I am a senior at Dakota High School in Macomb, Michigan. I have been accepted to the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. I have over a 4.0, am involved in many clubs that serve our community, and I am proud that I achieved my goal of getting accepted to U of M, but the cost of college makes me apprehensive. I have worked to balance school, extracurriculars, and a part-time job, and have saved money for years. When I was in eighth grade, I saw an ad that a Parks and Recreation department was looking for gymnastics coaches for a summer program. Being only fourteen, I did not imagine that I would ever stand a chance at getting the job, but I applied anyway. I had some experience in a gymnastics team myself, and the thought of being able to teach others about something I enjoyed so much made me eager for the opportunity. A few days after I applied, I received the exciting phone call and learned that I got the job! Eventually, the coaching job led to other positions within the Recreation program. To this day, I still coach gymnastics there and serve as a shift lead at the splash pad in the summer. The past four years working there have not only taught me valuable professional skills, but it has strengthened my money and budgeting skills. Working has given me a sense of how much things cost, so when deciding which colleges I wanted to apply to, the cost of tuition was at the front of my mind. This past summer, I spent many days inside at my kitchen table with my computer and a calculator nearby. While comparing colleges from programs, to dorms, to locations, the cost of college seemed overwhelming; however, knowing that college is a stepping stone for achieving my goals, I am committed to attending a four-year university. My goal of one day becoming a physician can only be attained through many years of college. Watching my own grandma get a second chance in life after having a brain tumor removed initially motivated me to want to become a doctor. I recall being incredibly amazed hearing about how the neurosurgeons were effective at removing her brain tumor, while making her feel like she was their most important patient. They did much more than treat her illness; they encouraged her along the way, motivated her through her recovery, and served as healers and coaches. Without a doubt, I want to be a doctor who gives someone a second chance at life, and I know that education is the pathway to this goal. If I were selected for this scholarship, it would enable me to continue making responsible financial decisions by reducing the pressure of college tuition, while allowing me to focus more on my studies. In the future, I will show my gratitude by making a meaningful difference in the world, and maybe even helping save the life of someone else's grandma.