Books have always been an escape for me, but they are so much more than that. They are mirrors, windows, blueprints, and so much more. The book A Mango Shaped Space by Wendy Mass allowed me to feel truly seen for the first time. I may not have synesthesia like the main character, Mia, but I connected with her journey of feeling misunderstood and silenced for something she couldn’t explain. The book opened my eyes and allowed me to see the different ways people cope with their experiences in the world, and inspired my goal of majoring in psychology, as well as an interest in doing research into coping mechanisms and helping people like me feel validated with their experiences. Growing up as a middle child, I knew my family would always be there for me, but I still felt a need to be independent and emotionally private. I felt like I was carrying invisible colors and shapes of my own, the same way that Mia saw them when no one else could. Books allowed me to realize that there is no “normal” way to experience life, and that is why everyone processes the world in their own beautiful, complicated, and unique ways. That realization shaped my path to majoring in psychology and advocating for communities that don’t feel seen, their emotional experiences going unspoken as a result. Failure is necessary for growth. I am someone who is terrified of failure and who has always taken the easy or safe path when given an option, but I think the first time I have ever truly felt failure was when I got deferred from my dream college. Reading the email, my heart dropped, and all I wanted to do was give up and hide somewhere where no one else would know I failed. However, this has redirected me to go to UNCW, reconnect with a childhood friend who will be my roommate in the fall, and allows me to forge bonds that will not be broken with new students and mentors at the school. I have been fortunate enough to attend schools with teachers who truly care about me and want the best for my future. I was also able to have the same teacher three years in a row, something extremely rare and unheard of at my school, with 2500 people and over 100 teachers. She was my personal finance teacher in my senior year and was able to help me weigh the options of colleges, especially from a financial perspective. I learned a lot from her about her personal college experience and how, even if things go rough and you seem like you’ve fallen too far off the path, there is always hope. I hope to be able to make a difference in the lives of all around the world and have an impact on people in a similar way that my teacher had on me. My personal struggles with mental health during the COVID-19 crisis have truly allowed me to relate to others, which helps to fuel my passion for psychology and interest in developing new coping mechanisms to help people who feel unseen and unheard.

Growing up, I was always a fan of escape rooms. I enjoyed being able to bond with friends as well as challenging my mind in ways I usually wouldn't. I specifically remember going to one that was set in ancient Egyptian times, and we had to go through multiple different rooms containing locks, mind games, and various kinds of puzzles, and the feeling I had when we finally escaped with only a few minutes left was extremely rewarding. These experiences have inspired me to create a Love Island challenge that is based off of an escape room, but instead of having normal locks and things of that sort, it will involve challenges that are family-oriented so the Islanders have a chance to see how the person they are coupled up with would do in a timed, high stress situation. For example, they may have to cook a nutritious meal, or correctly baby-proof an area for a door to open. My favorite challenge within the escape room would be having to get their "kids," which are plastic dolls, ready for school. According to different clues found around the room, they would have to dress the dolls in specific outfits, pack a healthy lunch, and open a lock using clues found on permission slips hidden in backpacks, coats, and lunch boxes. This challenge will help Islanders see if their partner is good at staying calm; otherwise, the kids will begin crying, simply adding to the chaotic environment. Viewers would watch groups of couples go through the rooms at the same time, and whichever group finishes last would be vulnerable and at risk of leaving the island that night.

“A Curious Girl Who Loves Sea Turtles” was the title of a self-reflection poem I wrote in fifth grade. I was a nature-loving, question-asking kid with a big heart. I’m still that girl, and I still have every Junior Ranger badge I earned from our National Parks. I remember the first time I saw the Milky Way with my own eyes, wide awake in the backseat of the car after visiting Zion National Park. I could physically see our galaxy, something that had been so elusive my whole life, yes, all twelve years of my then life. Even now, my mom drives us to dark places to watch eclipses or meteor showers. I’ve never lost that sense of wonder; I hope I never do. Thanks to incredible teachers who were reminiscent of Ms. Frizzle from the Magic School Bus, that wonder became a love of learning. Science indeed felt magical, but it was personal experience that led me to psychology. I’m the middle child in a family where emotions often ran deep. I witnessed my older sister endure bullying from a classmate, and I lived the second-hand effects it had on our family when she would act out in our home, as that is where she felt safe. I didn’t have words for it then, but I was learning that pain doesn’t always look the same. I saw how calmness, kindness, and listening could make a difference. Psychology became the science that would help me understand the quiet pain people shoulder and how to guide them towards healing. These experiences have shaped who I am and inspired a lifelong commitment to service. Education, for me, is how I will help others find peace, resilience, and self-worth. I plan to earn my bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees to become a clinical psychologist. As a first-generation college student, this journey means everything to me and to my family. My parents have always stressed the value of education, even when layoffs and financial setbacks made college feel out of reach. If only their pride could pay my tuition. When I graduated Magna Cum Laude, as a North Carolina and AP Scholar last month, having my hard work recognized was great, but seeing how proud my family was of my accomplishments was inspiring. My legacy will be more than a diploma. want to be the first in my family to graduate from college, but not the last. I want to build a life helping others persevere, heal, and thrive. I want to inspire young people to trust their voices and follow their callings, even when it feels uncertain. If my future work helps others find strength, hope, or healing, that will be my legacy. Receiving the Kristinspiration Scholarship would help me take the next step towards that dream. Thank you for your consideration.

"A Curious Girl Who Loves Sea Turtles" was the title of a self-reflection poem I wrote in the fifth grade. It juxtaposed the thoughts of a carefree child with the worries about peace in the world in which I was growing up. I have always wanted to help others. I assumed the role of peacemaker between my siblings as the middle child. I still tend to be the voice of calm and reason when friends have disagreements. I witnessed my older sister endure bullying from a classmate, and I lived the second-hand effects it had on our family when she would act out in our home, as that is where she felt safe. I believe that things happen for a reason, and these events have led me to pursue psychology as my major. The lyrics of a favorite song come to mind when I think of how that little, sea turtle-loving girl will be a positive force in the world as a whole. The song says: Like a small boat on the ocean, sending big waves into motion. Like how a single word can make a heart open. I might only have one match, but I can make an explosion. The most impactful activity of my high school career was my involvement with Unified Best Buds. This is a school-run club where mainstream students connect with peers with disabilities, specifically those our county considers Exceptional Students (students with developmental delays). At the first meeting as a shy freshman, I pushed past my nervousness and struck up a conversation with Cam, a student whose positivity spread to everyone around him despite his need for extra support. We instantly bonded over our mutual love for music; a four-year friendship was forged. From that day on, I vowed to become a leader and more involved at my school. I realized that true leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room; it’s about creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all. Connection and empathy are the keys to preventing bullying. Seeing the determination and joy of the Buds was incredibly rewarding; it reinforced my belief in the power of inclusion. I discovered that community involvement is more than helping others; it’s about learning from them and making lasting connections. These experiences have shaped who I am and inspired a lifelong commitment to service. As someone who is passionate about understanding human behavior, especially how people cope with life’s challenges, my degree is the first step toward my goal of becoming a clinical psychologist. Empowering women is something I plan to build into both my career and everyday life. As a future clinical psychologist, I want to support women and girls who are struggling with anxiety, trauma, bullying, or low self-worth, challenges I’ve seen affect people close to me. I believe that healing and confidence come from being truly heard, and I hope to be someone who helps strengthen others and ensure they feel seen. Even now, I value safe, inclusive spaces and try to provide them for my peers and coworkers, whether by encouraging quieter friends to speak up or simply listening when friends need to vent. Women’s empowerment isn’t merely a concept; it’s about lifting each other up and making room for everyone’s voice to matter. It starts with me — that small wave in the ocean. Thank you for your consideration.

"A Curious Girl Who Loves Sea Turtles" was the title of a self-reflection poem I wrote in the fifth grade. It juxtaposed the thoughts of a carefree child with the worries about peace in the world in which I was growing up. I have always wanted to help others. I assumed the role of peacemaker between my siblings as the middle child. I still tend to be the voice of calm and reason when friends have disagreements. I witnessed my older sister endure bullying from a classmate, and I lived the second-hand effects it had on our family when she would act out in our home, as that is where she felt safe. I believe that things happen for a reason, and these events have led me to pursue psychology as my major. The lyrics of a favorite song come to mind when I think of how that little, sea turtle-loving girl will be a positive force in the world as a whole. The song says: Like a small boat on the ocean, sending big waves into motion. Like how a single word can make a heart open. I might only have one match, but I can make an explosion. The most impactful activity of my high school career was my involvement with Unified Best Buds. This is a school-run club where mainstream students connect with peers with disabilities, specifically those our county considers Exceptional Students (students with developmental delays). At the first meeting as a shy freshman, I pushed past my nervousness and struck up a conversation with Cam, a student whose positivity spread to everyone around him despite his need for extra support. We instantly bonded over our mutual love for music; a four-year friendship was forged. From that day on, I vowed to become a leader and more involved at my school. I realized that true leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room; it’s about creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all. Connection and empathy are the keys to preventing bullying. Seeing the determination and joy of the Buds was incredibly rewarding; it reinforced my belief in the power of inclusion. I discovered that community involvement is more than helping others; it’s about learning from them and making lasting connections. These experiences have shaped who I am and inspired a lifelong commitment to service. As someone who is passionate about understanding human behavior, especially how people cope with life’s challenges, my degree is the first step toward my goal of becoming a clinical psychologist. Empowering women is something I plan to build into both my career and everyday life. As a future clinical psychologist, I want to support women and girls who are struggling with anxiety, trauma, bullying, or low self-worth, challenges I’ve seen affect people close to me. I believe that healing and confidence come from being truly heard, and I hope to be someone who helps strengthen others and ensure they feel seen. Even now, I value safe, inclusive spaces and try to provide them for my peers and coworkers, whether by encouraging quieter friends to speak up or simply listening when friends need to vent. Women’s empowerment isn’t merely a concept; it’s about lifting each other up and making room for everyone’s voice to matter. It starts with me — that small wave in the ocean. Thank you for your consideration.

LeBron James is not only my favorite member of Team USA, he is my glorious king and my sunshine! He is the greatest basketball player of all time because of the way he inspires so many across generations. My mom is a middle school basketball coach and basketball fan. My brother plays high school basketball. I played one glorious year in 7th grade in which my free throw percentage was 100%. That's right, I retired from basketball with a one hundred percent average from the line and it was all thanks to Lebron James. I suppose you'd like the backstory... Surgery on my femur ended my young dance career after 10 years, I was yearning to be active post-recovery. I decided to try basketball. My middle school friends and I were all new to the sport, but we were committed. We had just read the Kwame Alexander books, "The Crossover", "Booked" and "Rebound". My mom had even taken us to meet the author at a local bookshop. Our team had a chant when we would break our huddle, it was set to the Farmer's Insurance jingle, "We Are Ballers, bum bu bum bum bum bum bum!" Our team played with heart; we won some, we lost more, but we had fun and learned so much along the way. We were at our rival school one cold January day, shorts down to our knees like the Michigan Wolverines in 1989, literally. We wore striped socks up to our knees and embraced a "baller" lifestyle as much as middle school girls in suburban North Carolina could, quite a stretch for a Mexican-American girl like myself. It was an aggressive game, lots of fouls. Their coach and players were intense. I was fouled and sent to the line. I had been watching NBA games with my family, trying to gain an understanding of my role as a "big man" playing under the basket. I bounced the ball, took my stance, quietly said to myself, "LeBron James", closed my eyes and released the ball. It went in! Straight swish, no backboard! I repeated the same sequence: bounce, stance, whisper "LeBron James", close eyes, release! The ball went in again! Swish! Our bench went wild and I was overwhelmed with emotion and gratitude that I channeled LeBron and he came through for me. Those were the only two free throws I took all season and throughout my basketball career. Covid struck several months later and our eighth-grade basketball season was cancelled as a result. I wasn't brave enough to tryout in high school and my involvement changed to that of a fan for the next 5 years. Now as a student of AP Statistics I have a different kind of respect for LeBron, for his statistical dominance across multiple categories; scoring more points than Michael Jordan, having more assists than Magic Johnson and more steals than Alan Iverson. All the championships, the MVP and All Star awards, and being the flag bearer for the Olympics in 2024, they are all a testament to the phenomenal athlete he is, but for me, it was that cold day in January 2020 that sealed it for me. I thought of nothing but him and I got nothing but net!

I am a high school senior planning to major in psychology and I will be attending the University of North Carolina at Wilmington in the fall. I have always been drawn to psychology because of my struggles as well as finding a calling for helping others, no matter who they were or what background they came from. Ever since I was in elementary school, my teachers would describe me as an empathetic person who would look out for my peers. Throughout high school, I have been involved in multiple clubs and activities, such as varsity tennis, National Honors and National Achievers Societies, FFA, and sports medicine, but the one that stood out the most to me was Best Buds. Best Buds is a school-run club where students at my high school are lucky enough to get to connect with our peers with disabilities, specifically those our county considers “exceptional students who are developmentally delayed”. I have been able to connect with many different students about different topics, from music to roller coasters and everything in between. We put on an annual dance for all the Buds in our county, and organized activities during meetings, but most importantly we were able to make students feel accepted. Just like Mr. Green, I believe deeply in the power of education and also the power of connection that comes with educational institutions. With a degree in psychology, I hope to be able to make a true impact on everyone but especially do more research on coping mechanisms and the reasons behind why people deal with anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges the way that they do. My goal is to help develop more effective and personal support strategies that give people the tools to thrive, especially those from underserved or overlooked backgrounds. I also plan on doing research about mental health specifically in the military, a topic that is easily passed over by many. With both of my grandpas serving in the military, Air Force and Navy, and a sister currently serving in the Coast Guard, I have heard firsthand accounts of good people having serious struggles, such as trauma, PTSD, and anxiety during their time serving our country as well as after they retired. I plan to combine my research about coping mechanisms with my research about military individuals and work with organizations like the Department of Veterans Affairs or the National Center for PTSD. I also intend to collaborate with professors as well as students at UNCW to make sure my impact can be seen all across the country. Overall, this scholarship will ease the financial burden that comes with paying for college and will allow me to focus more on my courses and academic development rather than juggling a job with my studies to afford tuition and living expenses. With fewer financial worries, I’ll have the time and mental space to fully immerse myself in my research as well as redirect some of the time I might’ve been using working to internships and volunteer work to help improve the Wilmington community in meaningful, lasting ways.

I am currently a high school senior who has a love for psychology driven by my desire to help others in situations similar to ones I have been in by developing healthier coping mechanisms and improving mental well-being. Growing up as the middle child and peacemaker in my family has found me in tense situations, but has also allowed me to understand different perspectives, no matter the situation, and has also helped me develop important traits such as empathy. Experiencing this early on has sparked my curiosity in understanding human behavior and emotional resilience. During quarantine in 2020, I went through many tough mental challenges. I was depressed, not leaving my house, unable to see my friends who were my support system, and struggling with just getting by. I didn’t tell anyone how I was feeling except for my best friend, and the issues I was going through were too much for eighth-grade girls to manage. Eventually, the things that were taking a toll on my mental health became too much to bear. The girl I called my best friend ended up telling my mom about the things I used to cope with, and we fought about it because she wanted what was best for me but I just wanted to suck it up and deal with my problems alone. I lost my best friend and felt tiny and unimportant to the world. I felt like I had messed up too much to be able to go back from that, and I thought nothing would ever get better. Luckily, I apologized for the way I acted, found a new group of friends in high school, and figured out what coping mechanisms worked for me. I grew a love for music, playing tennis, and nature, and that newfound passion helped my mental health to grow in ways I never could’ve imagined. I hope to be able to help people of all ages figure out ways to manage their roadblocks, no matter what they are struggling with. I plan on doing research to find new coping strategies or to better the ones we already know about, and am curious about neuroscience and figuring out the “why” behind people do the things they do. I truly believe that if I can figure out why some people choose coping strategies that can be detrimental to both their mental and physical health rather than positive ones that uplift them and others around them, I will be able to make a difference in the world. I never want anyone to end up in the state I was in back in 2020, and will do everything in my power to make sure it doesn’t happen again.

Justice, in the simplest sense, is an idea that implies fair treatment. The problem is that fairness is subjective in nature, so how can one ensure justice without ensuring fairness? The reality and environment in which one functions may dictate different types of fairness, which are not universal in all arenas. Even within one common area, say education, individual teachers all have had different upbringings and life experiences. They have different morals and ideas of what justice and fairness look like. We all do; that is human nature. We are not perfect. Often, striving for perfection is a catalyst for actions that could be deemed unfair and unjust. It is such an interesting yet ancient concept, one with origins in biblical times. It has gone before so many ordinary, humble men, philosophers, world leaders, and spiritual leaders alike, but it remains elusive as a whole. How can I, a seventeen-year-old high school senior, planning to major in psychology, contribute to such an elusive concept? "Like a small boat on the ocean, sending big waves into motion. Like how a single word, can make a heart open. I might only have one match, but I can make an explosion." This is a verse from Rachel Platten's "Fight Song". It exemplifies how I have navigated life thus far and is my anthem as I head into adulthood. Effective leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room; it’s about creating a supportive environment for collaboration to help people and to meet goals. To me, justice is not merely about righting wrongs or enforcing rules; it’s about ensuring fairness and dignity every day. My contribution to justice will be rooted in care. Adolescent mental health is both a local and global crisis. Through my education and future clinical work, I hope to become part of the solution. As someone who is passionate about understanding human behavior, my degree is the first step toward my goal of becoming a clinical psychologist. I plan to attend an R1-designated university and research coping strategies to better understand the reasons behind why people make the choices they do. Because I faced mental health struggles starting in middle school, I feel a genuine connection with younger individuals and believe I can support them through their challenges. I understand how isolating and unfair adolescence can be. I want to help others see that their challenges don’t define them and that self-justice includes learning to make good choices for themselves. I hope my research in psychology and neuroscience helps to discover effective new ways adolescents can better navigate the rough waters of the tween and teen years; help them discern what choices are fair and just, and act accordingly. I will work to create safe spaces for teens to be heard and understood, spaces where they learn to see their challenges not as personal failings, but as opportunities to grow. We all face different battles, but no one should face them alone. I am a first generation college student and genuinely thank you for your consideration.

When I watched The Truman Show, it felt like more than just watching a movie; it held a mirror up to the way I saw everything, and I truly saw myself and my mindset from an outside perspective. Truman Burbank, the main character, was unknowingly trapped in a world perfectly curated for him to make sure he lived a smooth life since birth, and it was televised all over the world. He grew up under constant hidden cameras watching his every move without even realizing it. It caused me to question how I would act if there were hidden cameras constantly watching me at all times, the motives behind why people act the way they do, and the principle of free will. The movie had a lasting impact on how I see others as well as the world, and it reshaped the way I think about the truth, control, and true individuality. One of the most powerful ideas that the movie represented was the concept of living under a constructed reality. For Truman, his relationships, the weather, the food he ate, and everything in between were manipulated to make him do certain things so the viewers would enjoy. As far as I know, I don't live on a TV set, but the idea that so much of what I perceive is manipulated by societal norms, media, and algorithms still applies. After watching, I reflected on how much of what I do is based on what’s expected of me instead of what I truly want. It pushed me to ask questions I might not normally think of because they make me uncomfortable, but I began to wonder how much of my identity is shaped by other people. It also allowed me to realize how people are simply made up of fragments of others. I believe that humans are like puzzles with missing pieces, and the experiences we have along the way allow us to have all the pieces and finish that puzzle to become our true selves. Truman’s world was carefully made by others, and our personalities are similarly crafted unconsciously by people around us. We pick up phrases from those we spend the most time around, and I think it’s wonderful realizing that we are made of parts of the people that we love the most. This realization has made me more purposeful about who I spend time around, I try my best to only spend time with people that I want to be similar to. It’s also helped me to see that my identity is not set in stone; it’s a fluid thing that is constantly changing, just like the conditions around me. This movie allowed me to figure out my passion for psychology and the reasons behind why people do things, and I hope to do more research about this in college to truly understand why some choose to cope with different things the ways that they do, whether that is influenced by media, people, or another external factoor that I don’t know much about yet.

Inspired to Make a Difference, Driven to Understand Why Adolescent mental health is both a local and global crisis, through my education and future clinical work, I hope to become part of the solution. As someone who is passionate about understanding human behavior, especially how people cope with different situations, my degree is the first step toward my goal of becoming a clinical psychologist. I will attend an R1-designated university and research coping strategies to better understand the reasons behind why people choose to deal with struggles in life the way they do. I want to develop new strategies for others to deal with their own roadblocks in hopes of improving well-being in my community and across the world. Because I faced mental health struggles starting in middle school, I feel a genuine connection with younger individuals and believe I can support them through their challenges. I plan to major in psychology, then get my Master’s and Doctorate, so I can become a clinical psychologist. I want to conduct ground-breaking research in psychology and neuroscience, discovering effective new ways adolescents can better navigate the rough waters of the tween and teen years. Ultimately, I want to ensure no young adult feels alone or unheard during hard times. The most impactful activity of my high school career has been my involvement with Best Buds. This is a school-run club where mainstream students connect with peers with disabilities, specifically those our county considers Exceptional Students (students with developmental delays). At the first meeting as a shy freshman, I pushed past my nervousness and struck up a conversation with Cam, a student whose positivity spread to everyone around him despite his need for extra support. We talked about our mutual love for music, he told me about the band he plays in, and we made art together. From that day on, I vowed to become more of a leader and more involved at my school. I attended all the Best Buds meetings, creating friendships with many students and encouraging others to step out of their comfort zones and do the same. I realized that true leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room; it’s about creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all. People don't bully or make fun of those they genuinely connect with; finding commonalities is the key to a successful, civil society. We all face our own unique struggles and challenges, perspective isn't always automatic for teens to realize "It really isn't the end of the world" when something bad happens. Seeing the determination and joy of the Buds was incredibly rewarding at each and every activity and meeting; it reinforced my belief in the power of inclusion and the power of positivity. I discovered that community involvement isn’t just about helping others; it’s about learning from one another and making lasting connections. These experiences have shaped who I am today and have inspired me to continue serving others in meaningful ways throughout my life. The Buds have helped me recognize the joy possible from coping in simple, healthy ways, which I previously took for granted; they have helped me see how transformative compassion and inclusion can be. As a result, I want to create spaces where adolescents feel understood and supported in clinical psychology practice and care. This scholarship will not only help me financially, but it will also help me make a meaningful impact in the lives of others. I am a first generation college student and genuinely thank you for your consideration.

Inspired to Make a Difference, Driven to Understand Why As someone who is passionate about understanding human behavior, especially how people cope with different situations, my degree is the first step toward my goal of becoming a clinical psychologist. I will attend an R1-designated university and research coping strategies to better understand the reasons behind why people choose to deal with struggles in life the way they do. I want to develop new strategies for others to deal with their own roadblocks in hopes of improving well-being in my community and across the world. Because I faced mental health struggles starting in middle school, I feel a genuine connection with younger individuals and believe I can support them through their challenges. I plan to major in psychology, then get my Master’s and Doctorate, so I can become a clinical psychologist. I want to conduct ground-breaking research in psychology and neuroscience, discovering effective new ways adolescents can better navigate the rough waters of the tween and teen years. Ultimately, I want to ensure no young adult feels alone or unheard during hard times. The most impactful activity of my high school career has been my involvement with Best Buds. This is a school-run club where mainstream students connect with peers with disabilities, specifically those our county considers Exceptional Students (students with developmental delays). At the first meeting as a shy freshman, I pushed past my nervousness and struck up a conversation with Cam, a student whose positivity spread to everyone around him despite his need for extra support. We talked about our mutual love for music, he told me about the band he plays in, and we made art together. From that day on, I vowed to become more of a leader and more involved at my school. I attended all the Best Buds meetings, creating friendships with many students and encouraging others to step out of their comfort zones and do the same. I realized that true leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room; it’s about creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all. People don't bully or make fun of those they genuinely connect with; finding commonalities is the key to a successful, civil society. We all face our own unique struggles and challenges, perspective isn't always automatic for teens to realize "It really isn't the end of the world" when something bad happens. Seeing the determination and joy of the Buds was incredibly rewarding at each and every activity and meeting; it reinforced my belief in the power of inclusion and the power of positivity. I discovered that community involvement isn’t just about helping others; it’s about learning from one another and making lasting connections. These experiences have shaped who I am today and have inspired me to continue serving others in meaningful ways throughout my life. The Buds have helped me recognize the joy possible from coping in simple, healthy ways, which I previously took for granted; they have helped me see how transformative compassion and inclusion can be. As a result, I want to create spaces where adolescents feel understood and supported in clinical psychology practice and care. This scholarship will not only help me financially, but it will also help me make a meaningful impact in the lives of others. I am a first generation college student and genuinely thank you for your consideration.

I am currently a high school senior who has a love for psychology driven by my desire to help others in situations similar to ones I have been in by developing healthier coping mechanisms and improving mental well-being. Growing up as the middle child and peacemaker in my family has found me in tense situations, but has also allowed me to understand different perspectives, no matter the situation, and has also helped me develop important traits such as empathy. Experiencing this early on has sparked my curiosity in understanding human behavior and emotional resilience. At my school, I am involved in many clubs such as Key Club, Best Buds, and multiple Honors societies such as NHS and Rho Kappa. I am fortunate enough to tutor younger students through these clubs, which allows me to provide support to younger students who are struggling in humanities courses, so they don’t feel overwhelmed in their first years of high school. This tutoring service also allows me to connect with them and help them navigate the academic as well as social pressures of high school. Outside of school, I volunteer at tennis organizations where I help coach athletes with special needs who want to learn the sport, which has been incredibly rewarding because I get to take a step out of my busy life and do one of the things I know best- play tennis and meet people i might not see in my classes everyday. After high school, I plan to major in psychology and am considering getting my master’s degree afterwards so I can become a clinical psychologist. I also hope to do research on coping strategies and the reasons behind why people choose to deal with struggles in life the way they do. I will develop new strategies for others to deal with their own roadblocks in hopes of improving well-being all across the world. Because I faced severe mental health struggles starting in middle school, I feel a genuine connection with younger individuals and genuinely believe I can support them through challenges, whatever those setbacks may be. If I could start my own charity, I would focus on mental health support for youth in underserved areas, especially those who do not have access to therapy or guidance, or underfunded programs that cannot help the young adults who need help. My mission is to break stigma around mental health while providing counseling at no cost, educational workshops, and peer support groups and programs. I would train volunteers to lead workshops in schools as well as communities, organize events in the area focused on education of mental health, and help connect families with affordable resources. Ultimately, my goal is to make sure no young adult feels alone or unheard during hard times.

A Curious Girl Who Loves Sea Turtles" was the title of a self-reflection poem I wrote in the fifth grade. It juxtaposed the thoughts of a carefree child with the worries about peace in the world in which I was growing up. I have always been a nature-loving girl who liked helping others. I assumed the role of peacemaker between my siblings as the middle child. I witnessed my older sister endure bullying from a classmate, and I lived the second-hand effects it had on our family when she would act out in our home, as that is where she felt safe. I retreated to fantasy worlds in the books I read to seek calm, peaceful places when things were challenging in our house. I believe things happen for a reason, and these events have led me to pursue psychology as my major. I hope to make a difference in the lives of each patient I will see as a clinical psychologist. The most impactful activity of my high school career has been my involvement with Best Buds. This school-run club facilitates mainstream students connecting with peers with disabilities, specifically those our county considers Exceptional Students (students with developmental delays). At the first meeting as a shy freshman, I pushed past my nervousness and struck up a conversation with Cam, a student whose positivity spreads to everyone around him. We talked about our mutual love for music, he told me about the band he plays in, and we made art together. From that day on, I vowed to become a leader and more involved at my school. I attended all the Best Buds meetings, creating friendships with many students and encouraging others to step out of their comfort zones and do the same. I realized that true leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room, it’s about creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all. We don't bully or pick on those we genuinely connect with; finding commonalities is the key to bullying prevention. Seeing the determination and joy of the Buds is incredibly rewarding; it reinforces my belief in the power of inclusion. These experiences have shaped who I am today and have inspired me to continue serving others. I am passionate about understanding human behavior, especially how people cope with different situations; my degree is the first step toward my goal of becoming a clinical psychologist.

My Opa has qualities similar to Mr. Godwin and he is a Retired USAF Senior Master Sergeant. He is not just a storyteller; he has become the historian for our family since his retirement. The funniest story that comes to mind is one he and my mom tell about his return to Willow Grove NAS after Desert Storm. He had been overseas for months, living in "tent city". Finally, their unit was headed home. They stopped overnight in New England before the welcome ceremony outside Philadelphia. Opa called my mom that morning, before she left for the base, to let her know his head was bandaged and looked worse than it was. He wanted her to know he was OK. The crowds had gathered; signs, flowers, and loved ones were everywhere. The planes approached in the distance; the excitement was building. They landed, crews disembarked, and reunions began. Off came my Opa in his flight suit, tan from the desert sun, smiling with his entire face and with bandages wrapped around his head. Attention from so many shifted to him, this poor soldier wounded and returning home. People were emotional: concerned for him, swarming him, thanking him for his service, praying for him. I believe there was even a nun who made the sign of the cross, laid hands on him, and prayed for him. He graciously thanked them and just kept trying to get to his family without any fuss. He was in a hurry to leave the base and get to the family gathering. That was where he revealed the cause of his injury. The night before, in New England, he had tripped on a tent stake and sustained a pretty significant gash on his head. It wasn't the wartime injury everyone assumed, and he was embarrassed by all the attention. My Opa isn't flashy; he doesn't thrive on attention, so this story is just very funny to me. I learned so much about his time in the service when he turned 75 two years ago. My mom reached out to as many former Air Force buddies as she could and had them all record a video message wishing him a Happy Birthday. These were guys he hadn't seen or heard from in decades. Each one my mom connected with had story after story they shared, and my mom kept a notebook with notes from the various tales. She and I drove down to Florida to surprise him for his birthday. We took him for a burger on the big day. Little did he know that my mom had found his best friend Chris, whom he had lost touch with years ago. Chris drove 8 hours to be part of our surprise and just happened to walk up to our table and ask if he could join us. At first, Opa didn't recognize him. Then, when it clicked, he was stunned! It was amazing to be part of such a genuine surprise. My mom wanted to give him the gift of memories and friendship. We still have the video of all the tales and birthday wishes, as well as some great old photos. Chris came back to the house, and the storytelling continued into the night. My other grandpa is Retired US Navy CW04; he told me he wished he could have had a tape recorder to record all the war stories his grandfather told. When a loved one passes, all the stories that aren't recorded go with them, yet it's the stories and memories that keep them alive. I couldn't agree more and love hearing the stories.

Leadership shapes our future by setting goals, inspiring others, and creating new ways to solve issues, no matter the topic. We need strong leaders to shape the future, they provide direction, motivation, and structure for progress. Leaders can see a bigger picture, set goals that others might think are not achievable, and can help people come together to work towards a common vision. Effective leadership determines how society evolves, how people grow, and how changes should take place. True leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room; it’s about creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all. We don't bully or pick on those we genuinely connect with; finding commonalities is the key to a successful, civil society and an effective organization. Equally important is the ability of a leader to be adaptable, as this will become the culture of an organization. So often people and entities become complacent with the status quo, this is when all essential growth and innovation ceases. When science and exploration is no longer explored or a factor innovation dies, with that success wains. Perspective and putting people first is also a key component here, I hope it remains so even as we enter the era of artificial intelligence. AI can be used to enhance operations but I do not believe it will ever have the ability to lead people. AI adapts but in very different sense. Focusing on the field of psychology, my major, leaders in this discipline help to lead teams and create new ideas, theories, and practices that help forge new solutions for mental health care and research. No matter what the leaders’ job title is, they drive innovation by challenging outdated beliefs, fostering collaboration, and applying psychology to solve problems affecting thousands, if not millions, of people on the Earth today. Science shapes our future as it explores new ways to fix existing and emerging issues in our world. For example, psychologists are always trying to find new, healthy coping strategies for people struggling with various mental illnesses, whether it’s depression, anxiety, etc. Without scientists, people diagnosed with these conditions would have a much tougher time in daily life. Using these new coping strategies can allow them to live healthier, longer, and happier lives. Scientific advances yield improved quality of life as well; new innovations in medicines, devices, implants, treatments and so forth. Overall, leadership and science together shape our futures and the physical and mental health we hope to enjoy.

"A Curious Girl Who Loves Sea Turtles" was the title of a self-reflection poem I wrote in the fifth grade. My mom still has it in our home. It juxtaposed the thoughts of a carefree child with the worries about peace in the world in which I was growing up. I have always been a nature-loving girl who liked helping others. I assumed the role of peacemaker between my siblings as the middle child. I still tend to be the voice of calm and reason when friends have disagreements. I have been called "an old soul" many times. I did witness my older sister endure bullying from a classmate, and I lived the second-hand effects it had on our family when she would act out in our home, as that is where she felt safe. I believe things happen for a reason, and these events have led me to pursue psychology as my major, but science has literally been part of my DNA since I can remember. That said, I have never had a teacher or a health care provider who looks like me. I haven't had a Hispanic doctor or dentist. I have had the privilege of having several passionate teachers. In the fifth grade, I had Mrs. Grant, who nurtured my love of science and ignited it in other children. We made pasta cars and raced them. We did a lab depicting how the digestive system worked with saltines, fake stomach acid, and pantyhose. We learned about genetics and created fictional new breeds of dogs based on how we arranged genes. We did a variation of this project my junior year of high school in my animal science class where we created dogs to the breed standards. I made a Curly Coated Retriever and won "Best in Group". Mrs. Grant made science so fun! She reminded us of Ms. Frizzle from The Magic School Bus series, but she was not as eccentric and had tame hair by comparison. In eighth grade we learned all the elements of the periodic table using a rap song to commit them to memory. We created Element City where each of us created a 3D model showcasing the uses and applications of our elements, mine was Gold. In high school I took ten science courses when only three were required for graduation: Biology, Horticulture, AP Environmental Science, Chemistry, Animal Science, Sports Medicine 1,2,3 and 4 and Marine Ecology. Earning this scholarship will help me fulfill my dreams of attending a four-year college; it will ease the financial burden that comes with higher education. This will allow me to focus more on my studies, subsequently affording me more time to volunteer and participate in internships that will provide me with hands-on experiences and skills I will need in the future. My father has been laid off twice; this has made it difficult for my family to save adequately for my college education. I have managed a cumulative 3.7 GPA while working and saving for the last two years, but the cost of a college degree is still significant. Overall, this scholarship will not only help me financially but will also help me make a meaningful impact in the lives of others. Thank you for your consideration.

"A Curious Girl Who Loves Sea Turtles" was the title of a self-reflection poem I wrote in the fifth grade. It juxtaposed the thoughts of a carefree child with the worries about peace in the world in which I was growing up. I have always been a nature-loving girl who liked helping others. I assumed the role of peacemaker between my siblings as the middle child. I still tend to be the voice of calm and reason when friends have disagreements. I have been called "an old soul" many times. I did witness my older sister endure bullying from a classmate, and I lived the second-hand effects it had on our family when she would act out in our home, as that is where she felt safe. I believe things happen for a reason, and these events have led me to pursue psychology as my major. The lyrics of a favorite song come to mind when I think of how that little, sea turtle-loving girl will be a positive force in the world as a whole. The song says: Like a small boat on the ocean, sending big waves into motion. Like how a single word, can make a heart open. I might only have one match, but I can make an explosion. Every small act of kindness, every positive thought and action, every piece of trash picked up makes a difference. The most impactful activity of my high school career has been my involvement with Best Buds. This is a school-run club where mainstream students connect with peers with disabilities, specifically those our county considers Exceptional Students (students with developmental delays). At the first meeting as a shy freshman, I pushed past my nervousness and struck up a conversation with Cam, a student whose positivity spread to everyone around him despite his need for extra support. We talked about our mutual love for music, he told me about the band he plays in, and we made art together. From that day on, I vowed to become a leader and more involved at my school. I attended all the Best Buds meetings, creating friendships with many students and encouraging others to step out of their comfort zones and do the same. I realized that true leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room, it’s about creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all. We don't bully or pick on those we genuinely connect with; finding commonalities is the key to bullying prevention. Seeing the determination and joy of the Buds was incredibly rewarding; it reinforced my belief in the power of inclusion. I discovered that community involvement isn’t just about helping others; it’s about learning from them and making lasting connections. These experiences have shaped who I am today and have inspired me to continue serving others in meaningful ways throughout my life. As someone who is passionate about understanding human behavior, especially dealing with how people cope with different situations, my degree is the first step toward my goal of becoming a clinical psychologist. However, the costs of tuition, books, and living expenses make this dream hard to achieve. My father has been laid off twice; this has made it difficult for my family to save adequately for my college education. I have been working and saving for two years, but the cost of a college degree is significant. Overall, this scholarship will help reduce my financial stress, allow me to fully commit to my education and career goals, and help me make a meaningful impact in the lives of others through volunteering and serving my community.

"A Curious Girl Who Loves Sea Turtles" was the title of a self-reflection poem I wrote in the fifth grade. My mom still has it in our home. It juxtaposed the thoughts of a carefree child with the worries about peace in the world in which I was growing up. I have always been a nature-loving girl who liked helping others. I assumed the role of peacemaker between my siblings as the middle child. I still tend to be the voice of calm and reason when friends have disagreements. I have been called "an old soul" many times. I did witness my older sister endure bullying from a classmate, and I lived the second-hand effects it had on our family when she would act out in our home, as that is where she felt safe. I believe things happen for a reason, and these events have led me to pursue psychology as my major. Earning this scholarship will help me fulfill my dreams of attending a four-year college; it will ease the financial burden that comes with higher education, allowing me to focus more on my studies. It would also help cover some of the costs associated with my education, affording me more time to volunteer and participate in internships that will provide me with hands-on experiences and skills I will need in the future. The most impactful activity of my high school career has been my involvement with Best Buds. This is a school-run club where mainstream students connect with peers with disabilities, specifically those our county considers Exceptional Students (students with developmental delays). At the first meeting as a shy freshman, I pushed past my nervousness and struck up a conversation with Cam, a student whose positivity spread to everyone around him despite his need for extra support. We talked about our mutual love for music, he told me about the band he plays in, and we made art together. From that day on, I vowed to become more of a leader and more involved at my school. I attended all the Best Buds meetings, creating friendships with many students and encouraging others to step out of their comfort zones and do the same. I realized that true leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room, it’s about creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all. We don't bully or pick on those we genuinely connect with; finding commonalities is the key to bullying prevention. Seeing the determination and joy of the Buds was incredibly rewarding; it reinforced my belief in the power of inclusion. I discovered that community involvement isn’t just about helping others; it’s about learning from them and making lasting connections. These experiences have shaped who I am today and have inspired me to continue serving others in meaningful ways throughout my life. As someone who is passionate about understanding human behavior, especially dealing with how people cope with different situations, my degree is the first step toward my goal of becoming a clinical psychologist. However, the costs of tuition, books, and living expenses make this dream hard to achieve. My father has been laid off twice; this has made it difficult for my family to save adequately for my college education. I have been working and saving for two years, but the cost of a college degree is significant. Overall, this scholarship will help reduce my financial stress, allow me to fully commit to my education and career goals, and help me make a meaningful impact in the lives of others through volunteering and serving my community. Thank you for your consideration.

"A Curious Girl Who Loves Sea Turtles" was the title of a self-reflection poem I wrote in the fifth grade. My mom still has it in our home. It juxtaposed the thoughts of a carefree child with the worries about peace in the world in which I was growing up. I have always been a nature-loving girl who liked helping others. I assumed the role of peacemaker between my siblings as the middle child. I still tend to be the voice of calm and reason when friends have disagreements. I have been called "an old soul" many times. I did witness my older sister endure bullying from a classmate, and I lived the second-hand effects it had on our family when she would act out in our home, as that is where she felt safe. I believe things happen for a reason, and these events have led me to pursue psychology as my major, but science has literally been part of my DNA since I can remember. Maybe my attraction to science began at age six when I was able to witness a mother sea turtle nesting on a Florida beach, the same beach where she had emerged from her shell some years before. Or maybe it was the family vacations to National Parks where we participated in ranger-led activities to become junior rangers, learning about animals, plants, ecosystems, constellations, history, and stewardship of said parks. I can recall the first time I was able to see the Milky Way with my own eyes; it was like a trip to the planetarium, but it wasn't a screen, it was real! My siblings had fallen asleep as we left Zion National Park. We pulled over to the side of the road to look at the stars and let our eyes adjust for several minutes. Then there it was; it was so beautiful and so vast. Seeing something that was only a concept was just something I didn't have words for then, but I now know it was a love of science. My mom still drives us to dark places to see different night sky events: unique moons, eclipses, meteor showers, rocket launches, and the ISS when it passes by. I still have every one of those junior ranger badges I earned too, and despite being seventeen years old now and my mom in her fifties, we still visit National Parks, complete the activities, raise our right hands, and take the oath to earn our Junior Ranger badges. I have had the privilege of having several passionate teachers like Ms. Adams. In the fifth grade, I had Mrs. Grant, who nurtured my love of science and ignited it in other children. We made pasta cars and raced them. We did a lab depicting how the digestive system worked with saltines, fake stomach acid, and pantyhose. We learned about genetics and created fictional new breeds of dogs based on how we arranged genes. We did a variation of this project my junior year of high school in my animal science class where we created dogs to the breed standards. I made a Curly Coated Retriever and won "Best in Group". Mrs. Grant made science so fun! She reminded us of Ms. Frizzle from The Magic School Bus series, but she was not as eccentric and had tame hair by comparison. In eighth grade I had Mrs. Ayyagri, who was also inspiring. We learned all the elements of the periodic table using a rap song to commit them to memory. We created Element City where each of us created a 3D model showcasing the uses and applications of our elements, mine was Gold. In high school I took ten science courses when only three were required for graduation: Biology, Horticulture, AP Environmental Science, Chemistry, Animal Science, Sports Medicine 1,2,3 and 4 and Marine Ecology. So why psychology after all the other sciences? The most impactful activity of my high school career has been my involvement with Best Buds. This is a school-run club where mainstream students connect with peers with disabilities, specifically those our county considers Exceptional Students (students with developmental delays). At the first meeting as a shy freshman, I pushed past my nervousness and struck up a conversation with Cam, a student whose positivity spread to everyone around him despite his need for extra support. We talked about our mutual love for music, he told me about the band he plays in, and we made art together. From that day on, I vowed to become more of a leader and more involved at my school. I attended all the Best Buds meetings, creating friendships with many students and encouraging others to step out of their comfort zones and do the same. I realized that true leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room; it’s about creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all. We don't bully or pick on those we genuinely connect with; finding commonalities is the key to a successful, civil society. Seeing the determination and joy of the Buds was incredibly rewarding; it reinforced my belief in the power of inclusion. I discovered that community involvement isn’t just about helping others; it’s about learning from them and making lasting connections. These experiences have shaped who I am today and have inspired me to continue serving others in meaningful ways throughout my life. As someone who is passionate about understanding human behavior, especially dealing with how people cope with different situations, my degree is the first step toward my goal of becoming a clinical psychologist. Earning this scholarship will help me fulfill my dreams of attending a four-year college; it will ease the financial burden that comes with higher education. This will allow me to focus more on my studies, subsequently affording me more time to volunteer and participate in internships that will provide me with hands-on experiences and skills I will need in the future. My father has been laid off twice; this has made it difficult for my family to save adequately for my college education. I have managed a cumulative 3.7 GPA while working and saving for the last two years, but the cost of a college degree is still significant. Overall, the Julie Adams Memorial Scholarship for Women in STEM will not only help me financially but it will also help me make a meaningful impact in the lives of others. I hope to honor Ms. Adams memory and strive to share our combined passion for STEM for years to come. Thank you for your consideration.

"A Curious Girl Who Loves Sea Turtles" was the title of a self-reflection poem I wrote in the fifth grade. My mom still has it in our home. It juxtaposed the thoughts of a carefree child with the worries about peace in the world in which I was growing up. I have always been a nature-loving girl who liked helping others. I assumed the role of peacemaker between my siblings as the middle child. I still tend to be the voice of calm and reason when friends have disagreements. I have been called "an old soul" many times. I did witness my older sister endure bullying from a classmate, and I lived the second-hand effects it had on our family when she would act out in our home, as that is where she felt safe. I believe things happen for a reason, and these events have led me to pursue psychology as my major. Earning this scholarship will help me fulfill my dreams of attending a four-year college; it will ease the financial burden that comes with higher education, allowing me to focus more on my studies. It would also help cover some of the costs associated with my education, affording me more time to volunteer and participate in internships that will provide me with hands-on experiences and skills I will need in the future. The most impactful activity of my high school career has been my involvement with Best Buds. This is a school-run club where mainstream students connect with peers with disabilities, specifically those our county considers Exceptional Students (students with developmental delays). At the first meeting as a shy freshman, I pushed past my nervousness and struck up a conversation with Cam, a student whose positivity spread to everyone around him despite his need for extra support. We talked about our mutual love for music, he told me about the band he plays in, and we made art together. From that day on, I vowed to become more of a leader and more involved at my school.  I attended all the Best Buds meetings, creating friendships with many students and encouraging others to step out of their comfort zones and do the same. I realized that true leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room, it’s about creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all. We don't bully or pick on those we genuinely connect with; finding commonalities is the key to bullying prevention. Seeing the determination and joy of the Buds was incredibly rewarding; it reinforced my belief in the power of inclusion. I discovered that community involvement isn’t just about helping others; it’s about learning from them and making lasting connections. These experiences have shaped who I am today and have inspired me to continue serving others in meaningful ways throughout my life. As someone who is passionate about understanding human behavior, especially dealing with how people cope with different situations, my degree is the first step toward my goal of becoming a clinical psychologist. However, the costs of tuition, books, and living expenses make this dream hard to achieve. My father has been laid off twice; this has made it difficult for my family to save adequately for my college education. I have been working and saving for two years, but the cost of a college degree is significant. Overall, this scholarship will help reduce my financial stress, allow me to fully commit to my education and career goals, and help me make a meaningful impact in the lives of others through volunteering and serving my community. Thank you for your consideration.

When I was in seventh grade, I had a mandatory reading log for my English teacher. We had to pick books out of the library in her class and as someone who judges books by their covers, I picked up “All the Bright Places” simply because I liked how different it looked and the pastel colors on the cover. It was mysterious with the sticky notes and symbols on the front, so without knowing what I was getting myself into, I picked up the book and started reading. From the very first page, I was drawn into the story and it quickly became one of the most impactful books I’ve ever read. March of my seventh grade year, COVID hit and I was struggling with my mental health due to being locked up in my house for months. This book showed me that it was completely normal for teens my age to have similar struggles and made me feel more comfortable in my own skin. When I later discovered that the book had been turned into a movie as well, I was elated at the thought of being able to see all the characters that had changed my mindset so much. I was excited but also slightly apprehensive at how the film would capture the emotions described so in depth in the book. Watching the movie for the first time, I was pleasantly surprised at how well the director, Brett Haley did with it. He was able to portray the characters perfectly with the people he chose to cast, and it strengthened my hopes in the bond between books and movies. Movies that have been based off a book don’t usually have a good reputation as readers feel they aren’t able to go as in depth on certain topics like books are. Books are also written to satisfy a certain kind of person, someone who can sit down and spend the time to read through the whole thing rather than a movie that only takes a couple of hours. This is what causes the bad reputation, and I was overjoyed to see that the movie was still able to have the same impact on me, if not more, than the book when I watched it. Overall, this novel to film adaptation bridged the gap between reading and watching experiences by allowing those who may not have the time to sit down and read a book to still receive the important message about mental health in teens. It emphasized the importance of support systems, getting help when you need it, and encouraged open conversations about psychological wellness in young adults. Lastly, at the end of the film, it included resources for those struggling with issues they may not feel safe to tell their families about, guiding viewers to mental health organizations for support.

LeBron James is my glorious king and my sunshine! He is the greatest basketball player of all time because he inspires so many across generations. My mom is a middle school basketball coach and fan. My brother plays high school basketball. I played one glorious year in 7th grade in which my free throw percentage was 100%. That's right, I retired from basketball with a one hundred percent average from the line and it was all thanks to Lebron James. I suppose you'd like the backstory... After a surgery on my femur ended my ten years of dance, I was yearning to be active after my recovery. I decided to try basketball. My middle school friends and I were all new to the sport, but we were committed. We had just read the Kwame Alexander books, "The Crossover", "Booked" and "Rebound". My mom had even taken us to meet the author at a local bookshop. Our team had a chant when we would break our huddle, it was set to the Farmer's Insurance jingle, "We Are Ballers, bum bu bum bum bum bum bum!" Our team played with heart; we won some, we lost more, but we had fun and learned so much along the way. We were at our rival school one cold January day, shorts down to our knees like the Michigan Wolverines in 1989. We wore striped socks up to our knees and embraced a "baller" lifestyle as much as middle school girls in suburban North Carolina could, quite a stretch for a Mexican-American girl like myself. It was an aggressive game, lots of fouls. Their coach and players were intense. I was fouled and sent to the line. I had been watching NBA games with my family, trying to gain an understanding of my role as a "big" playing under the basket. I bounced the ball, took my stance, quietly said to myself, "LeBron James", closed my eyes and released the ball. It went in! Straight swish, no backboard! I repeated the same sequence: bounce, stance, whisper "LeBron James", close eyes, release! The ball went in again! Swish! Our bench went wild and I was overwhelmed with emotion and gratitude that I channeled LeBron and he came through for me. Those were the only two free throws I took all season and throughout my basketball career. Covid struck several months later and our eighth-grade basketball season was cancelled as a result. I wasn't brave enough to tryout in high school and my involvement changed to that of a fan for the next 5 years. Now as a student of AP Statistics I have a different kind of respect for LeBron, for his statistical dominance across multiple categories; scoring more points than Jordan, having more assists than Magic and more steals than Iverson. All the championships, the MVP and All Star awards, and being the flag bearer for the Olympics in 2024, they are all a testament to the phenomenal athlete he is, but for me, it was that cold day in January 2020 that sealed it for me. I thought of nothing but him and I got nothing but net!