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Elaila White

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Bio

High school Senior on the Varsity cheer team. Attending Lima Central Catholic and majoring in Bio Premed. Future college The Ohio State University.

Education

Lima Central Catholic Hs

High School
2021 - 2025

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)

  • Majors of interest:

    • Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Medicine

    • Dream career goals:

    • Sales Associate

      Finish Line
      2022 – Present2 years

    Sports

    Cheerleading

    Varsity
    2021 – Present3 years

    Awards

    • Third year Varsity Award

    Arts

    • Civic Center

      Acting
      Suessical the Musical, Footloose
      2021 – Present

    Public services

    • Volunteering

      Coleman’s Crisis Center — Communicator
      2020 – Present
    Jennifer and Rob Tower Memorial Scholarship
    One notable instance of kindness in my life has been my regular visits to a local nursing home, where I spend time with elderly residents who often have few, if any, visitors. I first decided to visit the nursing home after learning that many of the residents felt isolated and lonely, which deeply touched me. I felt a strong urge to do something about it, so I began visiting them once a week. What started as a simple intention to offer company and conversation quickly turned into something much more meaningful, both for the residents and for me. During my visits, I made it a point to engage the residents in various activities. I would sit with them and listen to their stories, which they were always eager to share. Many of them had lived through incredible experiences, and they had so much wisdom to offer. I also played games with them—cards, checkers, or even just simple word games. Sometimes, I brought small, thoughtful gifts like flowers from my garden or freshly baked cookies, knowing that these little gestures could brighten their day. I wanted them to know that someone cared, that they were seen and valued, and that their lives still held meaning and joy. Over time, this act of kindness became a consistent pattern in my life. Every week, I would set aside time specifically for these visits, looking forward to seeing the familiar faces I had come to know and love. I could see how much it meant to the residents, many of whom began to wait for my visits and greet me with smiles and excitement. It was a simple commitment, but it made a noticeable difference in their lives. My presence seemed to positively impact the residents in many ways. By spending time with them, I helped break the cycle of isolation and loneliness that so many of them felt. I noticed improvements in their mood and mental well-being over time. They became more talkative, more cheerful, and more willing to participate in the activities organized by the nursing home. Some of them, who had been withdrawn and quiet when I first met them, began to open up and share their stories and feelings. Seeing these changes in them filled my heart with gratitude and made me realize how much a simple act of kindness could mean to someone who feels alone. The nursing home staff also noticed the positive changes. They would often comment on how much happier and more engaged the residents seemed after my visits. They told me that some residents who had previously been quiet or even a bit grumpy had started to show signs of increased social interaction and overall happiness. It was incredibly rewarding to know that my efforts were making a difference, no matter how small they might seem. Interestingly, my actions also created a ripple effect within the community. As I continued my visits, I started sharing my experiences with friends and family, explaining how much joy it brought me to see the residents light up with a simple conversation or game. Inspired by my dedication, some of them decided to join me on my visits or volunteer their time in their own ways. Slowly but surely, more people began to contribute, resulting in a more supportive and caring environment for the elderly residents. The nursing home soon had more volunteers coming in, more activities being organized, and more community involvement overall. Through this experience, I have come to understand the profound power of genuine human connection. I learned that kindness doesn't always have to be a grand gesture; often, it is the smallest things—a listening ear, a smile, or just a few minutes of your time—that can have the greatest impact. I realized that giving my time and attention to those who needed it most could bring them comfort, joy, and a renewed sense of belonging. And in return, I felt a deep sense of fulfillment and purpose. This experience has enriched my life in so many ways. It has taught me the value of empathy and compassion, and it has strengthened my belief in the importance of caring for one another. I have seen firsthand how a simple commitment to kindness can create positive change, not just in the lives of those directly affected but in the broader community as well. This pattern of kindness is something I intend to carry with me throughout my life, always looking for ways to connect with and uplift those around me.