Throughout my life, I have been deeply committed to serving others and making a difference in my community. Whether through leadership roles, artistic collaboration, or academic preparation, I have always pursued opportunities that allow me to grow personally while giving back to those around me. These experiences have shaped my passion for social work, and I am excited to further develop this passion through my college studies and future career. My ultimate goal is to work for Child Protective Services (CPS), where I can be a voice and source of support for children and families in need. During high school, I had the privilege of serving in student government as the overall secretary. In this role, I learned the importance of organization, communication, and teamwork. I helped coordinate school events, supported my peers, and ensured that student concerns were heard and addressed. This experience taught me how to advocate for others and work toward common goals—skills that are essential in the field of social work. In addition to my leadership experience, I was actively involved in the marching band as a percussionist and in the theater department as a stage manager. These activities demanded discipline, dedication, and collaboration. As a percussionist, I learned the value of timing and harmony—both musically and in working with a team. As a stage manager, I was responsible for organizing rehearsals, managing crews, and ensuring every performance ran smoothly. These roles strengthened my problem-solving abilities and taught me how to remain calm under pressure, qualities that will help me as I pursue a career working with vulnerable populations. My decision to major in social work comes from a desire to create real, lasting change in the lives of children. I believe that every child deserves a safe, loving environment where they can thrive. Unfortunately, many children face abuse, neglect, or instability in their homes. Through my studies in social work, I want to gain the knowledge and training necessary to protect these children and help guide families toward healthier dynamics. After earning my degree, I plan to work for Child Protective Services. I understand that this work is challenging, but it is also incredibly meaningful. CPS workers play a critical role in ensuring the safety of children and providing families with the resources they need to succeed. I want to be someone who listens, supports, and stands up for those who may not have a voice. By helping families find stability and children find hope, I know I can make a lasting difference in the world. In every step of my journey—from student government to the arts to my future career—I have sought to lead with empathy, dedication, and purpose. I am ready to continue this path through my college education and beyond, committed to creating a better future for children and families who need it most.

Balancing work and caregiving is a complex and often challenging experience that profoundly influences personal well-being, professional development, and career aspirations. This dual responsibility reshapes one's approach to work, highlighting the need for flexibility, empathy, and a reevaluation of career goals. The most immediate challenge caregivers face is the strain on time and energy. Juggling professional duties with caregiving responsibilities can lead to exhaustion, making it difficult to maintain high performance in either area. According to a 2024 AARP report, 67% of family caregivers report difficulty balancing their jobs with caregiving responsibilities, with many reducing work hours or turning down promotions to manage their duties. This balancing act can lead to fatigue and stress, affecting both job performance and personal well-being. Beyond time constraints, caregivers often encounter financial and career setbacks. Many find themselves compelled to reduce work hours, decline promotions, or even leave the workforce temporarily to meet caregiving demands. These decisions can result in lost income and hinder professional advancement, creating long-term financial instability. A study by Massie Financial Planning highlights that caregivers frequently experience career disruptions, including reduced hours or job changes, missed networking and training opportunities, and negative impacts on job performance due to increased stress and fatigue. Despite these challenges, caregiving can also foster personal growth and skill development. Caregivers often develop enhanced empathy, problem-solving abilities, and time-management skills—qualities that are highly valued in the workplace. A study by Case Western Reserve University found that two-thirds of caregivers report an increase in capabilities through their caregiving roles. These competencies can enhance leadership and stress tolerance, contributing to professional growth. Moreover, the experience of balancing work and caregiving can lead individuals to reassess their career goals. Many caregivers seek roles that offer greater flexibility and alignment with personal values, aiming for a better work-life balance. This shift can result in pursuing careers that are more meaningful and accommodating to personal circumstances. For instance, some caregivers transition into roles within healthcare or social services, where their experiences are directly applicable and valued. To navigate these challenges effectively, caregivers can adopt several strategies. Establishing clear boundaries between work and caregiving responsibilities helps prevent burnout and ensures focused attention on both areas. Building a support network of family, friends, or professional services can provide relief and flexibility, allowing caregivers to maintain their professional commitments. Additionally, leveraging employer benefits, such as flexible work arrangements and paid leave, can alleviate some of the strain of balancing work and caregiving. Utilizing online tools and calendars can help coordinate care among multiple family members and friends, ensuring that caregiving duties are shared and manageable. In conclusion, the experience of balancing work and caregiving is multifaceted, presenting both challenges and opportunities for personal and professional growth. While it can impact career progression and financial stability, it also cultivates valuable skills and can lead to a more purposeful career path. Employers who recognize and support the needs of caregivers contribute to a more inclusive and productive workforce. By implementing strategies to manage both roles effectively, caregivers can achieve a balance that supports their well-being and professional aspirations.

Living with anxiety has shaped my life in ways both challenging and transformative. Anxiety has, at times, felt like a heavy shadow, influencing my thoughts, emotions, and actions. Simple tasks could feel overwhelming, and situations that others navigated with ease often seemed like insurmountable obstacles to me. However, over time, I have come to view my experience with anxiety not only as a struggle but also as a source of strength and insight. It has deepened my empathy for others, sharpened my awareness of mental health issues, and motivated me to pursue a path where I can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who face similar battles. My personal journey has made me intimately familiar with the complexities of mental health. I know what it feels like to seek understanding, to hope for support, and to fight through the stigma that often surrounds mental health challenges. These experiences have inspired my commitment to the field of social work. I want to be the person who offers a hand to someone in need, who listens without judgment, and who provides resources and advocacy for individuals struggling to find their voice. My own challenges have made me more compassionate and determined to stand alongside those who are marginalized or overlooked. Pursuing a college degree in social work is a crucial step in this journey. Education will provide me with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills I need to become an effective advocate and counselor. Through coursework in human behavior, social welfare policy, and intervention strategies, I will gain a deeper understanding of the structural factors that affect mental health and well-being. Fieldwork and internships will allow me to put these lessons into practice, offering real-world experience and the opportunity to learn directly from professionals in the field. Moreover, earning a college degree is important to me because it represents resilience and growth. For someone who has struggled with anxiety, the commitment to higher education is a personal victory. It is proof that my challenges do not define me or limit my potential. College is not only about acquiring knowledge; it is also about building confidence, forming meaningful connections, and preparing for a career of service and advocacy. I am determined to use my education as a platform to empower others, particularly those who feel silenced or invisible because of their mental health struggles. In today’s world, the need for compassionate, skilled social workers is greater than ever. Issues such as mental health, addiction, homelessness, and social injustice require dedicated professionals who are both knowledgeable and empathetic. I am driven to be part of this essential workforce. My lived experience with anxiety gives me a unique perspective and a deep commitment to helping others find hope and healing. In conclusion, my journey with anxiety has been a significant part of my story, shaping who I am and guiding my aspirations. Pursuing a college degree in social work is not only a career choice but also a personal mission to transform adversity into advocacy. I am eager to learn, grow, and contribute to a field that aligns with my passion and purpose. With determination and compassion, I am ready to take this next step toward a future dedicated to supporting and uplifting others.

Furthering my education is incredibly important to me because it represents both personal growth and the opportunity to deepen my skills and knowledge in areas I am passionate about. I believe that education is not just about earning a degree—it’s about pushing myself to new levels of understanding and capability, so I can contribute meaningfully to my community and future career. For me, education is also closely connected to my love for music, particularly percussion and drumline, which have been central to my development both as a student and as a person. Music, and percussion specifically, has always been a powerful outlet for me. The physicality, precision, and teamwork required in drumline have taught me discipline, time management, and perseverance. Whether I am rehearsing intricate rhythms or performing in front of a crowd, percussion demands complete focus and dedication. These qualities have carried over into other areas of my life, especially my studies, helping me stay organized, motivated, and resilient even when things get challenging. Art and music have also provided essential emotional support throughout my life. Whenever I’ve faced difficulties—whether personal struggles or academic pressures—drumming has been my escape and my therapy. There is something incredibly grounding about the steady beat of a drum; it gives a sense of control and stability even when everything else feels uncertain. Being part of a drumline has also connected me with a community of peers who share the same passion, offering friendship, support, and a sense of belonging that has been invaluable during tough times. One of the most significant ways music has helped me cope is by offering a constructive way to process emotions. When words fail or when it’s hard to express what I’m feeling, playing percussion allows me to release frustration, sadness, or anxiety in a healthy and creative way. It has taught me that expression doesn’t always have to be verbal—sometimes, the most profound communication happens through rhythm and sound. In addition, my involvement in drumline has kept me focused and driven, even when external challenges have arisen. While crime has not directly impacted me in a personal or deeply traumatic way, I am aware of its effects on the broader community and the sense of instability it can bring. In environments where crime or other difficulties might be distractions, having drumline as a positive, structured activity has kept me grounded and away from negative influences. It has reinforced the importance of surrounding myself with supportive people and staying committed to positive goals. In conclusion, furthering my education is vital to me because it strengthens my ability to grow personally and make a difference in the world. Music, and especially percussion, has been my guide through life’s challenges, offering discipline, emotional release, and community. It continues to shape who I am and who I aspire to be, and I am committed to integrating these lessons as I pursue my educational and personal goals.

My personal experience with loss has been the driving force behind my decision to pursue a career in the mental health field. Several years ago, I lost someone very close to me to suicide—a tragedy that left a lasting impact on my life. The grief, confusion, and deep sadness I felt were unlike anything I had ever experienced. In the aftermath of that loss, I found myself searching for understanding: Why had this happened? Were there signs I missed? What could have been done differently? These questions, while painful, became the foundation for my growing interest in mental health and my desire to help others who might be facing similar struggles. This experience opened my eyes to the reality that mental health challenges are often invisible and misunderstood. It showed me how critical it is to not only recognize the signs of someone in crisis but also to foster environments where people feel safe enough to express their pain without fear of judgment or shame. As I navigated my own grief and healing process, I became more aware of the gaps in mental health support, particularly around suicide prevention. This awareness fueled my commitment to be part of the solution. As a result, my career aspirations have become deeply intertwined with a mission to prevent suicide and support individuals struggling with mental health issues. I am determined to become a compassionate and knowledgeable mental health professional who can provide both clinical expertise and genuine empathy. My goal is to work directly with individuals in crisis, helping them find hope, stability, and paths forward, even in their darkest moments. Beyond direct care, I also feel strongly about the importance of advocacy and education. I believe that meaningful change in suicide prevention requires not just one-on-one support but also broader efforts to reduce stigma and increase public understanding of mental health. By participating in community outreach programs, developing educational resources, and advocating for policies that promote mental wellness, I hope to create ripple effects that extend beyond the individual to society at large. I believe my personal experience with loss gives me a unique perspective and a deeper sense of empathy when working with clients. I understand, in a very real way, the profound impact that suicide has on families and communities. This insight fuels my passion and keeps me grounded in my purpose. While I know I cannot change the past, I am motivated by the possibility of making a difference in someone else’s future—helping to prevent other families from experiencing the same kind of loss. In sum, my experience with loss has not only shaped my career aspirations but has also instilled in me a deep commitment to suicide prevention. I am determined to be part of a compassionate, informed, and proactive mental health community, offering hope and support to those who need it most.

In high school, I didn’t crave the spotlight. I wasn’t center stage, delivering monologues or soaking in applause. I was backstage—headset on, clipboard in hand—stage managing. And the person who made me feel like that mattered just as much as the lead actor was Ms. Wasman, my theater teacher. Ms. Wasman didn’t treat theater like an extracurricular—it was a mission, a lifestyle, a world of its own. She had this fierce, electric passion for the stage and expected all of us to bring the same intensity, whether we were memorizing lines, painting sets, adjusting lighting, or running cues. But what stood out the most was how seriously she took the tech crew. Most people think of stage managers as background players, but to Ms. Wasman, I was the one holding the whole production together. She made me believe that organization, preparation, and calm under pressure were talents just as important as artistic ones—sometimes even more. She gave me real responsibility—way beyond what most adults would give a teenager. I was running rehearsals when she had meetings, calling lighting and sound cues during performances, coordinating with crew members, solving problems on the fly when props broke or actors panicked. She trusted me to manage things smoothly, to lead, to communicate, and to deliver under pressure. She expected a lot from me, and somehow that made me expect more from myself. There was no space for self-doubt with her. She didn’t let you hide. She saw what you were capable of and made sure you rose to it, every single time. One night during a particularly chaotic tech rehearsal, everything was falling apart. Lights weren’t working. A set piece got stuck. Tension was sky-high, and people were snapping at each other. I started to freak out. Ms. Wasman pulled me aside, looked me in the eyes, and just said, “You’ve got this. Breathe. Call the next cue.” It was so simple, but it centered me instantly. That became a mantra—not just for theater, but for life. She taught me that being behind the scenes didn’t mean being invisible. It meant being essential. And that leadership isn’t about volume or authority—it’s about clarity, trust, and keeping your cool when things go sideways. It’s about knowing your people, solving problems quietly, and making the impossible look effortless. Even now, in situations far from a stage, I still carry the lessons she gave me. Be prepared. Stay steady. Trust yourself. And when it’s time—call the next cue.

Bullying is a social issue that has deeply impacted my life, and it is something I care about passionately. As someone who has experienced bullying due to my intellectual disability and anxiety, I know how painful it can be to feel excluded, mocked, or misunderstood. These experiences left emotional scars, but they also inspired me to take a stand—not just for myself, but for others who may not yet feel strong enough to speak up. In school, I was often targeted for being different. Sometimes it was obvious—people calling me names or making fun of the way I talked or learned—but other times, it was more subtle, like being left out of group activities or ignored altogether. At first, I stayed silent because I thought maybe it would just stop. But it didn’t. Over time, I realized that silence only made the bullying worse. So I started to talk about it—with my teachers, my parents, and eventually, with other students. That first step—speaking up—was the beginning of how I started to address bullying. I became more involved in awareness efforts at my school. I worked with a counselor to create a small peer support group where students could talk openly about their struggles with bullying, anxiety, or feeling different. We shared our experiences in a safe space and encouraged one another to stand up for ourselves and for others. It was empowering to realize that I wasn’t alone, and neither were the others. I also began helping to plan anti-bullying events during National Bullying Prevention Month. We made posters, organized assemblies, and handed out orange ribbons to promote kindness and inclusion. I even spoke in front of my class about my experiences with bullying. That moment was scary, but powerful. I could see the impact it had—some classmates apologized to me, while others came up afterward and shared their own stories. That experience showed me how real change starts with conversation and honesty. This issue is important to me because no one should feel ashamed or afraid for being who they are. Bullying hurts more than people realize—it can damage a person’s self-esteem, mental health, and ability to succeed. I’ve seen it in myself and others. But I’ve also seen how support, education, and empathy can help create safer, more inclusive environments. Today, I continue to advocate for kindness and inclusion in everyday ways. If I see someone sitting alone, I invite them to join me. If I notice someone being treated unfairly, I try to step in or get help. I lead by example, and I try to treat everyone with respect, no matter their differences. Even small actions can make a big difference. As I prepare for higher education, I want to continue being a voice for anti-bullying efforts on campus. I hope to join organizations or peer support groups where I can share my story and help others feel seen and supported. I believe that every person deserves to feel safe, accepted, and valued. My experiences with bullying may have hurt me, but they also gave me a purpose: to help others rise above it. That’s why this issue matters to me. Because no one should ever feel like they don’t belong—and I’m determined to be part of the change.

Living with an intellectual disability and anxiety has shaped every part of my life. While many people view these challenges as limitations, I’ve come to see them as powerful teachers. They’ve taught me patience, resilience, self-awareness, and how to advocate for myself. My journey has not been easy, but every obstacle has prepared me for the next step: higher education. Growing up, learning did not come easily to me. While others in my class seemed to grasp new concepts quickly, I often needed more time and support. At first, this made me feel like I didn’t belong. I would compare myself to others and wonder why I was different. My anxiety made this even harder. Speaking up in class, asking questions, or even walking into a room full of people would trigger overwhelming feelings of fear and self-doubt. But slowly, I started to realize that learning differently didn’t mean I was any less capable. I was fortunate to have teachers and support staff who believed in me. They worked with me patiently, helping me understand the material in ways that made sense to me. This support showed me that I could succeed if I had the right tools and strategies. One of the most important lessons I learned during this time was how to advocate for myself. I began attending my IEP meetings and sharing my thoughts about what worked for me and what didn’t. Speaking up for myself was difficult at first, but it gave me a sense of control and confidence. High school was a time of both growth and challenge. I joined programs that helped students with disabilities learn life skills, explore career interests, and transition into adulthood. These experiences helped me gain independence and a better understanding of what I wanted for my future. I also participated in volunteer work, including helping out at a local animal shelter and assisting with community clean-up projects. These opportunities gave me a sense of purpose and allowed me to contribute to something bigger than myself. One of my proudest accomplishments was completing a job training program, where I learned about responsibility, time management, and workplace expectations. I was nervous at first—worried that I wouldn’t be able to keep up—but I surprised myself. Not only did I complete the program, but I also received positive feedback from my supervisors. This experience gave me confidence that I can succeed in a structured environment and reinforced my desire to continue learning and growing. Dealing with anxiety has remained an ongoing challenge. I’ve worked closely with counselors and used strategies like deep breathing, journaling, and mindfulness to manage my feelings. While anxiety doesn’t just disappear, I’ve learned how to cope with it in healthy ways. I know that college will bring new challenges—new people, routines, and expectations—but I also know that I’m more prepared than I’ve ever been. I want to pursue higher education not just to gain academic knowledge, but to continue building the life skills and confidence I need to be independent and successful. I know I will need support, and I am not afraid to ask for it. I am proud of how far I’ve come, and I am excited about where I am going. Higher education is not just a dream for me—it’s a goal I’ve worked hard for, and I’m ready for the next chapter. My intellectual disability and anxiety are part of my story, but they do not define my future. They’ve made me stronger, more determined, and more aware of who I am and what I can achieve.

One movie that has had the greatest impact on my life is The Pursuit of Happyness, starring Will Smith. I watched it for the first time during a difficult period in my life, and it left a mark on me that I still carry to this day. The story, based on the true life of Chris Gardner, follows a man who faces overwhelming struggles—homelessness, financial instability, the responsibility of raising a child alone—and yet, he refuses to give up. What struck me the most wasn’t just the external hardships he endured, but the unwavering belief he had in himself even when everything around him seemed to be falling apart. At the time I watched the film, I was going through my own challenges. I had doubts about my future, about my capabilities, and about whether I was ever going to be enough—academically, socially, or personally. Watching Chris Gardner chase his dream in spite of constant rejection and hardship made me realize that success isn’t always immediate. Sometimes it takes grit, faith, and a refusal to settle for less than what you believe you deserve. The movie’s message—“You got a dream, you gotta protect it”—hit me hard. It reminded me that I’m allowed to dream big, no matter where I come from or what obstacles stand in my way. It also taught me that setbacks aren’t the end of the road—they’re part of the journey. Since then, I’ve learned to approach life differently. I’ve faced my own challenges with more resilience, whether it was pushing through academic pressure, navigating personal growth, or figuring out who I am and what I want. And just like Chris Gardner, I’ve come to realize that perseverance and hope are two of the most powerful tools we have. The Pursuit of Happyness didn’t just entertain me—it shifted my mindset. It helped me believe in my potential and reminded me that no one else gets to define my worth or my limits. That’s why it continues to be a source of inspiration for me. When I think about my goals—college, career, and the person I want to become—I remember the lessons from that movie, and I carry them with me wherever I go. All movies and such have different reaons they were made, some were made with to be funny or serious. I love movies because they almost always have a deeper meaning to them, sometimes you can’t figure it out just yet.

My Special Education program inspired me to pursue college because it showed me how much I’ve grown, not just academically but as a person. During my first two years of high school, I had a 504 plan in place to support my learning. At the time, I faced challenges that made school feel overwhelming, but with the help of dedicated teachers and supportive staff, I began to develop confidence in myself. Over time, I worked hard to overcome those obstacles, and by my junior year, I had made enough progress to no longer need the 504 plan. That moment was a turning point for me—it proved that growth is possible, even when it feels out of reach. It inspired me to pursue college because it reminded me that I’m capable of achieving more than what others may expect of me. More importantly, it showed me that I can grow for myself, on my own terms. College feels like the next step in continuing that journey of personal growth and proving to myself that I can keep pushing forward. Throughout high school, I found myself constantly seeking ways to get involved, to push my boundaries, and to discover who I really was. I didn’t want to just blend in—I wanted to challenge myself, to connect with others, and to grow beyond what I thought was possible. That desire led me to try joining everything and anything that sparked even the slightest bit of curiosity in me. I refused to let fear or doubt stop me, even if something felt unfamiliar or intimidating. That’s how I ended up joining Student Council, Marching Band, and Theater—three very different activities that each had a powerful impact on my life in their own unique way. Joining Student Council was one of my first big steps outside of my comfort zone. I had never really seen myself as a leader before, but I wanted to try. I learned quickly that leadership isn’t about being the loudest person in the room—it’s about listening, taking initiative, and caring enough to make a difference for others. Being a part of Student Council taught me responsibility, how to collaborate with people who thought differently than I did, and how to communicate effectively. It also gave me a real voice in my school community and helped me feel like I was a part of something bigger than myself. Marching Band came next, and it was nothing like I expected. It was physically demanding, mentally challenging, and required a level of discipline and teamwork that I had never experienced before. We practiced in the heat, in the cold, sometimes for hours after school or even on weekends. It wasn’t easy, and there were moments I wanted to quit—but I stuck with it. That commitment taught me the value of persistence and how powerful it feels to be part of a group working in perfect unison toward a shared goal. When we performed on the field, it felt like magic—like every drop of sweat and every sore muscle had been worth it. It showed me what I was capable of when I didn’t give up. Then there was Theater, which completely changed how I saw myself. Standing on a stage and performing in front of an audience was something I never thought I could do. I was nervous and unsure at first, but the more time I spent with the theater community, the more I started to see the value of self-expression. Theater gave me a safe space to be vulnerable, to take creative risks, and to explore different parts of my identity. It taught me empathy, because every role I played asked me to step into someone else’s shoes and see the world through their eyes. Theater wasn’t just an activity—it was a place where I felt seen, where I belonged. Each of these experiences—Student Council, Marching Band, and Theater—challenged me in different ways. They pushed me to grow as a person, to take on new responsibilities, to learn how to work with others, and to find my voice. More importantly, they helped me discover my strengths and realize that I’m more capable than I ever gave myself credit for. These activities shaped my high school journey and helped build the foundation for the kind of person I want to become in the future. Looking back, I’m proud of the risks I took and the opportunities I created for myself. I didn’t wait for things to come to me—I went out and found them. And in doing so, I found parts of myself I didn’t know were there. I learned that growth often happens in the moments when you feel most uncomfortable, and that sometimes the biggest challenges can lead to the most rewarding experiences. Those lessons will stay with me as I move on to college, and I know they’ll help guide me as I continue to take on new challenges and chase new dreams.

Empowerment, to me, means having the freedom, confidence, and support to be the most authentic version of myself. It is the ability to make decisions for my own life, to stand tall in my truth, and to know that my voice matters. As a woman, empowerment is especially significant because it represents the strength to overcome barriers, break stereotypes, and live boldly in a world that has not always given women equal opportunity. It is about having control over my own path, and the courage to walk it, no matter how difficult it might be. Empowerment begins from within. It starts with self-worth — the belief that I am valuable, capable, and deserving of respect. It’s easy to doubt yourself in a world that constantly tries to define who you should be, how you should look, or what you should want. But when I am empowered, I no longer seek validation from others. I recognize my strengths, acknowledge my flaws, and take ownership of my journey. This inner strength gives me the confidence to set goals, chase dreams, and speak up for myself. As a woman, empowerment affects how I navigate every part of my life. In education, it gives me the drive to learn, grow, and take up space in rooms where women may still be underrepresented. In my career, it inspires me to lead, to challenge unfair systems, and to show others that women can succeed without compromising who we are. In relationships, it reminds me that love should never cost me my voice, my independence, or my peace. Empowerment has taught me that I do not need to shrink myself to make others comfortable. I don’t have to wait to be “given” power — I already have it within me. And when I step into that power, I not only uplift myself but also inspire other women to do the same. That’s the beautiful thing about empowerment — it is contagious. When one woman rises, she creates space for others to rise with her. Another important part of empowerment is community. I’ve found strength in the support of other women friends, mentors, family members who remind me that I’m not alone. Whether it’s through shared stories, encouragement, or simply being there for one another, women empowering women is one of the most powerful forces in the world. It creates a cycle of strength, resilience, and hope that can’t be broken. Empowerment also means knowing when to say no, when to set boundaries, and when to walk away from things that don’t serve my growth. It’s not always about being strong in the loudest way sometimes, it’s quiet and personal. Sometimes, empowerment looks like taking care of my mental health, choosing rest over hustle, or leaving toxic situations behind. It’s about knowing my worth in every context. In a world that often places limits on women, whether through discrimination, expectations, or lack of representation empowerment is an act of resistance. It is a declaration that I refuse to be held back by outdated ideas of who I’m supposed to be. It’s a promise to myself that I will live fully, fearlessly, and freely. In conclusion, empowerment is not just a concept it’s a way of life. It affects how I see myself, how I make choices, and how I interact with the world. As a woman, being empowered allows me to live with purpose, fight for equality, and support others on their journey. It reminds me every day that I am enough, just as I am and that I have the power to shape my own future.

A small town girl. At the crack of dawn, you see a girl out in about at a little farm in the middle no where. You would see her feeding her animals, giving them water, and letting them out for the day. It was hard doing all that as soon as she woke up, but it became something she would do everyday, so it was muscle memory at this point. Everyday, twice a day she would go out and feed, water, give hay, and so much more with her little farm. She had donkeys, chickens, goats, pigs. She loved her animals, and her little farm. Every afternoon, she would do the same thing. She would feed her animals, water her animals, play with her animals. Occasionally brushing them, giving them a bath. Every weekend she would clean their homes, clean their water and food bowls, give them a whole restart for the week. Everything was going great, until, each night, she would notice that some of her chickens would be very loud after putting them up. The girl, Emilee didn't know what they were being so loud about, thought that they were just being extra, and didn't want to go to sleep. Emilee would go back inside when she did all her chores, eating, showering, everything like that. After a little while, Emilee would go to bed. The chickens died down a little, everything seemed fine. About a hour later, you can hear the chickens screaming, you can hear them flapping around their pen. Emilee, wouldn't be able to hear the poor chickens, as they tried to escape their caged death. The screaming of the chickens would die down in about 30 minutes. The night became peaceful once again. The donkeys were asleep, and so were the goats and pigs. The chickens were up, the ones that survived. Emilee would be sleeping peacefully, dreaming about something calm. After a couple hours, the sun would rise. The chickens that were spared would begin their morning noises. The donkey's would get up, trotting through their pen and eating their hay. The goats would be up, running around their pen and attacking each other, waiting for their food. Emilee would get up about an hour later. She would take a nice, relaxing morning shower, and ate some breakfast. She would have some cereal. Everything would be nice, and calm. Emilee would soon get ready for the day, dressing in some pants and a t-shirt, pulling up her hair into a bun and walking outside to start her morning chores. She would first feed the donkeys, then the goats, and then the pigs. She would soon make it to the chicken pen with their feed. Emilee would open the cage, watching as the chickens ran out. But, something would be different. Two chickens would be missing. She would look inside the pen, seeing some chicken feathers on the ground, but that was normal. They were no where to be seen, and that was only the start of this poor dream.

As a child of a father who has been in the military for 20 years, my life was never boring. Every 2-3 years of living in a home we would always move somewhere else where my dad was deployed. My father would sometimes go to different countries. Me, my mother and my brother would stay in the states, while my father was gone for up to 2 years. When I was younger, I didn't understand why my dad would leave and come back, some trips longer than others. It wasn't until I was a little older, I could understand that he was doing it to protect his country, and to supply money and other benefits he got for his family. The first time I remember moving was when I was in Virginia. I spent all of Elementary School there up until I moved during the summer before transitioning to Middle School. When I moved to Tennessee, there was clearly a difference between me and the other students who went there. They all knew each other from Elementary School, and I knew no one. After a while of being in the school I made some friends, but they weren't long lasting. I knew I had friends, but we didn't share the same memories from Elementary School, they barely even knew me. Now in my life, I have friends from Middle School, since my dad moved up a rank and didn't have to deploy anymore. I honestly believe that they are the best friends I could have ever had. I know where I would be if my dad didn't move my family around. I would have never met the people I met, and never would have had some of the experiences I've had. Coming to Northwest, I joined so many extra activities, I made myself known in the school, and I wouldn't have if I didn't meet the friends I made in Middle School. Sometimes, I do wonder if I stayed in South Carolina. I would wonder if I joined band, or theater. Would I have the friends I have now to push me to do my best? Some questions are just never answered. I'm glad to be a military child, and I'm very proud to have a father in the military. He risked his life as well, to move after every couple years to do his job, leaving his friends, family, and the life he was just starting to get used to behind. My name is Emilee Atkinson, a Senior in High school and about to be a Freshman at The University of Martin. The military has had a couple of major effects on my life, but I would never trade it for the world. I'm glad of who I am, and I love the effects of being a military child has brought me, even if I couldn't tell at the time.