Adversity is an inevitable part of life, and for me, it often came in the form of growing up in a military family. Constantly moving, adapting to new places, and starting over became routine. While these experiences broadened my perspective, they also brought significant challenges, particularly during high school. One of the toughest transitions I faced was during my junior year when my family moved to Naval Air Facility Atsugi in Japan. Although I was familiar with relocating, this move felt particularly daunting. With college applications looming, the pressure was intense. I worried about how the instability would impact my grades, extracurricular activities, and relationships. The thought of making this new environment work seemed overwhelming. Through on top of the mix I was in a completely foreign country to me. I realized that dwelling on my frustration wouldn’t help, so I decided to focus on what I could control. I joined the wrestling team at my new school,a new activity that offered comfort in an otherwise unfamiliar setting. Wrestling quickly became more than just a sport; it became drive/motivation. The physical and mental discipline required gave me structure and purpose. Every practice pushed me to work harder, overcome discomfort, and stay focused, which helped me manage the chaos in other areas of my life. Wrestling also helped me forge connections. My new teammates welcomed me with open arms, creating a supportive and motivating environment. These new friendships made me feel like I belonged for the first time in a while. That sense of belonging gave me the confidence to tackle my academic responsibilities with renewed energy, even as I adjusted to the new school’s curriculum and expectations. Through wrestling, I learned resilience that extended beyond the mat. It taught me that setbacks, whether in sports or in life, are temporary if you keep pushing forward. Each challenge and moment of discomfort became an opportunity for growth. The lessons I learned through wrestling influenced my approach to studies and relationships, instilling in me the same determination and tenacity. Looking back, the adversity of constant relocations shaped me into someone who not only survives change but thrives in it. Moving frequently taught me the importance of adaptability. I learned to quickly make new friends, adjust to new environments, and handle unfamiliar situations with confidence. To anyone facing similar circumstances, my advice is this: Embrace change rather than fearing it. Focus on what you can control, not what you cannot. When life presents obstacles, remember that you have the power to create your own stability. Adversity isn’t something to avoid—it’s an opportunity to be conquered.

Growing up as a military kid has shaped my views on what it means to serve and protect our country. The military isn’t just about wearing a uniform; it’s about sacrifice, dedication, and a strong sense of duty. Sacrifices come in many different shapes and forms whether it's physical, emotional, or even time. Seeing my dad and others in the military put their lives on the line has made me realize how important it is to stand up for something bigger than yourself. My dad has served in the United States Navy since 2002, with over 22 years of dedicated service. I remember, even as a little kid, how committed he was to his duty, often going on deployments that took him away from home. Back then I didn't understand the military or how much they do for us, but now I am older it seems so clear. To me, the military represents the courage to protect not only our country but also the values we hold dear—freedom, justice, and the well-being of our people. Being part of a military family has taught me that service is more than just a job; it’s a way of life. It’s about being ready to face challenges head-on, whether that’s moving across the world or dealing with the uncertainty of deployments. What really drives me in life is the desire to make a difference. Growing up, I saw firsthand the sacrifices that service members and their families make, and it inspired me to want to give back in a meaningful way. Even now I still see that, currently I reside on the Naval Air Facility Atsugi in japan and I absolutely love it. I’m motivated by the idea of contributing to something greater than myself, and for me, that means following in my family’s footsteps and serving in the Navy. My dream is to attend college and major in international business. After that, I plan to apply to Officer Candidate School and pursue a career as an officer in the United States Navy. Being in the military means being part of a team that’s dedicated to protecting others, and that’s something I want to be a part of. The idea of leading others, facing challenges together, and knowing that my actions could make a positive impact on people’s lives is what pushes me forward. My experiences have taught me that life is about adapting, staying strong, and never losing sight of what really matters. Whether it’s moving to a new place, tackling a tough situation, or pursuing a dream, I’m driven by the belief that with determination and hard work, I can overcome any obstacle. Looking ahead, I’m excited to take the lessons I’ve learned from my military upbringing and apply them to a career in the Navy. The values of service, commitment, and resilience are what I carry with me, and they’re what keep me motivated as I work toward my goals.

My athletic journey, particularly through wrestling in my junior and senior year of high school , has been a transformative experience that has not only shaped my physical abilities but also impacted my character, mindset. Wrestling, with all its challenges, has been a crucible for personal growth, teaching me lessons that extend far beyond the mat. When I first started wrestling in high school, I was drawn to the competitive nature of the sport, but I quickly realized that it was more than just physical strength. Wrestling demanded mental toughness, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to self-improvement. The process of cutting weight, enduring grueling practices, and facing opponents who were often more experienced than me taught me the importance of resilience. I learned to push through discomfort, to stay focused even when the odds were against me, and to never let setbacks define my potential. This journey has made me more resilient, not just in sports, but in all aspects of my life. I’ve learned that success doesn’t come easy and that the road to achieving your goals is often filled with challenges. But it’s in those moments of struggle that you discover your true strength. Wrestling has shown me that I am capable of more than I ever thought possible, and that with dedication and hard work, I can overcome any obstacle. Now, I want to take the lessons I’ve learned and use them to inspire and impact others. I understand that everyone faces their own battles, whether on the mat or in life, and I believe that the mindset of a wrestler being one of perseverance, discipline, and resilience can be applied to any challenge on life. By sharing my experiences and the lessons I’ve learned, I hope to motivate others to push through their own struggles, to believe in their potential, and to strive for excellence in everything they do. In the future, I aspire to be a mentor and a leader in the United States Navy if given the opportunity to do so, and to be someone who can guide others through their own journeys, whether in sports or in life. I want to encourage others to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and to understand that failure is not the end, but rather a stepping stone to success. My athletic journey has taught me that we are all capable of achieving great things, and I am committed to helping others realize their full potential, just as wrestling has helped me realize mine.

So in all honesty what college means to me may be completely different the next guy or girl over and that's totally okay. What college means to me is the idea of recieving a higher education, one that members in my immigrant family were never given the opportunity. Getting a higher education would open doors for me that little kid me would've never thought of or dreamed up. What I'd like to do after receiving a higher education is to pursue a career in the United States Navy. Growing up watching my dad leave for months on end while serving his country, I never quite understood the amount of sacrifice that it took. Now being older I realize how honorable and selfless is to be able to do that. So getting a higher education will allow me to serve my country as an officer, being able to create more change and make a larger impact. The idea of joining the Navy as an officer is by far my career goal, because I have a lot of respect for serving and I want to be part of a close-knit team working towards a big goal. After my time in the Navy, I see myself transitioning into the welding business. There's something about welding that really speaks to me—it's hands-on, it's creative, and it's a skill that's always in demand. By pursuing a college education in business and management first, I aim to arm myself with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel not only as a leader in the military but also as a future entrepreneur in the welding industry. I want to offer high-quality welding services and create jobs for others. I feel the workforce is dying, and the world is taking the hits from it. We need people in the workforce, whether it's build bridges or sell cars. They're truly the backbone of the world, in my eyes, without them we'd have nothing. Through college and my subsequent service in the Navy, I hope to gather experiences, learn from challenges, and develop the qualities of discipline, teamwork, and strategic thinking that will serve me well in any endeavor. And when I finally step into the world of welding, I want to bring all of that experience and learning to the table, building not just a successful career but also a fulfilling one where I can make a real difference, that's what I'm trying to accomplish.

My name is Edgar Andalon. I am a senior in high school and I want to share a little about who I am as a person. I'll begin with my childhood, which I would describe as interesting, fun, and also challenging. My father has served in the United States Navy for twenty-two years, and he has no plans to retire as of yet. Military life is hard. Every couple of years, we are moved from place to place, just as we begin to feel like we are home. But military life is all I've ever known. Currently, we are stationed overseas in Atsugi, Japan. I live in a Naval Air Facility called Atsugi (NAF for short). This has been my home for a year and nine months. I attend high school at an Army base named Camp Zama. I would like to further educate myself by studying at the University of Temple Japan. I want to study in business and management, where I will further pursue a career in the navy as an officer. This scholarship would significantly support my education goals by helping me afford the costs associated with attending university. As a military dependent living overseas, finances can be a significant barrier to accessing higher education. This scholarship would alleviate some of that financial burden, allowing me to focus on my studies and pursue my dream of becoming a naval officer. Moreover, studying business and management will equip me with valuable skills that are directly applicable to a career in the navy. As an officer, I will need to understand how to manage resources effectively, make strategic decisions, and lead teams. By obtaining a degree in this field, I will be better prepared to excel in my future role in the navy and contribute meaningfully to the missions and objectives of the organization. In addition, attending the University of Temple Japan will provide me with a unique and enriching educational experience. Being immersed in a different culture and learning environment will broaden my perspective and help me develop important intercultural competencies. These skills will be invaluable as I navigate a career in the navy, which often involves working with diverse teams and engaging with people from different backgrounds. Overall, this scholarship will not only support my immediate educational goals but also pave the way for a successful career in the navy. I am grateful for the opportunity to apply for this scholarship and sincerely hope to be considered as a deserving recipient. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Living on a military base like Naval Air Facility Atsugi in Japan has been a big part of how I've helped others with their mental health. It's like living in a small town where everyone knows each other, so you notice when someone's struggling. So much so that I would say that people can read each other's emotions without a word. I've been there for people, whether it's just listening to them vent or helping them find resources to get through tough times. Being in a close community like Atsugi makes it easier to support each other, even when things get rough. In the future, I want to keep helping people emotionally, especially in my career. Whether I become a counselor or something else, I'll use what I've learned living on a military base to create a safe space for people to talk about their feelings and get the support they need. I'll also speak up for better mental health resources in military communities. It's important for service members and their families to have the help they need, especially when they're facing unique challenges like deployments and frequent moves. Living on a military base has taught me a lot about supporting others, and I want to keep using that experience to make a positive difference in people's lives. As I grow older, I wish to pursue a career in the military as well, following in my father's footsteps. Knowing what I know about how mentally draining it can be being a civilian in a Department of Defense environment, I wish to experience what my dad has gone through. Whether it's long deployments or rigorous workloads, I want to see the flaws and create change. I believe wholeheartedly that those who protect and serve selflessly earn the treatment that they need to further live and thrive. I want to become a U.S Naval Officer and make a difference, not only for myself but for others. The military does have resources for help, but there's non spoken of image that if you go out asking for mental Health help. That you're not capable of doing your job and that thinking puts service members in fear so they never reach out. If given the opportunity I'd love to combat this way of thinking for good.

My favorite Nintendo game to play in co-op mode is definitely by far "Mario Kart 8." The franchise itself Nintendo is constantly changing and releasing newer and color looking games. But "Mario Kart 8" will always hold a special place in my heart for many reasons. One memorable moment that solidified "Mario Kart" as my top choice for co-op gaming happened during a multiplayer session with my cousins. We were all gathered at my grandparents' house for a family reunion, and "Mario Kart 8" was our go-to game for bonding and friendly competition. I grew up in a Hispanic household, we may have not been the richest family ever but what we were rich in was family time. So moments like that I remembered huddled around the Wii U playing "Mario Kart 8" meant a lot to me, even now. During one particularly heated race on the "Sweet sweet Canyon" track, I was leading the pack when suddenly, my younger cousin unleashed a well-timed blue shell. In an instant, I went from first place to last, while everyone else zoomed past me. The room erupted into cheers and laughter as my cousin celebrated his strategic move. Instead of feeling frustrated, I couldn't help but laugh along with everyone else. That moment encapsulated everything I love about playing "Mario Kart" with others the unpredictable twists, the friendly rivalry, and the shared joy of gaming together. It's moments like these that make "Mario Kart" my all-time favorite co-op game on Nintendo. These moments though a while ago meant the world to me, also the game itself was and is amazing. The Wii U was a gift from my father who was on deployment at the time serving overseas in the United States Navy. When me and my sister recieved it, we were expected to share it, so it was even more special. The only game at the time that we could both play at once was "Mario Kart 8." This is why a simpler, older game of Nintendo is by far my favorite.

A state of adversity for me would be the time my family initially arrived in Japan. For context, my dad has been a member of the U.S. Navy for 22 years and because of his job our family has been stationed oversees at Atsugi Naval Air Facility Japan. When we had moved previously due to my fathers job it wasn't so bad because we all made friends relatively quick. Sure it may have been difficult and lonely at times but it was only momentarily. Now when we moved to Japan, it was a big deal to us because this was our first time overseas. We thought that it would be like all the previous moves we had experienced and grown accustomed to. Boy was I wrong and it hit us more quickly then any other move. When we first got to Japan, it wasn't just me who felt lonely; my whole family did. A big reason for this was that we didn't speak the language here. This made things hard for my parents, like going to the store or talking to people off base for something as simple as directions or help at times. I'll be honest and I will admit it was a scary feeling to experience. Not being able to communicate effectively in a new language was my adversity. However, as we grew into our surroundings my family eventually found ourselves learning the language, we began to break down the barriers that had made us feel so alone. This journey of learning and adaptation allowed us to connect with others and feel a sense of belonging in our new environment. The adversity we faced, primarily the loneliness and the struggle to adapt to a new culture and language, shaped us by teaching us resilience, the value of family support, and the importance of embracing new experiences. The feeling of being overseas is really cool, and if anyone is giving the opportunity to travel and see the world like I had I'd advise that you do so. Even if it's for a short amount of time, at first it may be scary and nerve racking being somewhere where you don't understand the language. But you will be able to see the world from another perspective and embrace new cultures and ideas. It's okay to be sad,lonely,afraid, and everything else negative underneath the sun but if you allow that to become who you are you'll become miserable. So I finish off with this statement, go outside and be afraid, you'll learn something new.

Creating a legacy means setting clear goals, following my passions, and making a positive difference in the world. These are all great things that I am constantly pondering in my high school years. I'll begin with my childhood which I would describe as interesting, fun and also challenging. My father has served in the United States Navy for twenty two years and he has no plans to retire as of yet. Every couple of years we are moved from place to place, just as we begin to feel like we are home. But, military life is all I've ever known. Currently, we are stationed overseas in Atsugi, Japan. I live in a Naval Air Facility called Atsugi (NAF for short). This has been my home for a year and nine months. I attended high school at an Army base named Camp Zama. Following up on how I plan on creating my legacy, I aspire to study Business and Management in Japan at the University of Temple. Studying here I believe will help me see things from a global perspective and learn how to manage international markets. The education I receive will give me valuable skills and knowledge. After finishing my studies, I plan to enlist in the United States Navy as an officer. Growing up as a kid, I never quite understood the sacrifices my father was making for me on a daily to provide. Not only was we protecting my freedom but also the freedoms of other's through his service. So being given the opportunity to serve my country in the future I would do whole heartedly. Seeing the honor and pride that my dad carries. This experience will help me develop strong leadership skills and teach me how to lead in challenging situations. The Navy’s tough training will build my discipline and resilience, which are important for running a successful business. Serving in the Navy will also deepen my sense of service and commitment to working for a cause bigger than myself. With the business knowledge from my studies in Japan and the leadership experience from the Navy, I plan to start my own welding business. I want to offer high-quality welding services and create jobs for others. I feel the workforce is dying, and the world is taking the hits from it. We need people in the workforce, whether it's build bridges or sell cars. They're truly the backbone of the world, in my eyes. Throughout my journey, I aim to shine my light by leading with integrity, inspiring others, and making a positive impact. I want to uphold strong ethical standards in everything I do. By sharing my experiences and successes, I hope to inspire and mentor young people who are interested in business and service. I am committed to making a positive difference in my community and beyond through my business and personal actions. By following this path, I believe I can create a lasting legacy that reflects my values, passions, and commitment to excellence. My journey will be marked by continuous learning, strong leadership, and a dedication to service, all of which will contribute to building a meaningful and impactful legacy.

Being the underdog in wrestling is like taking on a tough challenge where every match feels like a battle. So, the wrestling bug bit me square in my junior year of high school. I guess you could say I caught the wrestling bug right around the time I was hitting the gym and shaping up. Maybe it was a bit of a big head moment or just my ego playing tricks on me, thinking I was the Hercules of the weight room, but either way, I dove into the wrestling scene headfirst. As I am writting this, I now have over 2 years of wrestling experience. Going back to my junior year, it a was kickoff, and it was like stepping into a whole new world of takedowns, pins, and sweatsoaked singlets, stinky ones if I may add. Fast forward to senior year, and I'm looking back at this wrestling odyssey. It's been a mix of lessons, growth, and moments that'll be etched in my memory forever. Wrestling seemed like the perfect sport for me. I knew for a fact I couldn’t do football, not that it’s super complex but I feel you got to like the sport or even visualize yourself doing it. I started going to practices and learning the basics of the sport relatively quickly. I soon realized that wrestling was much harder than it looked. It required a lot of strength, endurance, and technique. But I was determined to get better and I knew for a fact my pride wouldn’t allow me to quit. In my first year of wrestling, I didn’t win many matches. I was small for my weight class, wrestling at 180lbs, and I was a mix of fat and muscle with almost no experience. I was up against kids who had been wrestling for years, starting in middle school or even sooner. But I didn’t let that discourage me. I kept practicing and working hard, and eventually, I started to see some progress,.....keyword some. It was tough at first, feeling like I didn't belong. But instead of letting it get me down, I used it as fuel to push myself harder. I knew I had to work extra hard to catch up. I focused on putting in the effort, even when it was tough. I spent extra time in the gym, sweating it out and practicing moves until they felt natural. Being an underdog in wrestling meant I had to fight for every inch of progress. It wasn't just about winning matches; it was about proving to myself that I could compete and improve. Slowly but surely, I started to feel more confident and capable, turning every setback into motivation to keep going. Slowly but surely, things started to click. I won my first match, then another, and my confidence started to grow. Even if I didn't win and I simply improved, I was happy with myself. By the end of the season, I had surprised myself. I might not have been the best wrestler out there, but I showed that determination and hard work could make up for a lot. That experience taught me that you don't have to be the most talented to succeed. Sometimes, just putting in the effort and refusing to give up is enough to reach your goals. Being the underdog isn’t about accepting defeat before the match even begins; it’s about embracing the challenge and using every setback as a stepping stone. It’s about showing up, giving it your all, and proving that heart and perseverance can take you further than raw talent alone ever could.

Growing up as a military kid has been a mix of good and tough experiences. Moving a lot because of my dad’s job, sometimes in the middle of the school year, kept things constantly changing and challenging. Each move meant starting over, trying to fit in, and making new friends. Honestly, it was more like just meeting new people. Some people on this base have moved way more times than I have. Every time we packed up and left, it felt like we were erasing our lives there, which was a big deal as a kid.The hardest part of high school was definitely moving so often. Just when we started to feel settled, it was time to move again, making it hard to feel at home anywhere. Saying goodbye became so routine that I sometimes left without telling anyone. I found it amusing to think of my teachers and classmates wondering where I went, if they even noticed. I wasn’t one to make my presence known. Despite the challenges, these experiences taught me to adjust quickly and handle change. Looking back, I see how these moves helped me become more resilient. As I get ready to graduate, I realize how much these experiences have shaped me. It’s been a journey full of ups and downs, but I’m grateful for it. Moving around so much threw academic curveballs at me, but it also improved my study skills and time management. Each new school required an open mind and a focus on doing well. I’m proud of keeping my grades up through all the chaos. Focusing on my work made the time go by faster. Life changed a lot when I moved to Japan. The place was fascinating, and I had supportive teachers and counselors at Zama who understood my situation and helped me settle in smoothly. Before Zama, I always felt like I was the only one dealing with constant moves. Meeting people from diverse backgrounds on the base broadened my perspective and made me more open-minded. The strong support among military families made me feel like I was part of a second family. Although it wasn’t always easy, especially with my dad being away on deployments, these experiences made me tougher and more independent. They gave me a deep respect for the sacrifices military families make and profoundly shaped my worldview. Extracurricular activities were a big part of my high school life during my junior and senior years. Joining teams and clubs provided consistency amidst the moving. These activities helped me discover my interests and taught me valuable skills like leadership and teamwork, greatly enhancing my high school experience and preparing me for the future. To cope with the frequent moves, I adopted several strategies. Staying positive and ready for change, leaning on family and friends for support, and staying organized with schoolwork and activities helped me manage high school as a military kid. Eventually, I forgot I was thousands of miles from my family in the States, as I had a new family and awesome friends here. Reflecting on my high school years as a military kid, I’m grateful for the unique experiences that helped me grow. The constant moving and challenges taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of family and community. My dream is to earn a bachelor’s degree in economics and pursue a career in the Navy as an officer, inspired by the dedication and discipline of the service members I’ve known.Although I'm not entirely sure of my future path, I’m excited to explore different possibilities and find a meaningful career.

Wrestling has thrown a lot of challenges my way injuries, tough losses, and really intense training. Each time, I've had to dig deep to keep going. When I injured my shoulder, the recovery was long and painful, but it taught me a lot about patience and determination. Getting back on the mat after that was scary, but every small win reminded me why I love wrestling. It's taught me never to give up, no matter how hard things get. Though my wrestling season may be over for good, my season of life is just beginning seeing that I'm graduating soon. How has wrestling shaped the person you are today? that's a really good question.Wrestling has really made me who I am. It’s given me discipline, confidence, and a strong work ethic. Balancing tough practices with schoolwork has taught me how to manage my time and stay focused. Competing alone on the mat has built my self-confidence because I know my success is up to me. The friendships and sportsmanship in wrestling have also taught me a lot about respect and teamwork. These lessons have made me stronger and more prepared for any challenges that come my way. I’m sure to most people who haven’t wrestled or been around people who have wrestled we just seem crazy and like lunatics.Which in all honesty they may be right a little bit. In order to be a wrestler it takes dedication as it is, but in order to be a good wrestler you must go that extra mile with no holding back.That means doing the crazy things that most people wouldn’t do, and if they did do it they’d probably quit or go crazy. I tell you what it takes a different type of person to be able to torture themselves at practice and then have a super strict diet on top of that. This generally goes for the lighter and middle weight people, the heavy weight people I think find it funny watching us torture ourselves. Interesting story or side bar I should say is that I was so dedicated to making weight I started eating canned and prepacked tuna which you’d think would taste bad which it actually doesn’t. It's taught me that putting in the grind and staying dedicated pays off, no doubt. Sometimes you gotta push yourself to the max to grab those goals, 'cause when you're out there on the mat, it's just you and your opponent. Sure, teammates throw in some tips, but at the end of the day, it's on you to bring it home. Now for my future, my goal is to earn a degree that will not only enhance my knowledge and skills but also prepare me for a successful career in the Navy. I am dedicated to pursuing higher education to build a strong academic foundation, which I believe is crucial for contributing effectively to the Navy's mission. I more or less wish to follow in my father's footsteps and be able to serve my country.

Growing up as a Navy child has given me a understanding of resilience, adaptability, and the significance of family. My father has been in the Navy for over 20 years, a commitment that has taken our family on an unforeseen journey . We've called a lot of places home, but none of them have truly felt like it until we came across our current station in NAF Atsugi Japan. Being here has been transformative for my family and me. Japanese culture, with its blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity, has fascinated us all. However, the most fascinating thing has been the change been father. When we first arrived in Japan, I expected my dad to remain the same serious and disciplined person he had always been. After all, he had spent two decades in the Navy, a career that demands focus and responsibility. However, it wasn't long before we discovered the local arcades, and something remarkable happened. My dad became obsessed with winning one particular prize: the arcade horse. Japanese arcades are unlike anything we had ever seen. They are filled with all sorts of games and prizes, but the one that caught my dad's eye was a series of race horse stuffed animals you could win. These horses look extremely cool behind the glass, waiting to be claimed. It all started one Saturday afternoon when we decided to explore . We wandered into a bustling arcade, and my dad's eyes lit up when he saw the horse game. It was a machine where you had to guide a mechanical claw to pick up a horse and drop it into a chute. It looked simple enough, but we soon realized it was far more challenging than it appeared. From that day on, my dad was on a mission. Every spare weekend, he spent at the arcade, determined to win one of those horses. He would meticulously plan his strategy, carefully positioning the claw, only to watch the horse slip away at the last second. But he never gave up. The arcade became our family's new hangout spot. My dad's determination and sheer enjoyment were contagious. We started collecting snacks and small prizes, but the elusive horse remained out of reach. One evening, after many failed attempts, something amazing happened. My dad, with his usual focus, positioned the claw perfectly. This time, the horse didn't slip. It moved slowly but steadily towards the chute and finally dropped in. As my dad pulled out the horse he looked like a kid on Christmas morning. It was a reminder that even the most serious and disciplined person needs moments of joy and play. My dad's obsession with the arcade horses taught me that it's important to find balance in life, to embrace moments of fun and relaxation, no matter how busy or demanding life may be. Living in Japan and seeing this playful side of my dad has brought our family closer together. As I pursue my own dreams and goals, I will carry with me the lesson that life is not just about hard work and dedication but also about finding time for joy and connection. Watching him become obsessed with winning the arcade horses was a surprising and heartwarming experience that showed me the importance of balance and joy in life. These experiences have shaped who I am and will continue to guide me as I move forward in my education and career.

Being a military kid has been a whole mix of experiences, both good and not-so-great, and it didn’t hit me until I finished middle school. Now that I’m about to graduate high school, I’ve been reflecting on how growing up in a military family has made my high school journey pretty different from most of my relatives. Moving around a lot because of my dad's job, sometimes in the middle of a school year, has kept things constantly changing and often challenging. Each move brought a fresh start, trying to find my footing in a new place and make friends all over again. Scratch that, rather than make new friends it was more or less meet new people. I’m aware that other people on this base have moved triple or even quadruple as many times I have moved. Every time we had to pack up our lives and leave a place behind, it felt like we were erasing our presence there, and as a kid, it was a big deal. It felt like my whole world was turning upside down every time. The most difficult part about my high school experience has been the frequency with which we moved. It seemed like every time we finally started to settle in somewhere, it would be time to pack up again. This constant sense of moving made it hard to feel at home anywhere because I was always aware that another move could be just around the corner. It felt like every grade after 8th grade I was moving. I had to get used to changing schools so often that it became almost second nature after a while. I’ve been to so many schools I’ve lost count and even forgot their names. Leaving schools every so often and saying goodbye after a while became awkward, I'd sometimes do what I call 'Irish goodbyes' going away without saying anything. It was kind of funny to imagine my teachers and classmates wondering where I vanished to, who knows if they even noticed at all. I wasn’t the type of student or person for that matter that liked making my presence known. Oooo a big pet peeve of mine was most definitely the academic aspect of it, it could also be exhausting, getting tossed into a new school and trying to catch up with what was being taught. Learning new subjects and adapting to different teaching styles on the fly became part of the drill. The hardest to catch up in was math, oh my goodness how I hate math with a passion!!!! English and other subjects were like meh who cares I can catch up easily without skipping a beat. Despite the challenges, these experiences have taught me how to adjust quickly and roll with the punches. Looking back, I realize how much these moves have contributed to my ability to handle change and navigate unfamiliar situations. As I prepare to graduate, I see how all these experiences have shaped me and helped me grow into who I am today. It’s been quite a journey, full of ups and downs, but I’m kind of thankful for the ride.

If there's one book I'd recommend for everyone to read, it's "The Catcher in the Rye" by J.D. Salinger. I remember reading it during my senior year in Mr. Binns' class, and it struck a chord with me in a way that few other books have. Initially I remember reading the book in my freshman year for fun and I was grossed out by the vulgar language. Now reading it a few years later in English class I fell in love with the Book. Holden Caulfield, the protagonist, is a character who feels real. He's flawed, confused, and struggling to make sense of the world around him. His experiences navigating adolescence, dealing with loss, and searching for authenticity resonate with so many people because they mirror the challenges we all face in some form or another. Especially now in high school,in this confusing time period for me, it just clicked to me. What makes "The Catcher in the Rye" special is how well it captures the tough times of growing up. It doesn't try to make things look better than they are. Instead, it shows the rough and real side of being a teenager, which makes it feel very authentic. The book also makes you think about important issues like who you are, staying true to yourself, and how people connect with each other. Holden hates anything fake and wants something real, which makes readers question their own values and beliefs. Overall, "The Catcher in the Rye" makes you reflect and talk about key parts of being human. It's not a perfect book, and some people don't like it, but its ability to connect with readers over the years shows that it's still relevant today.