I have loved animals for as long as I can remember, and I have always known that I wanted to work with them when I got older. There was never really a point where I had to figure out whether animals would be part of my future, because I already knew they would be. As I got older, that love for animals turned into wanting to understand them better, especially why they behave the way they do and how people can better care for them. That is what led me to major in Animal Behavior at the University of New England. One of the biggest experiences that has helped shape what I want to do was my internship at Saco River Wildlife Center in Maine. I got to work hands-on with wildlife and help with things like preparing diets, cleaning enclosures, providing enrichment, helping with medications, and caring for a lot of different species. I also got to hand-feed bats, which was probably one of the coolest things I have ever gotten to do. Being there made me realize how much I enjoy wildlife rehabilitation and being directly involved in the care of animals. I also took a class called Squirrelology, which gave me a completely different kind of hands-on experience. We worked with squirrels and learned how to safely handle them, measure different parts of their bodies, tag their ears, and put GPS collars on them. After that, we used the tracking data to follow their movements and learn more about where they were going and how they were using their environment. I really liked being able to combine actually working with the animals with learning about their behavior and ecology. Experiences like that are a huge reason why I chose Animal Behavior, because I get to learn about animals in a way that goes beyond just reading about them in a textbook. In the future, I want to make a positive impact by helping animals directly while also continuing to learn more about them. I am really interested in wildlife rehabilitation, zoos, sanctuaries, conservation, and animal behavior, so I can see myself going in a few different directions. I would love to have a career where I can work hands-on with animals while also using what I know about behavior to improve their care and welfare. I also think educating people is a big part of helping animals. A lot of problems animals face come from people not understanding their behavior, their needs, or how human actions affect wildlife. I would love to be able to help change that, whether that is through working with the public, conservation programs, or just teaching people more about the animals I work with. Even though I am still figuring out exactly what job I want after I graduate, one thing has never changed. I have always wanted my life and career to involve animals. My goal is to keep gaining experience, learning about as many species as I can, and eventually have a career where I can make a real difference in their lives.

Helping others is one of two of the most important things that humans could do. It is a fundamental aspect of being human and can have a huge impact on not only the receiver but the giver. When we extend a helping hand to others around us, we create a ripple effect of positivity and compassion in the world. Firstly, helping others allows us to foster a sense of connection and empathy. It reminds us that we are all interconnected and that our actions can make a difference in people's lives. We are all human beings who deserve compassion. By lending a helping hand, we show kindness, understanding, and support, which can bring comfort and solace to those in need. It strengthens our bonds with others and cultivates a sense of community. Secondly, helping others provides a sense of purpose and fulfillment. When we engage in acts of kindness, we experience a deep sense of satisfaction and joy. It gives us a sense of meaning and allows us to contribute to something greater than ourselves. Whether its volunteering, offering a listening ear, or providing assistance, these acts of kindness can bring immense happiness and fulfillment to our lives. I work at a nursing home. Helping others is a part of my everyday tasks. I love helping out the elderly and seeing the smiles on their faces as I do it. I enjoy stopping what I'm doing to help them. I try and make sure that everyone I see is comfortable and safe. I am a dining aide, I ask for orders and serve my patients their food. I memorize their diets, faces, favorite foods and what makes them happy. I love seeing the smiles that I get from knowing exactly what they want when we have certain meals. It makes me happy knowing that I can make the experience of being at a home even a little better for even just a few minutes. One of my favorite patients loves to show me her outfits and pictures of her grandkids every single day and even though I've heard some stories a million times, it still makes me happy that she gets so happy while telling them. Through working there, I've learned that even just a smile can help someone out tremendously. When we focus on the well-being of others, we shift our attention away from our own worries and problems, leading to a greater sense of inner peace and contentment. As I mentioned at the beginning of this essay, helping others is just one of the most important things that a human could do. The other most important thing that a human could do is to love. One could help others with the intention of expecting to receive something back. That is not the way that helping others should be. Truly helping someone is done with the intent of love and no expectations or strings involved. In order to truly help someone, it must be done in a way where love is involved. To love someone is to put down your guard and not be selfish. Love is pure and everyone deserves love. Love itself is helping towards everyone who has it. Love is helping someone out even when it inconveniences you. Love is making sure that others are okay even though you know that you're not. They go hand in hand. Helping someone out is loving them. It is necessary for humans to do both in order to survive in peace. Helping shouldn't be a chore, but a gift. Together, we can create a world where helping is everywhere.

As a first-generation college student, my journey has been shaped by the unique challenges that come with being the first in my family to pursue higher education. Growing up with a single wither, I witnessed firsthand the sacrifices he made to provide for me. Despite the financial and emotional hardships, my father has supported me in my dreams and I am very thankful for him. My family is a tricky situation to describe. My parents separated when I was a young girl. My mother moved to New York City to try and make a new life for herself, but it did not go the way she planned. Although she did try to get higher education, she wasn't able to. Her boyfriend who is now her husband did not allow her to. She ended up having my sister when I was six years old. She had no job, no car, and nowhere to go except to stay cooped up in the basement apartment that desperately needed an exterminator. He paid the bills and only came home on weekends. She had no one to watch the new baby, and it is still like that to this day. She wasn't allowed to get a job or be able to support herself financially. At one point the abuse got so bad that he went to jail just to get bailed out the next night by his parents. It is very hard to see my mother in this situation. I've seen the abuse firsthand, but since he went to jail, it has only been verbal since. He never touched the kids, but abuse is something we are just familiar with. She is trying to get a job and get out of it now, but as a child, it was hard watching it go on. Nowadays, things are a little better. My parents are fully supportive of me going to college, and I am very excited. I will be studying animal behavior. It has been my dream since I was a child. From a young age, I developed a deep love and fascination for animals. Whether it was observing the behavior of squirrels in the backyard or caring for my pets, my connection with animals has always been a significant part of my life. This passion led me to discover the field of animal behavior, where I realized I could combine my love for animals with a scientific understanding of their behavior. By pursuing a degree in animal behavior, I hope to contribute to the understanding and conservation of animals, both domestic and wild. With this scholarship, I would be able to go to college without living paycheck to paycheck. I would be able to buy my textbooks without worrying about bills or food. It would help me pursue my dreams by being able to fully focus on my studies instead of worrying about my financial status. It would help alleviate the financial burden that comes with higher education. It would provide me with the resources necessary to focus on my studies and extracurricular activities. I want to be able to show my siblings that even though growing up in a situation where college doesn't seem possible, it is. I want to make a positive impact on not only animals and the environment but the people around me. I want to be able to get a higher education and prove to everyone that it is possible. I've learned that even though things seem impossible, especially when going through a tough time that dreams are possible.

As a first-generation college student, the road to higher education hasn't been easy. Both of my parents weren't able to complete or even go to college. My father tried to get some classes in a community college, but even that was difficult to pay for and he was forced to drop out due to it. Financially, college seemed like a distant dream, especially with my passion for animal behavior and the limited availability of programs. I knew it would be a challenging journey. Living with just my father also makes that factor a bit harder. While searching for colleges, I learned that animal behavior is not a common major. Many colleges don't even provide a pre-vet program. It was challenging to find the perfect college for me. After a lot of searching, I found one. The University of New England offers an amazing animal behavior program that has so many opportunities. Not only does it lead to a veterinary career, but it could lead to so many related careers. A lot of research opportunities and hands-on experiences are available at UNE. After getting accepted, I was absolutely thrilled. My parents want me to live out my dreams, but financially they didn't think it would be possible. I was able to convince the financial aid office to help out a little more, but there are still costs that I am barely able to manage. Despite the challenges, I've been proactive in seeking out scholarships and financial aid opportunities. This scholarship would be a game-changer for me. It would provide the much-needed support to cover expenses like textbooks and tuition, easing the financial burden and allowing me to focus on my studies. With this scholarship, I would be able to fully immerse myself in my animal behavior studies. I plan to make the most of my time in college, taking advantage of research opportunities, internships, and networking events to gain practical experience and broaden my knowledge. In the future, my goal is to make a significant impact on animal welfare. I envision myself working to help understand animals and make things better for them. I want to conduct research to better understand animal behavior, and implement strategies to protect and preserve their habits. I also want to be involved in advocacy work, raising awareness about animal rights and promoting ethical treatment. Through education and outreach, I hope to inspire others to join the cause and create a more compassionate society for animals. Ultimately, this scholarship is not just about financial support. It is about helping me to pursue my passion and fulfill my purpose of making a difference in the lives of animals. I will work to make a future where animals are not only respected, protected, and cherished, but understood.

Growing up with a single father was tough. Since I was four years old, I remember going back and forth on trains to visit my mother was very difficult. I remember not understanding why I had to do that, and dreaming that my parents would one day get back together. Although that dream did not come true, I am determined to make my dreams for my future happen. Being a first-generation college student is a big deal for me, and I am going to make my mark on this world. I am going to be studying Animal Behavior at the University of New England in Biddeford, Maine. It is a few hours from home, and I am saddened that I will be leaving my father, but also excited that I will be able to fulfill the dreams that I have had since I was a little girl. I have always had a deep passion for animals and their well-being. My mission is to help them in any way that I can. Through my career, I hope to make a positive impact on their lives and contribute to their well-being. I want to study different ecosystems and what affects them. Along with how animals' minds work. By understanding animal behavior, I can advocate for their rights and work towards creating a more compassionate world for them. Whether it's conducting research, working in conservation, or promoting animal welfare, I want to be a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves. Animals are very complex and we humans are not the only beings with needs and minds. I want to learn to understand them. By understanding their behaviors, we can develop more effective conservation strategies, promote responsible pet ownership, and improve animal welfare practices. Through research and education, we can raise awareness about the importance of protecting and respecting animals. This can lead to policy changes, stronger animal protection laws, and increased support for conservation efforts. Additionally, by studying animal behavior, we can better understand the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the role animals play in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem. I believe that even small actions can make a huge difference. By raising awareness, volunteering, and supporting organizations that share my mission, I can actively contribute to the welfare of animals. Especially stray animals. By volunteering, it has helped me know that I truly want to work with animals and have an understanding of them. I have volunteered in nonprofit organizations that help get stray cats off the street and to get into loving homes. I have interviewed candidates who wanted to adopt and the smiles on family's faces once they got a cat that matched their needs was one of the most heartwarming experiences ever. Discoveries about how animals are and why they behave in certain ways can be life-changing for pets and their owners. Owners can figure out why their pet could be misbehaving or acting out before life threatening consequences could happen, some owners get fed up with the way their pets are acting without knowing why. Some irresponsible owners will abuse their animals in hopes of getting certain behaviors to stop. Educating people could prevent this. Overall, efforts in studying animal behavior and advocating for their welfare can contribute to a more compassionate and harmonious relationship between humans and animals, creating a better world for both.

Taylor Swift's music, especially during the Eras Tour has had an immense impact on my self-discovery journey. Her powerful lyrics and relatable storytelling within her songs have helped me understand myself in ways I never thought possible. Throughout the years of my life, there have been many changes, but one thing that stayed consistent in my life was my love for Taylor Swift. Her music has always been there for me and got me through hard times. One of the things I have learned from Taylor's music is the significance of self-acceptance and the meaning of love. Her songs encouraged me to embrace my flaws and imperfections, teaching me that it is okay to be vulnerable and show my true emotions. She has also taught me that it is okay to take the hate that the world gives us and just shake it off. She reminded me that it is crucial to set boundaries and not let others define my worth. Through her storytelling, I gained a deeper understanding of the experiences that I have been through in my own life, and to navigate the ups and downs of relationships with resilience. Listening to her heartfelt ballads such as "All Too Well" and "Clean" made me realize that it's through embracing our vulnerabilities that we find strength and growth. Swift's music also helped me through one of the hardest times of this decade. During the challenging times of COVID, Taylor Swift's albums Folklore and Evermore were released. While being stuck at home, music helped me through it and these albums offered a sense of escapism and a much-needed distraction from the chaos that was happening. The soothing melodies and poetic lyrics allowed me to immerse myself in the songs. I was able to temporarily forget about all the anxieties and stresses of the pandemic. During the Eras Tour, Taylor Swift's music became a soundtrack to my life. Her songs have always resonated with me, but being able to see her go through all of her eras and bring back nostalgia was absolutely amazing. Since I was a little girl, I remember when her albums would come out. I remember being so excited. I was never able to go to any of her previous tours, but somehow my mother was able to snag Eras Tour tickets for my 18th birthday. It was an amazing surprise because we waited hours in a Ticketmaster queue and it got us nowhere until she realized that she was able to get them on her end. It was so exciting. When we got to Metlife Stadium, I was astonished by all of the beautiful people with their amazing costumes and apparel. It was so fun to know that everyone there loved the same thing that I did. We all had an understanding of each other and everyone I met eyes with there gave me a kind smile. I have never felt more welcome anywhere else. When Taylor got on stage, the crowd went wild. She was on stage for over three hours and played over forty songs with barely any breaks. It amazed me how everyone was singing along and knew all the words just like I did. We all backed her up and it was one of the best experiences I have had in my entire life. It is a moment I will remember forever. Being able to see the songs that I knew by heart live was an ethereal experience. She created magical moments and connected to everyone in the stadium individually. Truly a beautiful experience that I am forever grateful for.

Ever since I was a little kid, I've been a die-hard Disney fan. It all started with my love for The Little Mermaid. I was captivated by Ariel's enchanting voice and her adventurous spirit. She inspired me to be brave and to be myself. From that moment on, I knew that Disney was something special to me. As I grew older, my love for Disney only intensified. I remember the excitement of going to Disneyland Paris for the first time. The moment I stepped foot into the park, it felt like stepping into a magical realm. The sights, the sounds, and the characters brought the Disney stories to life right before my eyes. It was a dream come true. Seeing the iconic Sleeping Beauty castle, with beautiful water fountains and trees that were perfectly cut into various shapes. There were ducks sitting along the grass and the sight altogether was one of the most beautiful things I have ever seen. One of the most memorable experiences during that trip was conquering my fear of roller coasters. Despite my initial apprehension, I mustered up the courage to go on my first roller coaster ride. The adrenaline rush, the twists, and turns, and the feeling of sheer exhilaration made it an unforgettable experience. Not only did I go on it once, I actually went on twice! It was a moment of personal growth and overcoming my fears, all thanks to the magic of Disney. Aside from the theme parks, I also cherished the Disney Channel Original Movies. Those movies were a staple of my childhood. I would eagerly anticipate their premieres, and they never failed to entertain and inspire me. From Camp Rock all the way to Teen Beach Movie, these movies taught valuable life lessons, celebrated friendship, and encouraged following your dreams. They were a constant source of joy and inspiration. I remember as a child, my birthday present from my aunt and uncle was going to watch Disney movies in theaters. The first movie we watched was The Princess and The Frog. That was such a memorable movie. The visuals and music made me so happy. The next movie we watched was Tangled, and that became one of my all-time favorite movies. As I entered my teenage years, Disney continues to hold a special place in my heart. The timeless stories, the memorable characters, and the enchanting music have left an indelible mark on my life. Whether it's watching classic Disney films or exploring new releases, the magic never fades. The lessons that Disney has taught me made me who I am today. The compassion and empathy that the princesses taught me sticks with me always. Being a Disney super fan has shaped my perspective on life. It has taught me the importance of imagination, the power of dreams, and the value of embracing the childlike wonder within us. Disney has a unique ability to transport us to a world where anything is possible and where dreams do come true. So, here's to being a lifelong Disney super fan- a journey filled with laughter, tears, and endless enchantment. It has been a journey filled with joy, inspiration, and, a touch of pixie dust. It has shaped my imagination, instilled me in a belief in the power of dreams, and reminded me that magic does exist. Disney will always hold a special place in my heart, and I will continue to embrace the wonder and enchantment it brings into my life. No matter how old I get, I'll always be that wide-eyed kid who believes in the magic of Disney

Free speech is a right that all Americans have and are entitled to. It is protected by the First Amendment of the United States Constitution and it has shaped this country and everyone in it. It has built a level of security that Americans have been grateful for since the Constitution was signed. It has significantly helped college students in shaping their personal and intellectual growth. It has allowed individuals to express their thoughts and ideas without fear of consequences. By allowing people to express their ideas, thoughts, and opinions freely, free speech makes an environment that encourages critical thinking, creates the diversity of thought, and promotes the exploration of new perspectives. On college campuses, free speech is so important. These institutions serve as places of knowledge and creativity. Students are exposed to a wide range of ideas and perspectives that allow students gears in their brains to turn and truly think for themselves and gain understanding. By embracing free speech, colleges and universities create an atmosphere where students feel safe to be themselves and speak their ideas. This cultivates an environment where students can engage in meaningful discussions, challenge beliefs, and develop unique viewpoints. By allowing for the open exchange of ideas, free speech encourages students to question prevailing notions, challenge assumptions, and seek out understanding of others and perspectives. In the field of animal behavior, free speech is particularly valuable. The study of animal behavior requires a multidisciplinary approach, drawing insights from biology, psychology, ecology, and other fields. Each of those fields is studied within animal behavior, and free speech is very important in those classes. By allowing for the free exchange of ideas, researchers and students in this field can collaborate, share findings, and challenge existing theories. This open dialogue not only advances scientific knowledge but also encourages innovation and the development of new research directions. By being able to express ideas and findings, the field becomes more diverse and unique. Preserving free speech on campus is essential because it cultivates an environment where students can freely express their thoughts, challenge societal norms, and develop their own unique perspectives. It empowers students to become active participants in their education, equipping them with the skills to navigate complex issues, engage in respectful debates, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge. It encourages students to broaden their horizons and actually think for themselves. It is crucial that we continue to protect this fundamental right to ensure a well-rounded education and a vibrant intellectual community. In conclusion, free speech is a cornerstone of intellectual and personal development for American college students. It is crucial to preserve this fundamental right as it fosters critical thinking, promotes diversity of thought, and enriches the educational experience. In the field of animal behavior, students have the opportunity to advance knowledge, embrace different perspectives, and contribute to a campus culture that values open dialogue and the free exchange of ideas.

It has always been my dream to work with animals and possibly become a veterinarian. As a first-generation college student, I know this path will not be easy, but I am determined to make it happen. my past experiences have contributed to my desired career in many difficult ways. Growing up, my parents divorced when I was only four years old. My mother noved to New York City, and I stayed with my dad. Going up and down to NYC on a train with my mom every couple of weeks was difficult for me, especially at that age. I knew she loved me, but watching my mom in horrible apartments that were not suitable for living, but she had no choice because they were cheap was very difficult and hard for me to understand at the age I was. These experiences tauht me resilience and independence. I had to learn to be responsible and take care of myself at a young age. My parents never really got the chance to go to college. At 17, my mother never touched a hard drug in her life, but got sent to rehab for normal teenage things such as sneaking out, smoking, and staying out late. It was very difficult for her because she would often blame herself, but she was so young and should never have experienced anything like it. She barely finished high school, and never got the chance to go to college. She met my father at rehab, and had me at 21. My father was able to go to some community college, but wasnt able to afford it after some time. Despite the challenges my family has faced, they support me going to college. They dont want me to make the mistakes that they have made, and I want to be able to complete my dreams in life. I believe that my experiences have given me a unique perspective in life and I want to be able to succeed. I am grateful for the support of my family and friends, who have encouraged me every step of the way. I want to be able to work with animals and possibly become a veterinarian. I wanted this ever since I was a little girl. I would often beg my dad to keep stray animals, and we would feed the stray cats. We werent able to do much more than that, but just helping out made me feel so happy. As I grew older, I began volunteering with animal shelters and non-profit organizations. These experiences really helped me by showing me how to care for and learn more about animal behavior. Animal care is a true passion for me, and my father has really helped me by taking me to volunteer and helping me care for my own pets that we were eventually able to take in. I have a cat that owns my heart, and I know if I lost her, I would be absolutely heartbroken. I want to help others be able to save the heartbreak by saving animals. I want to be able to use my knowledge and skills that I will learn in college to help animals in need, whether that be through medical treatment or behavioral rehabilitation. I will be majoring in Animal Behavior/Sciences. This program can help me get into so many different careers in working with animals, my passion in life. I am so excited for this huge opportunity. Going to college is very important to me. Taking out loans has been hard and anything will help. Thank you so much for considering me.

As a person who has a deep love and passion for marine sciences and life, I would focus my time and energy on studying the effects of pollution on marine ecosystems and learning about the behavior of marine life. My ultimate goal is to preserve and protect marine life for future generations to enjoy and have more knowledge of. I will be studying at the University of New England and I will work in the Girard Marine Science Center which provides research-education workgroups that are focused on marine-specific topics that are hands-on and interesting to everyone who walks in that building. I believe that the ocean and the life in it is a precious habitat and resource that we have to work to maintain and conserve. The ocean is home to countless species of marine animals, many of which are threatened by acts that humans are negatively affecting such as pollution, overfishing, and climate change. I want to gain more knowledge and skills to help preserve these animals and their habitats within the ocean. The ocean is a large, vast, and complex system that is home to a wide range of organisms, from the smallest plankton to the largest whales. By studying these organisms and their interactions with each other, I would be able to gain a better understanding of the ocean and its role in the global ecosystem. One area of research that I am interested in is the impact of pollution on marine life. Plastic pollution is a huge problem in our oceans, and it is affecting marine animals and coral reefs in several ways, causing life to not be able to grow in the ways needed, and in death. I would like to study the impacts of pollution and develop strategies to reduce plastic waste and protect marine life. Pollution has had so many negative effects on not only the life in the ocean but in humans. When fish ingest the chemicals that are in the ocean from what humans have done, they become polluted. People then eat the fish and it can affect their health and so on. It damages the food chain from the smallest organisms at the bottom all the way to the surface. What we as humans do to this earth affects us in the long run, and I want to be able to research more about it and spread awareness of the effect it has on us. I also want to conduct research on marine biodiversity. I am fascinated by the incredible diversity of marine life, and I would love to learn more about the different species that inhabit our oceans. I am particularly interested in discovering new species and studying the behavior and ecology of marine mammals, such as whales and dolphins. They are so smart, and figuring out what causes their actions and different behaviors would be an amazing thing to learn and know how to do. Marine biodiversity is also important for maintaining the health and resilience of ocean ecosystems. The information that could be revealed by the research on marine biodiversity is greater than we could ever know. Ultimately, my dream is to make a positive impact on the world by helping to protect and preserve marine life. I want to use my knowledge and skills to make a difference in the world and leave a lasting legacy. Whether it is through research, education, or advocacy, I am committed to making a difference in the world and helping to protect the ocean and its inhabitants. I'm excited to execute this dream. Thank you for considering me.

As an animal lover looking for a career path related to animals, it has been pretty hard to find the right program for me. It turns out that a lot of colleges don't offer animal-related programs. Though I finally found the perfect one for me. I applied to the University of New England in Biddeford, Maine. It is absolutely gorgeous but absolutely expensive. I will be majoring in the Animal Behavior/Sciences program, and I am so excited to fulfill the dream I've had since I was young. The first pet I've ever owned was a Holland lop bunny. He was an amazing animal. I was only four years old, so at first my dad did all of the care and I did all of the petting. He was white with black patches and his name was Bun-Bun. While growing up with him, I learned to care for him and how raising an animal was. I have always had a love for animals, but owning them solidified how much I cared for them. I was eleven years old when Bun-Bun passed and it was my first heartbreak and sight of death. Since then I've encountered more through the years from fostering kittens and owning many other animals. Throughout my life, my parents were able to impact my life like no other. I know that is probably a standard answer, but I feel so deeply connected to my parents. Each in different ways. I live with my dad, and he has always been so supportive of my passion for animals throughout my whole life. From doing research with me before adopting pets, and helping me clean out fish tanks when I was too young to even lift them. He has been so supportive. I remember journaling as a little girl about how I wanted to own a veterinary hospital/grooming salon. He has always loved my imagination and passion. He even let me do a little protest at the ripe age of 8 about how I didn't want my town to tear down the wetlands to make condo buildings. He has been there for me and it means so much to me that he cares about my critters as much as I do. Although my mother doesn't live with me, she has also been there for me since day one. Literally. Whether it was on a phone call or down in another state visiting, she has inspired me to be the woman I am today. She is so hardworking. She is a stay-at-home mom with two kids, my siblings. My mom encouraged me to live out my dreams and pursue my passions, no matter what anyone else says. She took me to visit different colleges and researched the best programs for me. She has driven countless hours to help me reach my goals, and I am so grateful for it. She doesn't want me to make the same mistakes my parents made and wants me to live my life to the fullest. Being a first-generation college graduate and helping animals in any way that I can. Now that I have been accepted into the University of New England, I am so excited to start my journey of helping animals and understanding their behavior. I can't wait to see what the future holds and to put my dreams into action. I am so grateful for my parents and their support throughout this process. Without them, I would not have been able to make it this far. I am so excited to start my journey and to make a difference in the lives of animals.

Mental health is a topic that has had a huge impact on my life. Like most people, I've experienced periods of intense anxiety and depression, which affected every single aspect of my life. Since seventh grade, I have struggled with my sexual identity and mental health. I went through the denial of who I truly am, and how I matter. These struggles have taught me a huge lesson in the importance of self-care, community support, and how others should be treated. One of the most difficult aspects of dealing with depression and anxiety is the feeling of loneliness and isolation. The shame that is felt from not feeling good enough to be on this earth, and from feeling disgusting and being portrayed as a sinner from being in love. For so many years, I felt that I was alone. I struggled with maintaining friendships and felt like I had no one to reach out to. The church made me feel like I didn't belong and told me that I would be going to hell indirectly. I began talking to a therapist in my freshman year of high school, and I was able to get diagnosed with anxiety and depression. I got prescribed Prozac, and my family isn't supportive of medications like that, but since taking it life has been a bit easier. Although I still deal with many challenges, there are some challenges that no one knows about still. I never told anybody about the pain I was experiencing. I still haven't come out, and as of right now, it is still very hard for me to. I am excited to get to college because I have met some very supportive peers and others I can connect to on an orientation trip I went on for my college. This realization that I was not alone was a huge reminder of the importance of community and being supportive of others. I truly believe that even if some don't believe in others' choices, they should still be able to be respected. While mental health and sexuality challenges can feel very overwhelming and isolating, it is important to be able to connect with others and remember that everyone is dealing with their own issues and through reaching out to others and communicating, we can create a community of care and compassion for each other and it can help us get through times that seem impossible together. Going along with mental health, suicide has had a significant impact on my life. Either experiencing suicidal thoughts myself or spending hours on hours worrying and trying to get my friends to not hurt themselves over text messages and phone calls. Since I was 11, I have dealt with thoughts that a child should not have to face. My peers would show me their self-harm, their suicidal thoughts. It almost became an epidemic in my seventh-grade class. Everyone I knew was wearing long sleeves and bandages on hot summer days to cover up the cuts they gave themselves to relieve stress. I started to get on the train of it and I have some lasting scars from that time. It is not fair for children to be going through all of this and get told by their guidance councelor at school to "just stop" or that they arent going through enough hardship to be going through this. The importance of mental health should be taught in schools. I am excited to be going to a college that is supportive of mental health and sexual identity. I have never found a community as supportive as this. Thank you.

Ever since I was a little girl, my love for animals has become incomparable to anything else in my life. I have always had a deep love and passion for animals and their well-being. This passion has driven me into pursuing a career in veterinary medicine. I had a cat named Gizmo. He was abused before we got him back in 2010. He had no tail, and was terrified of humans. We took him in, and he was such a loving soul, eventually he began to trust me and he was always by my side. One day, he started acting off, he wasnt himself. He was throwing up and losing weight and we took him to the vet. He was diagnosed with feline lymphoma. He had cancer, and it broke my heart. After losing him, my fascination for saving animals was larger than ever before. I have always been fascinated by the way animals behave, their complexity, and the beauty of the environment and all of the world. I remember journaling about opening a veterinary hospital that included a dog and cat spa and grooming site, and now I am going to be able to finally help animals just like I've dreamed of as a child. As I got older, not only did I grow in height, but my interest in animals and their welfare continued to grow with me. In my free time, I volunteered at a local cat rescue by the name of T.A.I.L.S also known as The Alliance In Limiting Strays. I talked to many people about getting cats off the streets and into safe homes. I was so happy to be successful in getting beautiful kittens safely into loving homes. I also volunteered at my local animal shelter by walking dogs and cleaning up the dens. It was refreshing to know that I was doing something that not only was useful to others but something that I was passionate about. Through these experiences, I came to realize the huge impact that veterinary medicine has on the lives of not only the animals but their owners too. Whether it's treating illnesses, injuries, or behaviors or keeping up with routine care and grooming. Veterinarians play an essential part in keeping animals safe, happy, and alive. Their owners benefit from their fur babies being alright too. Animals aren't just pets, they can be our best friends. As a veterinarian, it's not just playing with animals and making sure they are okay. It is having the responsibility for diagnosing and treating a lot of illnesses and injuries that animals may have. This requires the understanding of animal anatomy, biology, and the knowledge of animal behavior and nutrition that could only be done in special programs that a very limited amount of colleges offer. Communication skills are needed, as the vet would be working closely with the owners of the animal, providing schedules and personality knowledge of the animal. I am hoping to accomplish new ways of saving animals, and reseaching more into cancer in felines and dogs. I want to find more ways to prevent the loss of an animal to a horrible disease. It is always hard to lose a pet, but sometimes its even harder when you know its coming and you're just waiting for the day that they cross the rainbow bridge. I want to be able to save the animals and the heartbreak that comes from losing them. I will be going to the University of New England to pursue Animal Behavior/Sciences and I am so excited to be able to do this with my life.

Taylor Swift's album "1989" marked a huge turning point in her career, during this time she moved from country music to pop. She grew as an artist and a person. The album had many hits such as "Blank Space" and the upbeat anthem "Shake It Off" which inspired many people to "shake off" the hate and negativity that this world gives. The album showcased Swift's adaptability as an artist and cemented her status as a pop icon. The album shows off catchy hooks, relatable lyrics, and a sound that inspired many. 1989 was an album that succeeded like no other album of hers previously had. The album is about Taylor Swift moving to New York City and celebrating her life with her friends. I remember the day that this album came out. I went to the record store with my dad and bought the album and listened to it for months straight. My favorite song on this album would be " I Know Places". The song is about how paparazzi and the media are obsessed with her personal life. She was tired of being documented all the time with rumors and details that did not need to be in the news. It shows how she and her lover need to hide from the media in order to feel secure and safe. The lyrics in this song describe Swift and her lover running from the paparazzi like wild animals, specifically foxes to find secret and safe places away from it all. "I Know Places" features a dark and mysterious vibe, with a pulsing beat that gives the listener a sense of danger and urgency to understand what she feels. The beat is a combination of electronic synth pads and drums along with the piano usage and a guitar riff that is distorted. The beat and melody of this song are simple, but it is effective in making the song what it is- a catchy and urgent song that is one of the coolest parts about it.It is different from all of the other songs on the album with eerie vocals. At the beginning and the end of the song, there is a sound of a tape recorder being pressed. It is a unique touch to the song that Swift has not done before. There is also a unique vocal effect used and it makes her voice sound like it is echoing as if she is in a cave which adds to the mysterious sound of the song itself. The sound of this song is experimental and much darker and edgier than many of the other songs that Swift has written. Her other songs tend to be more upbeat or country ballads that were before this album was produced. This experimentation on her music is one of the many reasons why "I Know Places" is one of the fan favorites. Every album of Taylor Swifts is different. As of right now, she is performing on The Eras Tour where she goes through all of her eras. 1989 is one of them. It is a freeing and beautiful album that really proves that Taylor Swift is the songwriter of this generation. Growing up with her is so fun. The 1989 era really made it so that fans would be able to connect with her. She even had a pre-album release party for fans that she invited to her house to show off the album and be able to understand and feel the songs with Taylor herself. It shows what kind of person she is, a generous and brilliant songwriter, musician, director, and doctor.

Ever since I was young, technology has always been an important part of my life. Technology has been a part of transforming the world in so many ways. It has restructured the ways in which we communicate with each other, learn things, work, and create things. Many people can argue that technology has been worse for humanity rather than better, but I strongly believe that technology can change the world for the greater. One of the most significant benefits of technology is that it creates the ability to talk to others from across the world. Social media platforms such as Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and TikTok have made it immensely easier to be able to communicate with others regardless of their geographic location. They have made it possible to find others that they may have never thought they would see again. I witnessed people meet each other at a coffee shop one day and hit it off just to forget to exchange numbers and then find each other on social media the next day. It is crazy what one could find on these platforms. Social media platforms also created opportunities for people to build relationships with people they may not have met without it. Technology has also transformed the way we learn. During the Covid-19 lockdown, school would not have been possible without it. I would have graduated much later than I did without classes on Google Meets or Zoom. It also made education more accessible to people from around the world and for others with busy schedules. Single parents, low-income students, and more have been able to gain college degrees with online programs. Without it, they may not have been able to get higher education. Another way technology has made the world a better place is through its impact on healthcare. People are now able to video call Doctor appointments that would have cost a large penny if not for telehealth. People are now able to call their therapists and doctors to know what's going on right as it is happening. Technology is also helping healthcare by developing new treatments, and figuring out what a human might have missed. It has saved countless lives and made working with patients a lot easier. Finally, technology has helped the world in so many ways. It has been able to make people happy and healthy in ways that wouldn't be possible without it.

Emily Mroz Barbie Dream House Scholarship 14 July 2023 My Own Barbie Dream House Since 1962, the Barbie Dream House took the world by storm. When released, it was rare to find a woman who was a homeowner. Barbie was everything. Barbie had every job imaginable. The company showed that anyone can be a Barbie and inspired young girls all over the world, including me. Ever since I was a little girl, I dreamed of having a house like Barbie. I wanted to be able to be that successful and I was able to imagine that with the 2008 Barbie Three-Story Dream House. It featured a bright blue spiral staircase which I dreamed of walking down in a beautiful dress just like Barbie. She had a bed with a pink canopy above it. I remember playing with it like it was yesterday. My little sister now has a Barbie Dream House of her own, and I am able to relive my memories with her while seeing her get inspired by Barbie to be whatever she wants when she grows up. Now that I am going to college, that determination that I had as a little girl made me realize that I probably wouldn't be where I am today without it. Barbie is an inspiration to children everywhere. My mother had a Dream House, and ever since then, all the girls in my family got one and it inspired and gave us the creative minds that we have today. If I was able to build my own Barbie Dream House, it would definitely be located in Paris, France. Last year, I was lucky enough to visit as a graduation gift, and it was the most beautiful place I have ever seen. The lights, the crowds, and the sights are all so amazing. Although I wouldn't make it mostly pink like Barbie would, I would take some inspiration from the Dream House that I owned as a child and have a spiral staircase that would lead to the bedrooms and I would love to have an office in my home. The exterior would be white with a light blue door. I would love to have the pool with a slide leading to it just like she does. The pool would be in the shape of a large heart with sparkling tiles so that it glimmers when the sun shines on it. In the pool, there would be whale and dolphin-themed floaties and a volleyball net to play games with the people I love. Next to the pool would be a picnic table with brightly colored tablecloth, and a projector screen to show all of the Barbie movies. Barbie (2023) really showcases how much fun Barbie is, and my Dream House would have a large balcony with tables that have umbrellas attached. Having lunch on a balcony under an umbrella to not get sunburnt while looking out on the Paris skyline sounds like an absolute dream. Inside, there would be a closet that has rotating poles so I would be able to find fabulous outfits and a fantastic shoe rack that glimmers to show off the beautiful shoes I would have. There would be a lovely light-up mirror to make sure that I am presentable, and an amazing shower with multiple pressure adjustments along with a large bathtub for satisfying spa nights. In the kitchen, there would be a feeding station for my dogs built into the counter and a wide pantry for food. It would be an absolute dream if I was lucky enough to own all of this.