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Gracie Haley

1x

Finalist

General information

Hobbies & Interests

  • Advertising
  • Art
  • Babysitting And Childcare
  • Basketball
  • Beach
  • Chinese
  • Coaching
  • Cheerleading
  • Communications
  • Child Development
  • Community Service And Volunteering
  • Dance
  • Dog Training
  • Exercise And Fitness
  • Food And Eating
  • Interior Design
  • Lacrosse
  • Music
  • Nails
  • Pet Care
  • Public Relations
  • Pilates
  • Self Care
  • Social Media
  • Singing
  • Alpine Skiing
  • Wakeboarding
  • Surfing
  • Sports
  • Yoga
  • Video Editing and Production

Reading

  • Drama
  • Romance
  • Young Adult

I read books multiple times a week.

Bio

Hi, I’m Gracie, a Communication Studies student at Texas Christian University with a passion for leadership, community involvement, and building meaningful connections. Through my role as Director of Facility Management for Sigma Kappa and my volunteer work supporting local organizations, I’ve developed strong organizational, communication, and teamwork skills. After graduation, I hope to pursue a career in corporate communications or public relations, where I can use strategic storytelling and relationship-building to make a positive impact. I am committed to continuing my education, serving my community, and growing both personally and professionally.

Education

Texas Christian University

Bachelor's degree program

2024 – 2028

Majors:
  • Communication, General

Christ Church Episcopal School

High School

2011 – 2024

Miscellaneous

Desired degree level:
Bachelor's degree program
Medical school interest:
No

Career

  • Sales Associate

    Retail · Ro&Co

    Jan 2025 – Present

Miscellaneous

Dream career field:
Marketing and Advertising
Work experience:
1 year
Has nursing license:
No
Bulkthreads.com's "Let's Aim Higher" Scholarship
Something I want to build in my life would be serving, leading, and having meaningful relationships with other people. Many people think of building anything as creating a product or a business, but I want to build a future where I can use my education, experiences, and talents to make a big difference in the lives of the people and places around me. My Communication Studies major from Texas Christian University is preparing me to build lasting relationships, inspire people, and empower organizations to make a difference in the lives of those they touch. This ambition to develop this future stems from the volunteer experiences that have molded me over the years. In my work with the Alzheimer’s Association, I’ve seen how much community support can mean for people and families facing challenging circumstances. The activities and the organization's aim made me realize that even small contributions can make a difference. Being a member of the National Charity League (NCL) also exposed me to many service opportunities, and I learned the importance of giving back regularly, not just when it is convenient. These events made me think beyond my own ambitions and how I might use my future job to assist others. I aspire to pursue a career in communications, marketing, or a related field that allows me to help organizations reach people, communicate their missions, and grow their influence. Good communication can educate, inspire, and unite communities. This lets me assist organizations in sharing their stories and connecting with the public, and, in doing so, I can contribute to causes that improve lives and strengthen communities. I also want to be known as a person who leads with integrity, compassion, and a dedication to service. I've always been motivated by community leaders, mentors, and volunteers who give their time and energy to serve others without asking for anything in return. From their example, I have learned that genuine leadership is not about personal accomplishment but about the great effect we can have on those around us. I intend to emulate their example by keeping engaged in volunteer work and supporting non-profit organizations throughout my career. The beneficial consequence of developing this future is not only about my personal growth. My education and talents enable me to help organizations communicate more effectively, reach more people, raise awareness of critical causes, and create more opportunities within their communities. I also aim to inspire people to get engaged in service and see how they can make a difference through their own abilities and efforts. The future I want to construct is one where success is judged not only by professional achievements but also by the lives I have affected and the communities I have helped strengthen. With my education, my love of communication, and my service mentality, I aspire to make a lasting positive difference and help build a better future for the people around me.
Our Destiny Our Future Scholarship
I was born and raised in Greenville, South Carolina. I learned that the way to have a great influence on the world is to serve the people closest to you. I aim to make larger-scale changes in my career, but I feel that significant change starts in local communities. My volunteer activities, leadership skills, and commitment to service have instilled in me a passion for serving others and growing the organizations that support people in need. It is my aspiration to continue to use my knowledge, talents, and experiences to make a meaningful impact on people's lives and inspire positive change in my community and beyond. One of the most impactful ways I have given back has been via my volunteer work for the Alzheimer’s Association. Supporting the organization taught me the significance of compassion, patience, and community participation. I saw firsthand how community support can impact the lives of people and families affected by Alzheimer’s disease in many ways, whether by helping with event operations, coordinating materials, keeping workplaces tidy, or creating pleasant experiences for participants and staff. This event just reinforced my passion for assisting others and supporting projects that improve people's lives. I have also been quite involved in the National Charity League (NCL), where I completed several charity projects that supported organizations throughout my town. NCL taught me the significance of persistent service and the effect volunteers can have when they give their time and effort to help others. These experiences exposed me to many community needs and reaffirmed my belief that everyone has a duty to help strengthen their communities. In addition to those experiences, I have worked with charitable organizations that serve people and families in need. These experiences have shown me how NGOs can leverage motivated volunteers, effective communication, and strong community relationships to achieve their aims. These experiences have encouraged me to dedicate the rest of my life to continuing to assist nonprofit organizations and to utilize my abilities to help them grow their reach and influence. I am a Communication Studies major at Texas Christian University and hope to utilize my knowledge to help organizations connect with people, convey their missions, and inspire good action. Good communication may help bring communities together, promote awareness of key issues, and inspire people to take action. My goal is to use my abilities in marketing, communications,, or anything related to aid organizations that are making a difference, and help them build closer links to the communities they serve. In the future, I would like to keep helping and mentoring people, and supporting causes that align with my principles. I want to do my part, in my professional job and personal endeavors, to provide service, community involvement, and opportunities for others. I want to make a difference by helping organizations flourish, supporting worthy causes, and inspiring people to participate in their communities. But I think ultimately real change comes when individuals choose to help others and use their abilities for the greater good. Through my work with the Alzheimer’s Association, National Charity League, and other charity organizations, I’ve learned that even tiny acts of service can make a difference. I am determined to carry that effort forward throughout my life and use my knowledge and experiences to make a significant difference in the world.
Arthur and Elana Panos Scholarship
My faith in God has been one of the greatest sources of strength, direction, and support throughout my life. I have had many moments of delight and achievement, as well as periods of uncertainty, worry, effort, and difficulty. My religion has brought calm and confidence, reminding me that I never walk alone in tackling life’s challenges. It has taught me to believe in God’s plan even when I can’t see the conclusion right away, and to approach each opportunity with thankfulness and humility. Growing up, faith had a significant influence on my life and helped establish the principles that now govern my decisions. I acquired the value of compassion, integrity, service, and endurance via church, prayer, and the example of family members and mentors. My faith has taught me to be kind and respectful to others, to find ways to aid those in need, and to be hopeful in tough circumstances. It has taught me that success isn’t just about our own successes but also about the wonderful influence we make on the lives of others. One of the best things my faith has taught me is to realize that everyone matters and should be treated with respect. This idea informs how I connect with people, whether in the classroom, in leadership positions, in volunteer work, or in daily relationships. I try to be someone who listens, supports, and encourages others because I believe simple acts of kindness can make a big impact. My faith reminds me that we are expected to serve others and utilize our gifts to contribute to something bigger than ourselves. I feel that my religion will continue to be a light in my life while I go to school and prepare for my future job. I pursue Communication Studies because I am enthusiastic about connecting with people, building relationships, and helping companies communicate effectively. In whichever job I choose, I would like to be regarded as a person who leads with integrity, treats others fairly, and strives for honesty in all situations. My faith gives me a moral foundation that helps me face problems, make sound judgments, and stay focused on serving others rather than just myself. I also think that faith will help me stay strong throughout my profession. Every profession has its setbacks, disappointments, and surprises. My religion tells me to stay the course, believe in God’s timing, and keep moving forward with confidence and purpose. I hope that I will not be disheartened by challenges, but will instead see them as chances to develop and learn. Ultimately, I want to use my degree and my beliefs to have a meaningful influence on the people and communities around me. My goal is not simply to be professionally successful, but to embody the principles of compassion, integrity, service, and humility in whatever I do. I want to develop a profession where I can serve others, enhance my community, and make a real difference in the world by trusting in God and using the abilities that he has given me.
Sloane Stephens Doc & Glo Scholarship
I grew up in Greenville, South Carolina, where I learned the significance of community, service, and meaningful connections. I observed how people can make a difference when they put their time and effort into helping others, whether it be through education, volunteer opportunities, or community activities. These experiences molded my ideals and pushed me to seek an education that will help me make a big difference in the lives of others around me. As a Communication Studies student at Texas Christian University, I feel that good communication is one of the most powerful tools for promoting change, building relationships, and strengthening communities. What I want to contribute is helping people and organizations communicate more effectively, so they can serve their communities more effectively. Today’s world revolves around communication in almost every element of society. It impacts how individuals interpret key issues, how companies interact with their audiences, and how communities collaborate to address challenges. I want to use the skills I developed in my schooling to assist organizations in communicating their mission, connecting with the public, and creating opportunities for positive change. One reason why I am interested in communication and marketing is that they have the capacity to bring people together. “Whether it’s advocating for a nonprofit project, supporting a small business, or raising awareness for a worthy cause, effective communication can inspire action and get people involved in their communities. I look forward to a future career dedicated to helping organizations develop meaningful relationships with the people they serve, crafting messages that enlighten, encourage, and inspire.” Much of what inspires me comes from those who have given their lives to helping others. I have been lucky to learn from professors, community leaders, mentors, and volunteers who consistently put others' needs above their own. Their desire to give back has taught me that leadership is not about personal glory, but about creating opportunity for others to thrive. Their example has inspired me to get more active in service and to find ways to make a difference in both my career and personal life. Through my leadership positions and volunteer work, I have learned that even tiny acts of service can go a long way. I’ve witnessed firsthand the impact that teamwork and devotion can have on improving others' lives, whether it’s helping plan events, supporting community projects, or assisting non-profit organizations. These experiences have fueled my ambition to pursue a profession that combines communication, creativity, and service to create a lasting difference. I aim to use my education to help groups working to improve their communities in the future. My goal is to assist businesses and NGOs in clearly expressing their objectives, boosting outreach efforts, and building trust with their people. I also aim to remain actively involved in volunteerism and community service throughout my life, using my abilities and experiences to promote issues that are important to me. I hope that in the future we will see communication used not just to achieve organizational success but also to build stronger communities and create more opportunities for others. I wish to use my education, leadership experiences, and passion for service to positively touch the lives of those around me and to contribute to a brighter future for generations to come.
Neal Hartl Memorial Sales/Marketing Scholarship
I grew up in Greenville, South Carolina, and have always been interested in understanding people, what inspires them, how they interact, and how good connections are established. This curiosity led me to study Communication Studies at Texas Christian University, and ignited my interest in a future profession in marketing and sales. As a Communication Studies major at Texas Christian University, I am increasingly concerned with how communication impacts individuals, shapes ideas, and establishes relationships between companies and their audiences. Marketing is so much more than selling a product or service; it’s knowing people, sharing stories that matter, and establishing connections that offer value to companies and the communities they serve. My passion is marketing since I am interested in communication and human contact. Through my academic experiences, I have discovered the importance of communicating in all aspects of life. Organizations need effective communication to get their message out and reach others through advertising, public relations, social media, or community outreach. I really like analyzing how different messages impact audiences and developing unique methods to deliver ideas simply and effectively. This passion has been developed through my academic studies, leadership experiences, and engagement with university groups. One of the things I love about marketing is that it gives me the opportunity to be both creative and strategic. I like the creative element of coming up with concepts, but I also enjoy the research and preparation that goes into effective marketing efforts. It involves both critical thinking and sensitivity to understand an audience's requirements, interests, and motivations. I think it’s amazing because marketing folks get to solve issues and also create compelling material that people can connect with. One of the things I find most inspiring about marketing is the delicate balance between creativity and analytical thinking. My leadership and volunteer activities have also inspired my aspiration to have a career in marketing. I have held leadership roles and volunteered with community groups, where I have witnessed firsthand how communication can bring people together and promote significant causes. These experiences taught me the value of listening, understanding multiple viewpoints, and tailoring messaging to diverse audiences. They also demonstrated how effective advertising and outreach can increase engagement, awareness, and support for vital activities. What drives me most is the potential to make a difference. Marketing may inform, motivate, and connect individuals with organizations, products, and causes that can improve their lives. I am particularly interested in leveraging my marketing and communication abilities to help organizations committed to community participation, service, and social responsibility. I think that effective marketing is founded on authenticity, trust, and meaningful relationships, and I wish to contribute to businesses that share those values. I want to build a career where I can use my communication, creativity, and enthusiasm for connecting with people to develop powerful marketing tactics. I want to help organizations share their stories, deepen their relationship with their audiences, and generate meaningful change in their communities. That is why I am enthusiastic to explore marketing as my future profession, as it is the perfect chance to combine my interests and talents while making a lasting impact.
Learner Mental Health Empowerment for Health Students Scholarship
Mental health is essential for students, as it encompasses all aspects of a person’s life, including academic performance, relationships, physical well-being, and overall well-being. College may be a time of excitement and opportunity for growth, but it can also be a period of great struggle. Classes, extracurriculars, leadership positions, employment, and relationships may all produce stress and strain for many students. Therefore, I think mental health should be a priority for a good, healthy college experience. As a Texas Christian University student, I have observed the importance of providing students with support networks and services that encourage mental well-being. Students who feel encouraged are better equipped to deal with stress, surmount challenges, and achieve their academic and personal goals. Mental health is as important as physical health, since both affect a person's quality of life. I promote mental health in my community by hosting open talks about stress, self-care, and seeking assistance when needed. One of the best ways I think we can improve mental health is to help get rid of the stigma that usually comes with it. Many students may be reluctant to ask for assistance due to fear of being judged or the belief that they should be able to cope with issues on their own. We can create a culture where individuals feel comfortable talking about their experiences, so that others may learn that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Through my engagement with Sigma Kappa and other campus events, I want to be someone who listens, encourages, and supports the people around me. Sometimes advocacy isn’t about heading up a big project; it’s about just checking in on a buddy, providing support during a tough time, or connecting someone with resources that might help them. The smallest gestures of kindness and empathy may actually change a person’s life. My volunteer work has highlighted the necessity of empathy and compassion. I’ve worked with organizations that support people in all sorts of situations. And I’ve learned that everyone has something going on that you may not see. This perspective drives me to engage individuals with empathy and to help build supportive societies in which people are valued and respected. Going forward, I aim to continue championing mental health through awareness, support talks, and helping people access the services they need. In my work in communications and leadership, and in my personal relationships, I want to help create spaces where mental well-being is a priority and where people feel comfortable asking for help when they need it. At the end of the day, I care about mental health because it impacts a person’s chances of succeeding academically, socially, and emotionally. I wish to help establish a community where mental health is addressed with the care and attention that it deserves by promoting empathy, encouraging open discussion, and helping people around me.
Manuela Calles Scholarship for Women
My core values include compassion, integrity, service, dedication, and respect for others. These beliefs have been influenced by my experiences as a student, volunteer, leader, and recipient of family and community support throughout my life. I believe success is not just about what we accomplish individually but how we affect those around us for the better. These values influence my decisions, they guide my goals, and they will guide the work I perform for the rest of my career. Compassion is one of the most essential virtues to me. My experience as a volunteer for organizations such as the National Charity League, Sunday Dinner With a Twist, the Phyllis Wheatley Community Center, and the Alzheimer’s Association has taught me the value of understanding and supporting people from varied backgrounds and life experiences. Compassion helps us connect with others, see what they are going through, and respond with empathy rather than judgment. I think that compassion, whether in mental health or business, is the key to developing trust, sustaining meaningful connections, and creating settings where people feel appreciated and supported. Another virtue that greatly impacts my approach to work is integrity. I believe in honesty, accountability, and ethics in personal and professional contexts. In every field, people rely on practitioners to make responsible judgments and speak honestly. In mental health, integrity helps to build trust between professionals and the people they serve. Integrity in business produces ethical leaders, transparency, and long-term success. I want to be the person whom people can rely on and trust, no matter my position. Service is also a core value of mine. I have always thought that everyone has an obligation to give back to their community in some form. Through my experiences as a volunteer, I have learned how rewarding it is to devote time and energy to helping others. This dedication to service will guide my future career as I pursue opportunities to effect good change, help those in need, and create stronger communities. I aim to use my abilities to make a difference, whether I am in a nonprofit, commercial environment, or working in the community.” Determination has been essential to my academic and personal development. Obstacles and defeats are unavoidable, but I have learned that tenacity and drive are frequently the keys to success. As a Communication Studies major at Texas Christian University, I have developed strong problem-solving and communication skills that help me navigate challenges and continue working toward my objectives. Perseverance is crucial in both mental health and business, as significant development often demands patience, resilience, and a readiness to learn from obstacles. These ideals will be the framework for my job, guiding my approach to each opportunity with empathy, honesty, and a desire to assist others. Whether I go into business, media, nonprofit work, or something that allows me to support mental health advocacy, I want my work to do good for the people and communities around me. I am devoted to my beliefs and wish to develop meaningful connections, contribute to ethical and responsible enterprises, and help create settings where people feel valued, encouraged, and empowered to thrive.
Future Green Leaders Scholarship
In every profession, sustainability must be prioritized, since the actions we take today have a clear influence on future generations. I am a major in Communication Studies and believe that communication professionals play an important role in advancing sustainability by educating the public, raising awareness of environmental concerns, and encouraging individuals and businesses to adopt more responsible behaviors. Environmental conservation may not seem like it has much to do with communication, but it’s typically good messaging and public participation that make the real impact. Sustainability is crucial for several reasons, including the fact that environmental concerns such as climate change, pollution, resource depletion, and waste are affecting communities worldwide. Communication specialists are the backbone of businesses, organizations, governments, and educational institutions that must communicate information, develop public trust, and mobilize action. Even the strongest sustainability programs may fail to gain support or have a lasting impact without clear, effective communication. Communication acts as a bridge between scientific research, governmental decisions, and everyday actions, helping make complex environmental challenges more accessible and addressable to people. While I have been in school at Texas Christian University, I have become more aware of how corporations use communication strategies to shape public opinion and behavior. Communication professionals may promote sustainable behaviors on a grand scale, whether they design marketing campaigns, execute public relations initiatives, manage social media outreach, or develop community engagement programs. They can help firms communicate their environmental aims, motivate responsible consumption, and build deeper bonds with populations affected by environmental challenges. I aim to work in public relations, nonprofit communications, or community outreach in the future, using my abilities for companies focused on sustainability and social responsibility. I would love to work on creating campaigns that educate people about environmental concerns and inspire them to make modest changes that can add up to a big effect. For example, communication campaigns might encourage recycling, waste reduction, energy saving, and involvement in community sustainability efforts. I also think that communication practitioners are committed to openness and accountability. As customers become increasingly concerned about environmental issues, firms need to be honest in communicating their sustainability initiatives. I want to help firms communicate the right information, build trust with stakeholders, and demonstrate their commitment to reducing environmental impact. This way, I get to help push sustainability as a long-term concern for businesses and organizations, not just a marketing trend. Beyond my career aspirations, I intend to adopt sustainable habits in my own life and inspire others to do the same. Leadership begins with personal accountability. I think people can make a difference through everyday decisions. I wish to contribute to creating a culture of environmental stewardship by supporting ecologically responsible companies, cutting waste, and promoting sustainable practices. Sustainability should always be top of mind. Protecting the environment is vital to the health of current and future generations. I aspire to use the power of storytelling, education, and community participation to help companies and individuals make informed decisions to reduce their environmental footprint and build a more sustainable future for all.
STLF Memorial Pay It Forward Scholarship
One of the most impactful ways I've given back to my community has been through my volunteer work with organizations that support individuals and families in need. I have been part of several volunteer projects, but one experience that stands out to me was assisting with organizing and supporting community outreach initiatives through Sunday Dinner With a Twist, a nonprofit organization committed to aiding individuals facing homelessness and food poverty. I worked with this charity to help serve meals, arrange supplies, and aid with outreach activities. This organization gave more than just food; it offered encouragement and a personal touch for individuals going through difficult times. This event showed me that volunteering is much more than just fulfilling a chore. It’s about knowing the dignity of each individual and taking the time to create real relationships. Serving food gave me the opportunity to engage with community people from many various backgrounds and hear their experiences. These interactions reminded me that everyone has issues, even if they are not obvious to the world, and that compassion goes a long way. Something as simple as sharing a meal, offering a smile, or taking the time to listen can make someone feel appreciated and supported. In addition to my work with Sunday Dinner With a Twist, I have volunteered via the National Charity League, the Phyllis Wheatley Community Center, and the Alzheimer’s Association. These experiences have provided me with opportunities to get involved in educational assistance programs, community service projects, fundraising initiatives, and event planning. Whether aiding children with academic enrichment, preparing materials for community events, or supporting charitable activities, I learned the significance of being dependable, adaptive, and eager to serve where the need was greatest. These volunteer experiences have taught me that leadership is not about a title or position. Instead, leadership by service is about putting the needs of others ahead of your own and utilizing your talents and abilities to make a big difference. Some of the greatest leaders I have met are the people behind the curtain, helping their communities without wanting any acclaim. They walk the talk, display empathy, and inspire through their deeds, not their words. My leadership experiences have also gone beyond volunteering. As the Director of Facility Management for my Sigma Kappa chapter at Texas Christian University, I have been responsible for maintaining and fostering a pleasant living environment for my fellow members. This work has enhanced my organizational, communication, and problem-solving abilities and has further solidified the significance of assisting others. Good leadership demands accountability, cooperation, and a commitment to contribute to the success of the greater community. Leadership via service matters because it starts a ripple effect of good change. When people choose to help others, they inspire those around them to get engaged and make a difference as well. Stronger communities are built by individuals who are willing to give their time, talents, and energy to help others thrive. Service-centered leadership also cultivates empathy, understanding, and collaboration, skills crucial to solving many of the difficulties communities confront today. My volunteer work and leadership experiences have taught me that significant change frequently begins with simple efforts. Whether it's cooking a meal, mentoring a student, planning an event, or supporting a nonprofit organization, every act of service can touch someone's life in a positive way. These experiences have impacted my dedication to community service and reaffirmed my opinion that leadership is most impactful when it is built on compassion, humility, and a genuine desire to serve others.
Future Nonprofit Leaders Award
Throughout my life, I have been lucky to be supported by family, educators, mentors, and community groups. Having been adopted from China as a baby, I know firsthand how much it can mean to people when people and organizations give their time, money, and kindness to help others. This knowledge has shaped my beliefs and driven me to seek a job where I can make a real impact on others through service, advocacy, and communication. I am a Communication Studies major at Texas Christian University. I have a love for building relationships, connecting people, and using communication as a vehicle for positive change. I have realized that communication is the core of any successful organization, especially non-profits. Whether an organization is promoting awareness, recruiting volunteers, getting funds, or offering support to people in need, good communication helps convert a purpose into real action. I’ve been fortunate to get volunteer experience with the National Charity League, Sunday Dinner With a Twist, the Phyllis Wheatley Community Center, and the Alzheimer’s Association, which has further bolstered my interest in the nonprofit sector. In these encounters, I have worked with individuals who are devoted to helping their communities and solving major societal concerns. I have witnessed the impact that even a small act of service can have, whether it is delivering meals, mentoring kids, arranging resources, or assisting families impacted by sickness, which can change someone’s life forever. These events taught me that meaningful change typically begins with little acts of kindness and a dedication to serving others. I love the nonprofit sector because it allows me to utilize my communication abilities and my desire to serve others. My specific interests include nonprofit marketing, public relations, and community outreach, as these are the ways organizations can reach supporters and amplify their impact. “I love storytelling, and I believe that telling real stories can inspire people to take action on causes that matter. By helping organizations convey their message more effectively, I can increase awareness, build community collaborations, and inspire people to make a difference. I aim to work for an organization in education, youth development, adoption advocacy, or community outreach. I have been blessed with the opportunities others have given me, and I want to help create the same opportunities for future generations. I want to support initiatives that empower people, improve families, and provide services for those who are struggling. “I also want to advocate for communities that are often overlooked and make sure their stories are heard. My career is more than just professional accomplishment, and it is my ultimate goal. I want it to be about generating chances, connecting, and making people feel supported and respected. I wish to combine my education in Communication Studies with my dedication to service to contribute to organizations that produce a lasting positive change and make a real impact in the communities they serve. I hope my work inspires others to get engaged, give back, and realize the power they have to impact the lives of others around them.
Gracie Haley Student Profile | Bold.org