My name is Ethan and I am a Black high school senior with a passion for STEM and a strong desire to use my skills to make a difference in the world. Growing up in Haiti, I witnessed how limited access to healthcare and technology shaped people’s lives. After the 2010 earthquake, many survivors faced injuries that could not be properly treated because resources and advanced technology were unavailable. These experiences made me curious about how science and engineering could improve lives and inspired me to pursue a career where I could solve real-world problems. Moving to the United States gave me opportunities I could never have imagined, but it also showed me the disparities that still exist. Seeing the difference that access to technology and education can make has motivated me to work hard and give back. My values of curiosity, empathy, and perseverance drive me to approach challenges with dedication and creativity. I have always believed that knowledge is most valuable when it is used to help others, and I try to live by that principle in my schoolwork, volunteering, and leadership roles. I have demonstrated leadership and service in several ways. At my church, I mentor younger members and help organize activities that bring the community together. I also volunteer for school and community projects, helping others develop their skills and supporting initiatives that improve our local environment. These experiences taught me the importance of collaboration, patience, and understanding, and they reinforced my commitment to using my talents to make a positive impact. I plan to pursue a degree in bioengineering, which will allow me to combine my love for math and science with my desire to solve healthcare challenges. Through this program, I hope to develop technologies that restore mobility, improve medical care, and make healthcare more accessible, especially in underserved communities like those I grew up around. The skills and knowledge I gain will help me design solutions that are not only innovative but also practical, affordable, and human-centered. My goal is to use my education to uplift others and create lasting change. I want to inspire students from communities underrepresented in STEM to pursue careers in science and engineering, showing them that they belong and that their contributions are needed. I hope to mentor others, share my experiences, and create opportunities for the next generation of Black engineers and innovators. By combining technical knowledge with empathy and service, I aim to make an impact that goes beyond individual projects to strengthen communities and expand access to life-changing technologies. In everything I do, I am guided by the belief that knowledge and opportunity are most valuable when shared. My experiences, values, and passion for STEM motivate me to work hard, innovate, and serve others. With the education and skills I gain, I hope to leave a meaningful mark on my community, my industry, and the world.

Ever since I was a child, I have been curious about how things work and how technology can be used to improve people’s lives. Growing up in Haiti, I saw how limited access to healthcare and technology affected people in my community. After the 2010 earthquake, many people were left with injuries that could not be properly treated because advanced care and devices were not available. These experiences made me realize that solving real-world problems requires creativity, knowledge, and compassion. My long-term career goal is to become a bioengineer who designs technologies that restore mobility and improve healthcare access for people who need it most. I want to combine my love for math and science with a commitment to solving problems that have a meaningful impact on communities. I hope to develop solutions that are practical, affordable, and tailored to the needs of patients, especially in places like Haiti where resources are limited. The values that drive me are curiosity, empathy, perseverance, and a desire to make a positive difference. Curiosity motivates me to learn and explore new ideas, whether it is in the classroom, through research, or in problem-solving challenges. Empathy reminds me to always consider the human side of technology, to understand the experiences of the people who will use the solutions I create, and to make choices that prioritize their well-being. Perseverance pushes me to continue working hard even when challenges seem overwhelming, and it teaches me that progress often comes through consistent effort. I also value generosity and collaboration. Engineering is not a field where one person can solve everything alone. I want to work with others, share knowledge, and contribute to projects that benefit communities, not just individuals. I have learned through volunteering, leadership, and teamwork that the best solutions often come from listening, learning from diverse perspectives, and combining skills to create something greater than what any single person could achieve. Receiving this scholarship would help me focus on achieving these goals without being held back by financial concerns. It would allow me to dedicate more time to my studies, research opportunities, and projects that prepare me to make an impact in bioengineering. It would also help me continue developing the skills and values that will guide me throughout my career, ensuring that the work I do improves lives in a meaningful and sustainable way. In the long term, I hope to build technologies that make healthcare more accessible and to inspire others from underserved communities to pursue careers in science and engineering. My dream is to turn the challenges I witnessed growing up into opportunities for innovation, problem-solving, and hope. I want my career to reflect the values that have shaped me and to leave a positive mark on the world.

Students from underserved backgrounds deserve opportunities like scholarships because many face obstacles that make achieving their goals much harder than others. Financial hardship, limited access to resources, and family sacrifices can create barriers that are not about effort or talent. These students often have the same ambition and potential as anyone else but need support to reach it. Opportunities like scholarships give motivated students a chance to focus on their education and develop skills that can change their lives and the lives of their communities. I have faced challenges in my own life that have shaped who I am and fueled my determination to succeed. My parents left Haiti to give me the chance at an education they could not have. I have watched them work tirelessly to provide for our family, often putting their own needs aside. Growing up, I learned the value of hard work, discipline, and perseverance. I also saw how limited resources could make even simple opportunities seem out of reach. These experiences taught me to stay focused, push through obstacles, and seek solutions rather than giving up. Despite these challenges, I have worked hard to excel in school, especially in subjects like math and science, because I know that education is the key to building a future where I can make a difference. I have also sought out leadership roles and volunteering opportunities to give back to my community and strengthen my skills. Every assignment I complete and every challenge I face is a step toward my goal of pursuing higher education and using my knowledge to help others, particularly those who face similar hardships. Receiving this scholarship would have a meaningful impact on my ability to continue my education. It would help ease the financial burden on my family and allow me to focus on learning and developing my skills rather than worrying about costs. This support would bring me closer to my dream of pursuing a career in bioengineering, where I can design technologies that improve lives, especially for communities that lack access to care and resources. In the end, motivated and high-achieving students from disadvantaged backgrounds deserve opportunities because their potential is just as great, if not greater, than those who face fewer obstacles. Scholarships like this one provide the support and encouragement needed to turn ambition into achievement. I am committed to working hard, learning continuously, and using the opportunities I am given to create positive change for myself, my family, and my community.

I grew up in Haiti and moved to the United States with my family so I could have access to education and opportunities they could not. Watching my parents sacrifice so much for me taught me the value of hard work, perseverance, and responsibility. These lessons shaped how I approach school, leadership, and service. From a young age, I have been curious about how science and technology can improve lives, which inspired my interest in healthcare and human wellness. Volunteering and helping others has always been important to me. Whether in my church, in school projects, or community activities, I have learned that even small acts of care and support can make a big difference. These experiences reinforced my passion for health and wellness because I realized that helping people is about more than knowledge; it is about understanding, listening, and responding to their needs. I want to become a healthcare professional who combines science and empathy to improve people’s lives, particularly in communities that lack access to care. To me, empathy means truly understanding the experiences, feelings, and challenges of the people I serve. It is more than just feeling for someone it is listening carefully, observing, and responding in a way that meets their needs with respect and dignity. Empathy is essential in healthcare because patients are not just cases or conditions they are people with unique stories, fears, and goals. Without empathy, even the most advanced treatments can fail to reach their full impact. Growing up in Haiti and seeing people struggle with limited medical access showed me how critical it is to care for patients as whole humans. I witnessed the difference between having access to technology and care and being left without the resources to recover or thrive. That understanding motivates me to pursue a career in healthcare with a human-centered approach making sure that my work addresses both medical needs and the real-life circumstances of patients. I hope to become a bioengineer working on technologies that restore mobility and improve health outcomes. In this field, empathy guides every decision from designing devices that are practical and affordable to ensuring solutions respect patients’ dignity. A human-centered approach means listening to the people who will use these technologies, considering their environment, and making choices that prioritize their well-being above all else. It means understanding that technology alone cannot solve health problems it must work alongside care, education, and compassion. Empathy also shapes how I interact with colleagues and mentors. By understanding others’ perspectives, I can collaborate more effectively, learn from diverse experiences, and create solutions that are both innovative and meaningful. I aim to carry this approach into every project, research opportunity, and patient interaction ensuring that the work I do improves lives in a way that is thoughtful, inclusive, and human-centered. In short, empathy is the foundation of effective healthcare. It ensures that every action, every design, and every decision serves the people it is meant to help. By combining empathy with knowledge and innovation, I hope to make a positive impact on patients and communities, especially those who need care the most. My goal is to create solutions that not only treat medical problems but also honor the humanity of the people I serve.

Sports have always been an important part of my life. Playing basketball and participating in track taught me more than just skills or techniques. They taught me teamwork, discipline, and how to push myself even when I feel like giving up. Through sports, I have learned that every practice, every drill, and every game is an opportunity to grow not just as an athlete, but as a person. Being a student-athlete has also shown me the importance of balance and responsibility. I have had to manage my schoolwork alongside practices and games, which taught me time management and focus. But what I value most is the opportunity sports give me to connect with others and make a positive impact. I know how powerful it is when a coach or teammate believes in you, encourages you, and challenges you to do better. That is why I want to give back through sports. I plan to make a difference in my community by mentoring and coaching younger athletes. I want to help kids develop not only their athletic skills but also important life skills like confidence, perseverance, and respect. I want them to see that sports are more than just games—they are a place to learn, grow, and build character. By showing dedication, patience, and support, I hope to inspire young athletes to work hard, believe in themselves, and reach their full potential. My own experiences growing up in a family that worked hard to create opportunities for me have shaped this commitment. I understand what it means to face challenges and push through obstacles. I want to use what I have learned through sports to encourage younger athletes who might be struggling or unsure of their path. Whether it is teaching proper techniques, helping someone understand the importance of practice, or simply being a positive role model, I want to be a presence that motivates them to keep going. Through sports, I also hope to build a sense of community. Athletics can bring people together in ways that few other activities can. By organizing practices, volunteering at local events, or coaching youth teams, I can help create environments where kids feel supported, included, and encouraged to grow. I want to help foster a culture where teamwork, respect, and dedication are valued both on and off the court or track. In the long term, I hope to continue combining my love for sports with my desire to serve others. By mentoring, coaching, and encouraging youth, I can help young people develop the skills, mindset, and confidence they need to succeed in sports and in life. I want to honor the lessons I have learned as an athlete by passing them on to the next generation, helping them build a stronger, more connected, and empowered community through sports.

Growing up in Haiti, I saw firsthand how limited access to resources and technology can change the course of a person’s life. After the 2010 earthquake, I witnessed people struggling with injuries that could not be treated because advanced medical care and devices were not available. I saw how a lack of opportunity could prevent someone from regaining independence, and those experiences stayed with me. They sparked my curiosity about science, technology, and healthcare, and they inspired my goal of using education to make a meaningful impact. Moving to the United States allowed me to see the difference access to education and resources can make. Here, people have opportunities to develop their skills, pursue their goals, and improve their communities. I want to use the advantages I have received to create positive change in Haiti. My plan is to pursue a degree in bioengineering, a field that combines science, technology, and problem-solving, so that I can design healthcare solutions that are affordable and accessible to people in countries with limited resources. I hope to apply the knowledge and skills I gain in the U.S. to address challenges in Haiti’s healthcare system. I want to develop technologies that restore mobility, improve medical treatments, and increase access to care for those who need it most. By combining my passion for engineering with a commitment to social impact, I aim to create solutions that make a real difference in people’s lives. My goal is not only to innovate but also to build systems and programs that can be maintained and scaled to reach entire communities. Beyond technology, I want to inspire others in Haiti to pursue education and careers in fields that can transform their communities. I know that one person’s efforts can encourage others to dream bigger and work toward change. By sharing knowledge, mentoring young students, and supporting local initiatives, I hope to help create a culture of innovation and opportunity that empowers the next generation to solve problems and improve lives. The sacrifices my parents made to give me the chance at education motivate me every day. They left behind their careers and the life they built in Haiti so that I could have access to opportunities they did not. I want to honor their sacrifices by using my education to give back, not only through my career but through actions that benefit the broader community in Haiti. Every step I take in school, from learning the principles of engineering to working on projects that solve real-world problems, is a step toward making a lasting impact. I know that the challenges in Haiti will not be solved overnight, but I believe that education is the most powerful tool I can use to create change. By combining my passion, knowledge, and dedication, I hope to contribute to a future where people in Haiti have access to the resources, care, and opportunities they deserve. My ultimate goal is to use what I learn to build a stronger, healthier, and more empowered home country.

The movie that has had the greatest impact on my life is The Pursuit of Happyness. The story follows Chris Gardner, a man who faces homelessness, financial struggles, and endless obstacles while trying to create a better life for himself and his son. Watching him refuse to give up no matter how difficult life became made a deep impression on me. It showed me that determination and hard work can overcome even the toughest circumstances. I connected with Chris Gardner’s story because I have seen my parents make similar sacrifices for me. My parents left their careers and lives in Haiti to give me the chance at an education and a future that they could not have back home. I have watched them work tirelessly, often putting their own needs last, to ensure I had the opportunities they did not. Just like Chris Gardner, they showed me that resilience, focus, and hope are the keys to turning challenges into achievements. The movie also shaped the way I see my own goals. Chris Gardner’s journey reminded me that success is not immediate and that it requires patience, effort, and a willingness to learn. It made me more motivated in school, particularly in subjects like math, science, and biology, where mastering concepts takes time and practice. It inspired me to approach obstacles as opportunities to grow instead of reasons to give up. Beyond academics, the movie influenced the way I think about responsibility and leadership. Chris Gardner’s devotion to his son taught me the importance of supporting the people around you and leading by example. I try to embody this in my daily life through volunteering, helping my peers, and taking on leadership roles at my church. I want to create a positive impact, just as he worked to improve his son’s life while improving his own. Finally, The Pursuit of Happyness strengthened my belief that education and persistence can change lives. Chris Gardner’s story showed me that no matter where you start, you can reach your goals if you stay committed. This lesson drives me to pursue bioengineering, where I hope to design technologies that make healthcare more accessible and improve people’s lives, especially in places like Haiti where resources are limited. I see every assignment, lab, and challenge as a step toward that goal. The movie taught me that life will have struggles, but those struggles can become the reason you succeed. It reminded me to keep striving, to remain hopeful, and to never underestimate the power of persistence. Chris Gardner’s story has shaped how I approach my education, my ambitions, and my daily life. Every time I feel challenged, I remember his journey and the lessons it carries: resilience, hard work, and faith in your own abilities.

For me, Black excellence is about carrying the strength, resilience, and hope of the people who came before me and using it to build something greater for the future. It is about showing up every day with ambition and pride, knowing that I stand on the shoulders of generations who worked, sacrificed, and believed in possibilities they might never see for themselves. Black excellence is not about perfection. It is about continuing to rise, even when life presents barriers, and using those challenges as fuel to achieve more. Growing up in Haiti, I saw what it meant to keep going even in the hardest situations. After the 2010 earthquake, I saw people missing arms or legs, trying to rebuild their lives without access to the care or technology that could have restored them. Even as a child, I knew that it was not fair that some lives could be rebuilt while others could not. That question stayed with me and sparked my passion for health and technology. I realized that excellence is not only about individual success but about finding ways to bring solutions to the people who need them most. When I moved to the United States, I saw the difference in healthcare and opportunities. Instead of discouraging me, that motivated me to work harder. Black excellence to me means turning that motivation into purpose. It means pursuing bioengineering so that one day I can design solutions that improve lives, especially for people in places like Haiti. Every step I take in the classroom, whether in math, science, or biology, is connected to that larger goal of creating change. Excellence also means carrying myself with integrity and leadership. In school and in my church, I have taken on roles where I guide others, work in teams, and build trust. These moments showed me that excellence is not about standing alone but about lifting others up as well. I want people around me to know that they can count on me, whether it is in academics, service, or just being someone who shows respect and care. What pushes me the most is the sacrifice of my parents. They left behind their careers and the life they built in Haiti so that I could have a chance at education and a future they could not reach back home. To me, embodying Black excellence means honoring those sacrifices by working hard, by staying focused, and by using my gifts in ways that give back. Every time I sit in a classroom or prepare for a new opportunity, I think about how their choices made it possible for me to be here. I cannot waste that. Black excellence is not just a phrase for me. It is my responsibility. It is the way I study, the way I lead, the way I dream, and the way I plan to build a career that helps others. It is about remembering where I came from, honoring the people who brought me here, and making sure that my work opens doors for those who will come after me. That is how I live Black excellence every day.

I qualify for the AMCAS Fee Assistance Program because my family’s income is under 400 percent of the federal poverty level. We are a Haitian American family, and my dad works as a sales representative while my mom is a sales manager. I would be the first in my family to go to medical school, and I am working hard toward becoming an orthodontist so I can give back and make my family proud. As a first-generation Haitian American, I have grown up with a deep appreciation for resilience, hard work, and community. My family immigrated to the United States with the hope of building a better future, not just for themselves but for me as well. We have lived in Washington State for most of my life, and our financial situation has not always been easy. My parents have worked tirelessly to provide for me and my siblings. Together, they have built a stable life from very little and have always emphasized the value of education, integrity, and compassion. Our household income is modest and well below the threshold for the AMCAS Fee Assistance Program. Pursuing higher education, especially in a field as demanding as healthcare, presents significant financial challenges. Neither of my parents had the opportunity to pursue education beyond high school, which makes my journey even more meaningful. I carry their hopes and dreams as I work toward becoming the first in my family to attend medical school and eventually serve others as a healthcare professional. I am currently a mentee in the Health Care Careers Pathways Program, which has provided me with guidance, mentorship, and exposure to health professions I would not have had access to otherwise. I plan to pursue a career in dentistry with the goal of becoming an orthodontist. My interest in orthodontics began when I was younger and had to undergo treatment for my own dental issues. The transformation I experienced boosted my confidence and made me realize the deep connection between oral health and overall well-being. I want to provide that same sense of empowerment and care to others, especially those in underserved communities who often can't access to quality dental services. My goal is to open a practice that is community focused and culturally sensitive, where patients feel seen, heard, and cared for. Through my future work as an orthodontist, I want to help bridge the gap in oral healthcare access. I am passionate about working with youth and immigrant families who may face language barriers, financial obstacles, or a lack of trust in the healthcare system. Representation matters. I believe it is crucial for young people to see someone who looks like them and understands their background in positions of leadership and care. I want to be that person who not only provides clinical treatment but also mentors and advocates for the next generation of healthcare professionals from underrepresented backgrounds. Being part of the HCCP program has helped me build confidence in my goals and shown me that I am not alone in this journey. The mentors and peers I have connected with inspire me to keep pushing forward, even when the path feels difficult. With the help of this scholarship, I will be able to take another step toward making my dream a reality. It will allow me to focus more fully on preparing for and applying to professional school and reduce the burden of financial stress on my family. I am committed to becoming a provider who not only serves but uplifts my community, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be considered for this support.

When I was fifteen years old, I started volunteering at my local church with the fourth and fifth grade ministry. I remember walking into the room for the first time, nervous and unsure of what to expect. I thought I was going to be the one teaching them, but over time I realized that they were teaching me just as much, if not more. The children were full of joy, laughter, and curiosity. Their questions about God were sincere and sometimes surprisingly deep for their age. They came into church every Sunday with wide eyes and open hearts, excited to learn more about Jesus. I saw the way they worshipped without holding back, singing loudly and smiling like they knew they were loved. Their innocence and hunger for God's truth amazed me. Watching them ask questions about the Bible and pray with so much trust made me reflect on my own relationship with God. I started to realize that I wanted what they had. I wanted that same fire, that same joy, and that same eagerness to know God more. Their passion helped ignite something new in me. I began to read the Bible more, pray more intentionally, and seek a deeper connection with God. These kids reminded me of the purity and beauty of childlike faith, the kind Jesus spoke about when He said, “Let the little children come to me.” My service to them became more than just a Sunday task. It became a calling. I wanted to help these kids grow not only in knowledge, but also in love for Christ. I wanted to be someone they could look up to and trust, someone who reflected God’s kindness and truth. Over time, they started to recognize me. When I walk into the classroom now, they smile and run up to me yelling my name. That feeling is indescribable. It reminds me that I am making a difference, even in small ways. Serving in this ministry has shown me what it means to lead with love. It has taught me patience, responsibility, and most importantly, faith. I have learned that service is not about being perfect, but about being present. It is about showing up for others the way Christ shows up for us. This experience has shaped the way I live outside of church as well. I have become more active in my school and community, looking for ways to serve and encourage others. I carry the lessons I’ve learned from these kids into every area of my life. My faith has become stronger because of them, and I am committed to continuing this journey with God, wherever He leads me. I believe that helping others grow in their faith is one of the most meaningful things anyone can do. My time with these children has taught me that real impact often begins in the quiet, faithful service we offer to those around us. I am grateful for the chance to have been a part of their spiritual growth, and I look forward to the ways God will continue to use me.

Math has always been more than just numbers to me. It's a challenge, a puzzle, and a chance to grow. I love how it pushes me to think differently and keeps my brain sharp. When a problem looks impossible at first, I enjoy breaking it down step by step until it clicks. That feeling of solving something on my own gives me confidence not just in math, but in life too. One of the things I respect most about math is how honest it is. There’s no guessing, no luck, no opinion. You either know it or you learn it. That’s helped me develop a strong work ethic. I know that if I study hard and put in the effort, I’ll improve. That mindset has carried over into everything else I do, especially in sports. As a basketball player, I need to think fast and make quick decisions. I’ve learned how to stay calm and focused, even when the pressure is on. The same goes for track. As a leader on my team, I’ve had to step up, encourage my teammates, and set the tone during practices and meets. I’ve found that the discipline I learned from math helps me lead with confidence and stay steady under pressure. Math is also a language that speaks across borders. It builds bridges, designs cities, and powers the technology we use every day. Knowing that I’m learning a subject that has so much impact on the world makes me feel proud. I hope to use it in my future career, whatever path I take. I love math because it gives me purpose. It teaches me how to think clearly, lead with focus, and keep going no matter how hard things get. Math has taught me not just how to solve problems on paper, but how to solve them in life too.

Leadership and science both shape the future in powerful ways. Leadership brings people together and helps us overcome challenges. Science helps us understand the world and solve problems that affect people every day. These two areas have impacted me the most in high school, and they’ve helped shape who I want to become. One place where I’ve grown as a leader is on my high school track team. As one of the more experienced athletes, I’ve taken on the role of guiding new teammates and helping keep the team focused. During practices, I make sure everyone understands the workouts and I encourage people when they feel like giving up. I lead by showing up on time, working hard, and supporting others even if I’m tired or sore myself. It’s not always easy, but I’ve learned that real leadership is about consistency and lifting others up. I’ve also helped keep our energy strong before meets, and when we lose, I help remind everyone what we can learn from it. These moments taught me how to stay positive and keep others motivated. At the same time, science has always caught my interest. I’m taking college-level biology through Running Start, and I’ve learned a lot about how the human body works and how science connects to everyday life. That class has shown me how important science is in solving health problems and making discoveries that can help people live better lives. I want to go into the healthcare field someday, maybe something like physical therapy, sports medicine, or medical research. I want to use science to help people heal and stay strong. I think leadership and science work together more than most people realize. Both are about making a difference and building something that matters. I want to keep growing in both areas, whether it's through leading in college clubs or teams, or by continuing to study science and working in the community. These experiences have helped me see that I can be someone who supports others while also chasing my own goals. I know that with hard work, I can turn these lessons into a future that helps others and brings something good into the world.

My name is Ethan Baptiste and I am a high school senior who is part of the Running Start program. Running Start lets me take college classes while I am still in high school, and it has pushed me to grow up faster and take more responsibility for my future. It has not always been easy to balance high school and college work, but I have learned how to stay organized and stay focused on my goals. One of the things that has shaped me the most is sports. I have been on my school’s track and field team for the last two years, and it has been one of the best experiences of my life. I compete in the triple jump, the long jump, and I am adding the high jump this year. My biggest goal is to break the school records in all three events. There are days when practice is tough and I feel tired or frustrated, but track has taught me that nothing worth doing comes easy. Every practice is a chance to get better and every mistake is a chance to learn. Track has also taught me how to be a good teammate and leader. When I first started, I was nervous because I did not know much about the events. Older teammates encouraged me and gave me tips, and now I try to do the same for the younger athletes. I know how much it means to have someone believe in you. I try to keep practices positive and cheer on my teammates during meets because we all push each other to be better. Outside of sports and school I am involved in my community. I help out with youth programs at my church and volunteer at school events when I can. I enjoy being someone that kids can look up to. When I am around younger students I try to show them that you can have fun but still do the right thing. Whether it is helping with homework, picking up trash after a community event, or just talking to someone who seems down, I believe small actions can make a big difference. This scholarship would help me a lot as I prepare for college. Paying for tuition and books will be a challenge, and having this support would allow me to focus on my classes and stay involved in my community. I want to continue working hard, staying active in sports, and giving back as I move forward in life. I hope to one day have a career where I can help people and make a positive impact. I know that with hard work and the lessons I have learned from school, track, and my community, I can achieve those goals. This scholarship would help me take the next step in that journey. Thank you for considering me.

Basketball has been a big part of my life and one of the activities that has taught me the most about hard work, teamwork, and staying committed even when things get difficult. I have played center for my high school team, and even though I am not the loudest person on the court, I have learned how to be a strong presence and how to help my team succeed. One accomplishment I am proud of is how much I have improved over the years. When I first started playing, I struggled with my confidence. I was tall, but I did not always use my size to my advantage. There were times when I felt like I was letting my team down because I was not as skilled as other players. Instead of giving up, I decided to put in more work. I spent extra time practicing footwork, learning post moves, and working on my conditioning. Over time, I became more comfortable on the court, and my role as a center became a strength for my team. Another accomplishment is being able to step up in big games. I have had games where I grabbed double-digit rebounds and played solid defense to help my team stay competitive. Those moments showed me that my effort matters and that even if I am not scoring the most points, I can still make a big impact. Basketball has not been easy, and I have faced obstacles. One of the biggest challenges has been balancing school, sports, and other responsibilities. There were times when I felt overwhelmed, especially while being in the Running Start program and taking college-level classes. There were also tough losses where we worked hard but still fell short. Those moments were frustrating, but they taught me how to keep moving forward. I realized that setbacks are part of the process, and the most important thing is how you respond to them. I also learned how important communication is. As a center, I have to call out screens and help direct the defense, even though I am naturally more quiet and reserved. At first, it felt uncomfortable, but with time I became more confident in speaking up. This has helped me not only in basketball but also in school and other parts of life. Basketball has taught me lessons that I know will help me reach my future goals. I have learned that nothing comes easy and that success takes consistent effort. I have learned how to stay disciplined with my time, which will be important as I go to college and work toward becoming an orthodontist. I have learned how to work with a team and how to stay positive even when things get tough. Most of all, basketball has shown me that I can push past obstacles and continue improving. Those lessons will help me stay focused on my education, overcome challenges, and keep growing into the person I want to be.

My name is Ethan Baptiste and I am a high school senior currently enrolled in the Running Start program. I am Haitian, and my background plays a big part in who I am and why I work so hard. My parents have sacrificed so much to get me to where I am today. Many people in my family never had the opportunity to go to college or even finish high school. Higher education was something out of reach for them, not because they lacked the ability, but because they never had the chance. My parents came to the United States so that I could have a better future than the one they had. They worked long hours and took jobs that were not easy just so they could support me and my siblings. Growing up, I saw how much they gave up for me. I saw the stress they carried, but also their determination to push through it. They always told me that they wanted me to have the opportunities they never did. That has always stayed with me. Because of them, I have the chance to pursue a college education, something that many people in my family could only dream about. I know how valuable this opportunity is, and I know I cannot take it for granted. I feel a responsibility to my parents and to myself to make the most of it. I want their sacrifices to mean something. I want to break the cycle and show that it is possible to go further, not only for me but for my family and my community. One of my biggest goals is to become an orthodontist. I have always been interested in the dental field, but orthodontics stood out to me because of the impact it can have on a person’s confidence and life. I know this career requires years of schooling and focus, but I am ready to put in the work. Pursuing higher education is the first step to making this dream a reality, and I cannot let the opportunity slip away. Outside of school, I am part of my high school’s track and field team, where I compete in the triple jump, long jump, and soon the high jump. My goal is to set school records in all three events. Track has taught me dedication and perseverance. There are days when I do not perform as well as I hoped, but I have learned to keep working and never give up. That same attitude guides me in my academics and in life. I am also involved in my community through church programs, volunteering, and school events. I enjoy giving back because I know I did not get to this point alone. Helping younger students and supporting kids in my community reminds me of the people who believed in me. My parents’ sacrifices motivate me every day. I know I have been given a chance that many in my family never had, and I do not want to waste it. Higher education is not just about getting a degree. It is about honoring my family’s hard work and building a future where I can give back and help others.

One of the people who has influenced me the most in high school is my biology teacher, Mr. Jameson. When I first walked into his class during my sophomore year, I thought it was just going to be another science class. At that time, I was not very confident in my abilities, and I often doubted myself whenever something got difficult. I struggled to ask questions because I did not want to look like I did not understand. Mr. Jameson was the teacher who helped change that mindset and taught me how to approach challenges in a completely different way. Mr. Jameson was the kind of teacher who expected the best from everyone. He did not allow anyone to just sit quietly in class and go through the motions. He asked questions constantly, and he wanted us to think about the answers instead of just guessing. At first, this made me nervous. I was worried about saying the wrong thing. But Mr. Jameson made it clear that he cared more about effort than about being perfect. He would say things like, “You don’t need to know everything, you just need to be willing to try and learn.” One day, we were working on a tough lab about genetics. I was completely lost and felt ready to give up. Mr. Jameson walked over and asked me what part I was struggling with. I told him I did not think I was smart enough to figure it out. Instead of giving me the answer, he sat down next to me and helped me break the problem into smaller steps. He reminded me that mistakes were just part of the learning process. By the end of the lab, I had figured it out on my own, and I remember feeling proud of myself. That was the moment I realized I had been holding myself back by being afraid of failure. From that day forward, I began approaching my classes differently. I started asking more questions, even if I thought they might sound silly. I took more time to study and practice instead of giving up when something felt hard. This new mindset helped me in all of my classes, but also in life. I began to see challenges as opportunities to grow instead of as roadblocks. Mr. Jameson also cared about us outside of the classroom. He came to our track meets to cheer us on and would often ask how we were doing personally. It meant a lot to know that a teacher believed in me and wanted me to succeed both academically and as a person. Because of Mr. Jameson’s influence, I now approach life with more confidence. I am not afraid to fail because I know failure is just a part of learning. This lesson has helped me not only in school but also in sports, community involvement, and even when I think about my future career. He showed me that hard work and persistence can overcome self-doubt. I will always be grateful to Mr. Jameson for the impact he has had on me. The lessons he taught me will stay with me as I continue my education and work toward my goal of becoming an orthodontist.

My name is Ethan Baptiste and I am a high school senior currently enrolled in the Running Start program. Running Start allows me to take college classes while also finishing my high school diploma. Balancing both has been challenging, but it has helped me develop strong time management and study skills. I have learned how to stay focused, meet deadlines, and stay motivated even when my schedule is busy. These lessons will help me succeed as I move forward into higher education. My career goal is to become an orthodontist because I want to help people feel more confident in themselves by improving their smiles. Outside of schoolwork, I stay active in my school and community in many ways. I compete on my high school track team where I focus on the triple jump, long jump, and soon the high jump. My goal is to set school records in all three events. Track has taught me a lot about hard work and dedication. The practices can be tough, and sometimes it can be discouraging when I do not reach the distance I want, but I have learned to keep trying and to trust the process. I also try to be a positive example for the younger athletes on my team by encouraging them and helping them improve. Being a leader on the track team has shown me how important it is to build others up. I am also involved in my community through church activities, volunteering, and helping out at school events. I have assisted with youth group programs, community clean up days, and tutoring younger students. I really enjoy working with kids and helping them feel supported because I know how much positive role models can impact someone’s life. I always try to show kindness and make people feel welcome no matter where I am. Financially, college will be difficult for my family to pay for. Tuition, books, housing, and other expenses will be a challenge for us. Receiving this scholarship would take a lot of stress off my family and allow me to fully focus on my education and training. It would help me continue to work toward my dream of becoming an orthodontist and giving back to my community in the future. I also believe it is very important to keep children and youth safe from bullying and cyberbullying. I always speak up when I see bullying happening and encourage others to do the same. Online, I try to be a positive example by avoiding negative posts and reporting harmful content when I see it. I want kids in my community to feel safe, both in person and online. I am grateful for the chance to apply for this scholarship. It would help me continue my education, stay involved in my community, and work toward a career where I can make a positive difference in the lives of others.

When I was younger, I used to cover my mouth when I laughed. I had a big gap between my teeth and felt embarrassed all the time. But even though I was insecure about my smile, I noticed something. My teachers never treated me differently. They encouraged me to speak up, even when I didn’t want to. That taught me something important about what it means to lift others up. Now, I want to do the same, not as a classroom teacher, but as an orthodontist. I believe that education does not just happen in schools. It happens anywhere people learn to feel more confident in who they are. For me, that space is the orthodontist’s office. I want to give people the chance to smile without fear, especially kids who look like me. There are not a lot of Black male orthodontists out there. Just like there are not many Black male teachers. I want to change that. I want to show young Black boys that they can succeed in science and healthcare. I want them to see that they belong. My goal is to open my own orthodontics practice one day and make sure it is a place where people feel welcomed no matter who they are. I want to go into schools in my community and talk to students about careers in healthcare. I want to mentor kids who may not have a lot of support. I want to use my story to show them that your background does not define how far you can go. Right now, I am working hard in school and trying to stay focused. I know my GPA is not perfect, but I am always improving. I take college classes and push myself to do better because I know what is at stake. I want to help others feel proud of themselves the way my orthodontist helped me. Being an educator does not always mean being in a classroom. Sometimes, it means teaching people through actions and support. I want to be that kind of educator. If I get this scholarship, it will help me move closer to that goal. I want to create real change in my community by showing up, speaking out, and giving others the tools to feel strong in who they are. Everyone deserves to smile with confidence. I plan to spend my life making sure they can.

There is a big gap between two of my bottom teeth. I also have a gummy smile that shows a lot of my gums when I talk or laugh. On top of that, my teeth have always looked naturally yellow. It is not because I do not brush, but because of where I come from. I am Haitian, and in my culture, drinking coffee at a young age is very common. My parents would drink it every morning, and I would always want to join them. So from a young age, I drank coffee too. Over time, it stained my teeth. At school, kids would tease me about the color of my teeth and the way I smiled. They would ask me if I brushed or tell me I should not show so much gum when I laugh. Because of that, I became very self-conscious. I stopped smiling in pictures and laughed with my hand over my mouth. It affected how I saw myself. When you are afraid to smile, it changes how you carry yourself. You try not to draw attention to your face. You try to shrink into the background. That is why I want to become an orthodontist. I want to help people who feel the same way I did. I want to give them the confidence to smile without fear or shame. Being Haitian has taught me many things. Our culture is strong and proud. We are raised to work hard, keep going no matter what, and take pride in where we come from. At the same time, we do not always talk about things like appearance or mental health. You are expected to be strong and not complain. In American culture, especially in school, appearance is something that gets noticed right away. If your teeth are crooked or yellow, or if you smile a certain way, people point it out. Being caught between two cultures helped me see how different people view dental care, and how something as small as a smile can mean so much in both worlds. Right now, I am in high school and enrolled in Running Start, where I take college-level biology classes. I have joined the health club at college and the sports medicine club at my high school. These clubs have helped me learn more about the human body and how to work as a team. They also taught me discipline and how to stay focused. Every class and every club I join is helping me prepare for my future in dentistry. My goal is to become an orthodontist who helps people feel confident in themselves. I want to be someone who listens, who understands, and who makes a difference through care and kindness. I want to especially help children from immigrant families who may not have access to dental care or who feel like they are not seen. This scholarship would help me take the next step. I plan to keep studying science, shadow dental professionals, and stay involved in healthcare programs. I would be the first in my family to enter the medical field. That would be a proud moment not just for me, but for my family and community as well. One day, I will help a kid walk out of the orthodontist’s office with a smile they love for the first time. I know how that feels because I have spent years hoping for that moment myself. That hope is what drives me every day. Thank you for helping me get one step closer to that dream.