As an NIH-NIDDK STEP-UP alumni for the Summer 2024 cohort, I became a young scientist for the first time, mixing tangible reactants of cell culturing and ATP7B immunostaining to generate my nuanced hypothesis: Is there any relationship between the ATP7B gene and red-blood-cell development? I actively applied the principles of the scientific method through data analysis and mentor-mentee discussion to confirm that this gene influences red blood cell development as well as brain functionality. I cherished my time immersing myself in the real-world biomedical experience, feeling myself contributing to scientific knowledge. As a minority student, I know it can be very challenging for minority students passionate about STEM to obtain research opportunities and actively take a role in becoming young scientists as I did. With this scholarship fund, I will work towards pursuing a degree in Neuroscience and start my own non-profit organization where I can provide minority STEM students with opportunities to volunteer for local clinics and research in medical centers and universities to strengthen their love for science. Stimulating my passion for healthcare and empowering others with access to the interconnected and humanitarian system of healthcare will be my biggest ambition with this scholarship fund.

One Friday afternoon, I dragged myself up the hill to my house. I thought about the rest of my day, the same routine as always: do homework, practice French horn, go to swim practice, take a shower, study for tests, and sleep. My daily routine had once seemed ideal: I simply powered through my activities with sheer discipline and persistence. I used all my inward strength to become this perfect, versatile person who was never burdened by his busy schedule. However, the more I committed myself to this routine, the more I felt disconnected from myself: I was on autopilot and my inner core was lost somewhere. Then it struck me: did my inward strength really make me strong? Later that evening, I was yawning over my math textbook when my mom entered. “Ebeshaye, you need to get some rest. You need a break, so we’ll have a yoga flow class tomorrow.” I assumed the class would be like my activities: the goal would be to simply learn and practice the poses. Yet, the class proved to be much more fruitful. As I meditated, I became more aware of my breath, and the silence that enveloped me opened my mind. In one moment, I was kayaking in the Grand Canyon, sunlight splashing on my face. In another, I was climbing the Eiffel Tower, captivated by the panoramic view of Paris. This feels like paradise… I’ve never felt so relaxed: I love this. The following week, I read a newsletter entitled What are Students saying about their mental health? I wasn’t surprised to find that many students reported mental issues related to demanding coursework and personal commitments. Realizing that I wasn’t alone, I began to think. If I feel glued to this endless cycle of hard work, maybe other people feel something similar. But, maybe I can address this issue… maybe by creating a club for it? Yes, I can try… I’ll try that. Little did I know, though, that my endeavor would pave the road to discovering a new, more promising type of strength. I co-founded the Mental Illness Matters Club dedicated to fostering community among people struggling with mental health issues. During our first meeting, we shared our coping methods. Although hesitant, I started the discussion by sharing with everyone how yoga helped alleviate my long-term stress with school and work. When I finished, I became engrossed in the stories that unfolded. “I’ve struggled with anxiety, so I love to do oil paintings of my cat in my garden,” offered one girl. “As a bipolar person, a nice Chopin Nocturne goes well with Taylor Swift’s Cruel Summer,” remarked another girl. As the stories continued, our smiles evoked soothing vibes that permeated the room. At that moment, I felt like a pebble that had sent a ripple through a pond. Wow, these stories are so relatable. I can just feel this sense of empathy and belonging; I really have to continue expanding this club. In subsequent meetings, I hosted personal journal sessions and ‘letters to psychiatric teens' workshops. We became immersed in our writings, crafting compassionate creative letters: we were dedicated to spreading love and joy throughout our community. By the end of the year, we had grown into a closely-knit family that will only continue to blossom this year. Today, I’ve found a profound sense of vitality rooted in my openness and leadership. My enthusiasm has inspired me to continue bringing change to my community by becoming a certified yoga instructor. I’ve cultivated an outward, more fulfilling kind of strength based on emotional resilience, courage, and thoughtfulness. While my diligence undeniably contributed to my success, my newfound mental fortitude has provided a sense of meaning and purpose to my life. It has led me to my new role as a student leader and a mental health advocate who will continue to mature and serve others in college and beyond.

One Friday afternoon, I dragged myself up the hill to my house. I thought about the rest of my day, the same routine as always: do homework, practice French horn, go to swim practice, take a shower, study for tests, and sleep. My daily routine had once seemed ideal: I simply powered through my activities with sheer discipline and persistence. I used all my inward strength to become this perfect, versatile person who was never burdened by his busy schedule. However, the more I committed myself to this routine, the more I felt disconnected from myself: I was on autopilot and my inner core was lost somewhere. Then it struck me: did my inward strength really make me strong? Later that evening, I was yawning over my math textbook when my mom entered. “Ebeshaye, you need to get some rest. You need a break, so we’ll have a yoga flow class tomorrow.” I assumed the class would be like my activities: the goal would be to simply learn and practice the poses. Yet, the class proved to be much more fruitful. As I meditated, I became more aware of my breath, and the silence that enveloped me opened my mind. In one moment, I was kayaking in the Grand Canyon, sunlight splashing on my face. In another, I was climbing the Eiffel Tower, captivated by the panoramic view of Paris. This feels like paradise… I’ve never felt so relaxed: I love this. The following week, I read a newsletter entitled What are Students saying about their mental health? I wasn’t surprised to find that many students reported mental issues related to demanding coursework and personal commitments. Realizing that I wasn’t alone, I began to think. If I feel glued to this endless cycle of hard work, maybe other people feel something similar. But, maybe I can address this issue… maybe by creating a club for it? Yes, I can try… I’ll try that. Little did I know, though, that my endeavor would pave the road to discovering a new, more promising type of strength. I co-founded the Mental Illness Matters Club dedicated to fostering community among people struggling with mental health issues. During our first meeting, we shared our coping methods. Although hesitant, I started the discussion by sharing with everyone how yoga helped alleviate my long-term stress with school and work. When I finished, I became engrossed in the stories that unfolded. “I’ve struggled with anxiety, so I love to do oil paintings of my cat in my garden,” offered one girl. “As a bipolar person, a nice Chopin Nocturne goes well with Taylor Swift’s Cruel Summer,” remarked another girl. Wow, these stories are so relatable. I can just feel this sense of empathy and belonging; I really have to continue expanding this club. In subsequent meetings, I hosted personal journal sessions and ‘letters to psychiatric teens' workshops. We became immersed in our writings, crafting compassionate creative letters: we were dedicated to spreading love and joy throughout our community. Today, I’ve found a profound sense of vitality rooted in my openness and leadership. My enthusiasm has inspired me to continue bringing change to my community by becoming a certified yoga instructor. I’ve cultivated an outward, more fulfilling kind of strength based on emotional resilience, courage, and thoughtfulness. While my diligence undeniably contributed to my success, my newfound mental fortitude has provided a sense of meaning and purpose to my life. It has led me to my new role as a student leader and a mental health advocate who will continue to mature and serve others in college and beyond.

One Friday afternoon, I dragged myself up the hill to my house. I thought about the rest of my day, the same routine as always: do homework, practice French horn, go to swim practice, take a shower, study for tests, and sleep. My daily routine had once seemed ideal: I simply powered through my activities with sheer discipline and persistence. I used all my inward strength to become this perfect, versatile person who was never burdened by his busy schedule. However, the more I committed myself to this routine, the more I felt disconnected from myself: I was on autopilot and my inner core was lost somewhere. Then it struck me: did my inward strength really make me strong? Later that evening, I was yawning over my math textbook when my mom entered. “Ebeshaye, you need to get some rest. You need a break, so we’ll have a yoga flow class tomorrow.” I assumed the class would be like my activities: the goal would be to simply learn and practice the poses. Yet, the class proved to be much more fruitful. As I meditated, I became more aware of my breath, and the silence that enveloped me opened my mind. In one moment, I was kayaking in the Grand Canyon, sunlight splashing on my face. In another, I was climbing the Eiffel Tower, captivated by the panoramic view of Paris. This feels like paradise… I’ve never felt so relaxed: I love this. The following week, I read a newsletter entitled What are Students saying about their mental health? I wasn’t surprised to find that many students reported mental issues related to demanding coursework and personal commitments. Realizing that I wasn’t alone, I began to think. If I feel glued to this endless cycle of hard work, maybe other people feel something similar. But, maybe I can address this issue… maybe by creating a club for it? Yes, I can try… I’ll try that. Little did I know, though, that my endeavor would pave the road to discovering a new, more promising type of strength. I co-founded the Mental Illness Matters Club dedicated to fostering community among people struggling with mental health issues. During our first meeting, we shared our coping methods. Although hesitant, I started the discussion by sharing with everyone how yoga helped alleviate my long-term stress with school and work. When I finished, I became engrossed in the stories that unfolded. “I’ve struggled with anxiety, so I love to do oil paintings of my cat in my garden,” offered one girl. “As a bipolar person, a nice Chopin Nocturne goes well with Taylor Swift’s Cruel Summer,” remarked another girl. Wow, these stories are so relatable. I can just feel this sense of empathy and belonging; I really have to continue expanding this club. In subsequent meetings, I hosted personal journal sessions and ‘letters to psychiatric teens' workshops. We became immersed in our writings, crafting compassionate creative letters: we were dedicated to spreading love and joy throughout our community. Today, I’ve found a profound sense of vitality rooted in my openness and leadership. My enthusiasm has inspired me to continue bringing change to my community by becoming a certified yoga instructor. I’ve cultivated an outward, more fulfilling kind of strength based on emotional resilience, courage, and thoughtfulness. While my diligence undeniably contributed to my success, my newfound mental fortitude has provided a sense of meaning and purpose to my life. It has led me to my new role as a student leader and a mental health advocate who will continue to mature and serve others in college and beyond.

One Friday afternoon, I dragged myself up the hill to my house. I thought about the rest of my day, the same routine as always: do homework, practice French horn, go to swim practice, take a shower, study for tests, and sleep. My daily routine had once seemed ideal: I simply powered through my activities with sheer discipline and persistence. I used all my inward strength to become this perfect, versatile person who was never burdened by his busy schedule. However, the more I committed myself to this routine, the more I felt disconnected from myself: I was on autopilot and my inner core was lost somewhere. Then it struck me: did my inward strength really make me strong? Later that evening, I was yawning over my math textbook when my mom entered. “Ebeshaye, you need to get some rest. You need a break, so we’ll have a yoga flow class tomorrow.” I assumed the class would be like my activities: the goal would be to simply learn and practice the poses. Yet, the class proved to be much more fruitful. As I meditated, I became more aware of my breath, and the silence that enveloped me opened my mind. In one moment, I was kayaking in the Grand Canyon, sunlight splashing on my face. In another, I was climbing the Eiffel Tower, captivated by the panoramic view of Paris. This feels like paradise… I’ve never felt so relaxed: I love this. The following week, I read a newsletter entitled What are Students saying about their mental health? I wasn’t surprised to find that many students reported mental issues related to demanding coursework and personal commitments. Realizing that I wasn’t alone, I began to think. If I feel glued to this endless cycle of hard work, maybe other people feel something similar. But, maybe I can address this issue… maybe by creating a club for it? Yes, I can try… I’ll try that. Little did I know, though, that my endeavor would pave the road to discovering a new, more promising type of strength. I co-founded the Mental Illness Matters Club dedicated to fostering community among people struggling with mental health issues. During our first meeting, we shared our coping methods. Although hesitant, I started the discussion by sharing with everyone how yoga helped alleviate my long-term stress with school and work. When I finished, I became engrossed in the stories that unfolded. “I’ve struggled with anxiety, so I love to do oil paintings of my cat in my garden,” offered one girl. “As a bipolar person, a nice Chopin Nocturne goes well with Taylor Swift’s Cruel Summer,” remarked another girl. Wow, these stories are so relatable. I can just feel this sense of empathy and belonging; I really have to continue expanding this club. In subsequent meetings, I hosted personal journal sessions and ‘letters to psychiatric teens' workshops. We became immersed in our writings, crafting compassionate creative letters: we were dedicated to spreading love and joy throughout our community. Today, I’ve found a profound sense of vitality rooted in my openness and leadership. My enthusiasm has inspired me to continue bringing change to my community by becoming a certified yoga instructor. I’ve cultivated an outward, more fulfilling kind of strength based on emotional resilience, courage, and thoughtfulness. While my diligence undeniably contributed to my success, my newfound mental fortitude has provided a sense of meaning and purpose to my life. It has led me to my new role as a student leader and a mental health advocate who will continue to mature and serve others in college and beyond.

One Friday afternoon, I dragged myself up the hill to my house. I thought about the rest of my day, the same routine as always: do homework, practice French horn, go to swim practice, take a shower, study for tests, and sleep. My daily routine had once seemed ideal: I simply powered through my activities with sheer discipline and persistence. I used all my inward strength to become this perfect, versatile person who was never burdened by his busy schedule. However, the more I committed myself to this routine, the more I felt disconnected from myself: I was on autopilot and my inner core was lost somewhere. Then it struck me: did my inward strength really make me strong? Later that evening, I was yawning over my math textbook when my mom entered. “Ebeshaye, you need to get some rest. You need a break, so we’ll have a yoga flow class tomorrow.” I assumed the class would be like my activities: the goal would be to simply learn and practice the poses. Yet, the class proved to be much more fruitful. As I meditated, I became more aware of my breath, and the silence that enveloped me opened my mind. In one moment, I was kayaking in the Grand Canyon, sunlight splashing on my face. In another, I was climbing the Eiffel Tower, captivated by the panoramic view of Paris. This feels like paradise… I’ve never felt so relaxed: I love this. The following week, I read a newsletter entitled What are Students saying about their mental health? I wasn’t surprised to find that many students reported mental issues related to demanding coursework and personal commitments. Realizing that I wasn’t alone, I began to think. If I feel glued to this endless cycle of hard work, maybe other people feel something similar. But, maybe I can address this issue… maybe by creating a club for it? Yes, I can try… I’ll try that. Little did I know, though, that my endeavor would pave the road to discovering a new, more promising type of strength. I co-founded the Mental Illness Matters Club dedicated to fostering community among people struggling with mental health issues. During our first meeting, we shared our coping methods. Although hesitant, I started the discussion by sharing with everyone how yoga helped alleviate my long-term stress with school and work. When I finished, I became engrossed in the stories that unfolded. “I’ve struggled with anxiety, so I love to do oil paintings of my cat in my garden,” offered one girl. “As a bipolar person, a nice Chopin Nocturne goes well with Taylor Swift’s Cruel Summer,” remarked another girl. Wow, these stories are so relatable. I can just feel this sense of empathy and belonging; I really have to continue expanding this club. In subsequent meetings, I hosted personal journal sessions and ‘letters to psychiatric teens' workshops. We became immersed in our writings, crafting compassionate creative letters: we were dedicated to spreading love and joy throughout our community. Today, I’ve found a profound sense of vitality rooted in my openness and leadership. My enthusiasm has inspired me to continue bringing change to my community by becoming a certified yoga instructor. I’ve cultivated an outward, more fulfilling kind of strength based on emotional resilience, courage, and thoughtfulness. While my diligence undeniably contributed to my success, my newfound mental fortitude has provided a sense of meaning and purpose to my life. It has led me to my new role as a student leader and a mental health advocate who will continue to mature and serve others in college and beyond.

One Friday afternoon, I dragged myself up the hill to my house. I thought about the rest of my day, the same routine as always: do homework, practice French horn, go to swim practice, take a shower, study for tests, and sleep. My daily routine had once seemed ideal: I simply powered through my activities with sheer discipline and persistence. I used all my inward strength to become this perfect, versatile person who was never burdened by his busy schedule. However, the more I committed myself to this routine, the more I felt disconnected from myself: I was on autopilot and my inner core was lost somewhere. Then it struck me: did my inward strength really make me strong? Later that evening, I was yawning over my math textbook when my mom entered. “Ebeshaye, you need to get some rest. You need a break, so we’ll have a yoga flow class tomorrow.” I assumed the class would be like my activities: the goal would be to simply learn and practice the poses. Yet, the class proved to be much more fruitful. As I meditated, I became more aware of my breath, and the silence that enveloped me opened my mind. In one moment, I was kayaking in the Grand Canyon, sunlight splashing on my face. In another, I was climbing the Eiffel Tower, captivated by the panoramic view of Paris. This feels like paradise… I’ve never felt so relaxed: I love this. The following week, I read a newsletter entitled What are Students saying about their mental health? I wasn’t surprised to find that many students reported mental issues related to demanding coursework and personal commitments. Realizing that I wasn’t alone, I began to think. If I feel glued to this endless cycle of hard work, maybe other people feel something similar. But, maybe I can address this issue… maybe by creating a club for it? Yes, I can try… I’ll try that. Little did I know, though, that my endeavor would pave the road to discovering a new, more promising type of strength. I co-founded the Mental Illness Matters Club dedicated to fostering community among people struggling with mental health issues. During our first meeting, we shared our coping methods. Although hesitant, I started the discussion by sharing with everyone how yoga helped alleviate my long-term stress with school and work. When I finished, I became engrossed in the stories that unfolded. “I’ve struggled with anxiety, so I love to do oil paintings of my cat in my garden,” offered one girl. “As a bipolar person, a nice Chopin Nocturne goes well with Taylor Swift’s Cruel Summer,” remarked another girl. Wow, these stories are so relatable. I can just feel this sense of empathy and belonging; I really have to continue expanding this club. In subsequent meetings, I hosted personal journal sessions and ‘letters to psychiatric teens' workshops. We became immersed in our writings, crafting compassionate creative letters: we were dedicated to spreading love and joy throughout our community. Today, I’ve found a profound sense of vitality rooted in my openness and leadership. My enthusiasm has inspired me to continue bringing change to my community by becoming a certified yoga instructor. I’ve cultivated an outward, more fulfilling kind of strength based on emotional resilience, courage, and thoughtfulness. While my diligence undeniably contributed to my success, my newfound mental fortitude has provided a sense of meaning and purpose to my life. It has led me to my new role as a student leader and a mental health advocate who will continue to mature and serve others in college and beyond.

One Friday afternoon, I dragged myself up the hill to my house. I thought about the rest of my day, the same routine as always: do homework, practice French horn, go to swim practice, take a shower, study for tests, and sleep. My daily routine had once seemed ideal: I simply powered through my activities with sheer discipline and persistence. I used all my inward strength to become this perfect, versatile person who was never burdened by his busy schedule. However, the more I committed myself to this routine, the more I felt disconnected from myself: I was on autopilot and my inner core was lost somewhere. Then it struck me: did my inward strength really make me strong? Later that evening, I was yawning over my math textbook when my mom entered. “Ebeshaye, you need to get some rest. You need a break, so we’ll have a yoga flow class tomorrow.” I assumed the class would be like my activities: the goal would be to simply learn and practice the poses. Yet, the class proved to be much more fruitful. As I meditated, I became more aware of my breath, and the silence that enveloped me opened my mind. In one moment, I was kayaking in the Grand Canyon, sunlight splashing on my face. In another, I was climbing the Eiffel Tower, captivated by the panoramic view of Paris. This feels like paradise… I’ve never felt so relaxed: I love this. The following week, I read a newsletter entitled What are Students saying about their mental health? I wasn’t surprised to find that many students reported mental issues related to demanding coursework and personal commitments. Realizing that I wasn’t alone, I began to think. If I feel glued to this endless cycle of hard work, maybe other people feel something similar. But, maybe I can address this issue… maybe by creating a club for it? Yes, I can try… I’ll try that. Little did I know, though, that my endeavor would pave the road to discovering a new, more promising type of strength. I co-founded the Mental Illness Matters Club dedicated to fostering community among people struggling with mental health issues. During our first meeting, we shared our coping methods. Although hesitant, I started the discussion by sharing with everyone how yoga helped alleviate my long-term stress with school and work. When I finished, I became engrossed in the stories that unfolded. “I’ve struggled with anxiety, so I love to do oil paintings of my cat in my garden,” offered one girl. “As a bipolar person, a nice Chopin Nocturne goes well with Taylor Swift’s Cruel Summer,” remarked another girl. Wow, these stories are so relatable. I can just feel this sense of empathy and belonging; I really have to continue expanding this club. In subsequent meetings, I hosted personal journal sessions and ‘letters to psychiatric teens' workshops. We became immersed in our writings, crafting compassionate creative letters: we were dedicated to spreading love and joy throughout our community. Today, I’ve found a profound sense of vitality rooted in my openness and leadership. My enthusiasm has inspired me to continue bringing change to my community by becoming a certified yoga instructor. I’ve cultivated an outward, more fulfilling kind of strength based on emotional resilience, courage, and thoughtfulness. While my diligence undeniably contributed to my success, my newfound mental fortitude has provided a sense of meaning and purpose to my life. It has led me to my new role as a student leader and a mental health advocate who will continue to mature and serve others in college and beyond.

One Friday afternoon, I dragged myself up the hill to my house. I thought about the rest of my day, the same routine as always: do homework, practice French horn, go to swim practice, take a shower, study for tests, and sleep. My daily routine had once seemed ideal: I simply powered through my activities with sheer discipline and persistence. I used all my inward strength to become this perfect, versatile person who was never burdened by his busy schedule. However, the more I committed myself to this routine, the more I felt disconnected from myself: I was on autopilot and my inner core was lost somewhere. Then it struck me: did my inward strength really make me strong? Later that evening, I was yawning over my math textbook when my mom entered. “Ebeshaye, you need to get some rest. You need a break, so we’ll have a yoga flow class tomorrow.” I assumed the class would be like my activities: the goal would be to simply learn and practice the poses. Yet, the class proved to be much more fruitful. As I meditated, I became more aware of my breath, and the silence that enveloped me opened my mind. In one moment, I was kayaking in the Grand Canyon, sunlight splashing on my face. In another, I was climbing the Eiffel Tower, captivated by the panoramic view of Paris. This feels like paradise… I’ve never felt so relaxed: I love this. The following week, I read a newsletter entitled What are Students saying about their mental health? I wasn’t surprised to find that many students reported mental issues related to demanding coursework and personal commitments. Realizing that I wasn’t alone, I began to think. If I feel glued to this endless cycle of hard work, maybe other people feel something similar. But, maybe I can address this issue… maybe by creating a club for it? Yes, I can try… I’ll try that. Little did I know, though, that my endeavor would pave the road to discovering a new, more promising type of strength. I co-founded the Mental Illness Matters Club dedicated to fostering community among people struggling with mental health issues. During our first meeting, we shared our coping methods. Although hesitant, I started the discussion by sharing with everyone how yoga helped alleviate my long-term stress with school and work. When I finished, I became engrossed in the stories that unfolded. “I’ve struggled with anxiety, so I love to do oil paintings of my cat in my garden,” offered one girl. “As a bipolar person, a nice Chopin Nocturne goes well with Taylor Swift’s Cruel Summer,” remarked another girl. Wow, these stories are so relatable. I can just feel this sense of empathy and belonging; I really have to continue expanding this club. In subsequent meetings, I hosted personal journal sessions and ‘letters to psychiatric teens' workshops. We became immersed in our writings, crafting compassionate creative letters: we were dedicated to spreading love and joy throughout our community. Today, I’ve found a profound sense of vitality rooted in my openness and leadership. My enthusiasm has inspired me to continue bringing change to my community by becoming a certified yoga instructor. I’ve cultivated an outward, more fulfilling kind of strength based on emotional resilience, courage, and thoughtfulness. While my diligence undeniably contributed to my success, my newfound mental fortitude has provided a sense of meaning and purpose to my life. It has led me to my new role as a student leader and a mental health advocate who will continue to mature and serve others in college and beyond.

One Friday afternoon, I dragged myself up the hill to my house. I thought about the rest of my day, the same routine as always: do homework, practice French horn, go to swim practice, take a shower, study for tests, and sleep. My daily routine had once seemed ideal: I simply powered through my activities with sheer discipline and persistence. I used all my inward strength to become this perfect person who was never burdened by his busy schedule. However, the more I committed myself to this routine, the more I felt disconnected from myself. Then it struck me: did my inward strength really make me strong? The following week, I read a newsletter entitled What are Students saying about their mental health? I wasn’t surprised to find that many students reported mental issues related to demanding coursework and personal commitments. Realizing that I wasn’t alone, I began to take action. I co-founded the Mental Illness Matters Club dedicated to fostering community among people struggling with mental health issues. During our first meeting, we shared our coping methods. Although hesitant, I started the discussion by sharing with everyone how yoga helped alleviate my long-term stress with school and work. When I finished, I became engrossed in the stories that unfolded. “I’ve struggled with anxiety, so I love to do oil paintings of my cat in my garden,” offered one girl. “As a bipolar person, a nice Chopin Nocturne goes well with Taylor Swift’s Cruel Summer,” remarked another girl. Wow, these stories are so relatable. I can just feel this sense of empathy and belonging; I really have to continue expanding this club. In subsequent meetings, I hosted personal journal sessions and ‘letters to psychiatric teens' workshops. We became immersed in our writings, crafting compassionate creative letters: we were dedicated to spreading love and joy throughout our community. My enthusiasm has inspired me to continue bringing change to my community by becoming a certified yoga instructor. I’ve cultivated an outward, more fulfilling kind of strength based on emotional resilience, courage, and thoughtfulness. While my diligence undeniably contributed to my success, my newfound mental fortitude has provided a sense of meaning and purpose to my life. It has led me to my new role as a student leader and a mental health advocate who will continue to mature and serve others in college and beyond.

One Friday afternoon, I dragged myself up the hill to my house. I thought about the rest of my day, the same routine as always: do homework, practice French horn, go to swim practice, take a shower, study for tests, and sleep. My daily routine had once seemed ideal: I simply powered through my activities with sheer discipline and persistence. I used all my inward strength to become this perfect, versatile person who was never burdened by his busy schedule. However, the more I committed myself to this routine, the more I felt disconnected from myself: I was on autopilot and my inner core was lost somewhere. Then it struck me: did my inward strength really make me strong? Later that evening, I was yawning over my math textbook when my mom entered. “Ebeshaye, you need to get some rest. You need a break, so we’ll have a yoga flow class tomorrow.” I assumed the class would be like my activities: the goal would be to simply learn and practice the poses. Yet, the class proved to be much more fruitful. As I meditated, I became more aware of my breath, and the silence that enveloped me opened my mind. In one moment, I was kayaking in the Grand Canyon, sunlight splashing on my face. In another, I was climbing the Eiffel Tower, captivated by the panoramic view of Paris. This feels like paradise… I’ve never felt so relaxed: I love this. The following week, I read a newsletter entitled What are Students saying about their mental health? I wasn’t surprised to find that many students reported mental issues related to demanding coursework and personal commitments. Realizing that I wasn’t alone, I began to think. If I feel glued to this endless cycle of hard work, maybe other people feel something similar. But, maybe I can address this issue… maybe by creating a club for it? Yes, I can try… I’ll try that. Little did I know, though, that my endeavor would pave the road to discovering a new, more promising type of strength. I co-founded the Mental Illness Matters Club dedicated to fostering community among people struggling with mental health issues. During our first meeting, we shared our coping methods. Although hesitant, I started the discussion by sharing with everyone how yoga helped alleviate my long-term stress with school and work. When I finished, I became engrossed in the stories that unfolded. “I’ve struggled with anxiety, so I love to do oil paintings of my cat in my garden,” offered one girl. “As a bipolar person, a nice Chopin Nocturne goes well with Taylor Swift’s Cruel Summer,” remarked another girl. Wow, these stories are so relatable. I can just feel this sense of empathy and belonging; I really have to continue expanding this club. In subsequent meetings, I hosted personal journal sessions and ‘letters to psychiatric teens' workshops. We became immersed in our writings, crafting compassionate creative letters: we were dedicated to spreading love and joy throughout our community. Today, I’ve found a profound sense of vitality rooted in my openness and leadership. My enthusiasm has inspired me to continue bringing change to my community by becoming a certified yoga instructor. I’ve cultivated an outward, more fulfilling kind of strength based on emotional resilience, courage, and thoughtfulness. While my diligence undeniably contributed to my success, my newfound mental fortitude has provided a sense of meaning and purpose to my life. It has led me to my new role as a student leader and a mental health advocate who will continue to mature and serve others in college and beyond.

One Friday afternoon, I dragged myself up the hill to my house. I thought about the rest of my day, the same routine as always: do homework, practice French horn, go to swim practice, take a shower, study for tests, and sleep. My daily routine had once seemed ideal: I simply powered through my activities with sheer discipline and persistence. I used all my inward strength to become this perfect, versatile person who was never burdened by his busy schedule. However, the more I committed myself to this routine, the more I felt disconnected from myself: I was on autopilot and my inner core was lost somewhere. Then it struck me: did my inward strength really make me strong? Later that evening, I was yawning over my math textbook when my mom entered. “Ebeshaye, you need to get some rest. You need a break, so we’ll have a yoga flow class tomorrow.” I assumed the class would be like my activities: the goal would be to simply learn and practice the poses. Yet, the class proved to be much more fruitful. As I meditated, I became more aware of my breath, and the silence that enveloped me opened my mind. In one moment, I was kayaking in the Grand Canyon, sunlight splashing on my face. In another, I was climbing the Eiffel Tower, captivated by the panoramic view of Paris. This feels like paradise… I’ve never felt so relaxed: I love this. The following week, I read a newsletter entitled What are Students saying about their mental health? I wasn’t surprised to find that many students reported mental issues related to demanding coursework and personal commitments. Realizing that I wasn’t alone, I began to think. If I feel glued to this endless cycle of hard work, maybe other people feel something similar. But, maybe I can address this issue… maybe by creating a club for it? Yes, I can try… I’ll try that. Little did I know, though, that my endeavor would pave the road to discovering a new, more promising type of strength. I co-founded the Mental Illness Matters Club dedicated to fostering community among people struggling with mental health issues. During our first meeting, we shared our coping methods. Although hesitant, I started the discussion by sharing with everyone how yoga helped alleviate my long-term stress with school and work. When I finished, I became engrossed in the stories that unfolded. “I’ve struggled with anxiety, so I love to do oil paintings of my cat in my garden,” offered one girl. “As a bipolar person, a nice Chopin Nocturne goes well with Taylor Swift’s Cruel Summer,” remarked another girl. Wow, these stories are so relatable. I can just feel this sense of empathy and belonging; I really have to continue expanding this club. In subsequent meetings, I hosted personal journal sessions and ‘letters to psychiatric teens' workshops. We became immersed in our writings, crafting compassionate creative letters: we were dedicated to spreading love and joy throughout our community. Today, I’ve found a profound sense of vitality rooted in my openness and leadership. My enthusiasm has inspired me to continue bringing change to my community by becoming a certified yoga instructor. I’ve cultivated an outward, more fulfilling kind of strength based on emotional resilience, courage, and thoughtfulness. While my diligence undeniably contributed to my success, my newfound mental fortitude has provided a sense of meaning and purpose to my life. It has led me to my new role as a student leader and a mental health advocate who will continue to mature and serve others in college and beyond.

One Friday afternoon, I dragged myself up the hill to my house. I thought about the rest of my day, the same routine as always: do homework, practice French horn, go to swim practice, take a shower, study for tests, and sleep. My daily routine had once seemed ideal: I simply powered through my activities with sheer discipline and persistence. I used all my inward strength to become this perfect, versatile person who was never burdened by his busy schedule. However, the more I committed myself to this routine, the more I felt disconnected from myself: I was on autopilot and my inner core was lost somewhere. Then it struck me: did my inward strength really make me strong? Later that evening, I was yawning over my math textbook when my mom entered. “Ebeshaye, you need to get some rest. You need a break, so we’ll have a yoga flow class tomorrow.” I assumed the class would be like my activities: the goal would be to simply learn and practice the poses. Yet, the class proved to be much more fruitful. As I meditated, I became more aware of my breath, and the silence that enveloped me opened my mind. In one moment, I was kayaking in the Grand Canyon, sunlight splashing on my face. In another, I was climbing the Eiffel Tower, captivated by the panoramic view of Paris. This feels like paradise… I’ve never felt so relaxed: I love this. The following week, I read a newsletter entitled What are Students saying about their mental health? I wasn’t surprised to find that many students reported mental issues related to demanding coursework and personal commitments. Realizing that I wasn’t alone, I began to think. If I feel glued to this endless cycle of hard work, maybe other people feel something similar. But, maybe I can address this issue… maybe by creating a club for it? Yes, I can try… I’ll try that. Little did I know, though, that my endeavor would pave the road to discovering a new, more promising type of strength. I co-founded the Mental Illness Matters Club dedicated to fostering community among people struggling with mental health issues. During our first meeting, we shared our coping methods. Although hesitant, I started the discussion by sharing with everyone how yoga helped alleviate my long-term stress with school and work. When I finished, I became engrossed in the stories that unfolded. “I’ve struggled with anxiety, so I love to do oil paintings of my cat in my garden,” offered one girl. “As a bipolar person, a nice Chopin Nocturne goes well with Taylor Swift’s Cruel Summer,” remarked another girl. Wow, these stories are so relatable. I can just feel this sense of empathy and belonging; I really have to continue expanding this club. In subsequent meetings, I hosted personal journal sessions and ‘letters to psychiatric teens' workshops. We became immersed in our writings, crafting compassionate creative letters: we were dedicated to spreading love and joy throughout our community. Today, I’ve found a profound sense of vitality rooted in my openness and leadership. My enthusiasm has inspired me to continue bringing change to my community by becoming a certified yoga instructor. I’ve cultivated an outward, more fulfilling kind of strength based on emotional resilience, courage, and thoughtfulness. While my diligence undeniably contributed to my success, my newfound mental fortitude has provided a sense of meaning and purpose to my life. It has led me to my new role as a student leader and a mental health advocate who will continue to mature and serve others in college and beyond.

No, but my experience with discovering a new type of strength has molded me into a compassionate and resilient community leader. One Friday afternoon, I dragged myself up the hill to my house. I thought about the rest of my day, the same routine as always: do homework, practice French horn, go to swim practice, take a shower, study for tests, and sleep. My daily routine had once seemed ideal: I simply powered through my activities with sheer discipline and persistence. I used all my inward strength to become this perfect, versatile person who was never burdened by his busy schedule. However, the more I committed myself to this routine, the more I felt disconnected from myself: I was on autopilot and my inner core was lost somewhere. Then it struck me: did my inward strength really make me strong? Later that evening, I was yawning over my math textbook when my mom entered. “Ebeshaye, you need to get some rest. You need a break, so we’ll have a yoga flow class tomorrow.” I assumed the class would be like my activities: the goal would be to simply learn the poses. Yet, the class proved to be more fruitful. As I meditated, I became more aware of my breath, and the silence that enveloped me opened my mind. In one moment, I was kayaking in the Grand Canyon, sunlight splashing on my face. In another, I was climbing the Eiffel Tower, captivated by the panoramic view of Paris. This feels like paradise… I’ve never felt so relaxed: I love this. The following week, I read a newsletter entitled What are Students saying about their mental health? I wasn’t surprised to find that many students reported mental issues related to demanding coursework and personal commitments. Realizing that I wasn’t alone, I began to think. If I feel glued to this endless cycle of hard work, maybe other people feel something similar, so I thought maybe I could create a club to provide an outlet for our mental wellbeing. Little did I know, though, that my endeavor would pave the road to discovering a new, more promising type of strength. I co-founded the Mental Illness Matters Club dedicated to fostering community among people struggling with mental health issues. During our first meeting, we shared our coping methods. Although hesitant, I started the discussion by sharing with everyone how yoga helped alleviate my long-term stress with school and work. When I finished, I became engrossed in the stories that unfolded. “I’ve struggled with anxiety, so I love to do oil paintings of my cat in my garden,” offered one girl. “As a bipolar person, a nice Chopin Nocturne goes well with Taylor Swift’s Cruel Summer,” remarked another girl. Wow, these stories are so relatable. I can just feel this sense of empathy and belonging; I really have to continue expanding this club. In subsequent meetings, I hosted personal journal sessions and ‘letters to psychiatric teens' workshops. We became immersed in our writings, crafting compassionate creative letters: we were dedicated to spreading love and joy throughout our community. My enthusiasm has inspired me to continue bringing change to my community by becoming a certified yoga instructor. I’ve cultivated an outward, more fulfilling kind of strength based on emotional resilience, courage, and thoughtfulness. While my diligence undeniably contributed to my success, my newfound mental fortitude has provided a sense of meaning and purpose to my life. It has led me to my new role as a student leader and a mental health advocate who will continue to mature and serve others in college and beyond.

No, but my experience with discovering a new type of strength has molded me into a compassionate and resilient community leader. One Friday afternoon, I dragged myself up the hill to my house. I thought about the rest of my day, the same routine as always: do homework, practice French horn, go to swim practice, take a shower, study for tests, and sleep. My daily routine had once seemed ideal: I simply powered through my activities with sheer discipline and persistence. I used all my inward strength to become this perfect, versatile person who was never burdened by his busy schedule. However, the more I committed myself to this routine, the more I felt disconnected from myself: I was on autopilot and my inner core was lost somewhere. Then it struck me: did my inward strength really make me strong? Later that evening, I was yawning over my math textbook when my mom entered. “Ebeshaye, you need to get some rest. You need a break, so we’ll have a yoga flow class tomorrow.” I assumed the class would be like my activities: the goal would be to simply learn the poses. Yet, the class proved to be more fruitful. As I meditated, I became more aware of my breath, and the silence that enveloped me opened my mind. In one moment, I was kayaking in the Grand Canyon, sunlight splashing on my face. In another, I was climbing the Eiffel Tower, captivated by the panoramic view of Paris. This feels like paradise… I’ve never felt so relaxed: I love this. The following week, I read a newsletter entitled What are Students saying about their mental health? I wasn’t surprised to find that many students reported mental issues related to demanding coursework and personal commitments. Realizing that I wasn’t alone, I began to think. If I feel glued to this endless cycle of hard work, maybe other people feel something similar, so I thought maybe I could create a club to provide an outlet for our mental wellbeing. Little did I know, though, that my endeavor would pave the road to discovering a new, more promising type of strength. I co-founded the Mental Illness Matters Club dedicated to fostering community among people struggling with mental health issues. During our first meeting, we shared our coping methods. Although hesitant, I started the discussion by sharing with everyone how yoga helped alleviate my long-term stress with school and work. When I finished, I became engrossed in the stories that unfolded. “I’ve struggled with anxiety, so I love to do oil paintings of my cat in my garden,” offered one girl. “As a bipolar person, a nice Chopin Nocturne goes well with Taylor Swift’s Cruel Summer,” remarked another girl. Wow, these stories are so relatable. I can just feel this sense of empathy and belonging; I really have to continue expanding this club. In subsequent meetings, I hosted personal journal sessions and ‘letters to psychiatric teens' workshops. We became immersed in our writings, crafting compassionate creative letters: we were dedicated to spreading love and joy throughout our community. My enthusiasm has inspired me to continue bringing change to my community by becoming a certified yoga instructor. I’ve cultivated an outward, more fulfilling kind of strength based on emotional resilience, courage, and thoughtfulness. While my diligence undeniably contributed to my success, my newfound mental fortitude has provided a sense of meaning and purpose to my life. It has led me to my new role as a student leader and a mental health advocate who will continue to mature and serve others in college and beyond.

One Friday afternoon, I dragged myself up the hill to my house. I thought about the rest of my day, the same routine as always: do homework, practice French horn, go to swim practice, take a shower, study for tests, and sleep. My daily routine had once seemed ideal: I simply powered through my activities with sheer discipline and persistence. I used all my inward strength to become this perfect, versatile person who was never burdened by his busy schedule. However, the more I committed myself to this routine, the more I felt disconnected from myself: I was on autopilot and my inner core was lost somewhere. Then it struck me: did my inward strength really make me strong? Later that evening, I was yawning over my math textbook when my mom entered. “Ebeshaye, you need to get some rest. You need a break, so we’ll have a yoga flow class tomorrow.” I assumed the class would be like my activities: the goal would be to simply learn and practice the poses. Yet, the class proved to be much more fruitful. As I meditated, I became more aware of my breath, and the silence that enveloped me opened my mind. In one moment, I was kayaking in the Grand Canyon, sunlight splashing on my face. In another, I was climbing the Eiffel Tower, captivated by the panoramic view of Paris. This feels like paradise… I’ve never felt so relaxed: I love this. The following week, I read a newsletter entitled What are Students saying about their mental health? I wasn’t surprised to find that many students reported mental issues related to demanding coursework and personal commitments. Realizing that I wasn’t alone, I began to think. If I feel glued to this endless cycle of hard work, maybe other people feel something similar. But, maybe I can address this issue… maybe by creating a club for it? Yes, I can try… I’ll try that. Little did I know, though, that my endeavor would pave the road to discovering a new, more promising type of strength. I co-founded the Mental Illness Matters Club dedicated to fostering community among people struggling with mental health issues. During our first meeting, we shared our coping methods. Although hesitant, I started the discussion by sharing with everyone how yoga helped alleviate my long-term stress with school and work. When I finished, I became engrossed in the stories that unfolded. “I’ve struggled with anxiety, so I love to do oil paintings of my cat in my garden,” offered one girl. “As a bipolar person, a nice Chopin Nocturne goes well with Taylor Swift’s Cruel Summer,” remarked another girl. Wow, these stories are so relatable. I can just feel this sense of empathy and belonging; I really have to continue expanding this club. In subsequent meetings, I hosted personal journal sessions and ‘letters to psychiatric teens' workshops. We became immersed in our writings, crafting compassionate creative letters: we were dedicated to spreading love and joy throughout our community. Today, I’ve found a profound sense of vitality rooted in my openness and leadership. My enthusiasm has inspired me to continue bringing change to my community by becoming a certified yoga instructor. I’ve cultivated an outward, more fulfilling kind of strength based on emotional resilience, courage, and thoughtfulness. While my diligence undeniably contributed to my success, my newfound mental fortitude has provided a sense of meaning and purpose to my life. It has led me to my new role as a student leader and a mental health advocate who will continue to mature and serve others in college and beyond.

One Friday afternoon, I dragged myself up the hill to my house. I thought about the rest of my day, the same routine as always: do homework, practice French horn, go to swim practice, take a shower, study for tests, and sleep. My daily routine had once seemed ideal: I simply powered through my activities with sheer discipline and persistence. I used all my inward strength to become this perfect, versatile person who was never burdened by his busy schedule. However, the more I committed myself to this routine, the more I felt disconnected from myself: I was on autopilot and my inner core was lost somewhere. Then it struck me: did my inward strength really make me strong? Later that evening, I was yawning over my math textbook when my mom entered. “Ebeshaye, you need to get some rest. You need a break, so we’ll have a yoga flow class tomorrow.” I assumed the class would be like my activities: the goal would be to simply learn and practice the poses. Yet, the class proved to be much more fruitful. As I meditated, I became more aware of my breath, and the silence that enveloped me opened my mind. In one moment, I was kayaking in the Grand Canyon, sunlight splashing on my face. In another, I was climbing the Eiffel Tower, captivated by the panoramic view of Paris. This feels like paradise… I’ve never felt so relaxed: I love this. The following week, I read a newsletter entitled What are Students saying about their mental health? I wasn’t surprised to find that many students reported mental issues related to demanding coursework and personal commitments. Realizing that I wasn’t alone, I began to think. If I feel glued to this endless cycle of hard work, maybe other people feel something similar. But, maybe I can address this issue… maybe by creating a club for it? Yes, I can try… I’ll try that. Little did I know, though, that my endeavor would pave the road to discovering a new, more promising type of strength. I co-founded the Mental Illness Matters Club dedicated to fostering community among people struggling with mental health issues. During our first meeting, we shared our coping methods. Although hesitant, I started the discussion by sharing with everyone how yoga helped alleviate my long-term stress with school and work. When I finished, I became engrossed in the stories that unfolded. “I’ve struggled with anxiety, so I love to do oil paintings of my cat in my garden,” offered one girl. “As a bipolar person, a nice Chopin Nocturne goes well with Taylor Swift’s Cruel Summer,” remarked another girl. Wow, these stories are so relatable. I can just feel this sense of empathy and belonging; I really have to continue expanding this club. In subsequent meetings, I hosted personal journal sessions and ‘letters to psychiatric teens' workshops. We became immersed in our writings, crafting compassionate creative letters: we were dedicated to spreading love and joy throughout our community. Today, I’ve found a profound sense of vitality rooted in my openness and leadership. My enthusiasm has inspired me to continue bringing change to my community by becoming a certified yoga instructor. I’ve cultivated an outward, more fulfilling kind of strength based on emotional resilience, courage, and thoughtfulness. While my diligence undeniably contributed to my success, my newfound mental fortitude has provided a sense of meaning and purpose to my life. It has led me to my new role as a student leader and a mental health advocate who will continue to mature and serve others in college and beyond.

Every Sunday, I wear my traditional clothes and go to Ethiopian Church. During Bible study, we sing hymns in Amharic where I tune my voice to match my teacher’s and other students’. Then, I collaborate with my peers to explore the deeper meaning of Scripture. As a creative enthusiast, I always aim to promote approachable, interactive conversations. During our discussions of verses, I take notes to symbolize important moral themes of faith and redemption while keeping track of my peers’ different perspectives. I then create an arts activity where we all illustrate various representations of the chapters. From the Tower of Babel to the Ark of Covenant, we express ourselves and learn from each other’s contributions. To end our sessions, I devise a Bible Trivia where we test our knowledge. ‘What was The Golden Calf?’ ‘What does Israel mean?’ My questions keep us engaged while ensuring our sessions are fun and meaningful. I love sparking these exciting and rich interactions with my Church congregants. I use my creativity to nurture spiritual growth among my Bible study group, strengthening our connections with each other and God. Similarly, I use my perseverance to cultivate physical growth among my family of JFD swimmers, giving us a powerful sense of determination. As a JFD coach, I practice with my swimmates swimming sets designed to improve our endurance. Our workouts foster a reciprocal relationship: we all perform strength exercises while providing and receiving feedback. I cherish these moments because we not only learn from each other, but we also grow through each other as we edge closer to unlocking our optimal swimming level. During challenging stroke drills and dryland exercises that test our strength to the limit, I exemplify my perseverance through Coach Joe Flaherty’s motto, The Impossible Dream –the dream of achieving the perfect backstroke flip turn or breaking the 200-meter butterfly record through persistence. Engage every muscle in the chest and arms guys! Dolphin kick harder with every butterfly stroke! My positive attitude motivates us to continue swimming our best and value every moment we’re in the water, working together to better ourselves. At the end of our practice, I congratulate everyone on their hard work and great effort. While swimming is an intensive and demanding sport, I’ve used my perseverance to promote confidence, friendship, and support as we overcome its challenges. My invaluable experiences as a Church member and JFD swimmer have shaped me into a person who profoundly loves sharing his identity to contribute to the overall growth and success of his communities. With the Freddie L Brown Sr. Scholarship, I hope to continue developing similar tight-knit groups. Whether it’s learning the complexities of multi-variable calculus through the lens of swimming analogies or discussing Shakespeare through role play in Hamlet, I’ll strive to use my creativity and perseverance to foster true learning communities –all united in their goal to help us all reach our full learning potential.

One Friday afternoon, I dragged myself up the hill to my house. I thought about the rest of my day, the same routine as always: do homework, practice French horn, go to swim practice, take a shower, study for tests, and sleep. My daily routine had once seemed ideal: I simply powered through my activities with sheer discipline and persistence. I used all my inward strength to become this perfect, versatile person who was never burdened by his busy schedule. However, the more I committed myself to this routine, the more I felt disconnected from myself: I was on autopilot and my inner core was lost somewhere. Then it struck me: did my inward strength really make me strong? Later that evening, I was yawning over my math textbook when my mom entered. “Ebeshaye, you need to get some rest. You need a break, so we’ll have a yoga flow class tomorrow.” I assumed the class would be like my activities: the goal would be to simply learn and practice the poses. Yet, the class proved to be much more fruitful. As I meditated, I became more aware of my breath, and the silence that enveloped me opened my mind. In one moment, I was kayaking in the Grand Canyon, sunlight splashing on my face. In another, I was climbing the Eiffel Tower, captivated by the panoramic view of Paris. This feels like paradise… I’ve never felt so relaxed: I love this. The following week, I read a newsletter entitled What are Students saying about their mental health? I wasn’t surprised to find that many students reported mental issues related to demanding coursework and personal commitments. Realizing that I wasn’t alone, I began to think. If I feel glued to this endless cycle of hard work, maybe other people feel something similar. But, maybe I can address this issue… maybe by creating a club for it? Yes, I can try… I’ll try that. Little did I know, though, that my endeavor would pave the road to discovering a new, more promising type of strength. I co-founded the Mental Illness Matters Club dedicated to fostering community among people struggling with mental health issues. During our first meeting, we shared our coping methods. Although hesitant, I started the discussion by sharing with everyone how yoga helped alleviate my long-term stress with school and work. When I finished, I became engrossed in the stories that unfolded. “I’ve struggled with anxiety, so I love to do oil paintings of my cat in my garden,” offered one girl. “As a bipolar person, a nice Chopin Nocturne goes well with Taylor Swift’s Cruel Summer,” remarked another girl. As the stories continued, our smiles evoked soothing vibes that permeated the room. At that moment, I felt like a pebble that had sent a ripple through a pond. Wow, these stories are so relatable. I can just feel this sense of empathy and belonging; I really have to continue expanding this club. In subsequent meetings, I hosted personal journal sessions and ‘letters to psychiatric teens' workshops. We became immersed in our writings, crafting compassionate creative letters: we were dedicated to spreading love and joy throughout our community. By the end of the year, we had grown into a closely-knit family that will only continue to blossom this year. Today, I’ve found a profound sense of vitality rooted in my openness and leadership. My enthusiasm has inspired me to continue bringing change to my community by becoming a certified yoga instructor. I’ve cultivated an outward, more fulfilling kind of strength based on emotional resilience, courage, and thoughtfulness. While my diligence undeniably contributed to my success, my newfound mental fortitude has provided a sense of meaning and purpose to my life. It has led me to my new role as a student leader and a mental health advocate who will continue to mature and serve others in college and beyond. Community cohesion is a success for my emotional and leadership growth. Using this scholarship, I'll continue striving to use my creativity and perseverance to foster true learning communities –all united in their goal to help us all reach our full learning potential.