I first watched Wicked in a crowded theater, expecting a fun spectacle of magic and music. What I didn’t expect was how much it would stick with me, and why, as a guy, it would resonate so deeply. Elphaba’s story drew me in immediately. She’s judged for being different—her green skin, her boldness, her intelligence—but she refuses to conform. I’ve always been drawn to creating and building things differently, whether it’s inventing a system to move my TV or designing a gadget from scraps. Watching Elphaba stay true to herself reminded me that being unorthodox is a strength, not a flaw. Fiyero’s growth also connects to me. He starts detached, drifting with expectations, but learns the value of courage, choice, and supporting someone who challenges him to see the world differently. It mirrors how I approach teamwork and collaboration in sports and projects. And then there’s the music. Songs like “Defying Gravity” and “For Good” hit in my chest. They capture the thrill of problem-solving, the joy of creation, and the messy, beautiful process of being human. Wicked isn’t just a musical to me; it’s a reminder that rising above expectations and daring to be different is worth it, whether in life, on the field, or in the workshop.

I unscrewed the lid and carefully pulled back the foil seal, revealing the smooth, untouched surface of a jar of Jif peanut butter. I carved in with a glistening silver spoon, knowing I was the first to experience what this particular jar had to offer. Like walking on fresh snow or Neil Armstrong stepping onto the moon, discovering unmarked territory invigorates me. That desire to be first—to explore, build, and understand—has shaped my goals long before I even started considering colleges. After graduating from high school, my primary goal is to gain an education that allows me to turn curiosity into tangible impact. I want to study engineering not simply to earn a degree, but to gain the tools to design practical solutions to real problems. I am driven by hands-on learning and creative problem-solving, and I hope to use my education to build systems, products, and technologies that make everyday life more efficient, accessible, and thoughtful. Beyond academics, my long-term goal is to apply what I learn in college toward meaningful, real-world solutions. Whether through research, entrepreneurship, or industry, I want to move beyond the workbench and into areas where ideas can make a difference. This scholarship would help me reach these goals by reducing the financial burden of college and allowing me to fully invest my time and energy into learning, building, and growing—values that Mr. Young inspired me to chase while guiding me through my educational journey. His encouragement taught me to chase curiosity with purpose and to believe in the long term value of growth. Instead of prioritizing short-term financial concerns, I would be able to focus on long-term development by participating in projects, pursuing opportunities beyond the classroom, and challenging myself both creatively and academically. This scholarship would not just support my education; it would honor the guidance that shaped me and allow me to continue chasing that “first scoop” feeling.