Ever since I was a little girl, I have dreamed of being a teacher, much like my dad. Playing teacher with my grandparents when I was younger was one of my favorite things to do, and I loved the idea of being able to teach others and learn from it. I looked up to my dad so much; why wouldn’t I want to be just like him? However, as I grew up, I strayed from that dream for material reasons like financial stability. But, throughout high school, my priorities changed as I matured. I realized that being able to teach kids and give them a safe space to grow is much more important than any other career I considered. Teachers positively and significantly impact kids by shaping them into responsible citizens who will eventually be a part of society. However, the most essential part to me is giving students a place to have fun, feel safe, and be loved, especially those who don’t experience it in their home lives. I want to be that supportive and encouraging figure for kids in their classrooms. So, to do that, I have chosen to study Education. But I couldn’t just decide to do education; I had to pick whether I wanted to do Elementary, Middle, or High school education. Being around my little cousins and helping them learn and grow is something I have greatly enjoyed doing, so that swayed me toward elementary/middle school education. Since I was little, I have never imagined teaching anything else. It is what I have always wanted to do. However, it wasn’t as easy as just picking elementary/middle education; I talked to my family, teachers, and friends to make sure I was making the right decision that fit me and gave me what I wanted out of life, and I genuinely believe that it will. Now, I know being a teacher isn’t always fun and can be pretty challenging; I have heard it many times from teachers as I have gotten older, but I have always persevered for things I love, so that has not discouraged me. Teaching and allowing kids to grow, learn, and express themselves is worth it because I believe it is one of the most important and rewarding jobs. So, in the end, picking anything other than elementary/middle education wasn’t a choice. Teaching has always been what I am truly meant to do.

The extracurricular activities I’ve engaged in have fueled my passions and significantly benefited my community. Each activity, from athletics to volunteer work, has allowed me to develop leadership skills, foster relationships, and make a meaningful impact on those around me. To begin with, my participation in sports, mainly soccer, has been a cornerstone of my high school experience. Through athletics, I’ve learned the importance of teamwork and dedication. Soccer is more than just a game; it’s a platform where I’ve built determination and resilience. I’ve found joy in working towards a common goal with my teammates, which bonds us in victories and defeats. These experiences have taught me how to support others, and I hope to inspire my peers to embrace their unique strengths for the greater good. During my senior year of soccer, I was honored to be named Area Player of the Year. This recognition allowed me to sign a letter of intent to play at Frostburg State University, where I will continue developing my character and growing through extracurricular activities. Moreover, my involvement in Unified Flag Football and Bocce has been incredibly advantageous. Seeing children with disabilities enjoy sports has opened my eyes to the importance of inclusivity. These programs allow kids to participate in activities that promote physical fitness and social interaction. I’ve witnessed firsthand how much joy sports can bring to individuals, regardless of their abilities. By creating an environment where everyone can play, we foster a sense of community and belonging, which benefits all participants and their families. Through the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, I’ve further intertwined my faith with my passion for sports. This organization emphasizes character development and spiritual growth alongside athletic performance. Engaging with my peers in a supportive environment helps reinforce the values of integrity, perseverance, and compassion. It’s been uplifting to witness how these values encourage athletes to not only excel in their respective sports but also contribute positively to the lives of others, embodying the essence of servant leadership. In addition, my commitments to the National Honor Society, Student Government, and Girls’ Varsity have allowed me to engage in various initiatives to improve the school environment. Collaborating with peers motivates us to develop programs that enhance academic performance and student well-being. Experiences like school-wide events highlight the importance of collaboration and community spirit. Through these activities, we aim to create an atmosphere where students feel supported and encouraged, ultimately helping them succeed. Each extracurricular pursuit has equipped me with vital skills that transcend my high school years. Time management, effective communication, and problem-solving are critical tools I’ve honed while balancing academics, sports, and leadership roles. I believe these skills are essential as I transition into college and eventually into my career in education. I aspire to teach young children, and the lessons I’ve learned through extracurricular activities will undoubtedly inform my approach to nurturing the next generation. Furthermore, my desire to instill values of hard work, perseverance, and camaraderie in my future students stems from the impact that sports and these activities have had on my life and upbringing. I want to empower children to chase their dreams while understanding the importance of mutual support.