

I have always been interested in the fact that we know more about our moon than we do our own ocean and I want to be one of the people to help make discoveries within our seas. Through experiences such as attending Maine Maritime Academy, dealing with Tourette’s Syndrome, and working in a camp kitchen I have gained numerous helpful skills. These include strong teamwork, dedication, determination, problem solving, and an admiration for the sea. What it won't help me with is funding to remain in college. This is where I ask you to choose me so that I can be the one to move the needle on our knowledge with Marine Life in the ocean. As an undergraduate for a dual degree in both Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations, Maine Maritime Academy has truly heightened my academic qualities as the school is not a walk in the park to attend. Through five different classes with three of them having three-hour long labs on top of the lectures each week in the first semester, the school is heavily focused on getting as much out of every student as possible. Since I am attending for my marine biology degree, my first semester consisted of Biology, chemistry, intro to oceanography, pre-calculus, and a seminar that lets people in the field talk about what it is like post-academy. Maine Maritime Academy helps me improve my skills within the sciences as well as strong group work and dedication. For over a year and until I had to leave for schooling, I worked in a children’s camp as a kitchen aide. The large amount of preparation we had to do often had issues arise such as food orders arriving later than scheduled and unanticipated dietary restrictions. Due to the often disruptions I was able to improve my problem solving and determination skills. I greatly increased my leadership qualities as my boss would occasionally not show up or call out and we had no one who could take over his position in his absence, so I was given the responsibility of taking over the leadership role in his absence. In 7th grade I was diagnosed with Tourette’s syndrome and had an explanation for my uncontrollable body twitches. As a hardship that not many have faced, I can first-hand report that the only way it now affects my life is through the qualities I have learned because of the work I have put into not letting Tourette’s Syndrome get the better of me. Even though I still may twitch, I have persevered through it all and still fully complete any task put in front of me. There is no lack of determination when it comes to not feeling down and discouraged just because I know that any competitors I face are not dealing with the same issue as me. I push past none the less and complete tasks at full efficiency. Through working past difficult finals in college, dealing with the responsibilities of a manager, and facing a disability, I have grown as a person and now have skills and qualities that I can share and improve the world with. I know that I can work in group settings, rise to challenges, persevere through hardships, and not get discouraged when mistakes arise no matter the situation. I can understand how the world works through a scientific lens, I can proudly dive under the water, and I can be a teammate that people actively want to work with. I am also a strong learner who wants to gain knowledge from anyone willing to teach me.

Learning Disabilities come in all shapes and sizes. I was diagnosed with Tourette’s Syndrome in 7th grade. I uncontrollably twitch my body at random periods of the day and once I start to twitch, I can’t stop. It has hindered my ability to pay attention to tasks as the twitches are incredibly distracting and is able to physically stop me from paying attention if either my head jerks around or my eyes are held shut. For a while I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to do physical activities that I enjoy such as soccer, BMX, or scuba diving. I was worried that not only would a coach or competition not let me in, but that a doctor wouldn’t sign off on any forms allowing me to partake in the activities. I may not be able to ever actually be cured of Tourette’s Syndrome, but I have absolutely overcome my hardships faced by it. It took me many years, but I have discovered multiple ways to bypass the twitching which include distracting myself from the thought of twitching and a strong mental fortitude. When it comes to physical activities, I can persevere through my handicap and still have strong performances including a 1st place at a national BMX race, or other physical activities like scuba diving which are peaceful experiences and help me deal with issues like stress which can increase my twitching. When it comes to college and the normal stresses a new freshman faces, my disability presents itself in a very visual manner. I have no poker face. My face literally starts sending out signals to the world that I am in a state of anxiousness. The way that I deal with this is very simple yet beyond helpful in numerous situations, all it takes is a step back, deep breaths, and a “I got this” ideology. No matter what stresses will always present themselves. Its about how we respond to stresses that shows the strength of our character. I have a character that can fight through difficulties and come out a better person. Nature is a massive help in curving my stress and dealing with my Tourette’s Syndrome. Due to my admiration for the sea, I find nothing more peaceful than diving under the surface and getting a firsthand experience of how the sea environment interacts with its self. The beauty I find in watching fish swim, crabs walk, and anemones sway is something that can cure any kind of worry. If I am too far from the water or not with any equipment, then a walk through the woods can do the same job as diving. As someone who has lived near the woods for my entire life, it is very surreal to take a walk through the woods when no one else is around and witness the way that nature will take its course. Some of the grandest walks I have taken occurred in places such as the woods around my school or in national parks such as Acadia in Maine. No matter where or what I am doing, a nice scenic view can always cure my anxiety.

Did you know that up to 85% of people with Tourettes Syndrome will also experience co-occurring conditions such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Anxiety. I experience anxiety with mine and often it is anxiety that exasperates it. In 7th grade I was diagnosed with Tourette’s syndrome and had an explanation for my uncontrollable body twitches. As a hardship that not many have faced, I can first-hand report that the only way it now affects my life is through the qualities I have learned because of the work I have put into not letting Tourette’s Syndrome get the better of me. Even though I still may twitch, I have persevered through it all and still fully complete any task put in front of me. There is no lack of determination when it comes to not feeling down and discouraged just because I know that any competitors I face are not dealing with the same issue as me. I push past none the less and complete tasks at full efficiency. For over a year and until I had to leave for schooling, I worked in a children’s camp as a kitchen aide. The kitchen didn’t serve food like a normal restaurant, which serves continuously throughout the day, but served everyone at the camp at the same time during three different scheduled times for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. We would be serving over 300 kids, faculty, and advisors during each period. The large amount of preparation we had to do often had issues arise such as food orders arriving later than scheduled and unanticipated dietary restrictions. Due to the often disruptions I was able to improve my problem solving and determination skills. I greatly increased my leadership qualities as my boss would occasionally not show up or call out and we had no one who could take over his position in his absence, so I was given the responsibility of taking over the leadership role in his absence. I now attend Maine Maritime Academy as an undergraduate pursuing my dual degrees in Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations. My goals for beyond college are to end up in a career where I can spend my time out in the open waters either studying the numerous unknown and rarely seen species, or deep below where few have ventured. Either way, I want to discover what the ocean continues to keep hidden from us. I will use the experience that I gain from my education and internships during this time, by using the group skills and real world exposure to captain my own research team into and around the ocean. Maine Maritime Academy has truly heightened my academic skills and abilities for the future as the school is not a walk in the park to attend. Through five different classes with three of them having three-hour long labs on top of the lectures each week in the first semester, the school is heavily focused on getting as much out of every student as possible. Due to the school being an academy, it is very specialized and does not waste any class spots with unnecessary subjects. Since I am attending for my marine biology degree, my first semester consisted of Biology, chemistry, intro to oceanography, pre-calculus, and a seminar that lets people in the field talk about what it is like post-academy. I am hoping to be awarded this scholarship so that financial stressors are removed and I can continue to focus on the learning aspect.

Maine Maritime Academy, second semester freshman who is on the Dean's List. Would you believe that financially dependent on loans, scholarships and grants, someone would still be able to persevere and keep grades high enough for that accomplishment? Despite the stress of knowing if I will have enough funding each semester, I push on. Growing up with parents who have a low income and no college background has presented not so unique challenges due to the rising populations who also are in the same scenarios as I. Opportunities for us individuals pursuing higher education and who have ambitious career goals, such as myself becoming a marine biologist, are that such as scholarships like this. The only issue tends to be that there are limited funds and a much higher rate of students who need them. I have found that the most significant impact of having parents with a low income is the financial strain it places on pursuing higher education. College tuition, fees, and living expenses can be a burden such was it is on my parents. By actively seeking financial assistance, I am taking the steps to make my college dreams a reality despite economic adversity. My parents are not fortunate enough to have the extra money and although they did save what they could, that only helped with a partial amount of my first semester of freshman year. My parents did not go through the process of navigating the college application process, choosing the right academic programs, and understanding career pathways. My mother has helped me the best she can by researching and teaching me how to research scholarship, internship and student fund raising opportunities. That alone has been a great help. We have learned together the navigation of this process, building on life long lessons. Growing up in a low-income household still instilled in me a strong work ethic, resilience, and determination to succeed against the odds. My experiences fueled my passion for marine biology and have driven my commitment to achieving my career goals despite socio-economic adversities. I have used my perspective and personal journey for my college applications, essays, and interviews, showcasing myself as someone who has overcome challenges and demonstrates a strong sense of purpose and resilience which is needed in succeeding in college. One of the greatest challenges for me is to attend a school where a high majority of my peers come from a more financially independent background. Watching my friends not worry about how they will pay for the year or even the next semester is something that I envy. Not having to worry about keeping high enough grades, entailing merit based scholarships are kept, I can imagine must be a weight off of their shoulders. I would love to be in their shoes. I am not though and that is ok. It is making me stronger and really appreciate the efforts I am working towrards. After college, I desire to go into the farthest depths of the ocean and discover what allows the species to live under intense pressure, harshly cold temperatures, low food, and with no vision. I wish to know if these species can shed light upon us and give ideas and inspiration for new ways to combat problems, we are experiencing now like climate change. If I can discover and do research on the organisms that can replenish our world's situation then, and only then, can I truly believe that the hard work I put in to be given the financial opportunities that I will attain has come to a slow. Thank you.

Meet Dylan Fraioli, a passionate college student with a dual major in marine biology and marine transportation. Balancing the wonders of marine life with the practicalities of navigating the seas, Dylan's life was a combination of academic curiosity and a commitment to sustainability. As Dylan delved into the realms of marine biology, his fascination with the underwater world deepened. From studying the intricate ecosystems of coral reefs to analyzing the behavior of elusive deep-sea creatures, every class fueled his desire to protect the oceans. However, Dylan knew that his commitment to marine conservation should extend beyond the classroom. Intentional choices guided Dylan's daily life toward sustainability. He made a conscious effort to reduce his carbon footprint by adopting eco-friendly practices. One significant decision was his commitment to sustainable transportation. Instead of relying solely on fossil fuel-powered vehicles, Dylan opted for a combination of biking, walking, and using public transportation. It not only reduced his carbon emissions which fostered a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of environmental and maritime issues. In his dorm room, Dylan implemented a zero-waste lifestyle. He replaced single-use plastic with reusable alternatives, embraced composting, and advocated for recycling initiatives on campus. His dedication to minimizing waste not only showcased his commitment to sustainability but also inspired fellow students to reconsider their own consumption habits. As part of his marine biology studies, Dylan engaged in research projects that focused on the impact of climate change on marine ecosystems. The findings reinforced the urgency of reducing carbon footprints to mitigate the devastating effects on ocean health. Through his academic endeavors, Dylan aimed not only to expand his own knowledge but also to contribute valuable insights to the ongoing global conversation on climate change. Dylan's commitment to sustainability extended to his dietary choices as well. Recognizing the environmental impact of the meat industry, he adopted a predominantly plant-based diet. This decision not only reduced his carbon footprint but also encouraged local and sustainable farming practices. Dylan saw his dietary choices as a small yet meaningful contribution to preserving marine ecosystems, as overfishing and pollution continued to threaten aquatic life. When asked about the importance of reducing his carbon footprint, Dylan's eyes lit up with passion. He believed that every individual's actions, no matter how small, contributed to the collective effort needed to address the global climate crisis. Dylan saw sustainable living not as a sacrifice but as a responsibility. He emphasized that, as future marine professionals, it was crucial to lead by example and champion environmentally conscious practices in both personal and professional choices. For Dylan Fraioli, the journey through college wasn't just about earning degrees; it was a transformative experience that shaped him into an advocate for sustainable living. Armed with knowledge from both marine biology and marine transportation, Dylan aspired to ensure a future delicate balance between humanity and the oceans was preserved, one intentional and sustainable choice at a time.

In the year 2047, the world was humming with excitement as marine scientists embarked on a groundbreaking expedition to the deepest corners of the ocean, armed with cutting-edge technology and an insatiable curiosity. Dr. Dylan Fraioli, a renowned marine biologist, led the expedition aboard the state-of-the-art research vessel, the "Aquarius Explorer." Their mission was to explore the Mariana Trench, the deepest part of the world's oceans, and unlock the mysteries hidden in the abyss. As the Aquarius Explorer descended into the darkness, the crew marveled at the surreal landscape illuminated by bioluminescent organisms. The journey into the unknown held the promise of turning science fiction into science fact. Dr. Fraioli and his team were on the brink of revolutionizing marine science with the discovery of a new species of deep-sea creatures that defied imagination. These mysterious beings, resembling jellyfish with mesmerizing hues, emitted a faint glow that pulsed rhythmically. The scientists dubbed them "Luminarians" due to their radiant presence in the pitch-black depths. The Luminarians possessed unique bioluminescent properties that fascinated the scientific community. Through meticulous research, Dr. Fraioli and his team unraveled the secrets of the Luminarians' ability to generate light, leading to groundbreaking applications in medical imaging and renewable energy. The discovery opened a new chapter in marine science, transforming once speculative concepts into tangible advancements. In the wake of this revelation, the world witnessed the emergence of bioluminescent technology inspired by the Luminarians. Streets were lit with sustainable and visually stunning light sources, reducing the dependence on traditional energy grids. The scientific community embraced this innovation, and cities worldwide became beacons of eco-friendly brilliance. But the Aquarius Explorer's mission held even more surprises. As the crew ventured deeper into the Mariana Trench, they stumbled upon a massive geothermal vent teeming with life. It was a thriving ecosystem fueled by the Earth's internal heat, challenging previous notions of the limits of life on our planet. The discovery ignited a renewed interest in the search for extraterrestrial life, as scientists pondered the possibility of similar ecosystems existing on distant moons and planets. Dr. Fraioli's team now hailed as pioneers in marine science, continued to push boundaries. They developed advanced underwater drones capable of withstanding the extreme pressures of the deep-sea environment. These drones provided unprecedented access to unexplored regions, unveiling a tapestry of life and geological wonders hidden beneath the ocean's surface. The implications of their discoveries extended beyond Earth. The scientific community began to reconsider the potential habitability of distant ocean worlds in our solar system. Enceladus and Europa, once relegated to the realms of science fiction, became tantalizing targets for future missions, driven by the hope of finding life in the icy depths below their surfaces. In the spirit of international collaboration, space agencies and marine research institutions joined forces to launch a groundbreaking mission to Enceladus. Equipped with the knowledge gained from the Mariana Trench expedition, scientists aimed to explore the subsurface ocean of this moon, armed with the belief that marine science could once again turn science fiction into science fact. As the Aquarius Explorer returned to the surface, its crew marveled at the transformative power of marine science. Dr. Dylan Fraioli, with a twinkle in his eye, reflected on the journey that began with a simple desire to explore the unknown. The discoveries in the Mariana Trench had not only unraveled the mysteries of the deep sea but had propelled humanity into a future whose science fiction and scientific reality intertwined, opening new frontiers both on Earth and beyond.

We are the better generation, but who is "we"? Each time a generation is explained by characteristics, a point is made to describe the differences. "Ode To Millennials-Gen Z" talks about the differences between the greatest generation and the millennial-Gen Z's, but what stands out to me are the similarities. The "Greatest Generation," born between the early 1900s and the mid-1920s, and the Millennials and Generation Z (Gen Z), born from the late 1970s to the early 2010s, might seem worlds apart in terms of experiences and outlook. Yet, a closer look reveals that they share surprising similarities in their capacity for loving life and taking pride in their values and stories. One of the most striking similarities between the Greatest Generation and Millennials/Gen Z is their capacity for resilience in the face of adversity. The Greatest Generation lived through the Great Depression and World War II, while Millennials and Gen Z have faced their unique set of challenges, from economic downturns to the ongoing global pandemic. Both generations have shown remarkable resilience, proving that the human spirit can withstand even the most challenging circumstances. The Greatest Generation's stories of enduring the hardships of the Great Depression and their sacrifices during World War II exemplify their ability to persevere. Similarly, Millennials and Gen Z, though living in vastly different worlds, share stories of adaptability, overcoming financial obstacles, and the unwavering determination to navigate a complex, rapidly changing landscape. They take pride in their capacity to not only survive but to thrive despite difficult circumstances. Both the Greatest Generation and Millennials/Gen Z maintain narratives of optimism and hope for the future. The Greatest Generation experienced the end of World War II and the post-war economic boom, and they rebuilt their lives and communities with a sense of hope and possibility. Similarly, Millennials and Gen Z are marked by their optimism, believing in the potential for positive change. Despite the challenges they face, whether related to economic hardship, social issues, or environmental concerns, they maintain an unwavering belief in their capacity to create a better future. This enduring sense of hope and the shared narratives of progress contribute to their love for life and their pride in their generational identity. Both the Greatest Generation and Millennials/Gen Z have strong narratives of generational identity. The Greatest Generation is defined by its pivotal role in shaping the world during and after World War II. Their stories reflect a shared sense of duty, honor, and sacrifice. Millennials and Gen Z, though distinct from their predecessors, also have a strong sense of generational identity. They've grown up in a rapidly changing digital age and have played vital roles in reshaping the world with their values, including advocating for social justice, environmental sustainability, and inclusion. These generational narratives contribute to their shared identity and pride in the impact they are making on the world. I believe what is trying to be highlighted is that despite significant differences in their experiences and the eras they grew up in, the Greatest Generation and Millennial-Gen Z share remarkable similarities in their capacity for loving life and taking pride in their values and stories. The resilience they demonstrate in the face of challenges, the importance they place on social connections and relationships, their unwavering optimism, and their shared generational identity all unite them in their love for life and their pride in their unique narratives. These shared values and experiences reveal that, beneath the surface, the human spirit remains consistent across generations. Despite the varying circumstances and challenges each generation faces, the capacity for resilience, the importance of human connections, the enduring optimism, and the desire to leave a positive mark on the world are all unifying factors that bridge generational gaps and strengthen our collective human experience. Again I ask, who is "we"? We are all we.

The year is 2045. You know my name. Dylan Fraioli Why do you know my name? That's right, I have followed in the footsteps of Dr. Sylvia Earle and have carried on her life's work of launching 200 more "Hope Spots". I will become a Marine Biologist. I have been accepted into Maine Maritime Academy to get my dual degree in Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations. Watching Dr. Sylvia Earle create Mission Blue and live out her dream through a mass number of other marine biologists, in her element, explore the deep and look for hope spots, hit me hard. I watch documentaries all the time but to see more than 100 different scientists gather in the Galapagos Islands to help her try and save the ocean, was pivotal. I have the desire to go into the farthest depths of the ocean and discover what allows the species down there to live under intense pressure, harshly cold temperatures, low food, and with no vision. I wish to know if these species can shed light upon us and give ideas and inspiration for new ways to combat problems we are experiencing now like climate change. If I can discover and research the organisms that can replenish our world's situation then, and only then, can I truly believe that the hard work I put in to be given the opportunities that I will attain has come to a slow. The hard work I put in will never stop but it will slow once the world’s environment returns to an incline. To make a positive impact, you need to be able to show the world you can overcome obstacles of any magnitude. Obstacles we encounter in life will make us either stronger if we can overcome them or leave us struggling if we let them overcome us. I was diagnosed with Tourette's Syndrome at the beginning of 7th grade. I started not being able to control my facial and arm movements along with making noises from my throat that wouldn’t stop the prior summer. I was worried that having the disability to not control my movements would limit me from the dreams and hobbies I loved. I feared that I couldn't accomplish in academics, which anyone else could. However, I faced the fear head-on and overcame my difficulties. I took a physical disability and turned it into future-motivated years of many difficult AP classes. I didn't stop or get discouraged when I realized that there would be challenges ahead of me. I didn’t makeup reasons why my ticks were happening, and I didn’t let the comments from people bother me. I went forward and earned my place in the minds of people not as the disabled student but as the student with 4 AP science classes and the largest knowledge of Marine Zoology in the school. My passion is Marine Biology. I will not let Tourette’s stop me from becoming a Biologist. The cost of college is the only thing that can stop my dreams from becoming a reality. I am applying for anything possible and hoping that my love and determination shine through enough to have others want to help me by providing scholarships. Scholarships are going to keep me afloat and while I only have enough to pay for the first half of freshman year, I will continue applying every day. Thank you.

A person is not made of just one strong attribute. It takes many to define ones character. As a high school student, I was not consciously aware of my defining characteristics. It was not until the need to write about them in the many scholarship applications I submit, that I started pondering and reflecting. Leadership, determination, and passion are three essential characteristics that have guided my high school and college life's journey. As I reflect on my purpose, I realize that patterns pop out and throughout my experiences, I have continually strived to embody these qualities, not only for my benefit but also to inspire and positively influence those around me. Within each element, you will see my focus, unselfishness and work ethic unveil themselves. Leadership is the cornerstone of my character, a quality that I have continually developed and demonstrated. This role taught me the importance of leading by example, motivating my peers to work through the difficulties of online schooling, and fostering a strong sense of unity in a world where everyone was isolated. Determination is another attribute that has played a pivotal role in my journey. Life often presents us with obstacles, but it is our determination that allows us to surmount them and emerge stronger. Determination can take on any obstacle and overcome it. I was diagnosed with Tourette's Syndrome at the beginning of 7th grade. I was worried that having the disability to not control my movements would limit me from the dreams and hobbies I loved. I feared that I couldn't accomplish in academics, which anyone else could. However, I faced the fear head-on and overcame my difficulties. I didn't stop or get discouraged when I realized that there would be challenges ahead of me. Now in college, my determination to succeed in my long-time goal and dream is evident in my rigorous study schedule, my willingness to seek help when needed, and my refusal to succumb to self-doubt. The late nights, countless assignments, and exams seem daunting, but my unwavering commitment to my goals propel me forward. I strive to be the best, and that means expanding my college experience outside of my own needs. One way that I lead forward is, that even though I am a freshman, I am already tutoring other freshman with whom I attend school. Tutoring peers is an impactful and often overlooked form of leadership. It exemplifies leadership qualities in various ways, beginning with the act of stepping forward to assist others in their learning journey. Leadership is not just about leading from the front; it's also about empowering and supporting those around you. Passion is the driving force behind my actions and decisions. I firmly believe that without passion, true success and fulfillment are unattainable. My passion is marine biology. I desire to go into the farthest depths of the ocean and discover what allows the species down there to live under intense pressure, harshly cold temperatures, low food, and no vision. I wish to know if these species can shed light upon us and give ideas and inspiration for new ways to combat problems we are experiencing now like climate change. My passion extends beyond my future career. I am deeply committed to community service and volunteer work, dedicating my time and resources to causes I am passionate about. Whether it's supporting high school students who want to follow the path of marine biologists, environmental conservation, or education initiatives, I believe in making a positive impact on the world through my actions.

The year is 2045. You know my name. Dylan Fraioli Why do you know my name? That's right, I have followed in the footsteps of Dr. Sylvia Earle and have carried on her life's work of launching 200 more "Hope Spots". I will become a Marine Biologist. I attend Maine Maritime Academy, pursuing my dual degree in Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations. Watching Dr. Sylvia Earle create Mission Blue and live out her dream through a mass number of other marine biologists, in her element, explore the deep and look for hope spots, hit me hard. I watch documentaries all the time but to see more than 100 different scientists gather in the Galapagos Islands to help her try and save the ocean, was pivotal. I have the desire to go into the farthest depths of the ocean and discover what allows the species down there to live under intense pressure, harshly cold temperatures, low food, and no vision. I wish to know if these species can shed light upon us and give ideas and inspiration for new ways to combat problems we are experiencing now like climate change. If I can discover and research the organisms that can replenish our world's situation then, and only then, can I truly believe that the hard work I put in to be given the opportunities that I will attain has come to a slow. The hard work I put in will never stop but it will slow once the world’s environment returns to an incline. To make a positive impact, you need to be able to show the world you can overcome obstacles of any magnitude. Obstacles we encounter in life will make us either stronger if we can overcome them or leave us struggling if we let them overcome us. I was diagnosed with Tourette's Syndrome at the beginning of 7th grade. I started not being able to control my facial and arm movements along with making noises from my throat that wouldn’t stop the prior summer. I was worried that having the disability to not control my movements would limit me from the dreams and hobbies I loved. I feared that I couldn't accomplish in academics, which anyone else could. However, I faced the fear head-on and overcame my difficulties. I took a physical disability and turned it into future-motivated years of many difficult AP classes. I didn't stop or get discouraged when I realized that there would be challenges ahead of me. I didn’t makeup reasons why my ticks were happening, and I didn’t let the comments from people bother me. I went forward and earned my place in the minds of people not as the disabled student but as the student with 4 AP science classes and the largest knowledge of Marine Zoology in the school. My passion is Marine Biology. I will not let Tourette’s stop me from becoming a Biologist.

Leader, who me? It takes more than just saying you are a leader, or you have leadership skills. To be a great, impactful leader, you need to combine it with determination and passion. Leadership, determination, and passion are three essential characteristics that have guided my high school and college life's journey. As I reflect on my purpose, I realize that patterns pop out and throughout my experiences, I have continually strived to embody these qualities, not only for my benefit but also to inspire and positively influence those around me. Leadership is the cornerstone of my character, a quality that I have continually developed and demonstrated. My leadership journey began during my high school years when I experienced the COVID-19 pandemic, like everyone else in the country. This role taught me the importance of leading by example, motivating my peers to work through the difficulties of online schooling, and fostering a strong sense of unity in a world where everyone was isolated. Determination is another attribute that has played a pivotal role in my journey. Life often presents us with obstacles, but it is our determination that allows us to surmount them and emerge stronger. Determination can take on any obstacle and overcome it. Obstacles we encounter in life will make us either stronger if we can overcome them or leave us struggling if we let them overcome us. I was diagnosed with Tourette's Syndrome at the beginning of 7th grade. I was worried that having a disability would limit me from the dreams and hobbies I loved. However, I faced the fear head-on and overcame my difficulties. Now in college, my determination to succeed in my long-time goal and dream is evident in my rigorous study schedule, my willingness to seek help when needed, and my refusal to succumb to self-doubt. The late nights, countless assignments, and exams seem daunting, but my unwavering commitment to my goals propel me forward. Passion is the driving force behind my actions and decisions. I firmly believe that without passion, true success and fulfillment are unattainable. My passion is marine biology. I desire to go into the farthest depths of the ocean and discover what allows the species down there to live under intense pressure, harshly cold temperatures, low food, and no vision. I wish to know if these species can shed light upon us and give ideas and inspiration for new ways to combat problems we are experiencing now like climate change. My passion extends beyond my future career. I am deeply committed to community service and volunteer work, dedicating my time and resources to causes I am passionate about. Whether it's supporting high school students who want to follow the path of marine biologists, environmental conservation, or education initiatives, I believe in making a positive impact on the world through my actions. Leadership, determination, and passion are integral aspects of my identity. My journey has been marked by my commitment to these characteristics. I have embraced leadership roles, overcome challenges through unwavering determination, and channeled my passion into everything I do. As I continue to grow and evolve, I remain steadfast in my dedication to these qualities, knowing that they are the guiding stars that will lead me to success and inspire others to follow a similar path. Through leadership, determination, and passion, I aspire to make a lasting and positive impact on the world.

The Importance of Helping Others and Making a Difference as a Marine Biologist Helping others is a fundamental aspect of human nature, and it plays a crucial role in building a compassionate and interconnected society. The act of assisting those in need not only benefits the recipient but also offers a profound sense of fulfillment to the helper. One field where I want to make a significant difference in the lives of others is marine biology. Marine biologists, through their research and conservation efforts, contribute to the well-being of both marine ecosystems and human communities, exemplifying the importance of helping others and making a positive impact. Helping others cultivates empathy and compassion, essential qualities for building strong relationships and a harmonious society. When we extend a helping hand, we demonstrate that we care about the well-being of others and are willing to share their burdens. This fosters a sense of belonging and unity among individuals and communities. Acts of kindness have a ripple effect. When one person helps another, it often inspires the recipient to pay it forward, creating a chain reaction of positive actions. This ripple effect can lead to positive changes on a larger scale, impacting entire communities and even the world. Helping others not only benefits those in need but also brings immense personal satisfaction and happiness. Studies have shown that acts of altruism trigger the release of "feel-good" chemicals in the brain, such as dopamine and oxytocin. These chemicals contribute to a sense of well-being and happiness, reinforcing the importance of helping others. When individuals come together to help one another, it strengthens the bonds within communities. Strong communities are more resilient and better equipped to face challenges, whether they are social, economic, or environmental. This sense of unity can lead to more effective problem-solving and a higher quality of life for all. Through research, marine biologists contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge. Their discoveries not only enhance our understanding of marine life but also have broader implications for fields such as medicine, technology, and climate science. For example, the study of marine organisms has led to breakthroughs in medicine, including potential treatments for cancer and neurological disorders. Helping others is a fundamental human value that not only benefits individuals but also strengthens communities and society as a whole. Marine biologists exemplify the importance of helping others by dedicating their lives to the preservation of marine ecosystems and the well-being of our planet. Through their research, advocacy, and education, marine biologists make a significant difference in the world, demonstrating that we all have the power to contribute positively to the lives of others and the health of our environment. As we navigate the complex challenges of the 21st century, their work serves as a shining example of the impact one can make by prioritizing the welfare of others and the planet. I want to help others through my future work as a marine biologist. It will not only help people, but it will help the planet.

Grab plenty of snacks and a cozy blanket while you settle in for a good read. If there is one book I wish everyone would read, it would be a book about marine biology. This book would undoubtedly be Rachel Carson's masterpiece, "The Sea Around Us." This seminal work, published in 1951, not only laid the foundation for modern marine biology but also sparked a global environmental movement that continues to shape our understanding of the ocean and our responsibility to protect it. Carson's eloquent prose and meticulous research take readers on a captivating journey through the vast, mysterious world beneath the waves. She weaves together the history of Earth's oceans, from their formation to the present day, painting a vivid picture of the ocean's dynamic nature and its profound influence on the planet's climate and life forms. One of the book's greatest strengths is its ability to make complex scientific concepts accessible to a wide audience. Carson's passion for marine life shines through as she introduces readers to the astonishing diversity of creatures that call the ocean home, from tiny plankton to majestic whales. Her vivid descriptions and compelling narratives bring these organisms to life, fostering a deep appreciation for the interconnected web of life in the sea. But "The Sea Around Us" is not merely a celebration of marine biodiversity; it also serves as a stark warning about the threats facing our oceans. Carson's prescient discussions on topics such as overfishing, pollution, and the impact of human activities on marine ecosystems resonate even more strongly today. Her call for responsible stewardship of our oceans remains a critical message in the face of contemporary environmental challenges. "The Sea Around Us" by Rachel Carson is a timeless masterpiece that offers readers a profound understanding of marine biology and the urgent need for ocean conservation. It inspires awe and wonder while compelling us to take action to protect this vital ecosystem. If there's one book I wish everyone would read about marine biology, it's this enduring classic that continues to inspire generations to explore, understand, and safeguard our magnificent oceans.

You will know my story. Obstacles we encounter in life will make us either stronger if we can overcome them or leave us struggling if we let them overcome us. Being able to afford the education to overcome them is a boundary that would be removed if I were to get a scholarship. I was diagnosed with Tourette's Syndrome at the beginning of 7th grade. I was worried that having the disability to not control my movements would limit me from the dreams and hobbies I loved. I have wanted to be a Marine Biologist since I was in elementary and want to lead research projects manning my own vessels. I have played sports since I was in pre-school. I feared that I wouldn't be able to compete in athletic competitions or that I couldn't accomplish in academics, what anyone else could. However, I faced the fear head-on and overcame my difficulties. I took a physical disability and turned it into future-motivated years of sports and many difficult AP classes. I didn't stop or get discouraged when I realized that there would be challenges ahead of me. I didn’t make up reasons for why my ticks were happening and I didn’t let the comments from people bother me. I went forward and earned my place in the minds of people not as the disabled student but as the student with 4 AP science classes and the largest knowledge of Marine Zoology in the school. My passion is Marine Biology. I will not let Tourette’s stop me from becoming a Biologist. I have dreamed of going into the field since I went to the Seattle Aquarium in 5th grade. I desire to go into the farthest depths of the ocean and discover what allows the species down there to live under intense pressure, harshly cold temperatures, low food, and no vision. I wish to know if these species can shed light upon us and give ideas and inspiration for new ways to combat problems, we are experiencing now like climate change. If I can discover and do research on the organism that can replenish our world's situation then, and only then, can I truly believe that the hard work I put in to be given the opportunities that I will attain has come to a slow. The hard work I put in will never stop but it will slow once the world’s environment returns to an incline. I have taken my disability with Tourette's and turned it into a lesson on how to overcome challenges and setbacks. I took my experience dealing with hardships and applied it to perseverance and making do with whatever situation may happen. I am enrolled in Maine Maritime Academy for a dual degree of Marine Biology and 200-ton Vessel Operations. I am one step closer to achieving my dream. This scholarship will help me to feel less of a burden financially and allow me to focus on my education so that I can graduate with my Dual Degree and transfer schools so that I can get my Master’s and lead my own research team. Tourette’s hasn’t held me back, instead it brought me to the realization that continuing to overcome a lifelong fight with a disability is a reward within itself.

Mission Blue. In 2014 Netflix put out a documentary called " Mission Blue. It is about legendary oceanographer, marine biologist, environmentalist, and National Geographic Explorer-in-Residence Dr. Sylvia Earle and her campaign to create a global network of protected marine sanctuaries. I want to and will become a Marine Biologist. I attend Maine Maritime Academy working to get my dual degree in Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations. Watching Dr. Sylvia Earle create Mission Blue and live out her dream through a mass number of other marine biologists, in her element, explore the deep and look for hope spots, hit me hard. I watch documentaries all the time but to see more than 100 different scientists gather in the Galapagos Islands to help her try and save the ocean, was pivotal. I do not want to be in a lab, I want to lead my expeditions in the ocean with a research team that believes in me and what I am passionate about. Mission Blue currently has 151 launched hope spots in the ocean. I had not heard of a Hope spot before this movie. A hope spot is a place in the ocean that needs special attention and is critical to the health of the ocean. I have been following Mission Blue and learning more about these underwater preserves with restrictions built in to help our ocean heal itself. My passion was fueled by this movie to learn more about a topic that I had no idea existed. Before the movie, I have dreamt of going into the field since I went to the Seattle Aquarium when I was in 5th grade. I have a desire to go into the farthest depths of the ocean and discover what allows the species down there to live under intense pressure, harshly cold temperatures, low food, and no vision. I wish to know if these species can shed light upon us and give ideas and inspiration for new ways to combat problems we are experiencing now like climate change. If I can discover and research the organisms that can replenish our world's situation then, and only then, can I truly believe that the hard work I put in to be given the opportunities that I will attain has come to a slow. The hard work I put in will never stop but it will slow once the world’s environment returns to an incline. I want to be looked at and valued the way Dr. Sylvia Earle is. Financial aid is a necessity for me to pay for college. With scholarships, I can lessen the amount of cost significantly from $50,000+ a year. My family situation is split with no extra income able to help me financially. Without scholarships, I will be forced to take out large amounts of loans every year to keep up with my dream and passion. Scholarships are going to be the difference between our world without change and heading to unfixable destruction or saving the world and the organisms that live with it.

Can I be a leader with Tourettes? Yes. Leadership is not confined to holding official titles or positions; it is about making a positive impact on the lives of others. Throughout high school and now college, I strive to be a leader for those with disabilities by fostering an inclusive and supportive environment and showing others like me, and maybe not the same at all, my successes. I was diagnosed with Tourette's Syndrome at the beginning of 7th grade. I was worried that having the disability to not control my movements would limit me from the dreams and hobbies I loved. I have wanted to be a Marine Biologist since I was in elementary and want to lead research projects manning my own vessels. I have played sports since I was in pre-school. I feared that I wouldn't be able to compete in athletic competitions or that I couldn't accomplish in academics, what anyone else could. However, I faced the fear head-on and overcame my difficulties. I took a physical disability and turned it into future-motivated years of sports and many difficult AP classes. I didn't stop or get discouraged when I realized that there would be challenges ahead of me. I didn’t make up reasons for why my ticks were happening and I didn’t let the comments from people bother me. I went forward and earned my place in the minds of people not as the disabled student but as the student with 4 AP science classes and the largest knowledge of Marine Zoology in the school. My passion is Marine Biology. I will not let Tourette’s stop me from becoming a Biologist. I have dreamed of going into the field since I went to the Seattle Aquarium in 5th grade. I desire to go into the farthest depths of the ocean and discover what allows the species down there to live under intense pressure, harshly cold temperatures, low food, and no vision. I wish to know if these species can shed light upon us and give ideas and inspiration for new ways to combat problems, we are experiencing now like climate change. If I can discover and do research on the organism that can replenish our world's situation then, and only then, can I truly believe that the hard work I put in to be given the opportunities that I will attain has come to a slow. The hard work I put in will never stop but it will slow once the world’s environment returns to an incline. I have taken my disability with Tourette's and turned it into a lesson on how to overcome challenges and setbacks. I took my experience dealing with hardships and applied it to perseverance and making do with whatever situation may happen. I have walked in the footsteps of those with disabilities and I empathize with them and their struggles. Empathy is the cornerstone of my leadership approach. Understanding the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities is crucial for effective leadership. One significant aspect of empathy is active listening. As a leader, I make a concerted effort to actively listen to the concerns and needs of those with disabilities. By doing so, I have been able to offer genuine support and adapt my approach to better serve them. This empathetic approach has not only built trust but also fostered an environment where individuals with disabilities feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings. Being a leader in college for individuals with disabilities goes beyond simply holding a position; it is a commitment to empathy, advocacy, and creating an inclusive community.

I intend to follow in the footsteps of Dr. Sylvia Earle and carry on her life's work of launching 200 more "Hope Spots". I have been accepted into Maine Maritime Academy to get my dual degree in Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations. I have dreamt of going into the field since I went to the Seattle Aquarium when I was in 5th grade. I have the desire to go into the farthest depths of the ocean and discover what allows the species to live under intense pressure, harshly cold temperatures, low food, and with no vision. I wish to know if these species can shed light upon us and give ideas and inspiration for new ways to combat problems we are experiencing now like climate change. If I can discover and research the organisms that can replenish our world's situation, I truly believe that the hard work I put in to be given the opportunities that I will attain, has positively impacted the world. To make a positive impact, you need to be able to show the world you can overcome obstacles of any magnitude. Obstacles we encounter in life will make us either stronger if we can overcome them or leave us struggling if we let them overcome us. I was diagnosed with Tourette's Syndrome at the beginning of 7th grade. I started not being able to control my facial and arm movements along with making noises from my throat that wouldn’t stop the prior summer. I was worried that having the disability to not control my movements would limit me from the dreams and hobbies I loved. I feared that I couldn't accomplish in academics, which anyone else could. However, I faced the fear head-on and overcame my difficulties. I took a physical disability and turned it into future-motivated years of many difficult AP classes. I didn't stop or get discouraged when I realized that there would be challenges ahead of me. I didn’t make up reasons why my ticks were happening, and I didn’t let the comments from people bother me. I went forward and earned my place in the minds of people not as the disabled student but as the student with 4 AP science classes and the largest knowledge of Marine Zoology in the school. My passion is Marine Biology. I will not let Tourette’s stop me from becoming a Biologist. While some people with disabilities, or not, may not want to add a job to their already busy plate in high school, I took a job working for the local YMCA camp to earn money and contribute to the workforce. I was not born into a family that has extra funds, and so being able to lighten the burden on my parents felt more rewarding than not. Also, having money of my own was nice too. I want to be looked at and valued the way Dr. Sylvia Earle is. Financial aid is a necessity for me to pay for college. With scholarships, I can lessen the amount of cost significantly from $250,000+. My family does not have extra income to be able to help me financially. Without scholarships, I will be forced to take out large amounts of loans every year to keep up with my dream and passion. Scholarships are going to be the difference between our world without change and heading to unfixable destruction or saving the world and the organisms that live with it.

1- The year is 2053. You may have heard of me, there is now a jellyfish named after me. DylanCnidaria. That is a statement I will make before I pass. After having a fulfilling life of exploring the ocean and researching the unknown depths I will have a creature named after me. To get to the end goal I will require an education in Marine Biology which means I will require the finances to pay for tuition and I hope that scholarships help me. 2- My passion is Marine Biology. I have dreamed of going into the field since I went to the Seattle Aquarium in 5th grade. I desire to go into the farthest depths of the ocean and discover what allows the species down there to live under intense pressure, harshly cold temperatures, low food, and with no vision. I wish to know if these species can shed light upon us and give ideas and inspiration for new ways to combat problems we are experiencing now like climate change. If I can discover and do research on the organism that can replenish our world's situation then, and only then, can I truly believe that the hard work I put in to be given the opportunities that I will attain has come to a slow. The hard work I put in will never stop but it will slow once the world’s environment returns to an incline. 3- Financial aid is a necessity for me to pay for college. With scholarships, I can lessen the amount of cost significantly from $250,000+. My family situation is split with no extra income able to help me financially. Without scholarships, I will be forced to take out large amounts of loans every year to keep up with my dream and passion. Scholarships are going to be the difference between our world without change and heading to unfixable destruction or saving the world and the organisms that live with it. 4- I have been working at the local YMCA, saving money for college since May 2022. I plan to work as much as possible this summer to have extra funds available to put toward my tuition. I apply daily to scholarship websites hoping that I am chosen for some. I have signed up for work-study at Maine Maritime Academy, where I have been enrolled for a dual degree in Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations. I fear the biggest part of my college will be paid through loans. 5- Fusion. As weird as it may sound, that is what Heavy Metal music is to me. I was diagnosed with Tourette's Syndrome at the beginning of 7th grade. I started not being able to control my facial and arm movements along with making noises from my throat that wouldn’t stop the prior summer. Heavy Metal being played in my car as I twitch creates a fusion of natural, unstoppable, body movements with the loud emphasis of anger and sometimes self pitty that I feel when I am not in control.

Jacques Cousteau, Sylvia Earle and Dylan Fraioli. You will know my name and you will categorize me with the great influencers for our oceans. I was diagnosed with Tourette's Syndrome at the beginning of 7th grade. I started not being able to control my facial and arm movements along with making noises from my throat that wouldn’t stop the prior summer. I didn’t know what was happening and my parents and I were scared that something serious was wrong. After many tests and appointments with the Neurologist, we had our cause. I was worried that having the disability to not control my movements would limit me from the dreams and hobbies I loved. I have wanted to be a Marine Biologist since I was in elementary and want to lead research projects manning marine vessels. However, I faced the fear head-on and overcame my difficulties. I took a physical disability and turned it into future-motivated years of many difficult AP classes to help prepare me for college. I didn't stop or get discouraged when I realized that there would be challenges ahead of me. I didn’t make up reasons for why my ticks were happening and I didn’t let the comments from people bother me. I went forward and earned my place in the minds of people not as the disabled student but as the student with 4 AP science classes and the largest knowledge of Marine Zoology in the school. I desire to go into the farthest depths of the ocean and discover what allows the species down there to live under intense pressure, harshly cold temperatures, low food, and with no vision. I wish to know if these species can shed light upon us and give ideas and inspiration for new ways to combat problems, we are experiencing now like climate change. If I can discover and do research on the organism that can replenish our world's situation then, and only then, can I truly believe that the hard work I put in to be given the opportunities that I will attain has come to a slow. The hard work I put in will never stop but it will slow once the world’s environment returns to an incline. I have a neurological disorder but I still believe that out of anyone that I know who isn't working in the field or isn't already taking college classes for Marine Biology, I have the most knowledge on the subject. I will be successful due to the accomplishments I have made in the strengthening of our oceans, not because a disease got the better of me. Fast forward to 2023 and I am graduating High School. I have been accepted into Maine Maritime Academy for a dual degree in Marine Biology and 200-ton Small Vessel Operations. I am one step closer to achieving my dream. Obstacles we encounter in life will make us either stronger if we can overcome them or leave us struggling if we let them overcome us. Being able to afford the education to overcome them is a boundary that would be removed if I were to get a scholarship. Watch for my name, for I will be impacting the world for the better.

As a leader, you need to be able to show the world you can overcome obstacles of any magnitude. Obstacles we encounter in life will make us either stronger if we can overcome them or leave us struggling if we let them overcome us. I was diagnosed with Tourette's Syndrome at the beginning of 7th grade. I started not being able to control my facial and arm movements along with making noises from my throat that wouldn’t stop the prior summer. I was worried that having the disability to not control my movements would limit me from the dreams and hobbies I loved. I have wanted to be a Marine Biologist since I was in elementary and want to lead research projects manning my vessels. I have played sports since I was in pre-school. I feared that I wouldn't be able to compete in athletic competitions or that I couldn't accomplish in academics, which anyone else could. However, I faced the fear head-on and overcame my difficulties. I took a physical disability and turned it into future-motivated years of sports and many difficult AP classes. I didn't stop or get discouraged when I realized that there would be challenges ahead of me. I didn’t makeup reasons why my ticks were happening, and I didn’t let the comments from people bother me. I went forward and earned my place in the minds of people not as the disabled student but as the student with 4 AP science classes and the largest knowledge of Marine Zoology in the school. My passion is Marine Biology. I will not let Tourette’s stop me from becoming a Biologist. I have dreamed of going into the field since I went to the Seattle Aquarium in 5th grade. I desire to go into the farthest depths of the ocean and discover what allows the species down there to live under intense pressure, harshly cold temperatures, low food, and with no vision. I wish to know if these species can shed light upon us and give ideas and inspiration for new ways to combat problems, we are experiencing now like climate change. If I can discover and do research on the organism that can replenish our world's situation then, and only then, can I truly believe that the hard work I put in to be given the opportunities that I will attain has come to a slow. The hard work I put in will never stop but it will slow once the world’s environment returns to an incline. While some people with disabilities, or not, may not want to add a job to their already busy plate in high school, I took a job working for the local YMCA camp to earn money and contribute to the workforce. I was not born into a family that has extra funds, and so being able to lighten the burden on my parents felt more rewarding than not. Also, having money of my own was nice too. Fast forward to 2023 and I am graduating High School. I have been accepted into Maine Maritime Academy for a dual degree in Marine Biology and 200-ton Small Vessel Operations. I am one step closer to achieving my dream. I will show others that they can pursue and reach their dreams if they can overcome the challenges in front of them. People will know about me and I will make a difference and inspire them to go out and do the same.

My story is not mine, but my younger brothers. My brother's mental health issues began when he was 11. We have different fathers and his is mentally abusive. One day while at a doctor's appointment to get a sports physical, my brother broke down and while crying, told the doctor and my mom everything that had been happening. My mother wanted to get my brother into a counseling session so that he could get help, and his father wouldn't let that happen. They had to go to court and he had to see three different counselors before his dad would let up and agree to one. My mother has full custody although they have joint medical decision-making. Over the next two years, my brother was diagnosed with anxiety and depression. He was suicidal twice and my mom and her husband took him to the children's hospital. They found out that he was suicidal when the school called them in on a Monday to discuss him looking up "how to kill yourself" the previous Friday. Instead of flagging and sending a message the moment he looked it up on a school computer, they didn't do anthing for three days. My brother could have been dead by then. That is a huge issue for me. How many kids are missed because of this? Each time my brother was taken to the hospital, the staff told my mom that unfortunately they were going to fail her and they were going to fail my brother. The system in Washington state is not set up to help families who make above a certain amount of money. Only those that are on state help have the crisis teams available to them. My brother could get someone to come to check on him for a week but nothing after that. My parent's insurance did not cover it either so any help needed would be at full cost and out of pocket. Also, there were no facilities to help him unless he tried to kill himself and failed. I was not the one going through this but I had to witness it and his anger came out and was directed at me sometimes. It was heartbreaking. I could not do anything. I didn't know what to do. My brother is doing much better today. My family is still very worried about him though. He has his moments where he is down and it doesn't seem like he's in a great place. When those times happen, my mom has me talk to him and I take him out to hang out together and get alone time. I can alter his moods by distraction. I do not ever want to know my brother left this world because of his mental health.

Dr. Sylvia Earle exceeds what a role model should look like. She is my inspiration for the future of our oceans. Not only is she a legendary Oceanographer, Marine Biologist, Environmentalist, and National Geographic Explorer-in-Residence, she also has created a global network of protected marine sanctuaries. I want to and will become a Marine Biologist. I have been accepted into Maine Maritime Academy to get my dual degree in Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations. Watching Dr. Sylvia Earle create Mission Blue and live out her dream through a mass number of other marine biologists, in her element, explore the deep and look for hope spots, hit me hard. Learning about Dr. Earle's team of more than 100 different scientists gathering in the Galapagos Islands to help her try and save the ocean, was pivotal. I do not want to be in a lab, I want to lead my expeditions in the ocean with a research team that believes in me and what I am passionate about. Mission Blue currently has 151 launched hope spots in the ocean. I had not heard of a Hope spot before this movie. A hope spot is a place in the ocean that needs special attention and is critical to the health of the ocean. Since learning this, I have been following Mission Blue and learning more about these underwater preserves with restrictions built in to help our ocean heal itself. My passion was fueled by this movie to learn more about a topic that I had no idea existed. Before the movie, I have dreamt of going into the field since I went to the Seattle Aquarium when I was in 5th grade. I have the desire to go into the farthest depths of the ocean and discover what allows the species down there to live under intense pressure, harshly cold temperatures, low food, and with no vision. I wish to know if these species can shed light upon us and give ideas and inspiration for new ways to combat problems we are experiencing now like climate change. If I can discover and research the organisms that can replenish our world's situation then, and only then, can I truly believe that the hard work I put in to be given the opportunities that I will attain has come to a slow. The hard work I put in will never stop but it will slow once the world’s environment returns to an incline. I want to be looked at and valued the way Dr. Sylvia Earle is. Financial aid is a necessity for me to pay for college. With scholarships, I can lessen the amount of cost significantly from $50,000+ a year. My family situation is split with no extra income able to help me financially. Without scholarships, I will be forced to take out large amounts of loans every year to keep up with my dream and passion. Scholarships are going to be the difference between our world without change and heading to unfixable destruction or saving the world and the organisms that live with it.

There is a creature named after me. That is a statement I will make before I pass. After having a fulfilling life of exploring the ocean and researching the unknown depths I will have a creature named after me. To get to the end goal I will require an education in Marine Biology, which means I will require the finances to pay for tuition and I hope that scholarships help me. My passion is Marine Biology. I have dreamed of going into the field since I went to the Seattle Aquarium in 5th grade. I desire to go into the farthest depths of the ocean and discover what allows the species down there to live under intense pressure, harshly cold temperatures, low food, and with no vision. I wish to know if these species can shed light upon us and give ideas and inspiration for new ways to combat the problems we are experiencing now, like climate change. If I can discover and do research on the organism that can replenish our world's situation then, and only then, can I truly believe that the hard work I put in to be given the opportunities that I will attain has come to a slow. The hard work I put in will never stop but it will slow once the world’s environment returns to an incline. This is how I will make an impact on the world. I was diagnosed with Tourette's Syndrome in the beginning of his 7th grade. I started not being able to control my facial and arm movements along with making noises from my throat that wouldn’t stop the prior summer. My parents and I didn’t know what was happening and we were scared that something serious was wrong. After many tests and appointments with the Neurologist, we had our cause. Obstacles I have encountered in life will either make me stronger if I can overcome them or leave me struggling if I let them overcome me. Going to college and living out my dreams despite my disability would show others that it doesn’t matter what is thrown in front of you, you push past it with everything you have got, and you don’t stop until you do. I am starting with Maine Maritime Academy and will obtain my Dual Degree in Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations. I will work in the field while going through college. With my Small Vessel Operations degree, I will acquire my 200-ton vessel operations license so that I can work and research on boats sent out into the ocean. I will lead the way. Financial aid is a necessity for me to pay for college. With scholarships, I can lessen the amount of cost significantly from $50,000+ a year. My family situation is split with no extra income able to help me financially. Without scholarships, I will be forced to take out large amounts of loans every year to keep up with my dream and passion. Scholarships are going to be the difference between our world without change and heading to unfixable destruction or saving the world and the organisms that live with it. I hope that you can see the importance of why I should receive your scholarship.

Dr. Sylvia Earle has identified and created Hope Spots across the world within our oceans. I will follow in her footprints to save and restore them.The ocean provides us with food to feed us, regulates our climate, and generates most of the oxygen we breathe. Creating an impact on the world is what I am working towards and have been working towards since 5th grade. My passion is Marine Biology. I have dreamed of going into the field since I went to the Seattle Aquarium in 5th grade. I desire to go into the farthest depths of the ocean and discover what allows the species down there to live under intense pressure, harshly cold temperatures, low food, and with no vision. I wish to know if these species can shed light upon us and give ideas and inspiration for new ways to combat the problems we are experiencing now, like climate change. If I can discover and do research on the organism that can replenish our world's situation then, and only then, can I truly believe that the hard work I put in to be given the opportunities that I will attain has come to a slow. The hard work I put in will never stop but it will slow once the world’s environment returns to an incline. This is how I will make an impact on the world. I am starting with Maine Maritime Academy and will obtain my Dual Degree in Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations. I will work in the field while going through college. With my Small Vessel Operations degree, I will acquire my 200-ton vessel operations license so that I can work and research on boats sent out into the ocean. I will lead the way. I believe that the path I have taken thus far has been an invisible impact leading to a more visible one once I receive the education to make a difference. Financial aid is a necessity for me to pay for college. With scholarships, I can lessen the amount of cost significantly from $50,000+ a year. My family is without extra income to be able to help me financially. Without scholarships, I will be forced to take out large amounts of loans every year to keep up with my dream and passion. Scholarships are going to be the difference between our world without change and heading to unfixable destruction or saving the world and the organisms that live with it.

The year is 2045. You know my name. Dylan Fraioli Why do you know my name? That's right, I have followed in the footsteps of Dr. Sylvia Earle and have carried on her life's work of launching 200 more "Hope Spots". I want to and will become a Marine Biologist. I have been accepted into Maine Maritime Academy to get my dual degree in Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations. Watching Dr. Sylvia Earle create Mission Blue and live out her dream through a mass number of other marine biologists, in her element, explore the deep and look for hope spots, hit me hard. I watch documentaries all the time but to see more than 100 different scientists gather in the Galapagos Islands to help her try and save the ocean, was pivotal. I do not want to be in a lab, I want to lead my expeditions in the ocean with a research team that believes in me and what I am passionate about. I have dreamt of going into the field since I went to the Seattle Aquarium when I was in 5th grade. I have the desire to go into the farthest depths of the ocean and discover what allows the species down there to live under intense pressure, harshly cold temperatures, low food, and with no vision. I wish to know if these species can shed light upon us and give ideas and inspiration for new ways to combat problems we are experiencing now like climate change. If I can discover and research the organisms that can replenish our world's situation then, and only then, can I truly believe that the hard work I put in to be given the opportunities that I will attain has come to a slow. The hard work I put in will never stop but it will slow once the world’s environment returns to an incline. I want to be looked at and valued the way Dr. Sylvia Earle is. Financial aid is a necessity for me to pay for college. With scholarships, I can lessen the amount of cost significantly from $250,000+. My family situation is split with no extra income able to help me financially. Without scholarships, I will be forced to take out large amounts of loans every year to keep up with my dream and passion. Scholarships are going to be the difference between our world without change and heading to unfixable destruction or saving the world and the organisms that live with it.

Obstacles we encounter in life will make us either stronger if we can overcome them or leave us struggling if we let them overcome us. I was diagnosed with Tourette's Syndrome at the beginning of 7th grade. I started not being able to control my facial and arm movements along with making noises from my throat that wouldn’t stop the prior summer. I was worried that having the disability to not control my movements would limit me from the dreams and hobbies I loved. I have wanted to be a Marine Biologist since I was in elementary and want to lead research projects manning my own vessels. I have played sports since I was in pre-school. I feared that I wouldn't be able to compete in athletic competitions or that I couldn't accomplish in academics, which anyone else could. However, I faced the fear head-on and overcame my difficulties. I took a physical disability and turned it into future-motivated years of sports and many difficult AP classes. I didn't stop or get discouraged when I realized that there would be challenges ahead of me. I didn’t make up reasons why my ticks were happening and I didn’t let the comments from people bother me. I went forward and earned my place in the minds of people not as the disabled student but as the student with 4 AP science classes and the largest knowledge of Marine Zoology in the school. My passion is Marine Biology. I will not let Tourette’s stop me from becoming a Biologist. I have dreamed of going into the field since I went to the Seattle Aquarium in 5th grade. I desire to go into the farthest depths of the ocean and discover what allows the species down there to live under intense pressure, harshly cold temperatures, low food, and with no vision. I wish to know if these species can shed light upon us and give ideas and inspiration for new ways to combat problems, we are experiencing now like climate change. If I can discover and do research on the organism that can replenish our world's situation then, and only then, can I truly believe that the hard work I put in to be given the opportunities that I will attain has come to a slow. The hard work I put in will never stop but it will slow once the world’s environment returns to an incline. While some people with disabilities, or not, may not want to add a job to their already busy plate in high school, I took a job working for the local YMCA camp to earn money and contribute to the workforce. I was not born into a family who has extra funds, and so being able to lighten the burden on my parents felt more rewarding than not. Also, having money of my own was nice too. Fast forward to 2023 and I am graduating High School. I have been accepted into Maine Maritime Academy for a dual degree of Marine Biology and 200-ton Vessel Operations. I am one step closer to achieving my dream. This scholarship will help me to feel less of a burden financially and allow me to focus on my education so that I can graduate with my Dual Degree and transfer schools so that I can get my Master’s and lead my own research team. Tourette’s hasn’t held me back, instead, it brought me to the realization that continuing to overcome a lifelong fight with a disability is a reward within itself.

Mission Blue. In 2014 Netflix put out a documentary called " Mission Blue. It is about legendary oceanographer, marine biologist, environmentalist, and National Geographic Explorer-in-Residence Dr. Sylvia Earle and her campaign to create a global network of protected marine sanctuaries. I want to and will become a Marine Biologist. I have been accepted into Maine Maritime Academy to get my dual degree in Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations. Watching Dr. Sylvia Earle create Mission Blue and live out her dream through a mass number of other marine biologists, in her element, explore the deep and look for hope spots, hit me hard. I watch documentaries all the time but to see more than 100 different scientists gather in the Galapagos Islands to help her try and save the ocean, was pivotal. I do not want to be in a lab, I want to lead my expeditions in the ocean with a research team that believes in me and what I am passionate about. Mission Blue currently has 151 launched hope spots in the ocean. I had not heard of a Hope spot before this movie. A hope spot is a place in the ocean that needs special attention and is critical to the health of the ocean. Since I have been following Mission Blue and learning more about these underwater preserves with restrictions built in to help our ocean heal itself. My passion was fueled by this movie to learn more about a topic that I had no idea existed. Before the movie, I have dreamt of going into the field since I went to the Seattle Aquarium when I was in 5th grade. I have a desire to go into the farthest depths of the ocean and discover what allows the species down there to live under intense pressure, harshly cold temperatures, low food, and with no vision. I wish to know if these species can shed light upon us and give ideas and inspiration for new ways to combat problems we are experiencing now like climate change. If I can discover and research on the organisms that can replenish our world's situation then, and only then, can I truly believe that the hard work I put in to be given the opportunities that I will attain has come to a slow. The hard work I put in will never stop but it will slow once the world’s environment returns to an incline. I want to be looked at and valued the way Dr. Sylvia Earle is. Financial aid is a necessity for me to pay for college. With scholarships, I am able to lessen the amount of cost significantly from $50,000+. My family situation is split with no extra income able to help me financially. Without scholarships, I will be forced to take out large amounts of loans every year to keep up with my dream and passion. Scholarships are going to be the difference between our world without change and heading to unfixable destruction or saving the world and the organisms that live with it.

I have been impacted by chronic medical conditions not only because I have one but also because my grandmother and my mother have one. We do not have the same things necessarily but they are all neurological. I have grown up seeing my mother and my grandmother struggle worth not being able to control the way their body works. I've seen them in pain and I have also seen them physically not able to move. When I was diagnosed with my neurological disorder in 7th grade was very scared. All I could think of is what I have seen both my mother and my grandmother go through. I have always wanted to be a marine biologist since 5th grade and I have always known that that is the direction my life would go. I have worked hard in school and have taken 7 science classes four of which were AP. I also I'm scuba certified so that way I can explore the water like I want and I can go out to see to do the research that I am meant to do. Now, I know, that having limitations affects your capabilities and what you can and cannot do despite what you want to do. I am bound and determined not to let my condition control my future. I have been accepted into Maine maritime Academy for a dual degree of both marine biology and small vessel operations. I have applied to other colleges and for the most part I was accepted to those also. I know that I was not accepted based on a college requirement to fit a certain quota of disability. I know that I was accepted based on what I can do academically. I don't ever want to think that I was given something or an opportunity based on somebody trying to fit a certain quota into what is required. I want to always know that if I have an opportunity to do something and I'm given that opportunity to do something it is based on my capabilities and not a check box. It would be easy for me to try and to get sympathy from people but I don't want the attention. You physically can see what I'm going through although I don't want you to say anything about it. When I am stressed my ticks are accelerated and amplified. When I make excited my ticks are accelerated and amplified. Whether happy or sad there is something that causes me to unconditionally move parts of my body. While I see it as a distraction to some, I don't want it to be what I am known for. I want to be known for having a creature named after me. I will have a marine creature named after me that is something that I am sure of. I know that when people look back on my story, which I know they will, they will see somebody that was extremely passionate about making our oceans better and creating a world with more opportunities. Yes, I know that it'll talk about my neurological disorder which happens every day and currently does not have a cure, but that will be a very small chapter in a very large book.

There will be a marine creature named after me and the world will know.

Obstacles we encounter in life will make us either stronger if we can overcome them or leave us struggling if we let them overcome us. I was diagnosed with Tourette's Syndrome at the beginning of 7th grade. I started not being able to control my facial and arm movements along with making noises from my throat that wouldn’t stop the prior summer. I didn’t know what was happening and my parents and I were scared that something serious was wrong. After many tests and appointments with the Neurologist, we had our cause. I was worried that having the disability to not control my movements would limit me from the dreams and hobbies I loved. I have wanted to be a Marine Biologist since I was in elementary and want to lead research projects manning my vessels. I have played sports since I was in pre-school. I feared that I wouldn't be able to compete in athletic competitions or that I couldn't accomplish in academics, which anyone else could. However, I faced the fear head-on and overcame my difficulties. I took a physical disability and turned it into future-motivated years of sports and many difficult AP classes. I didn't stop or get discouraged when I realized that there would be challenges ahead of me. I didn’t make up reasons why my ticks were happening and I didn’t let the comments from people bother me. I went forward and earned my place in the minds of people not as the disabled student but as the student with 4 AP science classes and the largest knowledge of Marine Zoology in the school. My passion is Marine Biology. I have dreamt of going into the field since I went to the Seattle Aquarium in 5th grade. I desire to go into the farthest depths of the ocean and discover what allows the species down there to live under intense pressure, harshly cold temperatures, low food, and with no vision. I wish to know if these species can shed light upon us and give ideas and inspiration for new ways to combat problems, we are experiencing now like climate change. If I can discover and do research on the organism that can replenish our world's situation then, and only then, can I truly believe that the hard work I put in to be given the opportunities that I will attain has come to a slow. The hard work I put in will never stop but it will slow once the world’s environment returns to an incline. While some people with disabilities, or not, may not want to add a job to their already busy plate in high school, I took a job working for the local YMCA camp to earn money and contribute to the workforce. I was not born into a family that has extra funds, so being able to lighten the burden on my parents felt more rewarding than not. Also, having money of my own was nice too. Fast forward to 2023, I have been accepted into Maine Maritime Academy for a dual degree in Marine Biology and 200-ton Vessel Operations. I am one step closer to achieving my dream. This scholarship will help me to feel less of a burden financially and allow me to focus on my education so that I can graduate with my Dual Degree and transfer schools so that I can get my Master’s and lead my own research team. Tourette’s hasn’t held me back, instead, it brought me to the realization that continuing to overcome a lifelong fight with a disability is a reward within itself.

My story is not mine, but my younger brothers. My brother's mental health issues began when he was 11. We have different fathers and his is mentally abusive. One day while at a doctor's appointment to get a sports physical, my brother broke down and while crying, told the doctor and my mom everything that had been happening. My mother wanted to get my brother into a counseling session so that he could get help, and his father wouldn't let that happen. They had to go to court and he had to see three different counselors before his dad would let up and agree to one. My mother has full custody although they have joint medical decision-making. over the next two years, my brother was diagnosed with anxiety and depression. He was suicidal twice and my mom and her husband took him to the children's hospital. They found out that he was suicidal when the school called them in on a Monday to discuss him looking up "how to kill yourself" the previous Friday. Instead of flagging and sending a message the moment he looked it up on a school computer, they didn't do anthing for three days. My brother could have been dead by then. That is a huge issue for me. How many kids are missed because of this? Each time my brother was taken to the hospital, the staff told my mom that unfortunately they were going to fail her and they were going to fail my brother. The system in Washington state is not set up to help families who make above a certain amount of money. Only those that are on state help have the crisis teams available to them. My brother could get someone to come to check on him for a week but nothing after that. My parent's insurance did not cover it either so any help needed would be at full cost and out of pocket. Also, there were no facilities to help him unless he tried to kill himself and failed. I was not the one going through this but I had to witness it and his anger came out and was directed at me sometimes. It was heartbreaking. I could not do anything. I didn't know what to do. My brother is doing much better today. My family is still very worried about him though. He has his moments where he is down and it doesn't seem like he's in a great place. When those times happen, my mom has me talk to him and I take him out to hang out together and get alone time. I can alter his moods by distraction. I do not ever want to know my brother left this world because of his mental health. I have learned to be more empathetic towards people and not know their struggles. This lesson is valuable although I wish it were not taught by my brother. I can see how people can hold on to things and then one day they just explode. Hopefully, people have others there to catch them.

My story is not mine, but my younger brothers. My brother's mental health issues began when he was 11. We have different fathers and his is mentally abusive. One day while at a doctor's appointment to get a sports physical, my brother broke down and while crying, told the doctor and my mom everything that had been happening. My mother wanted to get my brother into a counseling session so that he could get help, and his father wouldn't let that happen. They had to go to court and he had to see three different counselors before his dad would let up and agree to one. My mother has full custody although they have joint medical decision-making. over the next two years, my brother was diagnosed with anxiety and depression. He was suicidal twice and my mom and her husband took him to the children's hospital. They found out that he was suicidal when the school called them in on a Monday to discuss him looking up "how to kill yourself" the previous Friday. Instead of flagging and sending a message the moment he looked it up on a school computer, they didn't do anthing for three days. My brother could have been dead by then. That is a huge issue for me. How many kids are missed because of this? Each time my brother was taken to the hospital, the staff told my mom that unfortunately they were going to fail her and they were going to fail my brother. The system in Washington state is not set up to help families who make above a certain amount of money. Only those that are on state help have the crisis teams available to them. My brother could get someone to come to check on him for a week but nothing after that. My parent's insurance did not cover it either so any help needed would be at full cost and out of pocket. Also, there were no facilities to help him unless he tried to kill himself and failed. I was not the one going through this but I had to witness it and his anger came out and was directed at me sometimes. It was heartbreaking. I could not do anything. I didn't know what to do. My brother is doing much better today. My family is still very worried about him though. He has his moments where he is down and it doesn't seem like he's in a great place. When those times happen, my mom has me talk to him and I take him out to hang out together and get alone time. I can alter his moods by distraction. I do not ever want to know my brother left this world because of his mental health. I have learned to be more empathetic towards people and not know their struggles. This lesson is valuable although I wish it were not taught by my brother. I can see how people can hold on to things and then one day they just explode. Hopefully, people have others there to catch them.

My story is not mine, but my younger brothers. My brother's mental health issues began when he was 11. We have different fathers and his is mentally abusive. One day while at a doctor's appointment to get a sports physical, my brother broke down and while crying, told the doctor and my mom everything that had been happening. My mother wanted to get my brother into a counseling session so that he could get help, and his father wouldn't let that happen. They had to go to court and he had to see three different counselors before his dad would let up and agree to one. My mother has full custody although they have joint medical decision-making. over the next two years, my brother was diagnosed with anxiety and depression. He was suicidal twice and my mom and her husband took him to the children's hospital. They found out that he was suicidal when the school called them in on a Monday to discuss him looking up "how to kill yourself" the previous Friday. Instead of flagging and sending a message the moment he looked it up on a school computer, they didn't do anthing for three days. My brother could have been dead by then. That is a huge issue for me. How many kids are missed because of this? Each time my brother was taken to the hospital, the staff told my mom that unfortunately they were going to fail her and they were going to fail my brother. The system in Washington state is not set up to help families who make above a certain amount of money. Only those that are on state help have the crisis teams available to them. My brother could get someone to come to check on him for a week but nothing after that. My parent's insurance did not cover it either so any help needed would be at full cost and out of pocket. Also, there were no facilities to help him unless he tried to kill himself and failed. I was not the one going through this but I had to witness it and his anger came out and was directed at me sometimes. It was heartbreaking. I could not do anything. I didn't know what to do. My brother is doing much better today. My family is still very worried about him though. He has his moments where he is down and it doesn't seem like he's in a great place. When those times happen, my mom has me talk to him and I take him out to hang out together and get alone time. I can alter his moods by distraction. I do not ever want to know my brother left this world because of his mental health. I have learned to be more empathetic towards people and not know their struggles. This lesson is valuable although I wish it were not taught by my brother. I can see how people can hold on to things and then one day they just explode. Hopefully, people have others there to catch them.

My story is not mine, but my younger brothers. My brother's mental health issues began when he was 11. We have different fathers and his is mentally abusive. One day while at a doctor's appointment to get a sports physical, my brother broke down and while crying, told the doctor and my mom everything that had been happening. My mother wanted to get my brother into a counseling session so that he could get help, and his father wouldn't let that happen. They had to go to court and he had to see three different counselors before his dad would let up and agree to one. My mother has full custody although they have joint medical decision-making. over the next two years, my brother was diagnosed with anxiety and depression. He was suicidal twice and my mom and her husband took him to the children's hospital. They found out that he was suicidal when the school called them in on a Monday to discuss him looking up "how to kill yourself" the previous Friday. Instead of flagging and sending a message the moment he looked it up on a school computer, they didn't do anthing for three days. My brother could have been dead by then. That is a huge issue for me. How many kids are missed because of this? Each time my brother was taken to the hospital, the staff told my mom that unfortunately they were going to fail her and they were going to fail my brother. The system in Washington state is not set up to help families who make above a certain amount of money. Only those that are on state help have the crisis teams available to them. My brother could get someone to come to check on him for a week but nothing after that. My parent's insurance did not cover it either so any help needed would be at full cost and out of pocket. Also, there were no facilities to help him unless he tried to kill himself and failed. I was not the one going through this but I had to witness it and his anger came out and was directed at me sometimes. It was heartbreaking. I could not do anything. I didn't know what to do. My brother is doing much better today. My family is still very worried about him though. He has his moments where he is down and it doesn't seem like he's in a great place. When those times happen, my mom has me talk to him and I take him out to hang out together and get alone time. I can alter his moods by distraction. I do not ever want to know my brother left this world because of his mental health. I have learned to be more empathetic towards people and not know their struggles. This lesson is valuable although I wish it were not taught by my brother. I can see how people can hold on to things and then one day they just explode. Hopefully, people have others there to catch them.

My story is not mine, but my younger brothers. My brother's mental health issues began when he was 11. We have different fathers and his is mentally abusive. One day while at a doctor's appointment to get a sports physical, my brother broke down and while crying, told the doctor and my mom everything that had been happening. My mother wanted to get my brother into a counseling session so that he could get help, and his father wouldn't let that happen. They had to go to court and he had to see three different counselors before his dad would let up and agree to one. My mother has full custody although they have joint medical decision-making. over the next two years, my brother was diagnosed with anxiety and depression. He was suicidal twice and my mom and her husband took him to the children's hospital. They found out that he was suicidal when the school called them in on a Monday to discuss him looking up "how to kill yourself" the previous Friday. Instead of flagging and sending a message the moment he looked it up on a school computer, they didn't do anthing for three days. My brother could have been dead by then. That is a huge issue for me. How many kids are missed because of this? Each time my brother was taken to the hospital, the staff told my mom that unfortunately they were going to fail her and they were going to fail my brother. The system in Washington state is not set up to help families who make above a certain amount of money. Only those that are on state help have the crisis teams available to them. My brother could get someone to come check on him for a week but nothing after that. My parent's insurance did not cover it either so any help needed would be at full cost and out of pocket. Also, there were no facilities to help him unless he tried to kill himself and failed. I was not the one going through this but I had to witness it and his anger came out and was directed at me sometimes. It was heartbreaking. I could not do anything. I didn't know what to do. My brother is doing much better today. My family is still very worried about him though. He has his moments where he is down and it doesn't seem like he's in a great place. When those times happen, my mom has me talk to him and I take him out to hang out together and get alone time. I can alter his moods by distraction. I do not ever want to know my brother left this world because of his mental health.

"Shake it off" resonates deeply with me. I have Tourettes. Sometimes all I do is "shake it off". I was diagnosed with Tourette's Syndrome at the beginning of 7th grade. I started not being able to control my facial and arm movements along with making noises from my throat that wouldn’t stop the prior summer. I didn’t know what was happening and my parents and I were scared that something serious was wrong. After many tests and appointments with the Neurologist, we had our cause. I was worried that having the disability to not control my movements would limit me from the dreams and hobbies I loved. I have wanted to be a Marine Biologist since I was in elementary and want to lead research projects manning my vessels. I have played sports since I was in pre-school. I feared that I wouldn't be able to compete in athletic competitions or that I couldn't accomplish in academics, which anyone else could. However, I faced the fear head-on and overcame my difficulties. I took a physical disability and turned it into future-motivated years of sports and many difficult AP classes. I didn't stop or get discouraged when I realized that there would be challenges ahead of me. I didn’t make up reasons why my ticks were happening and I didn’t let the comments from people bother me. I went forward and earned my place in the minds of people not as the disabled student but as the student with 4 AP science classes and the largest knowledge of Marine Biology in the school. Taylor Swift has a way of taking something that can be perceived as negative and turning it into something beautiful and uplifting. Every instance of those haters who could cause a ripple of uncertainty was blocked by her and her power to overcome. I see this song as a tribute to those who dare to take a disability like mine, a setback, a gloomy day or even just bad luck and throw it back by "Shaking it off". I don't dance and I don't typically listen to POP. My mom does both. So when she is listening to "her music", I am inadvertently introduced to and absorbed by it. It is ok though, some of it is not as bad as others. "Shake it off", what I physically am doing even though it is out of my control, is my song. It is the song that makes me laugh when it happens.

There is a creature named after me. Books allow us to see a world we wouldn't normally be able to. They open our eyes and imagination to what can be. There is a creature named after me. That is a statement I will make before I pass. I believe that my story will be written and it will influence others to dream big and then turn that dream into reality. A glimpse of my autobiography will look like this: "After having a fulfilling life of exploring the ocean and researching the unknown depths, I discovered and now have a creature named after me. My story began by visiting a local aquarium in 5th grade. I knew that one day I would go into the farthest depths of the ocean and discover what allows the species down there to live under intense pressure, harshly cold temperatures, low food, and with no vision. I dreamt about knowing if these species could shed light upon us and give ideas and inspiration for new ways to combat problems we are experiencing, like climate change. If I could discover and research the organisms that can replenish our world's situation then, and only then, could I truly believe that the hard work I put in to be given the opportunities that I would attain had come to a slow. The hard work I put in would never stop but it will slow once the world’s environment returns to an incline" I am starting with Maine Maritime Academy and will obtain my dual degree in Marine Biology and 200-ton vessel operations license so that I can work and research on boats sent out into the ocean. I will lead the way. Financial aid is a necessity for me to pay for college. With scholarships, I can lessen the amount of cost significantly from $250,000+. My family situation is split with no extra income able to help me financially. Without scholarships, I will be forced to take out large amounts of loans every year to keep up with my dream and passion. Scholarships are going to be the difference between our world without change and heading to unfixable destruction or saving the world and the organisms that live with it. You will see my name in books about the ocean and how Marine Biologists have helped to save it. I will have a creature named after me. I will inspire others as they read my story.

There is a creature named after me. That is a statement I will make before I pass. After having a fulfilling life of exploring the ocean and researching the unknown depths I will have a creature named after me. To get to the end goal I will require an education in marine biology which means I will require the finances to pay for tuition and I hope that scholarships help me. My passion is marine biology. I have dreamed of going into the field since I went to the Seattle Aquarium in 5th grade. I desire to go into the farthest depths of the ocean and discover what allows the species down there to live under intense pressure, harshly cold temperatures, low food, and with no vision. I wish to know if these species can shed light upon us and give ideas and inspiration for new ways to combat problems we are experiencing now like climate change. If I can discover and do research on the organism that can replenish our world's situation then, and only then, can I truly believe that the hard work I put in to be given the opportunities that I will attain has come to a slow. The hard work I put in will never stop but it will slow once the world’s environment returns to an incline. A master’s degree is required to obtain a research job in marine biology. I will need to go through at least 6 years of university to reach the level of knowledge required to research the topics I want to study. I will obtain a master's degree so that I can go out into the open ocean to experience and research the animals in their natural habitat interacting with their ecosystem with little to no human interaction. While I will start my career path in a lab, I will later go into the natural ecosystems and learn about organisms first hand. I am starting with Maine Maritime Academy and will obtain my degree in marine biology. I will work in the field while going through college. During my off time from schooling and work, I will go down to the water to scuba dive and study the ocean. I will get my dual degree in 200 ton vessel operations license so that I can work and research on boats sent out into the ocean. I will lead the way. Financial aid is a necessity for me to pay for college. With scholarships I am able to lessen the amount of cost significantly from $50,000+. My family situation is split with no extra income able to help me financially. Without scholarships I will be forced to take out large amounts of loans every year to keep up with my dream and passion. Scholarships are going to be the difference between our world without change and heading to unfixable destruction or saving the world and the organisms that live with it.

Critical thinking. Calculus is hard math designed to torture those who have to take it and excite those who get to take it. For me, I get to take it. I get to use it. I get to engage in the critical thinking portion and in return, I become conditioned for everything ahead of me. The skills and thought processes used to do calculus calculations are transferrable and highly needed in a stem career field. I am focusing on the science side of things, which requires a well-rounded knowledge of the matter. My passion is Marine Biology. I have dreamed of going into the field since I went to the Seattle Aquarium in 5th grade. I desire to go into the farthest depths of the ocean and discover what allows the species down there to live under intense pressure, harshly cold temperatures, low food, and with no vision. I wish to know if these species can shed light upon us and give ideas and inspiration for new ways to combat problems we are experiencing now like climate change. If I can discover and do research on the organism that can replenish our world's situation then, and only then, can I truly believe that the hard work I put in to be given the opportunities that I will attain has come to a slow. The hard work I put in will never stop but it will slow once the world’s environment returns to an incline. A master’s degree is required to obtain a research job in Marine Biology. I will need to go through at least 6 years of university to reach the level of knowledge required to research the topics I want to study. I will obtain a master's degree so that I can go out into the open ocean to experience and research the animals in their natural habitat interacting with their ecosystem with little to no human interaction. While I will start my career path in a lab, I will later go into the natural ecosystems and learn about organisms firsthand. I was accepted at Maine Maritime Academy for my dual degree in Marine Biology and Small Vessel Operations. I will be able to use those degrees to Captain my research trips needed for my life purpose and career goals. How does my passion relate to calculus you ask? Along with all STEM careers, Science is riddled with math. This will be a focus area to help me reach those milestones I have laid out in front of me.

Being a first-gen 4-year college student has never been something that was a focus point for me. My passion is Marine Biology and I have known I was going to be a Biologist since I was in elementary school. My parents have supported me every year and told me that If I wanted to be a Marine Biologist I needed to work hard to get good grades which would help me get scholarships to pay for college. They were never going to be able to pay for it since they, along with so many families, lived paycheck to paycheck. It was never a question of if I went to college, it was always when. My family never talked about how they didn't go to a 4-year school, so in return, I never thought about it. I feel lucky to not have had that pressure put on me to be better and do better than them. That sort of pressure is a lot for one person to bear. Instead, I have worked hard to get to this point because I wanted to. I have dreamed of going into the field since I went to the Seattle Aquarium in 5th grade. I desire to go into the farthest depths of the ocean and discover what allows the species down there to live under intense pressure, harshly cold temperatures, low food, and with no vision. I wish to know if these species can shed light upon us and give ideas and inspiration for new ways to combat problems we are experiencing now like climate change. If I can discover and do research on the organism that can replenish our world's situation then, and only then, can I truly believe that the hard work I put in to be given the opportunities that I will attain has come to a slow. The hard work I put in will never stop but it will slow once the world’s environment returns to an incline. I was diagnosed with Tourette's Syndrome at the beginning of 7th grade. While some people with disabilities, or not, may not want to add a job to their already busy plate in high school, I took a job working for the local YMCA camp to earn money and save for college as my part. I am hoping for scholarships to also help relieve the burden.

There is a creature named after me. That is a statement I will make before I pass. After having a fulfilling life of exploring the ocean and researching the unknown depths I will have a creature named after me. To get to the end goal I will require an education in marine biology which means I will require the finances to pay for tuition and I hope that scholarships help me. My passion is marine biology. I have dreamed of going into the field since I went to the Seattle Aquarium in 5th grade. I desire to go into the farthest depths of the ocean and discover what allows the species down there to live under intense pressure, harshly cold temperatures, low food, and with no vision. I wish to know if these species can shed light upon us and give ideas and inspiration for new ways to combat problems we are experiencing now like climate change. If I can discover and do research on the organism that can replenish our world's situation then, and only then, can I truly believe that the hard work I put in to be given the opportunities that I will attain has come to a slow. The hard work I put in will never stop but it will slow once the world’s environment returns to an incline. A master’s degree is required to obtain a research job in marine biology. I will need to go through at least 6 years of university to reach the level of knowledge required to research the topics I want to study. I will obtain a master's degree so that I can go out into the open ocean to experience and research the animals in their natural habitat interacting with their ecosystem with little to no human interaction. While I will start my career path in a lab, I will later go into the natural ecosystems and learn about organisms firsthand. I am starting with Maine Maritime Academy and will obtain my degree in marine biology. I will work in the field while going through college. During my off time from schooling and work, I will go down to the water to scuba dive and study the ocean. I will get my dual degree in 200-ton vessel operations license so that I can work and research on boats sent out into the ocean. I will lead the way. Financial aid is a necessity for me to pay for college. With scholarships, I can lessen the amount cost significantly from $250,000. My family situation is split with no extra income able to help me financially. Without scholarships, I will be forced to take out large amounts of loans every year to keep up with my dream and passion. Scholarships are going to be the difference between our world without change and heading to unfixable destruction or saving the world and the organisms that live with it.

I am applying for a scholarship and hoping that even though I do not have a list of extracurricular activities, this does not stop you from considering me as an ideal applicant. In the past, I have played soccer from the ages of 5 to 13. I volunteered my time as a coach when I was not playing. I have played indoors and outdoors along with school soccer. I volunteered my time to assist coach my brother's team. I raced BMX from 13 to 16. I have places in Nationals, Regionals, State and local races. I am 4 races away from becoming an expert. I have always known my path in life and knew that to get to where I intended, I was going to need to find funding. My family, like many families, is not wealthy. When I turned 16, I stopped sports activities so that I could get a job to start saving for college. I took a job working for the local YMCA camp to earn money and contribute to the workforce. I was not born into a family who has extra funds, so being able to lighten the burden on my parents felt more rewarding than not. Also, having money of my own was nice too. I have been working for our local YMCA Camp as much as possible. I work during the week as soon as school is over and, on the weekends, when I am off. I work full-time in the summers and on all school breaks. After school, work consumes my time. I save all my money so that when I go to college, I have funds available to start paying on loans that I know I am going to need to get. I have been accepted into Maine Maritime Academy for a dual degree in Marine Biology and 200-ton Vessel Operations. I am one step closer to achieving my dream. This scholarship will help me to feel less of a burden financially and allow me to focus on my education so that I can graduate with my Dual Degree and transfer schools so that I can get my master's and lead my research team. Please do not fault me for not being able to do more with my time and not having a full list of volunteer opportunities to add to my application. I am doing my best with what I have. Thank you and I hope that I am considered for this opportunity, Dylan Fraioli

There is a creature named after me. That is a statement I will make before I pass. After having a fulfilling life of exploring the ocean and researching the unknown depths I will have a creature named after me. To get to the end goal I will require an education in marine biology which means I will require the finances to pay for tuition and I hope that scholarships help me. My passion is marine biology. I have dreamed of going into the field since I went to the Seattle Aquarium in 5th grade. I desire to go into the farthest depths of the ocean and discover what allows the species down there to live under intense pressure, harshly cold temperatures, low food, and with no vision. I wish to know if these species can shed light upon us and give ideas and inspiration for new ways to combat problems we are experiencing now like climate change. If I can discover and do research on the organism that can replenish our world's situation then, and only then, can I truly believe that the hard work I put in to be given the opportunities that I will attain has come to a slow. The hard work I put in will never stop but it will slow once the world’s environment returns to an incline. A master’s degree is required to obtain a research job in marine biology. I will need to go through at least 6 years of university to reach the level of knowledge required to research the topics I want to study. I will obtain a master's degree so that I can go out into the open ocean to experience and research the animals in their natural habitat interacting with their ecosystem with little to no human interaction. While I will start my career path in a lab, I will later go into the natural ecosystems and learn about organisms firsthand. I am starting with Maine Maritime Academy and will obtain my degree in marine biology. I will work in the field while going through college. During my off time from schooling and work, I will go down to the water to scuba dive and study the ocean. I will get my dual degree in 200-ton vessel operations license so that I can work and research on boats sent out into the ocean. I will lead the way. Financial aid is a necessity for me to pay for college. With scholarships, I can lessen the amount of cost significantly from $50,000+. My family situation is split with no extra income able to help me financially. Without scholarships, I will be forced to take out large amounts of loans every year to keep up with my dream and passion. Scholarships are going to be the difference between our world without change and heading to unfixable destruction or saving the world and the organisms that live with it.

Obstacles we encounter in life will make us either stronger if we can overcome them or leave us struggling if we let them overcome us. Being able to afford the education to overcome them is a boundary that would be removed if I were to get a scholarship. I was diagnosed with Tourette's Syndrome at the beginning of 7th grade. I started not being able to control my facial and arm movements along with making noises from my throat that wouldn’t stop the prior summer. I didn’t know what was happening and my parents and I were scared that something serious was wrong. After many tests and appointments with the Neurologist, we had our cause. I was worried that having the disability to not control my movements would limit me from the dreams and hobbies I loved. I have wanted to be a Marine Biologist since I was in 7th grade. I have played sports since I was in pre-school. I feared that I wouldn't be able to compete in athletic competitions or that I couldn't accomplish in academics, which anyone else could. However, I faced the fear head-on and overcame my difficulties. I took a physical disability and turned it into future-motivated years of sports and many difficult AP classes. I didn't stop or get discouraged when I realized that there would be challenges ahead of me. I didn’t make up reasons why my ticks were happening and I didn’t let the comments from people bother me. I went forward and earned my place in the minds of people not as the disabled student but as the student with 4 AP science classes and the largest knowledge of Marine Zoology in the school. I have taken my disability with Tourette's and turned it into a lesson on how to overcome challenges and setbacks. A specific setback that I and many other students encountered was Covid-19. I took my experience dealing with hardships and applied it to perseverance and making do with whatever situation may happen. While some people with disabilities, or not, may not want to add a job to their already busy plate in high school, I took a job working for the local YMCA camp to earn money and contribute to the workforce. I was not born into a family that has extra funds, so being able to lighten the burden on my parents felt more rewarding than not. Also, having money of my own was nice too. During the pandemic, I was able to increase my knowledge and hands-on experiences with nature and marine zoology. Any spare time I had, I used to increase my self-worth and truly appreciate who I have come to be. Tourette’s hasn’t held me back, instead, it brought me to the realization that continuing to overcome a lifelong fight with a disability is a reward within itself.

There is a creature named after me. That is a statement I will make before I pass. After having a fulfilling life of exploring the ocean and researching the unknown depths I will have a creature named after me. To get to the end goal I will require an education in marine biology which means I will require the finances to pay for tuition and I hope that scholarships help me. My passion is marine biology. I have dreamed of going into the field since I went to the Seattle Aquarium in 5th grade. I desire to go into the farthest depths of the ocean and discover what allows the species down there to live under intense pressure, harshly cold temperatures, low food, and with no vision. I wish to know if these species can shed light upon us and give ideas and inspiration for new ways to combat problems we are experiencing now like climate change. If I can discover and do research on the organism that can replenish our world's situation then, and only then, can I truly believe that the hard work I put in to be given the opportunities that I will attain has come to a slow. The hard work I put in will never stop but it will slow once the world’s environment returns to an incline. A master’s degree is required to obtain a research job in marine biology. I will need to go through at least 6 years of university to reach the level of knowledge required to research the topics I want to study. I will obtain a master's degree so that I can go out into the open ocean to experience and research the animals in their natural habitat interacting with their ecosystem with little to no human interaction. While I will start my career path in a lab, I will later go into the natural ecosystems and learn about organisms firsthand. I am starting with Maine Maritime Academy and will obtain my degree in marine biology. I will work in the field while going through college. During my off time from schooling and work, I will go down to the water to scuba dive and study the ocean. I will get my dual degree in 200 ton vessel operations license so that I can work and research on boats sent out into the ocean. I will lead the way. Financial aid is a necessity for me to pay for college. With scholarships, I am able to lessen the amount of cost significantly from $50,000+. My family situation is split with no extra income able to help me financially. Without scholarships, I will be forced to take out large amounts of loans every year to keep up with my dream and passion. Scholarships are going to be the difference between our world without change and heading to unfixable destruction or saving the world and the organisms that live with it.

There is a creature named after me. That is a statement I will make before I pass. After having a fulfilling life of exploring the ocean and researching the unknown depths, I will have a creature named after me. My passion is marine zoology. I have dreamed of going into the field since I went to the Seattle Aquarium in 5th grade. I desire to go into the farthest depths of the ocean and discover what allows the species down there to live under intense pressure, harshly cold temperatures, low food, and with no vision. I wish to know if these species can shed light upon us and give ideas and inspiration for new ways to combat problems we are experiencing now like climate change. If I can discover and do research on the organism that can replenish our world's situation then, and only then, can I truly believe that the hard work I put in to be given the opportunities that I will attain has come to a slow. The hard work I put in will never stop but it will slow once the world’s environment returns to an incline. A masters degree is required to obtain a research job in marine zoology. I will need to go through at least 6 years of university to reach the level of knowledge required to research the topics I want to study. A bachelor's degree only allows me to work in labs with marine zoology and I would not be able to do any research. I will obtain a master's degree so that I can go out into the open ocean to experience and research the animals in their natural habitat interacting with their ecosystem with little to no human interaction. While I will start my career path in a lab, I will later go into the natural ecosystems and learn about organisms first hand. I am enrolled at Maine Maritime Academy starting this year. This is where my adventure begins. To get to the end goal I will require an education in marine biology and small vessel operations. To go through college I will require the finances to pay for college. To receive the finances needed for college I will require scholarships. I am confident that those who work in the field will know my name. I will do great things and I will not let tourettes or financing stop me. Watch for me. I am going to make a break through.

There is a creature named after me. That is a statement I will make before I pass. After having a fulfilling life of exploring the ocean and researching the unknown depths I will have a creature named after me. To get to the end goal I will require an education in marine zoology. To get an education in marine zoology I will require going through college. To go through college I will require the finances to pay for college. To receive the finances needed for college I will require scholarships. My passion is marine zoology. I have dreamed of going into the field since I went to the Seattle Aquarium in 5th grade. I desire to go into the farthest depths of the ocean and discover what allows the species down there to live under intense pressure, harshly cold temperatures, low food, and with no vision. I wish to know if these species can shed light upon us and give ideas and inspiration for new ways to combat problems we are experiencing now like climate change. If I can discover and do research on the organism that can replenish our world's situation then, and only then, can I truly believe that the hard work I put in to be given the opportunities that I will attain has come to a slow. The hard work I put in will never stop but it will slow once the world’s environment returns to an incline. A masters degree is required to obtain a research job in marine zoology. I will need to go through at least 6 years of university to reach the level of knowledge required to research the topics I want to study. A bachelor's degree only allows me to work in labs with marine zoology and I would not be able to do any research. I will obtain a master's degree so that I can go out into the open ocean to experience and research the animals in their natural habitat interacting with their ecosystem with little to no human interaction. While I will start my career path in a lab, I will later go into the natural ecosystems and learn about organisms first hand. To get a masters degree I require a college education. I am starting with Maine Maritime Academy and will obtain my degree in marine biology. I will work in the field while going through college. During my off time from schooling and work, I will go down to the water to scuba dive and study the ocean. I will get my dual degree in 200 ton vessel operations and license so that I can do work and research on boats sent out into the ocean. I will lead the way. Financial aid is a necessity for me to pay for college. With scholarships I am able to lessen the amount of cost significantly from $50,000+. My family situation is split with no extra income able to help me financially. Without scholarships I will be forced to take out large amounts of loans every year to keep up with my dream and passion. Scholarships k are going to be the difference between our world without change and heading to unfixable destruction or saving the world and the organisms that live with it.

There is a creature named after me. That is a statement I will make before I pass. After having a fulfilling life of exploring the ocean and researching the unknown depths I will have a creature named after me. To get to the end goal I will require an education in marine zoology. To get an education in marine zoology I will require going through college. To go through college I will require the finances to pay for college. To receive the finances needed for college I will require scholarships. My passion is marine zoology. I have dreamed of going into the field since I went to the Seattle Aquarium in 5th grade. I desire to go into the farthest depths of the ocean and discover what allows the species down there to live under intense pressure, harshly cold temperatures, low food, and with no vision. I wish to know if these species can shed light upon us and give ideas and inspiration for new ways to combat problems we are experiencing now like climate change. If I can discover and do research on the organism that can replenish our world's situation then, and only then, can I truly believe that the hard work I put in to be given the opportunities that I will attain has come to a slow. The hard work I put in will never stop but it will slow once the world’s environment returns to an incline. A masters degree is required to obtain a research job in marine zoology. I will need to go through at least 6 years of university to reach the level of knowledge required to research the topics I want to study. A bachelor's degree only allows me to work in labs with marine zoology and I would not be able to do any research. I will obtain a master's degree so that I can go out into the open ocean to experience and research the animals in their natural habitat interacting with their ecosystem with little to no human interaction. While I will start my career path in a lab, I will later go into the natural ecosystems and learn about organisms first hand. To get a masters degree I require a college education. I am starting with Maine Maritime Academy and will obtain my degree in marine biology. I will work in the field while going through college. During my off time from schooling and work, I will go down to the water to scuba dive and study the ocean. I will get my dual degree in 200 ton vessel operations and license so that I can do work and research on boats sent out into the ocean. I will lead the way. Financial aid is a necessity for me to pay for college. With scholarships I am able to lessen the amount of cost significantly from $50,000+. My family situation is split with no extra income able to help me financially. Without scholarships I will be forced to take out large amounts of loans every year to keep up with my dream and passion. Scholarships k are going to be the difference between our world without change and heading to unfixable destruction or saving the world and the organisms that live with it.

There is a creature named after me. That is a statement I will make before I pass. After having a fulfilling life of exploring the ocean and researching the unknown depths I will have a creature named after me. To get to the end goal I will require an education in marine zoology. To get an education in marine zoology I will require going through college. To go through college I will require the finances to pay for college. To receive the finances needed for college I will require scholarships. My passion is marine zoology. I have dreamed of going into the field since I went to the Seattle Aquarium in 5th grade. I desire to go into the farthest depths of the ocean and discover what allows the species down there to live under intense pressure, harshly cold temperatures, low food, and with no vision. I wish to know if these species can shed light upon us and give ideas and inspiration for new ways to combat problems we are experiencing now like climate change. If I can discover and do research on the organism that can replenish our world's situation then, and only then, can I truly believe that the hard work I put in to be given the opportunities that I will attain has come to a slow. The hard work I put in will never stop but it will slow once the world’s environment returns to an incline. A masters degree is required to obtain a research job in marine zoology. I will need to go through at least 6 years of university to reach the level of knowledge required to research the topics I want to study. A bachelor's degree only allows me to work in labs with marine zoology and I would not be able to do any research. I will obtain a master's degree so that I can go out into the open ocean to experience and research the animals in their natural habitat interacting with their ecosystem with little to no human interaction. While I will start my career path in a lab, I will later go into the natural ecosystems and learn about organisms first hand. To get a masters degree I require a college education. I am starting with Maine Maritime Academy and will obtain my degree in marine biology. I will work in the field while going through college. During my off time from schooling and work, I will go down to the water to scuba dive and study the ocean. I will get my dual degree in 200 ton vessel operations and license so that I can do work and research on boats sent out into the ocean. I will lead the way. Financial aid is a necessity for me to pay for college. With scholarships I am able to lessen the amount of cost significantly from $50,000+. My family situation is split with no extra income able to help me financially. Without scholarships I will be forced to take out large amounts of loans every year to keep up with my dream and passion. Scholarships k are going to be the difference between our world without change and heading to unfixable destruction or saving the world and the organisms that live with it.

There is a creature named after me. That is a statement I will make before I pass. After having a fulfilling life of exploring the ocean and researching the unknown depths I will have a creature named after me. To get to the end goal I will require an education in marine zoology. To get an education in marine zoology I will require going through college. To go through college I will require the finances to pay for college. To receive the finances needed for college I will require scholarships. My passion is marine zoology. I have dreamed of going into the field since I went to the Seattle Aquarium in 5th grade. I desire to go into the farthest depths of the ocean and discover what allows the species down there to live under intense pressure, harshly cold temperatures, low food, and with no vision. I wish to know if these species can shed light upon us and give ideas and inspiration for new ways to combat problems we are experiencing now like climate change. If I can discover and do research on the organism that can replenish our world's situation then, and only then, can I truly believe that the hard work I put in to be given the opportunities that I will attain has come to a slow. The hard work I put in will never stop but it will slow once the world’s environment returns to an incline. A masters degree is required to obtain a research job in marine zoology. I will need to go through at least 6 years of university to reach the level of knowledge required to research the topics I want to study. A bachelor's degree only allows me to work in labs with marine zoology and I would not be able to do any research. I will obtain a master's degree so that I can go out into the open ocean to experience and research the animals in their natural habitat interacting with their ecosystem with little to no human interaction. While I will start my career path in a lab, I will later go into the natural ecosystems and learn about organisms first hand. To get a masters degree I require a college education. I am starting with Maine Maritime Academy and will obtain my degree in marine biology. I will work in the field while going through college. During my off time from schooling and work, I will go down to the water to scuba dive and study the ocean. I will get my dual degree in 200 ton vessel operations and license so that I can do work and research on boats sent out into the ocean. I will lead the way. Financial aid is a necessity for me to pay for college. With scholarships I am able to lessen the amount of cost significantly from $50,000+. My family situation is split with no extra income able to help me financially. Without scholarships I will be forced to take out large amounts of loans every year to keep up with my dream and passion. Scholarships k are going to be the difference between our world without change and heading to unfixable destruction or saving the world and the organisms that live with it.

There is a creature named after me. That is a statement I will make before I pass. After having a fulfilling life of exploring the ocean and researching the unknown depths I will have a creature named after me. To get to the end goal I will require an education in marine zoology. To get an education in marine zoology I will require going through college. To go through college I will require the finances to pay for college. To receive the finances needed for college I will require scholarships. My passion is marine zoology. I have dreamed of going into the field since I went to the Seattle Aquarium in 5th grade. I desire to go into the farthest depths of the ocean and discover what allows the species down there to live under intense pressure, harshly cold temperatures, low food, and with no vision. I wish to know if these species can shed light upon us and give ideas and inspiration for new ways to combat problems we are experiencing now like climate change. If I can discover and do research on the organism that can replenish our world's situation then, and only then, can I truly believe that the hard work I put in to be given the opportunities that I will attain has come to a slow. The hard work I put in will never stop but it will slow once the world’s environment returns to an incline. A master's degree is required to obtain a research job in marine zoology. I will need to go through at least 6 years of university to reach the level of knowledge required to research the topics I want to study. A bachelor's degree only allows me to work in labs with marine zoology and I would not be able to do any research. I will obtain a master's degree so that I can go out into the open ocean to experience and research the animals in their natural habitat interacting with their ecosystem with little to no human interaction. While I will start my career path in a lab, I will later go into the natural ecosystems and learn about organisms firsthand. To get a master's degree I require a college education. I am starting with Maine Maritime Academy and will obtain my degree in marine biology. I will work in the field while going through college. During my off time from schooling and work, I will go down to the water to scuba dive and study the ocean. I will get my dual degree in small vessel operations and license so that I can do work and research on boats sent out into the ocean. I will lead the way. Financial aid is a necessity for me to pay for college. With scholarships, I can lessen the amount of cost significantly from $50,000+. My family situation is split with no extra income able to help me financially. Without scholarships, I will be forced to take out large amounts of loans every year to keep up with my dream and passion. Scholarships k are going to be the difference between our world without change and heading to unfixable destruction or saving the world and the organisms that live with it.