Baseball has been more than just a sport in my life—it’s been a teacher, a mentor, and a constant reminder of who I am and what I’m capable of. My experiences on the field have shaped me in ways I couldn’t have imagined when I first picked up a glove. They've taught me discipline, humility, and how to handle both success and failure with grace. More than anything, they've helped me understand the value of perseverance, teamwork, and showing up not just for myself, but for the people around me. Some of the most important lessons I’ve learned came during the toughest games—when we were down in the last inning, or when I had to shake off a tough error and stay focused for the next play. Baseball has taught me that you don’t quit when things get hard—you dig deeper, trust your training, and rely on your team. That mindset has carried over into every part of my life—my academics, my relationships, and the way I approach my future goals. One of the most powerful parts of being on a team has been the mentorship I’ve received. Coaches who believed in me even when I didn’t believe in myself, teammates who picked me up after a bad play, and older players who led by example—each one left an impact on me. They taught me that mentorship isn’t just about giving advice; it’s about showing others what’s possible through your actions. I carry that forward by doing the same for younger players, whether it's giving pointers during practice or encouraging them when they’re frustrated. I’ve learned that leadership means being dependable and lifting others up, especially when no one’s watching. Baseball has also given me a strong sense of community. Some of my closest relationships have been formed on the field, and I’ve always felt a deep responsibility to represent my team and my town with pride. Being part of something bigger than myself has grounded me and reminded me why it’s so important to give back. Whether it’s helping out at local youth clinics or volunteering during team fundraisers, I’ve always found meaning in contributing beyond just playing the game. Looking ahead, I plan to carry these values with me into everything I do. I want to pursue a career where I can continue mentoring others, stay connected to my community, and apply the same work ethic and resilience I’ve built through sports. Baseball taught me to show up early, stay late, and give everything I’ve got. It taught me that failure isn’t the end—it’s part of the process. The Brett Brakel Memorial Scholarship honors values I’ve tried to live by every day: mentorship, perseverance, and community. I hope to make a difference in the lives of others the way my coaches, teammates, and the game itself have made a difference in mine. And I know that wherever life takes me, I’ll always carry the lessons I’ve learned on the field with me.

Books have always been a source of guidance, comfort, and inspiration for me. They’ve taught me to look beyond the surface and see the deeper meaning behind people’s stories and decisions. From nonfiction books that explore social justice and leadership, to fiction that dives into complex emotions and resilience, each one has helped shape my understanding of the world. These lessons have directly influenced my goals—I want to do more than succeed for myself; I want to create lasting change in the communities I’m part of. I’ve learned to dream with purpose and act with intention, and I carry those lessons with me every day. When I think about who I am and how I want to make an impact, I always return to the value of consistency and compassion. I don’t believe change happens overnight or only through big gestures. It happens in the day-to-day—in showing up, in listening, and in finding ways to support others, even in small moments. Whether it’s volunteering for community drives, helping classmates, or being there for someone who needs encouragement, I try to be someone others can rely on. That mindset has also helped me through failure. One moment that stands out is when I took on more responsibilities than I could manage—juggling school, extracurriculars, and leadership roles all at once. I thought I had to do everything perfectly to prove myself. Instead, I became overwhelmed and fell short in some areas. It was a difficult lesson, but an important one. I learned that asking for help is not a weakness, and that balance, self-awareness, and boundaries are all necessary for long-term success. That failure helped me grow stronger, more focused, and more realistic about what I can take on and how I manage my time and energy. Mentorship has played a big role in that growth. I’ve been fortunate to have people in my life who believed in me and pushed me to do better—teachers, coaches, community leaders—each offering advice or support when I needed it most. Their belief in me often helped me believe in myself. Because of that, I’ve also made it a priority to be that kind of person for others—whether by helping younger students, giving advice, or just listening when someone needs to talk. I believe mentorship is one of the most powerful tools we have to lift each other up. What makes me unique is how I bring my experiences, values, and energy into everything I do. My background has shaped how I see the world, and I use that perspective to build connections, solve problems creatively, and lead with empathy. I’m passionate, driven, and deeply committed to helping others—especially those who may not always have a voice. I’ve contributed to my community through consistent involvement. Whether it’s through volunteer work, helping with school events, or organizing community outreach efforts, I try to find ways to give back. These efforts aren’t always public or recognized, but they’ve made a difference—and that’s what matters most to me. This scholarship would support my continued education and allow me to build on the foundation I’ve created. I’m committed to using what I learn to serve others, grow as a leader, and create a positive and lasting impact in everything I do.

Kindness has always been central to how I interact with those closest to me. Over time, I’ve made it a consistent practice to actively listen and provide emotional support to the people I care about, especially when they’re going through tough times. Whether it’s a close friend navigating the heartache of a breakup, a family member dealing with a serious health issue, or a colleague stressed out by work, I make it a priority to be there for them. My goal is to offer a safe, non-judgmental space where they can express what they’re feeling without the pressure of receiving advice or solutions from me. Instead, I focus on listening, acknowledging their emotions, and offering words of encouragement that come from the heart. This practice has had a profound impact on the people in my life. Many have shared how much they appreciate simply being heard, especially during moments when they felt overwhelmed or isolated. One friend, in particular, recently told me that my willingness to just listen, without rushing in to "fix" things, gave them the space they needed to process their own emotions. This helped them feel more empowered to handle their situation. In moments like that, I see how important it is to just be there—sometimes, the best way to help someone is to let them know they’re not alone in their struggle. As I’ve developed this habit of listening with empathy, I’ve noticed that it not only strengthens the bonds I have with my friends and family, but it also creates a deeper sense of trust and connection in our relationships. People know that when they come to me, they will be heard and supported without judgment, and that has made all the difference. There are a few key aspects of this approach to kindness that have made it so effective for me: Active listening: When someone is sharing their thoughts or feelings with me, I make it a point to give them my full attention. I try not to interrupt or steer the conversation in any particular direction. I focus on their words and emotions, letting them know that I’m fully present in the moment. This level of attention helps them feel valued and understood. Empathy: I do my best to put myself in their shoes and understand their perspective, even if I haven’t experienced exactly what they’re going through. Validating their feelings is important because it reassures them that their emotions are real and that it’s okay to feel the way they do. Non-judgmental support: Creating an environment where someone feels safe to be vulnerable is crucial. I always aim to make it clear that they can share their feelings without fear of being judged. This openness allows for a more honest and meaningful conversation, where they can feel free to express their true emotions. Positive reinforcement: While I may not have all the answers to their problems, I try to remind them of their inner strengths and resilience. Encouragement can go a long way in helping someone regain their confidence and see that they are capable of overcoming their challenges. These small acts of kindness have led to some truly positive outcomes: Improved mental well-being: When someone feels supported, they are better able to cope with their difficulties. Knowing they have someone in their corner can make all the difference in how they handle tough situations. Stronger relationships: By showing genuine care and concern, I’ve deepened my connections with the people I love. They know they can rely on me, and that trust has strengthened our relationships. A positive ripple effect: I’ve noticed that when people experience this kind of support, they’re often inspired to offer the same level of kindness to others. It creates a ripple effect that can positively impact the larger community. Beyond my relationships with friends and colleagues, being a good son and a positive role model to my niece has shaped who I am today. Family is incredibly important to me, and the values I’ve learned from these relationships have played a huge part in my personal growth. I’ve always strived to be someone they can look up to, and that same sense of responsibility extends to the community I serve. Whenever I can, I make it a point to volunteer and give back. Helping others, whether it’s through volunteering or simply spending quality time with family, helps me stay grounded and reminds me of the importance of connection. Being present for the people I care about has shaped my personal values, and it’s something I intend to continue as I move forward. These experiences have helped me grow as a person, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to keep evolving, both in my relationships and in the ways I give back. I look forward to continuing this journey of kindness and connection in all aspects of my life.

I think I most resemble Jim from The Office. Jim has a very funny sense of humor and can get along with everybody, even Dwight. Jim is somewhat quiet but smart and is a good listener but always has an opinion on whatever the conversation may be. My mother sometimes says her job is similar to The Office and that every office has a "Dwight," which is very funny to me! The Office highlights every character that is relatable and I think everyone loves this show because we all know someone that is a "kelly, or a Stanley," and each character is so incredibly funny to watch - that is why this show is so likable and captivating! Even since the show was canceled a few years ago, I still watch it! I have watched several of the same episodes over and over and each time I laugh equally as much as if I am watching for the first time. I have several favorite episodes of The Office. One that make some laugh each time uncontrollably is when the fire alarm was set off and Dwight ran past everyone to save his life over everyone else. He bolted out so quickly, and his mannerisms were so hysterical! They could not have chosen a better actor than Rainn Wilson to play this part, and wonder if Rainn has any similarities to Dwight in real life - everyone needs a Dwight!

I was unable to attend my freshman year of high school in person due to virtual learning and COVID. I was unsure of my path when I was able to enter high school my sophomore year and was looking for acceptance and a way to involve myself with school activities - I wanted to be accepted and loved football but had never played before - being a quarterback was what I thought would be a good way to make friends, have a team atmosphere and make new friends. I was fortunate enough to be chosen as the starting quarterback for the junior varsity team and the backup quarterback - however, this was not my path. From the age of 8 years old, I had been performing in my local school talent shows and my first big break was the lead role of Simba in my 7th grade performance of The Lion King - the moment on stage when I saw the audience reaction was overwhelming. I knew that at that point being a performer on stage whether it be through singing or acting that that was my path and my talent. It was not until I auditioned my junior year of high school for the "Little Shop of Horrors" performance and was selected to play Orin Scrilvello that I was certain this was what I wanted...and introduced to my theatre teacher, Ms. Elizabeth Kominski - she believed in me! I have learned so much about myself through expression and acting and over these two years, Ms. Kominski has helped me model into the person that I am through being on stage and performing. She has given me the confidence to perform and helped me find myself as an actor. When I reached out to her for a school reference, my mother thanked her for my college recommendation and in Ms. Kominski's words, said, "I will for years tell my students that Gabriel went from the football field to the stage and went on to become a star." I have mentored under Ms. Kominski for the last two years and her leadership, and her believing in me have been non-other than heroic. Having someone believe in you to follow your dreams and encourage you to do what you love has been one of the biggest impacts to my young adult life and I will never forget her for that and hope she will one day have the chance to see me perform on a real stage in Broadway. I will never forget everything she has done for me.

The combination of literature and cinema has been a longstanding endeavor, and when written masterfully, it can create a profound and enchanting experience, one that you can see yourself in. For many, including myself, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, stands as a testament to the seamless integration of these two art forms, bridging the gap between reading and viewing experiences in a way that is truly special. The magic begins with the Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone on the screen. The filmmakers' commitment to preserving the heart and soul of the narrative ensures that the transition from page to screen is not a mere replication but an elevation of the storytelling experience. One of the most compelling aspects of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone is its ability to transform the written word into an ultimate visual spectacle. The vivid imagery painted by the author is brought to life with meticulous attention to detail. This visual feast not only honors the imagination of the readers but also introduces the story to a new audience, enriching the narrative with the power of sight and sound. Moreover, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone achieves a delicate balance between staying true to the original material and making necessary cinematic adjustments when necessary. While some adaptations may falter in their attempts to condense a voluminous novel into a two-hour film, this particular adaptation navigates the challenges adeptly. The filmmakers' judicious choices in narrative pacing and character development ensure that the essence of the story remains intact, delivering a satisfying experience for both avid readers and those new to the tale. The emotional resonance of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone finds new dimensions in its cinematic adaptation. The actors breathe life into beloved characters, infusing them with depth and authenticity that transcends the written page. Witnessing the struggles, triumphs, and conflicts on screen creates a visceral connection, intensifying the narrative's emotional impact. The film becomes a vessel for empathy, allowing viewers not only to understand but also to feel the joys and sorrows of the characters in a way that reading alone might not fully capture. What sets Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone apart is its ability to expand upon the literary universe without betraying its origins. The film introduces subtle nuances, additional scenes, or alternative perspectives that enhance rather than dilute the narrative. These cinematic embellishments serve not only to delight fans of the book with new insights but also to engage viewers who may be discovering the story for the first time. The adaptation, in this sense, becomes a bridge between the known and the unknown, inviting both seasoned readers and newcomers to embark on a shared journey of discovery. In conclusion, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone stands as a shining example of the alchemy that can occur when literature and cinema converge harmoniously. Through its fidelity to the source material, visual prowess, narrative balance, emotional resonance, and expansion of the literary universe, the adaptation elevates the experience, proving that a well-crafted adaptation has the power not only to bridge the gap between reading and viewing experiences but also to create a magical synthesis of both. As the credits roll and the echoes of the final scene linger, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone remains not just a cinematic triumph but a cherished companion to the literary masterpiece that inspired it!

"Stranger Things" on Netflix is undoubtedly one of the best shows to watch, and there are several compelling reasons why you should dive into this thrilling series. At its core, "Stranger Things" boasts a gripping and well-crafted storyline. The mysterious disappearance of a young boy, the appearance of a girl with supernatural abilities, and the strange occurrences in the town of Hawkins set the stage for an intriguing and suspenseful narrative. It's a perfect blend of horror, science fiction, and drama that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The characters in "Stranger Things" are not just placeholders; they are richly developed and evolve throughout the series. From the kids dealing with the supernatural to the adults navigating the mysteries, each character has a unique personality that adds depth to the overall narrative. You'll find yourself invested in their journeys, forming emotional connections that make the show all the more engaging. If you enjoy supernatural elements and mysteries, "Stranger Things" delivers in spades. The Upside Down, telekinesis, and other paranormal phenomena contribute to an atmosphere of suspense and wonder. The show masterfully combines these elements to create a unique and captivating world that sets it apart from other series. The visual appeal of "Stranger Things" is outstanding. The cinematography captures the eerie atmosphere of Hawkins, Indiana, and the parallel dimension of the Upside Down. The use of lighting, color schemes, and special effects enhances the overall viewing experience, making it visually stunning. The cast of "Stranger Things" is exceptional, especially the young actors who deliver performances well beyond their years. Their chemistry on screen is palpable, and they bring authenticity to their roles. The ensemble cast, including Winona Ryder and David Harbour, adds further depth to the series. Beyond the supernatural and suspenseful elements, "Stranger Things" also explores themes of friendship, family, and resilience. The emotional depth of the characters and their relationships adds a layer of resonance that elevates the show beyond mere entertainment. "Stranger Things" offers a perfect blend of nostalgia, compelling storytelling, well-developed characters, supernatural intrigue, stunning visuals, and emotional depth. It's a series that has something for everyone and has garnered widespread acclaim for good reason. So, if you're looking for a show that will keep you hooked from the first episode, "Stranger Things" is an absolute must-watch. If you have not spent a weekend binge-watching this show, try turning on the first episode - it is something that can be watched by everyone together - this is one of the first shows I watched with my parents, and it helped connect us as a family!

My name is Gabriel Saunders, and these are the three most important qualities I have that make me a successful, and aspiring actor/musician and how by being in high school musicals has played an important role in my love for music and helping me grow as a young musician and actor Being able to understand and connect with your character is an important quality when acting. Trying to not break character is also as important. Having a balance between being able to make the role seem realistic while still having people understand that you’re still portraying a character makes the audience feel connected. When I play a certain character role, I have a different routine than my co-actors. This leads them to understand that my acting career is more unique by having different verbal and physical characteristics. The expressions, and the tone I use come from the heart, and I feel the audience understands that. I enjoy playing the role, but to also make it my own which I believe makes me different from others. Understanding the role, but also making it your own makes the audience enjoy their experience even more as well. Compartmentalizing the beliefs and actions of your characters from your virtues. Being able to adapt to what is expected of you during the part, can be difficult when your beliefs differ from what you have to portray. In almost every movie/TV show there is always an antagonist or a more disliked role. For example, when I had the role of Orin Scrivello, DDS (the dentist) in Little Shop of Horrors, even though he wasn’t the fan favorite based on his word choice to women, I still made him a fan favorite. It shows that a quality actor can play any role because they are comfortable and confident when it comes to putting aside personal matters. During parts that I have acted in, there are times when I think that it’s a wrong action, but I can separate my reactions from the actions needed on screen. Being Flexible by being able to take feedback and find a way to incorporate it into performing. Being an actor means that you have to be open to criticism. Finding new ways to improve often comes from other’s critiques. Anyone can listen to acting advice but taking the time to try and see how one can become better differentiates a great actor from the rest. If an actor isn’t willing to amalgamate with their directors/peers it could prove troublesome in future projects. Being open-minded is of great importance to becoming a successful actor, however, if an actor can take in guidance from their peers it shows their potential and growth in maturity. All three of these traits and characteristics shown above are essential to becoming a good actor, but also to becoming a better person. These characteristics help me become the best that I can be, whether in acting or life.

I have always known I wanted to be an actor. I started participating in school talent shows and in the school plays since I was 8 years old - my first performance I received a standing ovation and it was from that moment that I knew I was going to be an actor. I love performing on stage and watching reactions from my audiences. It is the most fulfilling filling that I have ever had so far and cannot wait to see where I go with this in my life. It is the most passionate thing I love, cannot wait to see the places I will go and the people I will meet. I love that through my acting, I can make people smile, laugh, and enjoy the moment with me. I have only had the opportunity to perform at the school level for expressing my talents but cannot wait to see what my future holds in terms of where it will take me. Where "I" will take me with this. It is something that I love and love to share with everyone around me. Football was a great experience for me as well This allowed me to do something I have never done before. When I first told my parents that this is something I wanted to pursue, they tried to talk me into Golf, lol. Never have I ever played football before, nor had I explored that type of sport. This put me out of my comfort zone but allowed me to explore new things about myself that I never discovered before. Resilience....never give up, always work hard to be better. This was important to me specifically because it brought me from being on stage in front of a crowd to on the field with a team, creating a different kind of brotherhood and alliance on the field. Being involved in these very different activities has made me what I believe a well rounded person and helped me grow into who I am - acting will help me continue to reach into myself to discover new and different characters that I can portray both on and off the stage or camera and excited to see where these two activities I have participated in will help me continue on in my life in a direction that will take me where I have always known I wanted to go. Discipline, determination, resilience to never give up, and confidence in myself is how I can contribute to my community by offering a confident young man that wants to share my talents to continue entertaining people on stage.