Growing up with a single mom was tough at times, but it taught me so much. My mom's strength, resilience, and love have been the biggest inspirations in my life. She also taught me how to be independent, and that you don't need anybody else in life, as long you believe in yourself. One of the biggest lessons I learned from growing up with a single mom was independence and self-sufficiency. From a young age, I had to learn to take care of myself and help out with household tasks. While it wasn't always easy, and my elementary-school self couldn't understand the reason, it helped me become more responsible and mature. And it taught me time-management skills that have served me well throughout my life. Another big impact was the importance of family and support. My mom always made sure I knew that she loved me and that I could count on her, no matter what. It's helped me be more compassionate and understanding of others who may be going through similar struggles. And although she taught me independence, she also showed me that it was okay to ask for help. I will never forget my mom's strength and determination, which was a constant inspiration. Despite all the challenges she faced as a single mom, she never let her spirits be broken. Instead, she always remained positive and focused on providing a better life for me and my sibling. Seeing her dedication and hard work taught me that anything is possible if you set your mind to it. It also made me understand that sacrifice is sometimes necessary in life, as she would often go without meals just to make sure my brother and I ate. My mom was also a great role model when it came to values and morals. She taught me the importance of honesty, integrity, and treating others with kindness and respect. She also instilled in me a sense of social responsibility and the importance of giving back to the community. She would even find time to bring my brother and me to church every Sunday, despite her busy schedule, to instill Christian values that stick with me to this day. But what inspires me the most about my mom is her selflessness. She always put our family first, even when it meant sacrificing her own needs and desires. She worked so hard to provide for us and I'm so grateful for everything she's done for me. She not only provided for us financially but emotionally and spiritually as well. Being a child of a single mom has had its ups and downs, but I wouldn't change my childhood for anything. I'm inspired by my mom's strength, determination, and love and I'm grateful for all the lessons she's taught me about family, responsibility, hard work, and perseverance. She's my role model and one of the people I admire most in my life.

Golf has been an integral part of my life for as long as I can remember. It is a sport that has taught me many valuable lessons, challenged me both mentally and physically, and provided me with a sense of community and belonging. My golf journey began when I was just five years old and my father took me to our local putt-putt course. At the time, I had no idea what golf was or how to play it, but as soon as I hit my first ball, I was hooked. Over the years, my passion for golf grew as I spent more time practicing. I joined a local junior golf program and began competing in tournaments. While I didn't always win, the experience of playing against other golfers my age and improving my skills was incredibly rewarding. Golf also taught me the importance of persistence and hard work. I quickly learned that success in golf requires countless hours of practice and dedication. Looking ahead, I plan to continue playing golf for as long as I am physically able. I have been fortunate enough to have played on some amazing courses over the years, but there are still many more on my bucket list. Golf also provides me with an opportunity to travel and explore new places. Whether it's a weekend trip to a nearby course or a longer vacation to play in a tournament, golf has taken me to some incredible destinations. But golf is more than just a hobby or an excuse to travel. It is a sport that has taught me valuable lessons and provided me with a sense of community. One of the most important lessons that golf has taught me is the value of honesty and integrity. Golf is a game that requires players to be honest about their score and follow the rules, even when no one is watching. This principle extends beyond the golf course and has helped me to become a more honest and trustworthy person in all areas of my life. Golf has also provided me with a sense of community and belonging. As a sport that can be played at any age, golf has allowed me to connect with people from all walks of life. Whether it's playing a round with my father, a group of friends, or meeting new people on the course, golf has brought me together with a diverse group of individuals. It is a sport that transcends age, gender, and cultural differences. In conclusion, golf has been an important part of my life for as long as I can remember. From hitting my first ball at the driving range to playing in amateur tournaments, golf has provided me with countless opportunities to grow, learn, and connect with others. I plan to continue playing golf for as long as I am able, and I am grateful for the many lessons and experiences that this sport has given me. Golf has taught me the value of hard work, persistence, honesty, and integrity, and has provided me with a sense of community and belonging. I look forward to the many rounds of golf that I will play in the future, and to the memories that I will create both on and off the course. Whether I am playing a quick round after class or traveling to a new course for a tournament, golf will always hold a special place in my heart.

Financial literacy is a crucial skill that can empower individuals to make informed decisions with their hard-earned money. It involves understanding financial concepts like budgeting, saving, investing, and managing debt. Unfortunately, many people lack this knowledge, which can lead to poor financial decisions and financial insecurity. Frankly, it’s shocking that so many people simply ignore learning about how to manage their money. It is absolutely essential to educate oneself and others to become financially literate, so I will discuss how I plan on educating myself and others to become financially literate. First and foremost, I plan on educating myself about personal finance by reading books and online resources. In fact, I have already started doing this. My favorite YouTuber, Graham Stephan, is a financial guru and is always discussing ways to invest and save money more effectively. There are also other books and websites that offer valuable information on various financial topics, such as investing, retirement planning, and debt management. By reading these resources, I can gain a deeper understanding of financial concepts and learn strategies for managing my finances effectively. Moreover, I plan on attending financial workshops and seminars, where I can learn from experts in the field and interact with other individuals who share similar financial goals. In addition to educating myself, I also plan to educate others, as well. One of the best ways to spread awareness for anything in this day and age is through social media, and I think that can be applied to spreading awareness of financial literacy, too! Social media platforms such as Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram offer an excellent opportunity to share financial knowledge and tips with a large audience. By creating a social media account dedicated to personal finance, I can share information on various financial topics, such as managing debt, building wealth, investing, and in my opinion, most importantly, saving. I can also engage with followers and answer their questions about personal finance, thus helping them develop a better understanding of financial concepts. I also plan on educating others about financial literacy by being a role model. By demonstrating responsible financial behavior, I can inspire others to take charge of their finances and make informed decisions. For instance, I can show my friends and family how to create a budget, save for emergencies, and invest in a retirement account. I can also discuss my own financial challenges and successes, and provide advice on how to overcome financial obstacles. It is also important to stress the sheer volume of money that can be saved/made through smart financial decisions. For example, I think many people would be shocked to know that if you invest just one-thousand dollars at the age of eighteen, assuming average historical returns and that dividends are reinvested, that money will have blossomed to over seventy-thousand dollars by the time you’re sixty. I think that numbers like these will make people realize how much money they are missing out on. In conclusion, financial literacy is a critical skill that can improve the financial well-being of individuals and communities. Educating oneself and others about personal finance is an ongoing process that requires dedication, effort, and an open mind. By reading books, attending workshops, and using social media, I can learn about personal finance and share my knowledge with others. Additionally, I can inspire others to become financially literate by being a role model and demonstrating responsible financial behavior. Ultimately, the goal of financial education is to empower individuals to take control of their finances and make informed decisions that will benefit their future.

The characteristic that I value most in myself is my ability to keep an open mind about things, while also staying true to my values. Staying true to one's values is one of the most difficult things to do in today's society, as there are so many things from drugs and alcohol to bad influences that are trying to get us to do things that would go against our values. Our job as a society is to not let that happen, and we have failed, and although I have not been perfect, I feel like I have done a good job in my life of staying away from these bad influences and staying true to my beliefs. Staying true to your values is very important, but keeping an open mind is equally crucial. Some people are influenced by everything they see, but some people refuse to change their minds on a topic despite evidence that suggests they are wrong. The importance of finding a balance between being able to look at different perspectives, while also understanding what is important to you is cannot be understated. Being able to do both of these things will help me in my life journey by allowing me to always question authority, and also grow as an individual. It will also help me in my career as a realtor because I will always be open to new marketing ideas and help from others. This characteristic will also help me make more friends, and be more politically aware. I would be willing to argue that politics separates Americans more than anything else, the left wants nothing to do with the right, and the right wants nothing to do with the left. I believe this to be a ridiculous way of thinking and people should believe whatever they want to believe, but also be friends with anyone and everyone that they want to be friends with. Time and time again I have heard people say something along the lines of, "Yeah they were nice and we were really hitting it off until I found out (he/she) was a (republican/democrat)," and I can't help but wonder the shear number of friendships that have been lost simply because one of the people didn't have an open mind and wouldn't befriend someone of the other political party. In conclusion, staying to true to your values, while also being receptive to new ideas is very important. I believe that having this quality will help me in many different aspects of my life, and I will try to encourage others to do the same thing, whenever it feels appropriate.

Over the past year, I have grown in ways that I never could have imagined. One of the biggest ways I've grown is by deciding to attend college. Until about two months ago, I had no desire to go to college at all. I thought it was a waste of time and money and that I'd be better off just starting my career as a realtor right away. But, something changed within me and I decided to apply to Purdue University, which is over 100 miles from my hometown of Centerville, IN. I still didn't think I was going to go, but I figured I might as well apply because it was free. This change in perspective came from a couple of different situations. First and foremost, I realized that I had a fear of change and the unknown. I was comfortable in my current situation and didn't want to leave my familiar surroundings. But, I also knew that if I stayed where I was, I would miss out on so many opportunities. I realized that if I didn't take a chance and step out of my comfort zone, I would regret it later. This realization inspired me to take action and my mindset of no college began to shift. Possibly the biggest influence on my decision came from my Bible. One day, after the aforementioned events took place, I was still unsure of what I wanted to do, so I opened my Bible. I opened to a random page and read for a couple of minutes, but I couldn't find anything that related to me. I closed it and went to the bathroom, thinking nothing of it. But something inside of me was telling me that I needed to try again, so I came back and opened my Bible again to find that I had opened to the exact same page as I had the previous time. I knew there was something on that page that God wanted me to see. The first verse I read from that page was Jeremiah 48:40, which said "Behold, he shall fly as an eagle and shall spread his wings over Moab." I knew at that point, God was telling me that I needed to 'spread my wings' and go to college. I told my mom that I would be attending Purdue that same night. Throughout this journey of self-discovery, I have learned a lot about myself. I have learned that I am capable of much more than I ever thought possible. I have also learned that it is never too late to change your path in life. I am so grateful that I took the chance and applied to college. I know that this decision will have a huge impact on my future and I am excited to see what the next chapter holds. Lastly, I think it's important to not give up on the things you want to achieve in life. We often tend to create a mental block towards new things or changes in life but one should keep an open mind towards life. Embrace the new opportunities and make the best of them. Life is a journey and we should make the most of it.

The creative arts have always held a special place in my heart. From a young age, I have been drawn to the power of literature, visual art, and particularly music to evoke emotions and tell stories. To me, the creative arts are a way to connect with others and in some cases, tackle social issues. They are a powerful form of self-expression and a way to share one's point of view with the world. One of the reasons I am particularly passionate about the creative arts is that they allow for endless exploration. There is always something new to discover, whether it be a new technique, style, or medium. I find the process of creating art to be incredibly rewarding, and I enjoy the challenge of constantly pushing myself to grow as an artist. In terms of music, I am particularly drawn to 80's and 90's rap. To me, this era of rap was particularly special because it marked a turning point in the genre's history. The musicians of this era pushed the boundaries of what was possible with rap music. They had fast flows, great lyrics, and beats that would have made the rappers of the previous generation's head spin. Another reason why 80's and 90's rap is important to me is that it shaped a lot of music today. This era of rap music was characterized by its innovative production techniques, socially conscious lyrics, and powerful delivery. The many groundbreaking artists of this era, such as Run-DMC, Public Enemy, and my personal favorite, N.W.A., inspired countless other musicians to explore the genre and push its boundaries. Furthermore, this era had some of the greatest rappers of all time. From the smooth flow of LL Cool J to the powerful delivery of KRS-One and the tenacity of Tupac, the 80s and 90s had a plethora of talented artists that continue to be admired today. These artists not only had undeniable musical talent but also used their platform to address important social issues and to give voice to communities that had been previously marginalized. Out of all the amazing pieces of art and music from this era, I would have to say that N.W.A's "Straight Outta Compton" holds a special place in my heart. This album, released in 1988, was not only musically innovative but it was also incredibly impactful in its lyrics and themes. The album tackled issues such as police brutality and racism and helped to bring these important issues to the mainstream. The raw energy and passion of the album's lyrics, combined with its gritty production, made it an instant classic and it continues to be an inspiration to me today. In conclusion, I am passionate about the creative arts because they allow for endless exploration, and in the specific case of music, 80's and 90's rap has shaped a lot of music today and had some of the greatest rappers of all time. The ability to connect with others and explore the human experience through art and music is truly transformative. I am endlessly fascinated by the power of the creative arts to evoke emotions and tell stories and I look forward to continuing to grow as an artist.

There was a time when I helped someone in need that has always stuck with me. It was a cold winter day in my hometown of Centerville, Indiana, and I was walking home from my part-time job at the local McDonald's when I saw a homeless man huddled on the side of the road, shivering and looking just generally very distressed. I hesitated for a moment, not sure if I should approach him or not. I had never really talked to a homeless person before, and I wasn't sure if I could help in any meaningful way. I am also more of an introvert by nature, but as I stood there, watching him shake uncontrollably from the cold, I knew that I couldn't just walk away and leave him there. I approached him cautiously, trying not to startle him. "Hey, are you okay?" I asked, trying to keep my voice as gentle as possible. He looked up at me with tears in his eyes and shook his head. "I'm freezing man," he whispered, his teeth chattering. Without a second thought, I took off my coat and wrapped it around his shoulders. He looked at me with gratitude and a certain indescribable look in his eyes, and I knew that I had made the right decision. I stayed with him for a while, talking to him and trying to keep him as warm as possible until the ambulance arrived. The medics took him away to get him warm and receive medical treatment, and I never saw him again. Even though our encounter was brief, it had a lasting impact on me. It made me realize that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a huge difference in someone's life. It also put things into perspective for me. It made me realize at that point more than ever, that I should be more grateful for the things I take for granted. I learned that we all have the power to make a positive impact in the world, no matter how small or insignificant we may feel. And this experience has stayed with me, always reminding me to look for ways to help those in need and make a difference in the lives of others. In the years since that day, I have tried to live by this lesson and do my part to help those in need. Whether it's volunteering at a soup kitchen, donating to a charity, or just offering a kind word to someone who is feeling down, I try to do what I can to make a difference. And I believe that if we all make an effort to help others, we can create a more compassionate and caring world for everyone.

Climate change is one of the biggest challenges facing humanity today. The overwhelming scientific consensus is that human activity, particularly the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation, is the primary driver of this global crisis. To effectively combat climate change, we need to take bold and decisive action at both the individual and the collective levels. One of the most impactful ways to combat climate change is by reducing our greenhouse gas emissions. This can be done through a variety of means, such as increasing our use of renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, and reducing our consumption of fossil fuels. Governments and businesses have a crucial role to play in this regard, through the implementation of policies and regulations that incentivize the transition to a low-carbon economy. Individuals can also make a difference by reducing their carbon footprint. This might involve making simple changes to our daily habits, such as using public transportation or carpooling instead of driving alone, using energy-efficient appliances and light bulbs, and reducing our consumption of meat and dairy products. Individuals can take even bigger steps to help out by purchasing electric vehicles, and solar panels to power their homes. By making these choices, we can not only help to combat climate change but also improve our own health and well-being. Another important aspect of the fight against climate change is adapting to the changes that are already happening. This includes implementing measures to protect vulnerable communities and ecosystems from the impacts of climate change, such as sea level rise, extreme weather events, and the loss of biodiversity. This might involve investing in infrastructure that is resilient to these impacts, as well as supporting research and development of technologies that can help us adapt to a changing climate. In my own life, I strive to combat climate change in several ways. I try to reduce my carbon footprint by consuming less and wasting less, and by making environmentally-friendly choices in my daily life. For example, I try to walk or bike instead of driving when possible, and I always make sure to recycle and compost. I also try to educate myself and others about the causes and impacts of climate change and to support organizations and initiatives that are working to address this crisis. Overall, combating climate change will require a concerted effort from all of us. By taking action at both the individual and collective levels, we can slow down and ultimately reverse the damaging effects of climate change, and ensure a better future for ourselves and for generations to come.

"Hey There Delilah" is a song by the Plain White T's. The song is a heartfelt ballad that tells the story of a man who is separated from the woman he loves, Delilah. The man longs for her and tells her how much he misses her and how he wishes he could be with her. To me, the message of Hey There Delilah is one of longing and the power of love. The song speaks to the deep, emotional connection that can exist between two people, even when they are separated by distance. It reminds me that love can transcend time and space and that the feelings we have for the people we care about can be a powerful force. The song also conveys the idea that love can be a source of strength and comfort, even in the face of challenges. The man in the song is struggling with the difficulties of being apart from the woman he loves, but he can find solace in the thought of her and the knowledge that they will be together again someday. This message is particularly important to me, as it reminds me to hold on to the people I love and to never take their presence in my life for granted. In conclusion, Hey There Delilah is a beautiful and moving song that speaks to the power of love and the strength that it can provide. Its message is important to me, as it reminds me of the importance of the people I care about and the need to hold on to them and cherish them.

Let me preface this essay by saying that I will not be writing about a time when I lost a family member, but rather a time when I thought I was going to lose one. I understand the prompt says to write a time I lost someone I loved, by this event affected me far more deeply than any time I lost a family member. I have experienced many challenges and hardships in my life. But perhaps the most difficult and impactful experience was when my dad attempted suicide during my junior year. This event shook me to my core and forced me to reevaluate what mattered most to me. At the time, I was a devout Christian, and my faith had always been a source of strength and comfort for me. But after my dad's attempt, I found myself struggling to maintain that faith. I was angry at God and the world, and I didn't understand why this had happened to my family. I felt lost and alone, and I wasn't sure how to move forward. But as I worked through my grief and pain, I realized that my faith was still the most important thing in my life. It was what had sustained me through the darkest times, and it was what gave me hope for the future. And so, I decided to fight for my faith and to keep it alive, no matter what life threw my way. But my struggles didn't end there. As I began to heal, I realized that my dad's attempt was a symptom of a larger problem: the stigma surrounding mental health and the lack of support for those struggling with mental illness. I decided that I wanted to fight to raise awareness about this issue and to help others who were struggling, just as my dad had struggled. I began to educate myself on the topic of mental health and to share what I had learned with others. I started to speak openly about my dad's experience and the importance of mental health. Through these efforts, I was able to make a difference in the lives of others and help break down the stigma surrounding mental illness. And in the process, I found a new sense of purpose and meaning in my life. But my fight didn't stop there. As I continued to grow and learn, I realized that Christianity was under attack in our society. I saw people trying to erase the values and beliefs that had been the foundation of our country for centuries. And I knew that I had to stand up and fight for my faith, just as I had fought for mental health awareness. So, I joined a national organization that defended religious freedom and worked to protect the rights of Christians. I spoke out against the forces that sought to undermine our faith. And through my efforts, I was able to help make a difference and to keep Christianity alive in our society. In the end, my dad's attempted suicide was a turning point in my life. It forced me to confront my struggles and reevaluate what mattered most to me. And it taught me the importance of fighting for what you believe in, no matter how difficult the challenge may seem. Through my experiences, I have learned that life is precious and that we must cherish every moment. And I have discovered that when we focus on what truly matters and fight for our beliefs, we can make a difference in the world and leave a lasting impact on those around us.

Honor and integrity are two important qualities that I try to embody in my daily life. To me, honor means always doing what is right and treating others with respect, even when it is difficult. It means standing up for what I believe in and not being swayed by peer pressure or the fear of consequences. In terms of integrity, it means being honest and trustworthy in all my actions and decisions. This means being true to myself and others, and being accountable for my choices and actions. It means being sincere in my interactions and being transparent in my motivations and actions. In my daily life, I try to exemplify these qualities in various ways. For example, I always try to be honest in my interactions with others, whether it's in a class discussion or a conversation with a friend. I also make an effort to stand up for what I believe in, even if it means going against the majority. One specific instance where I demonstrated honor and integrity was when I was asked to participate in a cheating scheme in one of my classes. Despite the pressure from my classmates to go along with it, I knew that it was not the right thing to do and I refused to be a part of it. This decision was not easy, but I knew that it was the right thing to do to uphold my values. In addition to these specific examples, I also try to uphold these values in my everyday actions and decisions. I try to be a good friend and a supportive classmate, and I always do my best to be honest and trustworthy in all of my interactions. Overall, honor and integrity are important qualities that I strive to embody in my daily life. They guide my decisions and actions and help me to be a better person. I am proud to be someone who is known for their integrity and honor, and I will continue to work hard to uphold these values in everything I do.

I have faced many challenges in my life. However, one of the most difficult experiences I have ever had was when my dad attempted suicide during my junior year of high school. It was a devastating time for my family and me, and it had a profound impact on my mental health. At first, I didn't know how to process what had happened. I was in shock and couldn't believe that my dad, who had always been the strong, stable figure in my life, would do something like this. I felt confused, scared, and alone. I didn't want to talk to anyone about it, and I isolated myself from my friends and family. I spent most of my time in my room, staring at the walls and trying to make sense of everything that had happened. As time went on, I started to realize that I was struggling with depression. I had always been a happy, outgoing person, but after this event, I found it hard to enjoy anything. I lost interest in the things I used to love, and I felt constantly overwhelmed by negative thoughts and feelings. I didn't know how to cope with what had happened, and I started to spiral out of control. Eventually, I realized that I needed help. I didn't want to continue living like this, and I knew that if I didn't get help, things would only get worse. So, I reached out to a therapist and started going to counseling. It was a difficult process, but over time, I started to learn how to manage my emotions and thoughts. It wasn't easy, and there were times when I felt like giving up. But I persevered, and slowly but surely, I started to feel like myself again. I started to enjoy the things I used to love, and I started to reconnect with my friends and family. I even started to think about the future positively, something that I hadn't been able to do before. Looking back, I am so grateful that I didn't give up. I know that I wouldn't be where I am today without the help the support of my loved ones. I am proud of myself for overcoming the mental illness that I was struggling with, and I am excited to see what the future holds. In conclusion, my dad's suicide attempt was a challenging experience, but I am grateful that I was able to overcome the mental illness that it caused. It wasn't easy, but I was able to heal and move forward. I am now a stronger and more resilient person because of it.

We must work to better understand the nature of our universe for several reasons. For one, understanding the universe allows us to gain a better understanding of ourselves and our place in the world. It can help us answer some of the biggest questions we have about our existence, such as where we came from and where we are going. Additionally, understanding the universe can help us unlock new technologies and make advancements in science and medicine. One of the key concepts that can help us better understand the nature of the universe is the search for extraterrestrial life. The possibility of finding life on other planets has long fascinated humans, and for good reason. Not only would discovering life on other planets be a major scientific breakthrough, but it could also have profound implications for how we view ourselves and our place in the universe. If we were to find evidence of extraterrestrial life, it would likely change the way we think about ourselves as a species. For one, it would confirm that we are not alone in the universe, which could have a profound psychological impact on humanity. It could also challenge some of our long-held beliefs about the uniqueness of life on Earth, and force us to reevaluate our place in the cosmic order. Furthermore, finding extraterrestrial life could also have practical benefits. It could provide us with valuable insights into the origins of life and the conditions that are necessary for it to emerge and thrive. This knowledge could help us better understand the processes that led to the emergence of life on Earth, and potentially even guide us in our search for life on other planets. To better understand the nature of the universe, we must also consider the possibility of expanding our reach into other planets and even solar systems. This idea, often referred to as space colonization, has long been a staple of science fiction, but it is now becoming a more realistic possibility. Advances in technology, such as the development of advanced propulsion systems and the creation of sustainable habitats, are making it increasingly feasible for humans to establish permanent settlements on other planets. Expanding our reach into other planets and solar systems would have several significant implications for humanity. For one, it would provide us with new frontiers to explore and new resources to tap into. It could also serve as a potential solution to some of the challenges we face on Earth, such as overpopulation and depletion of resources. Additionally, it could also help us to better understand the nature of the universe and our place within it. However, it is important to consider the potential drawbacks of space colonization as well. For one, it would be a hugely expensive and technically challenging undertaking. It could also raise some ethical concerns, such as the impact on any potential extraterrestrial life forms and the allocation of resources and opportunities among the human population. In conclusion, understanding the nature of the universe is important for many reasons. It can help us answer some of the biggest questions we have about our existence, unlock new technologies, and make advancements in science and medicine. The search for extraterrestrial life and the possibility of space colonization are two key concepts that can help us better understand the universe and our place within it. However, it is important to carefully consider the potential implications and drawbacks of these pursuits as well.

As a 17-year-old high school senior, I have always struggled financially. Growing up, my parents didn't make a lot of money and we often struggled to make ends meet. Despite this, I have always been determined to succeed and make a better life for myself. One way I plan to do this is by pursuing a degree in marketing. I have always been interested in real estate and I believe that a marketing degree will give me the skills and knowledge I need to be the best realtor I can be. In particular, I think that a marketing degree will help me understand consumer behavior and how to effectively market properties to potential buyers. I have already started gaining experience in the real estate industry through an internship at a local firm. I have learned a lot about the business and I am excited to continue learning and growing in this field. In addition to my internship, I have also been working hard in school and have maintained good grades. I know that a strong academic record will be important for maintaining success at the post-secondary level. Aside from my studies and internship, I am also known for my hardworking attitude. I am always willing to put in the extra effort to get the job done and I am not afraid of hard work. I believe that this attitude, combined with a marketing degree, will help me succeed as a realtor. In addition to the practical skills and knowledge that a marketing degree will provide, I also think it will give me a competitive edge in the job market. Real estate is a highly competitive field and I know that having a degree will make me stand out from other applicants. To succeed in the field of real estate, I know that I will need to be knowledgeable about the latest trends and developments in the industry. A marketing degree will provide me with the skills and knowledge I need to stay up-to-date and provide the best possible service to my clients. I am also aware of the importance of networking in the real estate business. By pursuing a marketing degree, I will have the opportunity to build relationships with other students and professionals in the field, which will be valuable as I begin my career as a realtor. Overall, I am grateful for the chance to pursue a marketing degree and I am determined to make the most of it. I know that with hard work and dedication, I can achieve my dream of becoming a successful realtor and providing a better life for myself and my family.

I believe that one of the single biggest problems that this country faces today is the corruption of politicians. This problem stems from the ridiculous amount of money being poured into lobbying for these politicians from big companies and special interest groups. I can act locally to make a change for this by pushing for local congressmen and members of the state legislature to stop taking money from these big organizations.

Seven hundred thousand dollars. That is the amount of money you would have if you invest just $10,000 in the stock market at eighteen years old, and take it out at sixty, assuming historical average returns and that the dividends are reinvested. Managing your finances as a student can certainly be difficult, but it is one of the single most important things a student, or any person, could do to grow their wealth. However, many people simply do not know how to do this, but today I will show you how I manage my finances through restraint and the correct mental attitude. The first step to achieving great personal finance is restraint in buying new things. Unfortunately, the addictive nature of today’s students makes it very hard for most of them to restrain themselves, but it is necessary. I think it is fair to assume that most students spend at least $100/month frivolously, without knowing the detrimental impact of these seemingly small purchases. “Why is it so detrimental?” you may ask. Because, if these students would instead invest this $100/month from the ages of eighteen to sixty, they would have over $800,000, again assuming historical average returns and that dividends are reinvested. Not to mention, only $50,400 of that $800,000 would be capital, the rest would be from the interest of the investment. As for me, whenever I want to make a purchase that I know isn’t necessarily of the utmost importance, I tell myself that if I buy the item, it will cost me a million dollars in the long term. Although this isn’t accurate, it’s the mindset that I need to have to be able to restrain myself. Speaking of mindsets, a hardworking attitude can completely change the amount of money sitting in a student’s bank account. You won’t do a very good job of investing if you don’t have any money to invest in the first place. Therefore, students need to spend less time partying and playing video games, and more time working. In today’s world, there are so many ways to make money, and whether you decide to work harder at your job, a ‘side hustle’, or a startup business, there are always going to be opportunities that are worth your time that students should take advantage of. As for me, I adopt this hard-working mentality by telling myself that if I don’t go out there and make money today, there’s a chance that I won’t be able to afford food or some other necessity. Similar to the restraint mindset, it may not be true, but it still is important to think that way. Overall, understanding the importance of personal finance can change a student’s life. Through hard work, restraint, and a tough mentality, I truly believe that any student can have great personal finance. I hope that I could help just one student instill restraint in themselves or a hardworking attitude that one day will pay out immensely for them.

My favorite Disney character is certainly Lightning McQueen. Lightning McQueen is my favorite character from my favorite Disney movie of all time - Cars. I find McQueen's character development throughout the movies to be admirable, not to mention he's awesome! At the beginning of Cars, McQueen was cocky and made many stupid decisions that caused him to be late for his most important race, the Piston Cup. However, the time that he spent in Radiator Springs caused him to change, and become a new, different racecar. He got in trouble when he first got into Radiator Springs for tearing up the road and was then forced by the small, rural town to repair the road by hand (or tire). But after he finishes the road, he decides that he likes the town, largely because of his newfound friend, Tow Mater. After staying for a little while, he meets his idol who happens to be the mayor, The Hudson Hornet. Eventually, McQueen and The Hudson Hornet make it in time for the Piston Cup. There, one of McQueen’s rivals got injured. However, instead of just winning the race McQueen stopped and helped his opponent finish the race. Even though he didn’t finish first, he was deemed the ‘True Winner’ of the race. This good deed would never have been done by the old McQueen, but he had changed. The other reason he is my favorite Disney character of all time is because of how cool he was. His charming personality combined with his catchphrase “Ka-chow!” can’t help but make you grin. I just love when the main character of a movie is likable and witty, and Lightning McQueen is both. Overall, Lightning McQueen fits all of the characteristics of a great character from his character development to his likability, not to mention Cars is one of the greatest movies of all time.

Health is one of the most important aspects of my life, and while being a student can certainly hinder one’s ability to keep up with their health, I have found a couple of ways to make sure that I don’t fall behind. Mental, physical, and nutritional health are all quite different from one another, so I feel it would be most logical to discuss each of them separately. Firstly, I will start with mental health. Out of the three different types of health, mental health is the one that students in particular seem to struggle with the most. However, it does not need to be this way. There is a reason that between the years 2007 and 2017, the suicide rate among teens increased by 57%, according to a study conducted by MIT. And that reason is simple - social media. According to a study from Harvard, social media use caused sleep deprivation, increased anxiety, and depression among teens. No matter how you look at it, social media is addictive, and just like any other addiction, it can and will ruin your mental health. For that reason, I seldom use social media. I spend a maximum of 30 minutes per day on social media, which allows me to spend more time focusing on my studies and doing things I love. This free time also allows me to keep my body in shape. Speaking of keeping your body in shape, physical health is equally important to students. I believe, however, that physical health and mental health coincide. Many of the teens today that are not physically healthy, are not because they don’t have the mental strength to work out and exercise. So, if you follow my advice for maintaining good mental health, you will likely see an increase in physical health as well. However, if you don’t, that’s fine too. I know that I uphold my physical health by simply getting out of bed and telling myself that I have to work out, or that I have to exercise, or I won’t be the best person that I can be. Part of being the best person that you can be is making sure that you feel right, and you must eat right to feel right. Nutritional health gets the least amount of attention from the average student out of all of the different types of health, but that doesn’t mean that it’s not important. For me, nutritional health is quite easy to keep up with, I just always try to only eat foods that I know will make me feel right and try to stay away from junk foods. Overall, overcoming health problems can be a struggle, but I know that I am able to maintain my mental, physical, and nutritional health while being a student, and I know everyone else can too. The main thing that most of these problems stem from is social media addiction, and I hope that everyone can overcome this addiction, and together we can overcome these basic health problems present in many students today.