I grew up learning what resilience means long before I ever had the word for it. When I was nine years old, my father went to prison. That experience was more than just a family hardship—it was a moment that shifted how I saw the world. It introduced me to injustice at an age when most children are still shielded from life’s harder truths. My family’s limited financial resources only magnified the challenges we faced, and I quickly came to understand how poverty and the legal system can intertwine in ways that silence and disadvantage those who already have so little. That early experience of loss and instability shaped my identity and my values. It gave me empathy for those who are overlooked, and it gave me urgency to speak up where silence often reigns. Over the years, that sense of justice and responsibility has become the foundation of my goals. I plan to pursue a degree in History-Political Science as a foundation for a career in law. I want to work not only to understand the legal system that once impacted my own family, but to challenge its inequities and fight for people whose voices are too often ignored. At the same time, my journey has also been shaped by my identity as a bisexual woman and as a first-generation college student. Coming from a family where higher education wasn’t a given, every step I take in my academic career feels both deeply personal and deeply communal. I am not just working for myself, but also for my family, to honor their sacrifices and open doors for those who come after me. Being first-generation means that I’ve had to teach myself how to navigate systems that often assume prior knowledge—whether it’s applying to college, securing scholarships, or figuring out how to balance work and school. These challenges haven’t discouraged me; instead, they’ve strengthened my work ethic and fueled my determination. My passions are rooted in fairness, equality, and amplifying voices that are too often ignored. To me, ensuring “everyone has a voice” is not an abstract value—it is something I try to live out daily. Whether it’s stepping into leadership roles, participating in community service, or simply supporting a peer who feels unseen, I carry with me the belief that no one should feel powerless. My own experiences have taught me that empowerment begins in small moments: listening when others dismiss, standing up when it’s easier to stay quiet, and building community where isolation once existed. Living with a chronic medical condition has further influenced my perspective. Though it has sometimes required me to move at a different pace, it has also taught me adaptability and resilience. I’ve learned to balance ambition with patience and to recognize that strength comes in many forms—not just in pushing forward, but also in knowing when to rest, regroup, and persist again. All of these experiences—growing up in hardship, navigating higher education as the first in my family, living openly as a queer woman in the deep South, and learning to adapt to the realities of a chronic illness—have shaped me into someone who refuses to give up. My aspirations are clear: I want to pursue a career in law where I can create real, tangible change. But my purpose goes beyond career goals. I want to use my story, my perspective, and my determination to ensure that others feel seen, heard, and valued, no matter where they come from or what obstacles they face.

Chappell Roan’s music has had a profound impact on me, especially as a queer woman growing up in the Deep South—a place where acceptance often feels limited and self-expression can be risky. Her fearless artistry and unapologetic authenticity have not only provided me with a powerful soundtrack but also a source of comfort and empowerment. Supporting her career means supporting a voice that challenges norms and creates space for people like me to feel seen and heard. Growing up in a conservative environment, I often felt isolated because my identity as a queer woman didn’t align with the prevailing expectations around me. It was difficult to find music or artists who spoke to my experiences without filtering or diluting them. When I discovered Chappell Roan’s work, I was struck by her raw honesty and boldness. Her lyrics don’t shy away from complex emotions, vulnerability, or darkness, and yet they carry a defiant strength. Listening to songs like “Pink Pony Club” and “Naked Alone” made me realize I wasn’t alone in my struggles or desires. Chappell Roan’s music gave me permission to embrace my identity fully, without apology or shame. Her fearless exploration of themes like sexuality, mental health, and self-acceptance resonated deeply with me, especially in a context where these topics are often stigmatized. Her sound—a mix of dark pop, haunting melodies, and candid storytelling—reflects the complexity of being a queer person navigating a sometimes hostile world. In this way, her music became a refuge where I could feel understood and validated. Supporting Chappell Roan’s career is about more than just enjoying her music; it’s about uplifting a voice that represents marginalized experiences and pushes boundaries in the music industry. She challenges traditional pop aesthetics and refuses to conform to sanitized or mainstream versions of femininity and sexuality. Her artistry embodies bravery and individuality, qualities I admire and strive to emulate in my own life. Moreover, Chappell Roan’s presence as a queer artist from a less typical background inspires me. She shows that it’s possible to break through barriers and create art that is authentic and disruptive. For someone like me, living in the Deep South, where queer representation is scarce, her success offers hope and encouragement. It reminds me that my identity is valid and that I can find strength in my uniqueness. In conclusion, Chappell Roan’s music has profoundly influenced me by offering a voice that resonates with my experience as a queer woman in a challenging environment. Her fearless authenticity has helped me feel more comfortable in my own skin and provided a soundtrack for my journey of self-acceptance. Supporting her career means supporting the power of honest storytelling and representation—an essential reminder that we all deserve to be seen, heard, and celebrated for who we truly are.

I am a fan of LeBron James because of his remarkable combination of talent, work ethic, leadership, and social impact. Watching LeBron’s career has been inspiring not only because of his extraordinary skills on the basketball court but also because of the way he uses his platform to make a difference off the court. His journey from a challenging childhood to becoming one of the most influential athletes in history embodies resilience and dedication, qualities that resonate deeply with me. LeBron’s athleticism and basketball IQ are extraordinary. He is versatile, able to play and guard multiple positions, and his ability to read the game is unmatched. Throughout his career, he has consistently elevated the performance of his teammates and demonstrated clutch performances in critical moments. His statistical achievements are staggering, including multiple MVP awards, NBA championships, and All-Star selections. Yet what sets LeBron apart is not just numbers but his leadership—he leads by example, inspiring his teams with his commitment and unselfish play. Beyond basketball, LeBron James is a powerful role model. He has used his fame to speak out on social issues such as racial inequality and education. His founding of the “I PROMISE School” in Akron, Ohio, exemplifies his dedication to giving back and empowering the next generation. This commitment to community and social justice elevates him beyond the realm of sports, showing how athletes can be agents of positive change. Regarding whether LeBron James is the greatest basketball player of all time, I believe he is a strong candidate but recognizing the “greatest” is complex. Comparing players across eras involves different rules, playing styles, and competition levels. While players like Michael Jordan are often cited for their championships and cultural impact, LeBron’s longevity, versatility, and off-court contributions add significant weight to his case. LeBron’s career longevity is unparalleled; he has maintained an elite level of play for nearly two decades, adapting his game as he ages and continuously competing at the highest level. His ability to remain healthy, competitive, and relevant speaks volumes about his discipline and professionalism. However, greatness can also be subjective, influenced by personal preference, nostalgia, and different metrics of success. While I admire Michael Jordan’s perfect Finals record and killer instinct, I respect LeBron’s all-around game, leadership, and societal contributions. The debate between them will likely continue among fans, but for me, LeBron’s impact both on and off the court makes a compelling argument for his place at the top. In conclusion, I am a fan of LeBron James because of his exceptional basketball talent, leadership, and dedication to social causes. Whether or not he is the greatest player of all time, his influence transcends basketball, inspiring countless people worldwide. LeBron represents excellence, perseverance, and responsibility, making him a figure I deeply admire and respect.