Growing up, I watched my mother light up rooms and hearts alike, teaching me that the greatest legacy is the one built on connection and compassion. Often, the concept of a legacy is thought of most simply as the sum of all the important things one did—an impact that lingers in the memories of others. While legacies can be distinctly positive or negative, they must be caused by what one does, not just what one believes or aspires to do. Personally, I believe a legacy of goodness is made up of a collection of purposeful, kindhearted actions that have a remarkable effect on the lives of others, leaving an influence that endures. Indeed, legacies stem from values so loud and so strong that they speak for themselves even after the belief holder has passed. When considering different approaches to life, it becomes clear that some people are satisfied with just staying afloat without ambition. This apathy can be rooted in a combination of various factors, including personal experiences and societal influences. In contrast, others aim to secure adequate resources for themselves and their families, striving for a stable life. This goal reflects a desire for security, often driven by the need to protect loved ones. Then, there are those who aspire to accumulate mass wealth, viewing financial success as the ultimate measure of achievement. While this pursuit can lead to significant personal gain, it may not always result in a lasting positive impact on others. In contrast to these perspectives, true legacy builders focus on improving others' quality of life, seeking to make a meaningful difference by donating their time, resources, and wisdom towards a better future. My mother exemplified this approach. I always admired her dedication to fostering connection. She constantly reminded me to make time for family and friends, saying that spending time with loved ones is why we do this—working to live, not living to work. My mother planned numerous community events, never compensated monetarily, giving everyone the opportunity to come out and enjoy each other's company. Her generosity extended beyond our immediate circle; she was charitable and always eager to help the less fortunate, finding joy and reward in the gleam of hope in their eyes. Through her actions, she taught me that a true legacy is built on the bonds we create and the kindness we share. In conclusion, a legacy is not just a reflection of one’s achievements but a testament to the values they uphold and the positive impacts they leave behind. My mother’s life has been a shining example of this philosophy, demonstrating that the greatest legacies are born from compassion, connection, and selfless actions. Looking ahead, as I pursue a career in veterinary medicine, I aim to continue this legacy of fostering connections. I believe in the profound bond between humans and animals and its impact on mental health. By ensuring the well-being of animals and nurturing this bond through compassionate care and client education, I strive to support humans in living mentally healthy lives. Through my veterinary practice, I envision creating a welcoming environment where both animals and their owners feel valued and understood. By promoting this connection, I hope to contribute positively to my community and leave a lasting legacy of empathy and care.

From a young age, my passion for animals and their well-being has been a driving force in my life. This passion was further ignited through my involvement with various animal-related volunteer activities and work experiences. I entered college with the idea of majoring in general or ecological biology. In my heart, I knew I had a strong desire to promote the ethical care of animals. There was never a doubt. But the pragmatic, realist part of me was afraid to fully commit to the rigorous path to a doctoral degree and the demanding job that would follow. That all changed when I decided to spend my summer last year working 10-hour shifts at a nearby veterinary hospital, monitoring and taking care of small animals and exotics. I felt fulfilled at the end of each day, having been challenged, criticized, sometimes injured by a patient, encouraged, educated, even exercised, but most rewardingly, seeing so much love going around and working with people who genuinely wanted to be there. Since then, I’ve embraced the notion that my dreams could be a real possibility. As a volunteer at Cooper’s Legacy Foundation Resale Shop, I have been involved in a mission that aligns perfectly with my values: making veterinary care accessible to those who cannot afford it. Before, I naively thought that people simply didn't love their animals, but now I understand that barriers to pet ownership education prevent people from preventing illness and injury and giving their pets the best life possible. It has also taught me the importance of community support and the impact that collective efforts can have on individual lives. Working here has deepened my empathy and commitment to helping others. These experiences have also strengthened my relationships, both with animals and people. Through volunteering, I have connected with like-minded individuals who share my passions. These relationships have provided a support network that encourages me. Additionally, my work with animals has taught me patience, compassion, and the importance of trust, skills that are invaluable in personal and professional relationships. My career aspirations are rooted in my desire to make a difference in the field of veterinary science. I aim to become a veterinarian who not only provides medical care to animals but also advocates for their well-being on a broader scale. I envision uplifting charities with values that align with mine, offering affordable veterinary services, pet care education, and translators at the clinic for the benefit of underserved communities. This would ensure that all animals receive the care they need while also educating owners on responsible pet care practices. I am particularly passionate about veterinary science because it combines my love for animals with my interest in medicine and science. The ability to diagnose and treat animals is a fulfilling and intellectually stimulating pursuit. Veterinary science is a constantly evolving field, and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to advancements that improve animal health and welfare. By providing accessible veterinary care in the future, I can help reduce the suffering of animals and improve their quality of life. This, in turn, strengthens the bond between pets and their owners, promoting mental health. Additionally, by implementing sustainable practices in veterinary care, I can contribute to environmental efforts, and promote a healthier planet. In conclusion, my passion for animal welfare, science, and making an impact drives me to pursue a career that can change lives. Through my contributions, I aim to benefit my community by providing accessible care, fostering compassion, and advocating for sustainability. This scholarship would enable me to continue on this path, and achieve my dreams.

Michael Rudometkin's legacy of selflessness is an inspiration to me, and I am honored to apply for a scholarship that celebrates his values. My service began when I was five, my mother, a role model for kindness, would take me to do good deeds around town. We spread smiles by handing out balloons and books to children, assembling and giving out “blessing bags” for the homeless, and paying for food orders. In high school, I wrote about the good deed days and other rewarding efforts, winning the award titled, the Extra Mile Scholarship. As a member of the Kappa Delta sorority, I have found another avenue to serve. I admire Kappa Delta’s motto, “Building Confidence, Inspiring Action,” very much. Our philanthropies, Girl Scouts and Prevent Child Abuse America (PCAA), are particularly meaningful. Firstly, I owe lots of gratitude to Girl Scouts. I was a Girl Scout from kindergarten through middle school, and I know that troop membership truly creates treasured memories and helps girls become strong and kind leaders. I distinctly remember looking up to the older scouts as a young girl and now cherish the opportunity to mentor them now. It feels like coming full circle, and I hope to inspire them as I was once inspired. Next, I am motivated to support PCAA because I have seen the impact of child abuse through hearing about the traumatic experiences of someone very close to me. I would do anything to take away his flashbacks, and raising funds for this nonprofit is a fitting and direct way I’ve coped with resentment I’ve held towards his abusers. Supporting these causes with my friends during our fun events feels like winning the lottery. While seeking to fulfill KD’s service hours, I discovered Cooper’s Legacy Foundation Resale Shop. After meeting my requirement, I continued volunteering because the mission deeply resonated with me. The shop resells donated items, using all profits for lifesaving veterinary care costs. As an aspiring future veterinarian and someone who cares about social equality, I am passionate about making veterinary care accessible regardless of income. I also am very environmentally-conscious, it hurts to see clean, usable things in the trash. I shared information about the resale shop with neighboring tenants. Although it meant extra work during move-outs, such as emptying the overflowing donation shed, the effort was worthwhile. Looking to the future, I plan to promote organizations that expand affordability of veterinary care and spread preventative pet care education. Additionally, I plan to advocate for sustainable resource usage in veterinary practices. Sometimes, service can feel futile, especially when you are exhausted with little to show for it, challenged financially, or even sore from physical work. Legacies like Michaels’s fuel my desire to spend my time on this Earth meaningfully. Receiving this scholarship would alleviate the financial burden of my education, allowing me to dedicate more time to these causes. Service is a never-ending journey, requiring the next generation's effort to maintain and expand its impact. The dedication of individuals like him strengthens my belief that I, as an individual, can make an impact.

Priscilla Shireen Luke's legacy of selflessness is an inspiration to me, and I am honored to apply for a scholarship that celebrates her values. My service began when I was five, my mother, a role model for kindness, would take me to do good deeds around town. We spread smiles by handing out balloons and books to children, assembling and giving out “blessing bags” for the homeless, and paying for food orders. In high school, I wrote about the good deed days and other rewarding efforts, winning the award titled, the Extra Mile Scholarship. As a member of the Kappa Delta sorority, I have found another avenue to serve. I admire Kappa Delta’s motto, “Building Confidence, Inspiring Action,” very much. Our philanthropies, Girl Scouts and Prevent Child Abuse America (PCAA), are particularly meaningful. Firstly, I owe lots of gratitude to Girl Scouts. I was a Girl Scout from kindergarten through middle school, and I know that troop membership truly creates treasured memories and helps girls become strong and kind leaders. I distinctly remember looking up to the older scouts as a young girl and now cherish the opportunity to mentor them now. It feels like coming full circle, and I hope to inspire them as I was once inspired. Next, I am motivated to support PCAA because I have seen the impact of child abuse through hearing about the traumatic experiences of someone very close to me. I would do anything to take away his flashbacks, and raising funds for this nonprofit is a fitting and direct way I’ve coped with resentment I’ve held towards his abusers. Supporting these causes with my friends during our fun events feels like winning the lottery. While seeking to fulfill KD’s service hours, I discovered Cooper’s Legacy Foundation Resale Shop. After meeting my requirement, I continued volunteering because the mission deeply resonated with me. The shop resells donated items, using all profits for lifesaving veterinary care costs. As an aspiring future veterinarian and someone who cares about social equality, I am passionate about making veterinary care accessible regardless of income. I also am very environmentally-conscious, it hurts to see clean, usable things in the trash. I shared information about the resale shop with neighboring tenants. Although it meant extra work during move-outs, such as emptying the overflowing donation shed, the effort was worthwhile. Looking to the future, I plan to promote organizations that expand affordability of veterinary care and spread preventative pet care education. Additionally, I plan to advocate for sustainable resource usage in veterinary practices. Sometimes, service can feel futile, especially when you are exhausted with little to show for it, challenged financially, or even sore from physical work. Legacies like Priscilla’s fuel my desire to spend my time on this Earth meaningfully. Receiving this scholarship would alleviate the financial burden of my education, allowing me to dedicate more time to these causes. Service is a never-ending journey, requiring the next generation's effort to maintain and expand its impact. The dedication of individuals like her strengthens my belief that I, as an individual, can make an impact.

Dear Women in STEM Scholarship Committee, One of my core beliefs is that the connection between a person and their pet is a bond that transcends the typical boundaries of ownership. The love you feel from a single look in your companion's soft, sweet eyes is an incomparable feeling. Little is asked in return besides ensuring basic needs are met. I believe that the world can become a better place when people get the mental health support they need, and animals provide a unique type of benefit. It's kept me and millions of others around the globe going, domesticated animals either working or simply being family members were no accident. My career goals are to unravel and explore the complexities of animal health, and make the world a better place by ensuring bonds between humans and their companions thrive. I have a strong curiosity for the biological and zoological sciences, and a persistent attitude instilled in me by my loving family that helps me accomplish what I set my mind to. I plan to enroll in an accredited school of Veterinary Medicine after I graduate with my Bachelor's degree in Zoology in order to obtain a doctoral degree to practice what I'm passionate about. I believe my academic achievements, extracurricular and volunteer activities, and personal values make me a suitable candidate for this award. Upon obtaining my Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) status, I have a strong desire to engage in educational programs to inspire young animals lovers like myself. Emphasizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health issues is important to me. I feel my principles closely align with the initiatives of OneHealth. The approach of OneHealth stands out to me because it encourages contributions from many disciplines with a common objective, to promote optimal health for all ecosystems and all of their living creatures. I feel very drawn to the collaborative nature of OneHealth's aims, as data sharing is vital for current and future disease control and intervention. Additionally, increasing awareness of the contributions of veterinary professionals in the broader STEM field is important to me, without them, we would not have an adequate understanding of animal-to-human transmissible illnesses and their dangers. As an individual who experienced the world's screeching halt during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially during my formative teen years, this played a role in my career path decision-making. Thank you for your consideration, Emma Pettis

Dear Beyond the C.L.O.U.D. Scholarship Committee, One of my core beliefs is that the connection between a person and their pet is a bond that transcends the typical boundaries of ownership. The love you feel from a single look in your companion's soft, sweet eyes is an incomparable feeling. Little is asked in return besides ensuring basic needs are met. I believe that the world can become a better place when people get the mental health support they need, and animals provide a unique type of benefit. It's kept me and millions of others around the globe going, domesticated animals either working or simply being family members were no accident. My career goals are to unravel and explore the complexities of animal health, and make the world a better place by ensuring bonds between humans and their companions thrive. I have a strong curiosity for the biological and zoological sciences, and a persistent attitude instilled in me by my loving family that helps me accomplish what I set my mind to. I plan to enroll in an accredited school of Veterinary Medicine after I graduate with my Bachelor's degree in Zoology in order to obtain a doctoral degree to practice what I'm passionate about. I believe my academic achievements, extracurricular and volunteer activities, and personal values make me a suitable candidate for this award. Upon obtaining my Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) status, I have a strong desire to engage in educational programs to inspire young animals lovers like myself. Emphasizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health issues is important to me. I feel my principles closely align with the initiatives of OneHealth. The approach of OneHealth stands out to me because it encourages contributions from many disciplines with a common objective, to promote optimal health for all ecosystems and all of their living creatures. I feel very drawn to the collaborative nature of OneHealth's aims, as data sharing is vital for current and future disease control and intervention. Additionally, increasing awareness of the contributions of veterinary professionals in the broader STEM field is important to me, without them, we would not have an adequate understanding of animal-to-human transmissible illnesses and their dangers. As an individual who experienced the world's screeching halt during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially during my formative teen years, this played a role in my career path decision-making. Thank you for your consideration, Emma Pettis

One of my core beliefs is that the connection between a person and their pet is a bond that transcends the typical boundaries of ownership. The love you feel from a single look in your companion's soft, sweet eyes is an incomparable feeling. Little is asked in return besides ensuring basic needs are met. I have a strong curiosity for the biological and zoological sciences, and a persistent attitude instilled in me by my loving family that helps me accomplish what I set my mind to. I plan to enroll in an accredited school of Veterinary Medicine after I graduate with my Bachelor's degree in Zoology in order to obtain a doctoral degree to practice what I'm passionate about. I choose to embark on the uphill path of pursuing a career in veterinary medicine because like many, my life has been touched by a special animal. This was a deeply personal choice for me, which originally stemmed from the loss of irreplaceable companions in my childhood due to preventable causes. I believe that good pet health has a direct correlation with the owner's mental health, and by helping creatures large and small, we help their connected humans live happier lives. Because of this, I want to share important information with those who consider pets their family regarding how to ensure happiness, health, and safety. Part of what makes our furry freeloaders so lovable is their helplessness to the driving force of their instincts. Antics such as that head tilt at an unfamiliar sound, persistence to figure out a toy, a trick done for a savory reward, and other silly habits never fail to make us laugh and smile. Following these instincts, albeit adorable and sometimes a little frustrating in cases, can also lead to harm if the owner isn't properly educated on risk mitigation. For example, many of us (myself included) love to offer table scraps and lots of treats to the sad eyes that follow us around or watch the table. It's important to reward good behavior, it helps your animal learn expectations and makes you feel good to oblige their desires. Problems arise when human food becomes routine or there is over-consumption of balanced food and treats. Although intentions were pure, eating a toxic food can lead to negative symptoms quickly, and overweight dogs and cats live lives two years shorter on average than their fitter counterparts. I know in my heart, we all would rather have more time with our best buddies than we are given, and not complicate that time with conditions that occurred due to misinformation or lack of knowledge. That's why it's my life's goal to be a trusted resource for animal-lovers, in order to empower owners to do right by their best furry friends. As I close this application, I want to restate that my passion is to promote and encourage responsible pet ownership. It should be simple and accessible to have a veterinarian in your corner helping you make decisions confidently. I am beyond excited to dive into the complexities of veterinary field, while practicing a holistic commitment to compassionate, empathetic, and ethical care.

Dear Inguz Memorial Committee, My name is Emma Pettis. I am currently in my second-year of undergraduate studies pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Zoology at Washington State University. Ever since I can remember, I have been fascinated by living creatures. As a child, I picked up insects in the backyard and captured minnows from the local lake and looked closely at them to try and understand. I chose electives and had a preference for core classes options that took a deeper look at the fundamentals of life sciences. My curiosity and drive to unravel and explore the complexities of health, specifically for animals, has lead me to feel I could be most fulfilled by becoming a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. The animal I most connect with is a dog, America's most popular companion. I love how varied their personalities can be, from eager to please to an independent guardian. I find solace in their kind dispositions and non-judgmental nature. They offer us so much of their love and ask for little in return. Last summer, the summer of 2023, I worked at a high traffic veterinary hospital and had the insightful and eye-opening privilege of being a part of the team taking care of animals with minor to major health conditions. Each week I saw a variety of cases, and it just made my heart ache when I saw pets that were improperly cared for or suffering from preventable illnesses or injuries. Every glance at their innocent yet resilient faces has propelled me to be an advocate for better breeding practices and responsible pet ownership. I believe the first step to reducing animal harm is to encourage ethical breeding, which I will vow to do during my future career. I've seen too many large breed dogs with hip dysplasia and too many toy pups with knee issues to not fiercely agree that the best case scenario is health-testing the sire and dam for these genetic predispositions. Puppy mills and backyard breeders fail to select and guarantee optimal physical and mental hardiness, in exchange for a quick profit. They also mix breeds to the point of unpredictability, whether on purpose or due to carelessness, resulting in dogs that can't be adequately placed into homes with compatible lifestyles simply judging by traits observed in the first few weeks. This worsens the overpopulation crisis and just tugs at the heartstrings of veterinary medicine staff. When a puppy is bred according to ethical standards, the breeder is dedicated to securing homes of best fit for that litter based on the needs and purpose of the breed, screening potential adopters to effectively ensure the high probability of a close animal-human bond that flourishes and serves both. If an adoptee isn't a great match, or a unforeseen circumstance arises, usually the breeder will always take the little one back avoiding him or her from landing in uncaring hands. I admire the devotion of these animal lovers and seek to uplift their efforts. Secondly, I want to provide vital information to pet owners on how to support their companion's well-being. I strongly believe veterinary counsel should be accessible to all. Since I have personally felt the touching endearment of a dog, I want to show empathy and dispense advice on how to keep your best friend thriving. For instance, too many dogs are overweight, because adoring owners allow them to over-consume without knowing it can shorten the lifespan by two years. It's this type of case that pushes me to persist towards my goal and improve the lives of dogs as much as I can.

One of my core beliefs is that the connection between a person and their pet is a bond that transcends the typical boundaries of ownership. The love you feel from a single look in your companion's soft, sweet eyes is an incomparable feeling. Little is asked in return besides ensuring basic needs are met. I have a strong curiosity for the biological and zoological sciences, and a persistent attitude instilled in me by my loving family that helps me accomplish what I set my mind to. I plan to enroll in an accredited school of Veterinary Medicine after I graduate with my Bachelor's degree in Zoology in order to obtain a doctoral degree to practice what I'm passionate about. I choose to embark on the uphill path of pursuing a career in veterinary medicine because like many, my life has been touched by a special animal. This was a deeply personal choice for me, which originally stemmed from the loss of irreplaceable companions in my childhood due to preventable causes. I believe that good pet health has a direct correlation with the owner's mental health, and by helping creatures large and small, we help their connected humans live happier lives. Because of this, I want to share important information with those who consider pets their family regarding how to ensure happiness, health, and safety. Part of what makes our furry freeloaders so lovable is their helplessness to the driving force of their instincts. Antics such as that head tilt at an unfamiliar sound, persistence to figure out a toy, a trick done for a savory reward, and other silly habits never fail to make us laugh and smile. Following these instincts, albeit adorable and sometimes a little frustrating in cases, can also lead to harm if the owner isn't properly educated on risk mitigation. For example, many of us (myself included) love to offer table scraps and lots of treats to the sad eyes that follow us around or watch the table. It's important to reward good behavior, it helps your animal learn expectations and makes you feel good to oblige their desires. Problems arise when human food becomes routine or there is over-consumption of balanced food and treats. Although intentions were pure, eating a toxic food can lead to negative symptoms quickly, and overweight dogs and cats live lives two years shorter on average than their fitter counterparts. I know in my heart, we all would rather have more time with our best buddies than we are given, and not complicate that time with conditions that occurred due to misinformation or lack of knowledge. That's why it's my life's goal to be a trusted resource for animal-lovers, in order to empower owners to do right by their best furry friends. As I close this application, I want to restate that my passion is to promote and encourage responsible pet ownership. It should be simple and accessible to have a veterinarian in your corner helping you make decisions confidently. I am beyond excited to dive into the complexities of veterinary field, while practicing a holistic commitment to compassionate, empathetic, and ethical care.