In this day and age, women’s empowerment means a lot of things - and thank goodness. One of the most driven, successful, and uplifting women I know is my own mother, which is how I start with introducing myself. My mother homeschooled all of my siblings, including myself, as the seventh child in the lineup of eight. I have always been ambitious and a natural-born leader, and although I previously had aspirations of attending law school in the future, I developed a newfound dream of becoming a high school teacher. My goal has never been notoriety, excess money, or “power,” but an innate desire to have a positive impact in what ever field I chose, particularly a positive impact on the people I cater towards in my respective field. I have heard so many peers talk about the significance certain teachers played in the shaping of their character, aspirations, and their lives as a whole and I hope to be that person for someone in the future, which is where my dream of being a teacher started. Last spring I also participated in a week-long mission trip with my school where I spent my week-long spring break trip in Los Angeles, putting on middle school retreats during the day and doing homeless ministry at night. Correspondingly, this experience shaped how I interact with strangers and has honestly inspired me to treat the homeless individuals in communities near my home with more love and intentionality. One of the most impactful moments of that trip was when one of the seventh grade girls from the retreats confided in me over something that was troubling her, in which I walked her through processing it and she came to much greater peace and love through our conversation. I left the week with a body full of new experiences, a heart full of love, and a sweet little note from this girl thanking me for being a listening ear. As I start my last year of college, I will be the assistant coordinator of my sorority (called “households” at Franciscan University) which I was voted to become. I look forward to this position as it will enable me to grow in not only deeper service to the women in the community, but also grow in ways and strategies to empower and uplift them in order to create the most loving and welcoming atmosphere. I hope to incorporate my favorite things about being a woman and those gifts that are innate to us: tenderness, receptivity, communication, sweetness, and beauty.

When I reflected on this prompt, I immediately broke it down to three different parts in order to thoroughly and honestly answer this question. These three parts are what I’ve done in service to others, that has shaped my motivations and where I have come from. Next, what I am currently doing, and how I am embracing and making the most of my current circumstances. Lastly, what I am going to do and the steps I have laid out to achieve them. Throughout college, I have participated in multiple ministries, including volunteering to be part of a music ministry team at religious services at the university all six semesters. I have always felt a certain responsibility to give back when I am aware of my certain gifts, in this case, the gift of singing. Being a part of music ministry has helped me pour out my love for God and my voice for others so that through me they can have a more uplifting experience. I have volunteered at a Mission House in downtown Steubenville that aims to encounter the poor in the area and make them feel seen and loved. By serving them snacks and having intentional conversations with the people who come, I learned a different perspective on what it means to approach everyone with love and kindness, no matter where they come from. I also participated in a week-long mission trip where I spent my spring break in Los Angeles, putting on middle school retreats during the day and homeless ministry at night. This experience shaped how I interact with strangers and has inspired me to treat the homeless individuals in communities near my home with more love and intentionality. This includes the times where I have intentionally eaten a portion of my meals in restaurants in order to give the rest to homeless men or women that I encounter after I leave. I currently work as a teacher’s aide at a preschool for children with various degrees of special needs. Although I am working out of necessity, in order to pay my way through college and minimize student loans as much as possible, I have truly viewed this job as an opportunity to serve these children. All of them come from different circumstances, different family situations, and every day that I go to work I try to make a conscious effort to make them feel loved - something I am not even sure they receive from their own families. Just last week I received the sweetest smile from a little boy with severe autism that made my whole day and still affects and motivates me to love better. When I am not working, I come home and usually babysit my nieces and nephews. I see how hard my siblings work and create such loving environments for their children, that I love to give them an opportunity for a date night, or just simple relaxation, while spending time with my cute little nieces and nephews. I have many plans lined up: to continue to volunteer with opportunities that my school presents, to serve as assistant coordinator of my household at Franciscan (a household is the religious equivalent to a sorority), and to hopefully secure a volunteering opportunity at the local middle school or high school. I have learned that the essence of leadership is servitude. Thus, as a natural-born leader and someone who is loyal to their morals and principles, I hope to always humbly put serving others above all else in my life. For as Francis of Assisi said, “it is in giving that we receive.”

“Music is the universal language of mankind.” This past fall I had the immense privilege of spending a semester abroad with my university in a little town in Europe called Gaming, Austria. As I reflected on the entire experience when I returned home to New York in December, one of the biggest things that struck me was that I publicly sang in almost every country that I traveled to. From singing Irish songs in Irish pubs, traditional hymns in a Basilica in Vienna, leading music during a spontaneous church service in Greece, and many more, I found such consolation in the connections and bonds I formed with various strangers all through the power of my singing voice. No matter the language, music has a power to unify and uplift a group of people and make them feel a part of something bigger. I have never seen so many college-age men come so close to tears other than when one of the nuns I did music ministry with sang Bach’s Ave Maria during a Catholic Mass. Regardless of their lack of knowledge of Latin, the beauty of the song and the understood message of it lent towards its sublimity. I have never felt so bonded with strangers other than when I have sung for my school’s “coffeehouse” singing events. That is because no one can be a bystander when it comes to music - it is a communal participation in something that truly points higher. Music has the power to be something so sublime - so awe-inspiring. My two year old nephew watched the new Wicked movie sitting on my lap, and as the last act ended with the hit number, “Defying Gravity,” he sat there gaping at the television, begging us to replay the song. He barely understands English and definitely could not make out the words she was saying, but the power and the sublimity communicated by her voice and by the music was enough to impress and impact even a two year old. Last Spring I attended a symphony that was based upon Dante’s Diving Comedy, composed by Franz Liszt. It amazed me to see how apparent how the music represented each circle of hell so clearly, as well as the transition from the terrors of hell to the sanctifying fires of purgatory. Lastly, the symphony ended with the choir joining to sing The Magnificat, because Liszt did not believe that a human could compose a musical number that could replicate the immensity of the celestial choirs. The language of music is universal: it takes down barriers, it authentically connects to individuals at their core, and it allows each of us to experience something that is beyond and bigger than any of us.

@__graciewalker

One of the biggest things I have struggled with throughout the past few years is anxiety. I used to never get anxiety, and if I did it was normal - butterflies before a big event. My anxiety has almost been crippling to a certain degree; but throughout the past few years, as my anxiety has gotten worse, I have also found ways to minimize this anxiety. The first outlet I discovered is through singing. I have been singing throughout my entire life, but only recently have I been consistently involved with musical endeavors. My biggest endeavor has been performing as the female lead, Audrey, in Little Shop of Horrors in a local High School production. In the midst of the preparation for it, I began experiencing a lot of stress and have confided in my sister-in-law, who is a school counselor, about this struggle. I explained to her that I am not actually nervous when I sing, but only in anticipation of it. Through this conversation, I learned that breathing techniques that relieve stress are very similar to the breathing techniques I use for singing. It was at that moment that she explained to me stress-relieving breathing techniques that a lightbulb went off in my head: singing helps reduce my anxiety. The second outlet is through crocheting. I started crocheting a few years ago for recreational purposes, but it quickly turned out to be something that I found therapeutic. According to a study by the University of Wollongong, crocheting helped people relax by 85%, decrease stress by 81%, and decrease anxiety by 57%. So instead of wasting my time watching TV or watching Youtube, I am productive and I crochet while I do so. It has helped me during school-related videos and lectures to not only retain focus but has also helped decrease my anxiety. Self-care for me means taking care of yourself to help others. I wanted to reduce my stress to instead focus my efforts on helping other people in my life. Singing and crocheting are just a couple of my outlets but both have been great resources to help alleviate my anxiety. It is a win-win situation because I can bring joy to others through singing and giving others gifts I crocheted. This has impacted my life tremendously as I have learned to grow in generosity and use my time efficiently all while contributing to a healthier mental state.

Throughout my life, I have sung in various musical productions and special events. My family is very musically inclined, so I have grown up with so much love surrounding music. Thus, singing has always been important to me, especially in these past ten months when I began to dedicate my time to improving my voice and range. Because of all my hard work, I landed the lead in a local boy's high school musical production. Within that time, I also decided on minoring in Music Ministry this fall. I learned recently from my sister-in-law, who is a school counselor, that breathing techniques that relieve stress are very similar to the breathing techniques I use for singing. It was at that moment that she explained to me stress-relieving breathing techniques that a lightbulb went off in my head: singing helps reduce my anxiety. After realizing this, I have often taken advantage of this and when I cannot clear my head, I usually resort to music and singing. Another reason why I love singing is how I can use my talents to bring joy to others. One of my favorite things is to sing in front of people and to hear how they loved listening to me. Not because I thirst for affirmation or something to boost my ego; but because it truly is humbling to know that you can bring someone joy or hope through a song. Recently I have also joined in singing for various Christian events and it is so uplifting to know that you could be helping bring others closer to God. Singing is more than a hobby to me - it is a part of me. I believe that God gave us our hobbies and interests so that we may use them in some way to bring love and joy to our communities. Our hobbies, our interests, and our gifts are things that make us all unique and the world beautiful, and when we use them to the fullness of their purpose, they subsequently will bring us so much joy. Although I have goals to become an attorney in the future, I still plan on fostering this passion of mine throughout my life, even if it is not completely relevant to my actual career. This fall, I plan to minor in Music Ministry so I can take an active initiative to pursue this goal. I am minoring in Music Ministry in particular because I want to not only use my voice to minister to others but also raise my voice in praise to God while doing so.

The philosopher, Augustine of Hippo, once said: "Take care of your body as if you were going to live forever, and take care of your soul as if you were going to die tomorrow." These wise words give a clear guideline for the answer to the question. "Take care of your body as if you were going to live forever..." It seems rather redundant to reiterate what we were all taught by our parents or health class instructor: eat healthy foods, avoid sugar, drink lots of water - but the importance of emphasizing these tips cannot be oversaid. Drinking enough water a day helps your energy levels, metabolism, and kidneys among many other health benefits. Exercising, getting enough vitamins, and sleeping the recommended amount are also key in supplying your body with the stamina to live longer. "...Take care of your soul as if you were going to die tomorrow." Positivity has been proven to help your immune system, so it seems practical to take the latter part of the philosopher's advice when addressing this topic. Live as if you had to make as much positive impact as you possibly could throughout your day. Be kind, give generously, love endlessly. Leave your surroundings a happier place than when you found them. In short, loving and taking care of your body and loving and taking care of others is the absolute best way to live a long, healthy life.

"Pay yourself first." This is the first thing my father told me when he was trying to convince me to invest money in stocks as a high schooler. He explained, "when you receive a check, pay yourself first then your necessities." What he means by "pay yourself first," is that you should put away money to invest - pay "yourself" so that through time, your money will start to work for you. I believe more people should be taught this. It never would have occurred to me that I should invest money, that the money I would invest would double and triple in amount by the age of 65. My father has become so passionate about me and my brother investing our money from an early age because as someone who is nearing the age of retirement, he does not have enough funds to be able to do so. He does not want us to be in the same boat as him. Even if it is just a small amount, do not forget to "pay yourself first." We live in a world of instant gratification, but in the long run, investing money now will obtain a considerable payoff for your future self.

One of the biggest things I have struggled with throughout the past few years is anxiety. I used to never get anxiety, and if I did it was normal - butterflies before a big event. My anxiety has almost been crippling to a certain degree; but throughout the past few years, as my anxiety has gotten worse, I have also found ways to minimize this anxiety. The first outlet I discovered is through singing. I have been singing throughout my entire life, but only recently have I been consistently involved with musical endeavors. My biggest endeavor has been performing as the female lead, Audrey, in Little Shop of Horrors in a local High School production. In the midst of the preparation for it, I began experiencing a lot of stress and have confided in my sister-in-law, who is a school counselor, about this struggle. I explained to her that I am not actually nervous when I sing, but only in anticipation of it. Through this conversation, I learned that breathing techniques that relieve stress are very similar to the breathing techniques I use for singing. It was at that moment that she explained to me stress-relieving breathing techniques that a lightbulb went off in my head: singing helps reduce my anxiety. The second outlet is through crocheting. I started crocheting a few years ago for recreational purposes, but it quickly turned out to be something that I found therapeutic. According to a study by the University of Wollongong, crocheting helped people relax by 85%, decrease stress by 81%, and decrease anxiety by 57%. So instead of wasting my time watching TV or watching Youtube, I am productive and I crochet while I do so. It has helped me during school-related videos and lectures to not only retain focus but has also helped decrease my anxiety. Self-care for me means taking care of yourself to help others. I wanted to reduce my stress to instead focus my efforts on helping other people in my life. Singing and crocheting are just a couple of my outlets but both have been great resources to help alleviate my anxiety. It is a win-win situation because I can bring joy to others through singing and giving others gifts I crocheted. This has impacted my life tremendously as I have learned to grow in generosity and use my time efficiently all while contributing to a healthier mental state.

If I were to win $1,000 right now I would put it towards my education. This fall I am attending Franciscan University of Steubenville to pursue a Major in Political Science and a Minor in Music Ministry. As someone who has to solely pay the tuition for my college education, I am trying my hardest to apply for as many scholarships as I possibly can and work a job to pay off as much of my tuition so I will not be as crippled by student loans in the future. The grand that I would receive if winning this scholarship would make a huge difference for me financially and I would be so grateful. I wish I could spend it on something exciting - a backpacking trip around Europe or a car trip to the Grand Canyon - but unfortunately, I have a more pressing need for my tuition and my education.

Booker T. Washington once said, "Those who are happiest are those who do the most for others." Likewise, I have experienced this same joy after a day spent helping others in my community. Being a Christian also reinforces in me the idea that everyone needs to do their part in strengthening the bond of communities. Growing up homeschooled and being around my seven siblings all the time taught me how to work as a team, pick up my own slack, and fill in gaps that my other siblings might have created. For the past estimated ten years, my mom has organized a group of kids every Tuesday in the summer to volunteer at a soup kitchen/poverty center called Response to Love; and when I graduated eighth grade and was old enough to, I started going as well. This consisted of either working in the food kitchen serving the people in the community, working in the thrift shops, organizing bags to give to people in the food pantry, or most recently, helping out with the paperwork for the organizer. Volunteering has inspired a desire to help people not only in my free time volunteering but also in my career. As a lawyer, I want to help people and change their lives for the better. I want to potentially make changes in policies to minimize the lower class and make those who are not born with as many opportunities feel worthy and empower them. But I know I cannot do that just by myself, which is what makes it so important for people to work together. As Helen Keller said, "Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much."

Joy is one of the greatest human virtues. But how is joy different from happiness? Happiness is merely a feeling - joy is an active choice. To become a joyful person you have to habitually choose optimism in your words and in your actions and look for the joy in others. As a Christian, I truly believe every single human being was made in the image and likeness of God. Thus, as a Christian, we are called to look for the goodness in every person. I once heard from somebody that when we see beauty, we should call it out. Helping others and being kind are two great ways of creating a joyful life because joy does not come solely from yourself, but from the love of God shared between you and God or your neighbor. What I mean by this is that joy by nature is not a one-party feeling but a two-sided choice between you and another. I find happiness when I buy myself an ice cream cone, but I find joy when I treat my little brother to one. I find happiness when I obtain goals I set for myself, but I find joy when others empower me to do so. Joy is not something you bottle up and keep to yourself; joy is something you share until you think you have nothing else to give because joy does not divide - joy multiplies and blossoms.

I have had so many memories of days that stand out as the most exciting in my life, including family weddings, trips, and events. As I go off to college this fall and think of all the memories I am thankful for, it is not only these big, crazy events but the small details. I will miss babysitting my one-year-old niece, Maeve, and five-month-old nephew, Maximilian and I am so happy I have had the opportunity to do so. The quick and selfless smiles they give me and kissing their chubby faces. I will miss antique shopping with my parents, listening to and sharing tastes in old music with my dad, and the long conversations I have with my mom on a daily basis. As much as I hate to admit it, I will miss the constant teasing I endure from my brother and brothers-in-law, the constant back-and-forth of jokes and sarcasm. I will miss the constant sisterly bonding I share with my two sisters in the area and my sister-in-law. I know that big, exciting events are going to happen again, but you never know when the little things will change. I already miss the blunt, sweet humor of my nana who recently passed away. Her common expression "oh my heavens" will forever bring a smile to my face and a tear to my eye when I think of it. When I am old and look back at my life I will not only be grateful for the big, exciting, once-in-a-lifetime opportunities I have and will receive, but the little things - the details, that will contribute to a fulfilled life.

I have had so many memories of days that stand out as the most exciting in my life, including family weddings, trips, and events. As I go off to college this fall and think of all the things I will miss, it is not these big, crazy events, but the small details. I will miss babysitting my one-year-old niece, Maeve, and five-month-old nephew, Maximilian. The quick and selfless smiles they give me and kissing their chubby faces. I will miss antique shopping with my parents, listening to and sharing tastes in old music with my dad, and the long conversations I have with my mom on a daily basis. As much as I hate to admit it, I will miss the constant teasing I endure from my brother and brothers-in-law, the constant back-and-forth of jokes and sarcasm. I will miss the constant sisterly bonding I share with my two sisters in the area and my sister-in-law. I know that big, exciting events are going to happen again, but you never know when the little things will change. I already miss the blunt, sweet humor of my nana who recently passed away. Her common expression "oh my heavens" will forever bring a smile to my face and a tear to my eye when I think of it. It is not the grand things you do in life, but the small things - the memories, and pleasures, are no exception.

Ever since I was younger, I have loved collecting antiques and decorating my room with them. If you gave me the option of a new decoration versus something old and worn, I would choose the latter. Only recently did I realize something: we need to start appreciating the old in order to move forward. We need to appreciate the earth, and how old and beautiful it is, we need to appreciate old antiques we can repurpose. We need to rejuvenate and work with what we have. For the past three years, I have formed a hobby of crocheting. Most of the yarn that I own I purchased, or others for me, from a yard sale. As I am currently making a project from scraps from reused and recycled yarn, I am constantly reminded of how important it is to rejuvenate and work with what I have. As the youngest girl in my family and with many older girl cousins, I am used to getting hand-me-downs. Now that I have a job and also the responsibility of buying my own clothes, I understand the importance of hand-me-downs and thrifted clothes from a financial and environmental perspective. Every time I wear my sister’s blouse, or my cousin’s skirt, I truly appreciate how I’ve rejuvenated and worked with what I was given. In order to make a change, we need people to do the big things, such as leading environmental awareness rallies, but we also need everyone to do the little things. This is what I do.

Starting last year, I have experienced several changes in my life, including becoming more responsible, financially and emotionally, I have experienced having other people's lives rest on my abilities, I have learned how to invest in my future by spending time diligently applying to colleges and excelling academically, discovering and exercising my maternal tendencies in babysitting, and I have discovered and nurtured talents I will use throughout my life and career. All are good, positive, areas of change in my life, but what is the drive behind it? Everything I do, I like to do for a purpose: if I watch a movie, I want it to benefit my character or fuel hopes, or give me a chance to see someone else's perspective. If I take a class in school, I want to focus on them so I can utilize the skills I learn in the career I choose. If I spend money, I want to spend it on something that I know will benefit me in the long run. Life is so short, but we only have one. I don't want to waste my life stuck in a pattern that doesn't benefit my soul or the people around me. I want to grow and learn and change to become the best version of myself, so I can do all I can to leave the world a better place than I found it. So I can reach my tilos.

Perfectionism, bossiness, control-freak; are all terms to describe how I lived. I never played poker - gambling plastic coins was far too risky. Every year, I loved going on roller coaster rides that were not too daring - that gave me just the right amount of butterflies, but not too much. But, my adventurous friends were never satisfied with the “boring” rides and inevitably ended up going on the scariest rides the park had to offer. So when my friend said, "You’re going on this ride with me!” My sun-tanned face whitened at his remark. But despite my stubbornness, he finally convinced me to at least get in the grueling 30-minute line. “God said to John, ‘come forth, and you shall inherit eternal life.’ But John came fifth and won a toaster,” I joked to my friend, trying to take my mind off of my sweaty palms and uneasy demeanor. I could not decide which was worse - closing my eyes or opening them and seeing the entire amusement park as if it were pocket-sized. My incessant need for control nagged at me because of how useless I was in this situation. After multiple corny dad jokes and a couple of prayers, we reached the peak of the 205-foot drop of the Ride of Steel, and within two seconds that felt like forever, the roller coaster plummeted downward. Within seconds of the estimated 3-minute ride, I shot my arms up in the arm and screamed - not because I felt fearful, but because I felt fearless. I learned a difficult but valuable lesson that day: it is good to take risks; it is okay not to be in control. I learned that to acquire something, in my case, courage, you had to let go.

One of the most frequent compliments I get - and am always humbled by - is when people tell me how I am consistently myself. I have heard it from an array of people and I am always taken aback by it. I am surprised because it is something I always struggled with. Whether I was with my close family, friends, distant relatives, or new acquaintances, I always struggled with maintaining a confident, friendly exterior, when on the inside, I felt small and nondescript. However, last year, I had an epiphany: what is the use of my life if I am not focusing everything I do unto a greater good, or in other words, lifting all of who I am and what I do unto God? This began with changing my mentality - I had to form my thoughts to revolve around God and goodness. This is most certainly an ongoing, forever process. Then, I had to start speaking my mind. Once I began to curate my thoughts and ideas to align with a high standard of morality, it became easy for me to speak my mind - because who cares if I embarrass myself or push buttons if I do it for the will of God? It is good to speak your mind when you are standing up for yourself or others, if you are spreading love and joy, or if you want to make a positive change. We need more people who are committed to not only speaking their mind but doing it for the greater good.

One of the most frequent compliments I get - and am always humbled by - is when people tell me how I am consistently myself. I have heard it from an array of people and I am always taken aback by it. I am surprised because it is something I always struggled with. Whether I was with my close family, friends, distant relatives, or new acquaintances, I always struggled with maintaining a confident, friendly exterior, when on the inside, I felt small and nondescript. However, last year, I had an epiphany: what is the use of my life if I am not focusing everything I do unto a greater good, or in other words, lifting all of who I am and what I do unto God? This began with changing my mentality - I had to form my thoughts to revolve around God and goodness. This is most certainly an ongoing, forever process. Then, I had to start speaking my mind. Once I began to curate my thoughts and ideas to align with a high standard of morality, it became easy for me to speak my mind - because who cares if I embarrass myself or push buttons if I do it for the will of God? It is good to speak your mind when you are standing up for yourself or others, if you are spreading love and joy, or if you want to make a positive change. We need more people who are committed to not only speaking their mind but doing it for the greater good.

"Question your 'whys' and make sure everything you do, you do for a greater good." I would choose this sentence because I think it encapsulates what everyone should be trying to do with their lives. Not only should we strive to do things that WE think are good, but we should be striving for things that are ACTUALLY good. Imagine a world full of churches filled with people who know why they are there and want to be there, politicians who actually have your back, and friends who have a good, true reason for being your friend. Once we start questioning the intentions behind each of our actions, it will become a habit. Once we differentiate between what we think is the better decision, and what, in the long run, actually is the better decision, it will become second nature. Once more people catch on to this idea, our lives will be more poignant and meaningful instead of wasteful and worthless.

One of the biggest things I have struggled with throughout the past few years is anxiety. I used to never get anxiety, and if I did it was normal; like butterflies before a big event. My anxiety has almost been crippling to a certain degree. But "almost" is the keyword here. Throughout the past few years, as my anxiety has gotten worse, I have also found outlets to minimize this anxiety. The first is through singing. I learned recently from my sister-in-law, who is a school counselor, that breathing techniques that relieve stress are very similar to the breathing techniques I use for singing. It was at that moment that she explained to me stress-relieving breathing techniques that a lightbulb went off in my head: singing helps reduce my anxiety. The second is through crocheting. According to a study by the University of Wollongong, crocheting helped people relax by 85%, decrease stress by 81%, and decrease anxiety by 57%. So instead of wasting my time watching TV or watching Youtube, I decided to be productive and crochet while I do so. Self-care for me means taking care of yourself to help others. I wanted to reduce my stress to instead focus my efforts on helping other people in my life. Singing and crocheting are just a couple of my outlets but have been great resources to help relieve my anxiety. It is a win-win situation because I can bring joy to others through singing and giving others gifts I crocheted. This has impacted my life tremendously as I have learned to grow in generosity and use my time efficiently.

Ever since seventh grade, I have had a strong desire to pursue law and leadership roles. I have built this passion through listening to podcasts, reading books, or spending hours researching a particular topic. This hobby has fostered a deeper appreciation for my country and inspired me to pursue a career directly involved in the law. Law school for most people seems like a hefty pursuit, as law school is notorious for being extremely challenging. I have always had an affinity for learning, and am someone who relies on preparation; thus throughout my high school years, I have spent much effort in honing my skills and my intellect in order to be prepared for what I might meet in the future. I am also in the process of completing 27 credits worth of community college classes, as well as being a part of a Mock Trial club. I want to become a lawyer so I can represent those who are innocent and get involved with laws that would help boost the quality of life in America. I want to be a voice for the voiceless and contribute to a higher standard of morals within the sphere of the law and politics.

Throughout my life, I have sung in various musical productions and special events. Singing has always been important to me, especially in these past ten months when I began to dedicate my time to improving my voice and range. Because of all my hard work, I landed the lead in a local boy's high school musical production. Within that time, I also decided on minoring in Music Ministry this fall. I love singing because I can utilize this talent to bring joy to others. One of my favorite things is to sing in front of people and to hear how they loved listening to me. Not because I thirst for affirmation or something to boost my ego; but because it truly is humbling to know that you can bring someone joy or hope through a song. Singing is not only a bonding experience between you and your audience, but also it is one with fellow singers. I grew up in a very musically inclined family and have enjoyed multiple occasions where I have sung with my family members. I have always loved doing that, and I look forward to June when my brother and I will be singing at a friend's wedding. Singing is more than a hobby to me - it is a part of me. I believe that God gave us our hobbies and interests so that we may use them in some way to bring love and joy to our communities. Our hobbies, our interests, our gifts, are things that make us all unique and the world beautiful, and when we use them to the fullness of their purpose, they subsequently will bring us so much joy.

My biggest motivation is my goals for what I want for myself in the future. In the future, I want to be helping others through my occupation. I want to become a lawyer so I can represent those who are innocent and get involved with laws that would help boost the quality of life in America. I want to be a voice for the voiceless and contribute to a higher standard of morals within the sphere of the law and politics. In the future, I want to be helping others through my vocation. I want to be a mother and a wife when I grow up. Not only a biological mother but also someone whom others can look to for guidance or as a model of kindness and charity. I want to live a life that reflects the beauty of my own childhood and be able to give my children the loving experience that I have gone through. In the future, I want to be helping others through even my hobbies. I wish to continue to sing and perform and bring others joy through doing so. I want to share my talents with my friends and family and with everyone I come across. I want everything I do to be a reflection of God's infinite love for everyone - that is what my dream life looks like.

History and Politics are two of my favorite subjects. Ergo, it is unsurprising that my favorite book, one that not only interested me enough to truly enjoy reading but also taught me a lot about those two interests, is George Orwell's Animal Farm. Before reading this book, I had a vague idea of what Communism or Socialism was, the differences between the revolt leaders, or what the governmental system looked like in Russia during the Russian Revolution in 1917. In a Freshman year Literature class at a homeschool cooperative, the teacher assigned us the book Animal Farm. Off the bat, I judged the plain book cover and assumed it would be extremely dull. But alas, "never judge a book by its cover," and I was nearly a chapter in, and I could not put it down. I have read many books in my life, yet I have never come across any book with the same level of creativity as George Orwell in his anecdotal story of using farm animals to simplify the complex matters of Communism in Russia. I have always loved classic, heartwarming books, such as the Anne of Green Gables series or Jane Austin romance novels. Yet none exceed the fondness I have for Animal Farm. Animal Farm is my favorite book because it checks all the boxes: knowledge of political systems and historical figures, the resonation of a complex philosophy, and it retains its amusement and intrigue. This book has also furthered my interest in pursuing Law and deepened my understanding of history and politics.

Starting last year, I have experienced several changes in my life, including becoming more responsible, financially and emotionally, I have experienced having other people's lives rest on my abilities, I have learned how to invest in my future by spending time diligently applying to colleges and excelling academically, discovering and exercising my maternal tendencies in babysitting, and I have discovered and nurtured talents I will use throughout my life and career. All are good, positive, areas of change in my life, but what is the drive behind it? Everything I do, I like to do for a purpose: if I watch a movie, I want it to benefit my character or fuel hopes, or give me a chance to see someone else's perspective. If I take a class in school, I want to focus on them so I can utilize the skills I learn in the career I choose. If I spend money, I want to spend it on something that I know will benefit me in the long run. Life is so short, but we only have one. I don't want to waste my life stuck in a pattern that doesn't benefit my soul or the people around me. I want to grow and learn and change to become the best version of myself, so I can do all I can to leave the world a better place than I found it. So I can reach my tilos. The only way to keep yourself from going backward is by going forward.

One of the biggest things I have struggled with throughout the past few years is anxiety. I used to never get anxiety, and if I did it was normal; like butterflies before a big event. My anxiety has almost been crippling to a certain degree. But "almost" is the keyword here. What is optimism? According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, optimism means: "an inclination to put the most favorable construction upon actions and events or to anticipate the best possible outcome." My anxiety was almost crippling, if not for encouragement to be, and the decision to be optimistic. My mom, whom I confide in nearly everything, has always encouraged me to be optimistic, especially with regard to my anxiety. What is anxiety if not the "inclination to put the most unfavorable construction upon actions and events or to anticipate the worst possible outcome?" Staying optimistic has taught me to take things lightly. Instead of thinking, "what a terrible thing to happen to me," you instead get to think, "what are the benefits of this happening to me?" and nearly every time, you will find something. Optimism is a lot like the virtue of hope, and living life without hope is not truly living.

My dream life looks like helping others through my occupation. I want to become a lawyer so I can represent those who are innocent and get involved with law that would help boost the quality of life in America. I want to be a voice for the voiceless and contribute to a higher standard of morals within the sphere of the law and politics. My dream life looks like helping others through my vocation. I want to be a mother and a wife when I grow up. Not only a biological mother but also someone whom others can look to for guidance or as a model of kindness and charity. I want to live a life that reflects the beauty of my own childhood and be able to give my children the loving experience that I have gone through. My dream life looks like helping others through even my hobbies. I wish to continue to sing and perform and bring others joy through doing so. I want to share my talents with my friends and family, and with everyone I come across. I want everything I do to be a reflection of God's infinite love for everyone - that is what my dream life looks like.

I want my legacy to be that of love; so that when people look at my life, it can be a reflection of God's love. Throughout my entire life, I have participated in various musical endeavors, including singing for church and prayer services and musicals. Currently, I was cast as the female lead in a musical that we performed last week. In the future, I want to bring people joy through my singing and radiate confidence that can inspire others to feel the same. In the future, I also want to practice law and become more directly involved in helping the lives of others. I have built this passion through listening to podcasts, reading books, or spending hours researching a particular topic. This hobby has fostered a deeper appreciation for my country and inspired me to pursue a career directly involved in the law. Everything I do, I like to do for a purpose: if I watch a movie, I want it to benefit my character or fuel hopes, or give me a chance to see someone else's perspective. If I take a class in school, I want to focus on them so I can utilize the skills I learn in the career I choose. If I spend money, I want to spend it on something that I know will benefit me in the long run. Life is so short, but we only have one. I don't want to waste my life stuck in a pattern that doesn't benefit my soul or the people around me. I want to grow and learn and change to become the best version of myself. I want to reach my tilos and uplift others so they can reach theirs.

Throughout my entire life, I have participated in various musical endeavors, including singing for church and prayer services and musicals. Currently, I was cast as the female lead in a musical that we performed last week. In the future, I want to bring people joy through my singing and radiate confidence that can inspire others to feel the same. In the future, I also want to practice law and become more directly involved in helping the lives of others. I have built this passion through listening to podcasts, reading books, or spending hours researching a particular topic. This hobby has fostered a deeper appreciation for my country and inspired me to pursue a career directly involved in the law. Everything I do, I like to do for a purpose: if I watch a movie, I want it to benefit my character or fuel hopes, or give me a chance to see someone else's perspective. If I take a class in school, I want to focus on them so I can utilize the skills I learn in the career I choose. If I spend money, I want to spend it on something that I know will benefit me in the long run. Life is so short, but we only have one. I don't want to waste my life stuck in a pattern that doesn't benefit my soul or the people around me. I want to grow and learn and change to become the best version of myself, so I can do all I can to leave the world a better place than I found it. So I can reach my tilos and uplift others so they can find theirs.

I can't even count the number of times one of my family members have told me "patience is a virtue." Therefore, it was instilled in me at a young age that many situations would go a little smoother, be a little more productive, and end a little bit more positively with a little patience. It also didn't take me long to figure out that at the foundation of every good cause, there is a sense of patience that upholds it. This mentality is something that every person can benefit from, regardless of their stage of life and occupation. Too often do we take the easy, instantly gratifying route and less thorough, gradual, and ultimately more rewarding route. Impatience also keeps us from obtaining and living up to our potential, or even pursuing something that we might exceed at. When I was younger, I always viewed crocheting as something that required an obscene amount of patience, and at that point in my life - I didn't believe I possessed it. Until one day, I decided to try it out -I could always stop if it got too hard, right? I didn't give up. Instead, I learned a valuable lesson: how gratifying it is to be able to reap the benefits of something you worked so hard, so tirelessly, and so patiently for. Flash-forward three years, and I still love spending hours crocheting hats, blankets, washcloths, and other things to give my family and friends. Thus I learned another benefit of practicing patience: that patience is one of the best investments you could ever make.

I believe that we need to establish healthy and positive viewpoints of both sexes. We need to uphold the dignity of the lives and the differences between men and women and cherish what both can bring to the table. I believe we need to establish healthy and positive viewpoints of everyone's culture and ethnic origin. We need to uphold the dignity of the lives and differences between cultures and cherish positive characteristics that come from each. How do I support equality and diversity? By trying my best to be inclusive and kind to everyone I meet. I want to treat each individual I come across with the same amount of respect - regardless of who they are, what they look like, or where they come from. I want to do this because I know if I can look at a micro level at the world around me with kindness, I can look at the world from a macro level with wisdom and charity. As Martin Luther King Jr. said, "Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that."

"We cannot all do great things. But we can do small things with great love." -Mother Teresa. I, as well as most people in the same stage of life, always consider "how can I choose a career/life path that I can truly thrive in and do great things with?" Sometimes, it stems from pride and yearning for recognition and accolades; but other times, it is a genuine desire to leave the world a better place than what you found it. We often correlate greatness with those who succeed financially or gain the most power. Yet, when we ask ourselves whom we consider a greater person: Mother Teresa, the poorest of the poor, or Jeff Bezos, the richest man alive, reason would suggest a unanimous agreement that it would be Mother Teresa. Jeff Bezos has accomplished incredible things, but the impact that Mother Teresa had on the hearts of so many individuals is the epidemy of someone who led a great life. Life without love is meaningless and impermanent. History books will tell the significant achievements of people like Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk. But books, devotions, and hearts will bear the recognition of the accomplishments of someone like Mother Teresa. Instead of asking myself, "how can I choose a career path that I can truly thrive in and do great things with?" I ask myself, "how can I live a life, so that when I die someday, history books will not compare me to the likes of financially and worldly successful individuals, but compare me to someone like Mother Teresa?" Because someone will always do something greater than I can; whatever I choose to do with my life, I want to do it with great love.

I believe that a positive change in our education system is to enable and empower parents to be able to be more involved in their children's lives. Children need their parents - they are their primary role models. So often kids have such busy schedules throughout the school year; they get up and go to school in the morning, after school they have sports or extracurriculars, and then they get home, finish homework, then go to bed. This leaves only two days during the weekend for parent-child bonding time which is often crowded by plans with friends, sports, or catching up on sleep or relaxation. I believe that we need to establish healthy and positive viewpoints of both sexes. We need to uphold the dignity of the lives and the differences between men and women and cherish what both can bring to the table. I believe that the quality of the material needs to be better. We need to teach our kids empirically based information, we need to teach them history from a completely unbiased point of view. We need to inform them of current events and challenges from a completely scientific and reasonable - but loving - standpoint. We have to teach our future generations that emotions cannot override reason - but mercy must override judgment. I believe that instilling virtuous habits into each student, and ensuring that teachers - the kid's secondary role models - embody these virtues. Racism, sexism, and bullying would all be minimized if each child truly knew the importance of kindness. The "golden rule" is important, but often carries a cliched connotation. Teachers can not just recite words to their students - they have to teach by example. As a Christian, I firmly believe that when schools and communities perpetrate Judeo-Christian values, it tends toward a more loving atmosphere.

There are two categories of "confidence" that I think are important to identify and differentiate: confidence in your outward expressions, and inward confidence in yourself. The first, outward confidence is often what comes before inward confidence. You don't need to be a smooth talker, but rather, as the saying goes: "fake it 'til you make it." My progression of outward confidence began by minding little things like maintaining eye contact with those who are talking to you, speaking as loudly and clearly as you can, and keeping a still and intentional posture. Although you may feel overcome with nerves on the inside, others will perceive confidence from your demeanor. Once they do, you will sense that people develop a deeper sense of respect for you, and this will gradually give you the encouragement you need to develop genuine confidence. But most importantly, is inward confidence. For me, my confidence comes from God. What I mean by this is that if I am doubting decisions that I plan or have already made, as long as I root my intentions in what I believe is the right thing to do, the doubts will disappear and your confidence will strengthen. Once you take a step back and evaluate whether a decision could ultimately impact the state of your soul or the well-being of another, things that could embarrass you will seem juvenile and insignificant. I am working on my confidence through being intentional with everything I do. From my thoughts, to my words, to my actions, to my habits, and to my character, I want to have an ultimate goal to not only build up myself, but to build up others in the process.

Ever since seventh grade, I have had a strong desire to pursue law and leadership roles. I have built this passion through listening to podcasts, reading books, or spending hours researching a particular topic. This hobby has fostered a deeper appreciation for my country and inspired me to pursue a career directly involved in the law. Well, at fifteen years old, I started working at the job I still hold. As someone who has to independently pay for my college tuition, scholarships and grants are very important to me, and so I have also focused a lot of my time on applying to 120+ scholarships, on Bold.org and outside of it. I have also made sure that last year, when I took the standardized tests, namely the CLT, I received a good enough score that qualified me for the top scholarship offered by Franciscan University, the college I plan on attending this fall. Law school for most people seems like a hefty pursuit, as law school is notorious for being extremely challenging. I have always had an affinity for learning, and am someone who relies on preparation; thus throughout my high school years, I have spent much effort in honing my skills and my intellect in order to be prepared for what I might meet in the future. I am also in the process of completing 27 credits worth of community college classes, as well as being a part of a Mock Trial club. I want to make a positive difference in this world and use my education and abilities as tools to do everything possible to get there.

"We cannot all do great things. But we can do small things with great love." -Mother Teresa. I, as well as most people in the same stage of life, always consider "how can I choose a career/life path that I can truly thrive in and do great things with?" Sometimes, it stems from pride and yearning for recognition and accolades; but other times, it is a genuine desire to leave the world a better place than what you found it. We often correlate greatness with those who succeed financially or gain the most power. Yet, when we ask ourselves whom we consider a greater person: Mother Teresa, the poorest of the poor, or Jeff Bezos, the richest man alive, reason would suggest a unanimous agreement that it would be Mother Teresa. Jeff Bezos has accomplished incredible things, but the impact that Mother Teresa had on the hearts of so many individuals is the epidemy of someone who led a great life with so much meaning. Life without love is meaningless and impermanent. History books will tell the significant achievements of people like Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk. But books, devotions, and hearts will bear the recognition of the accomplishments of someone like Mother Teresa. Instead of asking myself, "how can I choose a career path that I can truly thrive in and do great things with?" I ask myself, "how can I live a life, so that when I die someday, history books will not compare me to the likes of financially and worldly successful individuals, but compare me to someone like Mother Teresa?" The meaning of life is to pursue goals that fit your talents and interests and to do it with great love.

"We cannot all do great things. But we can do small things with great love." -Mother Teresa. I, as well as most people in the same stage of life, always consider "how can I choose a career/life path that I can truly thrive in and do great things with?" Sometimes, it stems from pride and yearning for recognition and accolades; but other times, it is a genuine desire to leave the world a better place than what you found it. We often correlate greatness with those who succeed financially or gain the most power. Yet, when we ask ourselves whom we consider a greater person: Mother Teresa, the poorest of the poor, or Jeff Bezos, the richest man alive, reason would suggest a unanimous agreement that it would be Mother Teresa. Jeff Bezos has accomplished incredible things, but the impact that Mother Teresa had on the hearts of so many individuals is the epidemy of someone who led a great life. Life without love is meaningless and impermanent. History books will tell the significant achievements of people like Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk. But books, devotions, and hearts will bear the recognition of the accomplishments of someone like Mother Teresa. Instead of asking myself, "how can I choose a career path that I can truly thrive in and do great things with?" I ask myself, "how can I live a life, so that when I die someday, history books will not compare me to the likes of financially and worldly successful individuals, but compare me to someone like Mother Teresa?" Because someone will always do something greater than I can; whatever I choose to do with my life, I want to do it with great love.

Throughout my life, I have sung in various musical productions and special events. Singing has always been important to me, especially in these past ten months where I began to dedicate my time to improving my voice and range. Because of all my hard work, I landed the lead in a local boy's high school musical production. Within that time, I also decided on minoring in Music Ministry this fall. I learned recently from my sister-in-law, who is a school counselor, that breathing techniques that relieve stress are very similar to the breathing techniques I use for singing. It was at that moment that she explained to me stress-relieving breathing techniques that a lightbulb went off in my head: singing helps reduce my anxiety. Another reason why I love singing is how I can use my talents to bring joy to others. One of my favorite things is to sing in front of people and to hear how they loved listening to me. Not because I thirst for affirmation or something to boost my ego; but because it truly is humbling to know that you can bring someone joy or hope through a song. Singing is more than a hobby to me - it is a part of me. I believe that God gave us our hobbies and interests so that we may use them in some way to bring love and joy to our communities. Our hobbies, our interests, our gifts, are things that make us all unique and the world beautiful, and when we use them to the fullness of their purpose, it subsequently will bring us so much joy.

Booker T. Washington once said, "Those who are happiest are those who do the most for others." Likewise, I have experienced this same joy after a day spent helping others in my community. Being a Christian also reinforces in me the idea that everyone needs to do their part in strengthening the bond of communities. Growing up homeschooled and being around my seven siblings all the time taught me how to work as a team, pick up my own slack, and fill in gaps that my other siblings might have created. For the past estimated ten years, my mom has organized a group of kids every Tuesday in the summers to volunteer at a soup kitchen/poverty center called Response to Love; and when I graduated eighth grade and was old enough to, I started going as well. This consisted of either working in the food kitchen serving the people in the community, working the thrift shops, organizing bags to give to people in the food pantry, or most recently, helping out with the paperwork for the organizer. Although I was nervous at the beginning to do this and step out of my comfort zone in such a way, I quickly got past my fears and learned to love doing it. There are not many things that are superior to having the opportunity to change so many people's lives, and right when I started volunteering at Response to Love I understood that. Those experiences not only led me to become more confident and friendly but allowed me to meet so many inspiring and wonderful people who spend so much of their time dedicated to the community in Buffalo. As Helen Keller said, "Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much."

Ever since seventh grade, I have had a strong desire to pursue law and leadership roles. I have built this passion through listening to podcasts, reading books, or spending hours researching a particular topic. This hobby has fostered a deeper appreciation for my country and inspired me to pursue a career directly involved in the law. I have spent much effort in honing my skills and my intellect in order to be prepared for what I might meet in the future. I am also in the process of completing 27 credits worth of community college classes, as well as being a part of a Mock Trial club. How will I be able to financially achieve my goals? Well, at fifteen years old, I started working at the Springville Country Club, and have been working there ever since. I have also sold crocheted items at various places, as well as taken specific crochet orders to make money. I have also made cards and other artwork using my calligraphy and drawing skills. Another route I have taken to make money is by babysitting frequently. As someone who has to independently pay for my college tuition, scholarships and grants are very important to me. Thus, starting the fall of my junior year of high school, I began to focus a lot of my time on applying to scholarships. Since then, I have applied to 125+ scholarships, through Bold.org and outside of it. I have also applied to other essay competitions and one I came in first place in. At the start of my junior year, I began studying and preparing to take standardized tests, in my case, the Classical Learning Test (CLT). I took the test multiple times to ensure that I received a good enough score that qualified me for the top scholarship offered by Franciscan University, the college I plan on attending this fall. I have also applied for financial aid as well as grants offered through the school. I want to make a positive difference in this world and use my education and abilities as tools to do everything possible to get there without the hassle of student loans that would halt the impact I could have. Because I also want to pursue further education and attend law school after receiving my undergraduate, avoiding as many student loans as possible is extremely important to me and so I am trying my hardest to minimize the costs.

Ever since seventh grade, I have had a strong desire to pursue law and leadership roles. I have built this passion through listening to podcasts, reading books, or spending hours researching a particular topic. This hobby has fostered a deeper appreciation for my country and inspired me to pursue a career directly involved in the law. The first question is, how will I be able to financially achieve my goals? Well, at fifteen years old, I started working at the job I still hold. As someone who has to independently pay for my college tuition, scholarships and grants are very important to me, and so I have also focused a lot of my time on applying to 120+ scholarships, on Bold.org and outside of it. I have also made sure that last year, when I took the standardized tests, namely the CLT, I received a good enough score that qualified me for the top scholarship offered by Franciscan University, the college I plan on attending this fall. The second question is, how will I be able to intellectually achieve my goals? Law school for most people seems like a hefty pursuit, as law school is notorious for being extremely challenging. I have always had an affinity for learning, and am someone who relies on preparation; thus throughout my high school years, I have spent much effort in honing my skills and my intellect in order to be prepared for what I might meet in the future. I am also in the process of completing 27 credits worth of community college classes, as well as being a part of a Mock Trial club. I want to make a positive difference in this world and use my education and abilities as tools to do everything possible to get there.

The philosopher, Augustine of Hippo, once said: "Take care of your body as if you were going to live forever, and take care of your soul as if you were going to die tomorrow." This quote perfectly encapsulates the drive behind why I get up every morning. "Take care of your body as if you were going to live forever..." It seems rather redundant to reiterate what we were all taught by our parents or health class instructor: eat healthy foods, avoid sugar, drink lots of water - but the importance of emphasizing these tips cannot be oversaid. Drinking enough water a day helps your energy levels, metabolism, and kidneys among many other health benefits. Exercising, getting enough vitamins, and sleeping the recommended amount are also key in supplying your body with the stamina to live longer. "...Take care of your soul as if you were going to die tomorrow." Positivity has been proven to help your immune system, so it seems practical to take the latter part of the philosopher's advice when addressing this topic. Live as if you had to make as much positive impact as you possibly could throughout your day. Be kind, give generously, love endlessly. Leave your surroundings a happier place than when you found it. In short, loving and taking care of your body and loving and taking care of others is the absolute best way to live a long, healthy life.

I am the second youngest out of eight kids. No, that is not a typo. I have had the immense blessing of growing up in a loving, but very large, family. Although it may seem cliche, I always start by talking about my family when I have to tell someone about myself. It is underexaggerating to say that my siblings, and of course my parents, have had a tremendous impact on who I was when I was little and who I have become. The next major influence on my future is my desire to pursue law and leadership roles. I have built this passion through listening to podcasts, reading books, or spending hours researching a particular topic. This hobby has fostered a deeper appreciation for my country and inspired me to pursue a career directly involved in the law. The last is music; more specifically, singing. Throughout my entire life, I have participated in various musical endeavors, including singing for church and prayer services and musicals. Currently, I am cast as the female lead in a musical that we will perform in two weeks. Because of the confidence I gained during this experience, I recently decided to commit to minoring in Music Ministry at Franciscan University in the fall, accompanying my Political Science major. These three things speak of not only my past, but most certainly of my future. In the future, I want my own family modeled after the one I was born into. In the future, I want to practice law and become more directly involved in helping the lives of others. In the future, I want to bring people joy through my singing and to radiate confidence that can inspire others to feel the same.

The philosopher, Augustine of Hippo, once said: "Take care of your body as if you were going to live forever, and take care of your soul as if you were going to die tomorrow." These wise words give a clear guideline for the answer to the question. "Take care of your body as if you were going to live forever..." It seems rather redundant to reiterate what we were all taught by our parents or health class instructor: eat healthy foods, avoid sugar, drink lots of water - but the importance of emphasizing these tips cannot be oversaid. Drinking enough water a day helps your energy levels, metabolism, and kidneys among many other health benefits. Exercising, getting enough vitamins, and sleeping the recommended amount are also key in supplying your body with the stamina to live longer. "...Take care of your soul as if you were going to die tomorrow." Positivity has been proven to help your immune system, so it seems practical to take the latter part of the philosopher's advice when addressing this topic. Live as if you had to make as much positive impact as you possibly could throughout your day. Be kind, give generously, love endlessly. Leave your surroundings a happier place than when you found it. In short, loving and taking care of your body and loving and taking care of others is the absolute best way to live a long, healthy life.

One of the most influential things I have done is to use my voice to promote the sacredness of life in all forms. In January of 2021, a Youth Minister at a nearby parish asked me if I could give a talk about a teen’s perspective on “Why I Am Pro-Life” during a family youth group event. I agreed to do this, and this opened up a new passion of mine, and a month later, I was asked to co-write and present a video for a virtual retreat on my experience at the numerous Marches for Life I have attended in the past. Six months later, I learned of another Pro-Life talk opportunity at another parish in the Buffalo Diocese. The lady orchestrating the event for a Confirmation Class had heard of my experience giving pro-life talks and recruited me to give one. Because of the more mature audience and because of the atmosphere of the talk, it was much more in-depth about the reason-based, spiritual, and biological aspects of my beliefs about the realities of abortion. Starting in 9th grade and extending throughout all of high school, I have participated in my homeschool cooperative’s Mock Trial team. With the exception of one semester, I have been assigned the Lead Attorney of the different teams I have been on. The Lead Attorney not only has to prepare their own witness and questions but has to make sure that everyone on the team is on the same page and contributes their dues to the team. During one of the trial competitions, one of the witnesses did not prepare well for the trial and misspoke during his Cross-Examination. This blunder seemed devastating for the reliability of our witnesses and therefore our team. Instead of backing down and trying to cover up his mistake, I prayed and helped his attorney and the rest of the team to pursue a completely different route of debate and utilized his mistake to help us. His “mess-up” ended up furthering the verdict we were arguing and was a key factor in our win. Being a Great Leader means inciting positive change. You do not have to be Martin Luther King Jr. or George Washington to be a Great Leader; you can be Great at Leading small change, making small, but impactful changes. You may not change a nation or the world, but maybe just the people around you. Being a Leader is so important to me because, if you are not a leader, then what are you? You do not need a loud, over-confident personality to be a leader. All you need is to ensure that everything you do is for a purpose, and not because "everyone else is" or if it is "normal." Our world will keep regressing and crumbling if not for good, positive leaders, that everyone has the potential to be.

Booker T. Washington once said, "Those who are happiest are those who do the most for others." Likewise, I have experienced this same joy after a day spent helping others in my community. Being a Christian also reinforces in me the idea that everyone needs to do their part in strengthening the bond of communities. Growing up homeschooled and being around my seven siblings all the time taught me how to work as a team, pick up my own slack, and fill in gaps that my other siblings might have created. For many years, my mom has organized a group of kids every Tuesday in the summers to volunteer at a soup kitchen/poverty center called Response to Love; and when I became old enough to, I started going as well. This consisted of either working in the food kitchen serving the people in the community, working the thrift shops, organizing bags to give to people in the food pantry, or most recently, helping out with the paperwork for the organizer. There are not many things that are superior to having the opportunity to change so many people's lives, and right when I started volunteering at Response to Love I experienced that. Those experiences not only led me to become more confident and friendly but allowed me to meet so many inspiring and wonderful people who spend so much of their time dedicated to the community in Buffalo. As Helen Keller said, "Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much."

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, stress levels have been exacerbated. I have always been prone to anxiety since I was younger when I asked my mom why it felt like I had butterflies in my stomach for no apparent reason, so I was no exception to the heightened anxiety of the last year and a half. However, this past year and a half, I have also learned to deal with this increasing anxiety. One of my struggles with "self-care" is taking care of myself without prioritizing myself in a self-indulgent way. Thus, I needed to find a stress reliever that would benefit not only my mental health but also benefit my character. It didn't take me too long to realize I already had an answer to this problem: I knew how to crochet. According to a study by the University of Wollongong, crocheting helped people relax by 85%, decrease stress by 81%, and decrease anxiety by 57%. So instead of wasting my time watching TV or watching Youtube, I decided to be productive and crochet while I do so. Self-care for me means taking care of yourself to help others. I wanted to reduce my stress to instead focus my efforts on helping other people in my life. Crocheting has been the perfect outlet to relieve my anxiety, and I can bring joy to others as I give away the gifts I crocheted. This has impacted my life tremendously as I have learned to grow in generosity and use my time efficiently.

Over the past few years, I have accumulated a passion and an appreciation for three things. First, I try to prioritize my faith and follow God's will so that I might live up to my full potential. I believe that to accomplish great things, I will need to have a strong moral compass, and my faith and religion have helped form mine. Second, I have increased my interest in politics and the American government. I have built this passion through listening to podcasts, reading books, or spending hours researching a particular topic. This hobby has fostered a deeper appreciation for my country and inspired me to pursue a career directly involved in the law. Third, from a young age, I have always had a wanderlust. In the future, I hope to study abroad and travel to as many countries as I can. Through traveling, I wish to broaden my knowledge of the world by experiencing and learning from different cultures. I never want to look back on my life and think of all the things I wish I had accomplished or experienced, but rather be proud of what I did. We have all heard the Wayne Gretsky quote, "You miss 100% of the shots you don't take," and I want to take every single shot that I can.

Friendship to me means having someone you can go to when you're sad, happy, angry, confused, lonely, or anxious and sharing the burden or excitement with you. What is friendship, if not a bond of love and connection between two or more people? In 1 Corinthians Chapter 13, it says, "Love is patient." Friendship means someone who sticks with you when you need them most and through the times you aren't your best. "Love is kind." Friendship is treating others with respect and utmost charity. "Love is not envious or boastful or rude." A true friend will be happy for you in all of your accomplishments and is conscious of where you might lack talents, and does not press on your insecurities. "It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things." A friend will help you bear your cross, believe your worries, hope for your good, and endures through the tough times with you. Finally, the scripture verse ends with: "Love never ends." This echoes a common saying: "people may come and go, but true friends make footprints on your heart." True friendship, true loving friendship, outlasts any conflict, time, or separation.

Singing has always been important to me, especially in these past ten months where I began to dedicate my time to improving my voice and range. Because of all my hard work, I landed the lead in a local boy's high school musical production. Within that time, I also decided on minoring in Music Ministry this fall. I learned recently from my sister-in-law, who is a school counselor, that breathing techniques that relieve stress are very similar to the breathing techniques I use for singing. It was at that moment that she explained to me stress-relieving breathing techniques that a lightbulb went off in my head: singing helps reduce my anxiety. Another reason why I love singing is how I can use my talents to bring joy to others. One of my favorite things is to sing in front of people and to hear how they loved listening to me. Not because I thirst for affirmation or something to boost my ego; but because it truly is humbling to know that you can bring someone joy or hope through a song. Singing is not only a bonding experience between you and your audience, but also it is one with fellow singers. I grew up in a very musically inclined family and have enjoyed multiple occasions where I have sung with my family members. I have always loved doing that, and I look forward to June when my brother and I will be singing at a friend's wedding. Singing is more than a hobby to me - it is a part of me. I believe that God gave us our hobbies and interests so that we may use them in some way to bring love and joy to our communities, which will subsequently bring joy to ourselves.

Throughout my life, I have sung in various musical productions and special events. Singing has always been important to me, especially in these past ten months where I began to dedicate my time to improving my voice and range. Because of all my hard work, I landed the lead in a local boy's high school musical production. Within that time, I also decided on minoring in Music Ministry this fall. I learned recently from my sister-in-law, who is a school counselor, that breathing techniques that relieve stress are very similar to the breathing techniques I use for singing. It was at that moment that she explained to me stress-relieving breathing techniques that a lightbulb went off in my head: singing helps reduce my anxiety. Another reason why I love singing is how I can use my talents to bring joy to others. One of my favorite things is to sing in front of people and to hear how they loved listening to me. Not because I thirst for affirmation or something to boost my ego; but because it truly is humbling to know that you can bring someone joy or hope through a song. Singing is not only a bonding experience between you and your audience, but also it is one with fellow singers. I grew up in a very musically inclined family and have enjoyed multiple occasions where I have sung with my family members. I have always loved doing that, and I look forward to June when my brother and I will be singing at a friend's wedding. Singing is more than a hobby to me - it is a part of me. I believe that God gave us our hobbies and interests so that we may use them in some way to bring love and joy to our communities. Our hobbies, our interests, our gifts, are things that make us all unique and the world beautiful.

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, stress levels have been exacerbated. I have always been prone to anxiety since I was younger when I asked my mom why it felt like I had butterflies in my stomach for no apparent reason, so I was no exception to the heightened anxiety of the last year and a half. However, this past year and a half, I have also learned to deal with this increasing anxiety. One of my struggles with "self-care" is taking care of myself without prioritizing myself in a self-indulgent way. Thus, I needed to find a stress reliever that would benefit not only my mental health but also benefit my character. It didn't take me too long to realize I already had an answer to this problem: I knew how to crochet. According to a study by the University of Wollongong, crocheting helped people relax by 85%, decrease stress by 81%, and decrease anxiety by 57%. So instead of wasting my time watching TV or watching Youtube, I decided to be productive and crochet while I do so. Self-care for me means taking care of yourself to help others. I wanted to reduce my stress to instead focus my efforts on helping other people in my life. Crocheting has been the perfect outlet to relieve my anxiety, and I can bring joy to others as I give away the gifts I crocheted. This has impacted my life tremendously as I have learned to grow in generosity and use my time efficiently.

An eight-year-old girl, bundled up in a fuzzy blanket, the light from an old, humming, computer illuminating her face in an otherwise dark room. She's entranced by the screen; her favorite music video of all time is playing: Love Story by Taylor Swift. Every day, she sings the verses over and over, until eventually, her father joins in. Soon enough, they coin the song "theirs" and when it plays when they're with each other they dance and sing to it. When she hears the song without her father there, she thinks of him and their bond and smiles. Nine years of access to millions of different songs, genres, and artists, yet Love Story by Taylor Swift is still one of her favorites. Even before the song became a beacon of her and her father's relationship, she was still mesmerized by the simple fairy-like scene. The alternating realities of Romeo and Juliet's era and the modern era showed her that she could open her imagination to many different possibilities. The hopeful storyline of the song, despite the bleak inspiration it was derived from, led her to imagine happy endings to all sad stories. Love Story by Taylor Swift will always hold a soft spot in my heart; for feeding my imagination, bringing me hope, and strengthening the bond between me and my dad.

I can't even count the number of times one of my family members have told me "patience is a virtue." Therefore, it was instilled in me at a young age that many situations would go a little smoother, be a little more productive, and end a little bit more positively. It also didn't take me long to figure out that at the foundation of every good cause, there is a sense of patience that upholds it. This mentality is something that every person can benefit from, regardless of their stage of life and occupation. Too often do we take the easy, instantly gratifying route and less thorough, gradual, and ultimately more rewarding route. Impatience also keeps us from obtaining and living up to our potential, or even pursuing something that we might exceed at. When I was younger, I always viewed crocheting as something that required an obscene amount of patience, and at that point in my life - I didn't believe I possessed it. Until one day, I decided to try it out -I could always stop if it got too hard, right? I didn't give up. Instead, I learned a valuable lesson: how gratifying it is to be able to reap the benefits of something you worked so hard, so tirelessly, and so patiently for. Flash-forward three years, and I still love spending hours crocheting hats, blankets, washcloths, and other things to give my family and friends. Thus I learned another benefit of practicing patience: that patience is one of the best investments you could ever make.

Starting last year, I have experienced several changes in my life; including getting a job, learning to drive, getting ready for college, becoming an aunt, and taking on leadership roles. But this is the general idea of change. Now let's look at this differently: Starting last year, I have experienced several changes in my life, including becoming more responsible, financially and emotionally, I have experienced having other people's lives rest on my abilities, I have learned how to invest in my future by spending time diligently applying to colleges and excelling academically, discovering and exercising my maternal tendencies in babysitting, and I have discovered and nurtured talents I will use throughout my life and career. All are good, positive, areas of change in my life, but what is the drive behind it? Everything I do, I like to do for a purpose: if I watch a movie, I want it to benefit my character or fuel hopes, or give me a chance to see someone else's perspective. If I take a class in school, I want to focus on them so I can utilize the skills I learn in the career I choose. If I spend money, I want to spend it on something that I know will benefit me in the long run. Life is so short, but we only have one. I don't want to waste my life stuck in a pattern that doesn't benefit my soul or the people around me. I want to grow and learn and change to become the best version of myself, so I can do all I can to leave the world a better place than I found it. So I can reach my tilos.

“Abortion is the ultimate exploitation of women.” -Alice Paul, American Women’s Rights Activist Roe v. Wade, the supreme court decision legalizing abortion states, “In the first trimester of pregnancy, the state may not regulate the abortion decision; only the pregnant woman and her attending physician can make that decision. In the second trimester, the state may impose regulations on abortion that are reasonably related to maternal health. In the third trimester, once the fetus reaches the point of “viability,” a state may regulate abortions or prohibit them entirely, so long as the laws contain exceptions for cases when abortion is necessary to save the life or health of the mother.” Under the term “health of the mother,” abortions are practically limitless up to and including the third trimester. This includes Partial-Birth abortions, known as “intact dilation and extraction.” This is when the doctor delivers a substantial amount of the baby’s body, crushes the baby’s skull, or removes the baby’s brain by suction. According to CBS News, in February of 2020, Senate Democrats “blocked a pair of Republican bills that would ban most late-term abortions and threaten prison for doctors who didn't try saving the lives of infants born alive during abortions” Since Roe v. Wade does not specifically say at which point in the pregnancy abortion is not allowed, by supporting Roe v. Wade, you are consequently supporting a court decision that allows the killing of a baby seconds before the baby is born. The greatest evil of our time is what Mother Teresa referred to as “profoundly anti-woman." Because "Three-quarters of its victims are women: Half the babies and all the mothers.” We can solve this problem by educating ourselves and others, taking care of these mothers, and providing a society that upholds the dignity of human life.

“Abortion is the ultimate exploitation of women.” -Alice Paul, American Women’s Rights Activist Roe v. Wade states, “In the first trimester of pregnancy, the state may not regulate the abortion decision; only the pregnant woman and her attending physician can make that decision. In the second trimester, the state may impose regulations on abortion that are reasonably related to maternal health. In the third trimester, once the fetus reaches the point of “viability,” a state may regulate abortions or prohibit them entirely, so long as the laws contain exceptions for cases when abortion is necessary to save the life or health of the mother.” Under the term “health of the mother,” abortions are practically limitless up to and including the third trimester. This includes Partial-Birth abortions, known as “intact dilation and extraction.” This is when the doctor delivers a substantial amount of the baby’s body, crushes the baby’s skull, or removes the baby’s brain by suction. According to CBS News, in February of 2020, Senate Democrats “blocked a pair of Republican bills that would ban most late-term abortions and threaten prison for doctors who didn't try saving the lives of infants born alive during abortions” Since Roe v. Wade does not specifically say at which point in the pregnancy abortion is not allowed, by supporting Roe v. Wade, you are consequently supporting a court decision that allows the killing of a baby seconds before the baby is born. We can solve this problem by educating ourselves and others, taking care of these mothers, and providing a society that upholds the dignity of human life. If I were a highly influential person, I would make sure that I would do my best to protect the most vulnerable in our communities: the poor, the minorities, and most especially, the unborn.

Friendship to me means having someone you can go to when you're sad, happy, angry, confused, lonely, or anxious and sharing the burden or excitement with you. What is friendship, if not a bond of love and connection between two or more people? In 1 Corinthians Chapter 13, it says, "Love is patient." Friendship means someone who sticks with you when you need them most and through the times you aren't your best. "Love is kind." Friendship is treating others with respect and utmost charity. "Love is not envious or boastful or rude." A true friend will be happy for you in all of your accomplishments and is conscious of where you might lack talents, and does not press on your insecurities. "It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things." A friend will help you bear your cross, believe your worries, hope for your good, and endures through the tough times with you. Finally, the scripture verse ends with: "Love never ends." This echoes a common saying: "people may come and go, but true friends make footprints on your heart." True friendship, true loving friendship, outlasts any conflict, time, or separation. My favorite thing about me is my friends.

I can't even count the number of times one of my family members have told me "patience is a virtue." Therefore, it was instilled in me at a young age that many situations would go a little smoother, be a little more productive, and end a little bit more positively. It also didn't take me long to figure out that at the foundation of every good cause, there is a sense of patience that upholds it. Therefore, the quality that I have prioritized in myself is the virtue of patience. This mentality is something that every person can benefit from, regardless of their stage of life and occupation. Too often do we take the easy, instantly gratifying route and less thorough, gradual, and ultimately more rewarding route. Impatience also keeps us from obtaining and living up to our potential, or even pursuing something that we might exceed. When I was younger, I always viewed crocheting as something that required an obscene amount of patience, and at that point in my life - I did not believe I possessed it. Until one day, I decided to try it out. I figured I could always stop if it got too hard, right? But, I did not give up. Instead, I learned a valuable lesson: how gratifying it is to be able to reap the benefits of something you worked so hard, so tirelessly, and so patiently for. Flash-forward three years, and I still love spending hours crocheting hats, blankets, washcloths, and other things to give my family and friends. However, the benefits do not just stop there. Throughout my years of education and the foundation period of my career, patience will be extremely important. From anticipating the results of scholarship applications, from on waiting lists for college organizations, to dealing with bumps in the road, patience is necessary to persevere. Someday when I have a husband and kids, I will need an absurd amount of patience. Two years ago I learned an important lesson, the most important benefit of practicing patience: that patience is one of the best investments you could ever make. Patience is so hard to make into a habit, patience is so hard to practice every single day, but being patient will make your life so much easier. My mother, for example, is the most patient person I know, and if I do nothing else with my life, I want to be the person someone else calls the most patient person they know.

For the past estimated ten years, my mom has organized a group of kids every Tuesday in the summers to volunteer at a soup kitchen/poverty center called Response to Love; and when I graduated eighth grade and was old enough to, I started going as well. This consisted of either working in the food kitchen serving to the people in the community, working the thrift shops, organizing bags to give to people in the food pantry, or most recently, helping out with the paperwork for the organizer. Although I was nervous at the beginning to do this and step out of my comfort zone in such a way, I quickly got past my fears and learned to love doing it. There are not many things that are superior to having the opportunity to change so many people's lives, and when I started volunteering at Response to Love I understood that. Those experiences not only led me to become more confident and friendly but allowed me to meet so many inspiring and wonderful people who spend so much of their time dedicated to the community in Buffalo. Another thing I credit to my experience volunteering is my desire to help people not only in my free time with volunteering but also in my career. As a lawyer, I want to help people and change their lives for the better. I want to potentially make changes in policies to minimize the lower class and make those who are not born with as many opportunities feel worthy and empower them. But I know I cannot do that just by myself, which is what makes it so important for people to work together. As Helen Keller said, "Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much."

Booker T. Washington once said, "Those who are happiest are those who do the most for others." Likewise, I have experienced this same joy after a day spent helping others in my community. Being a Christian also reinforces in me the idea that everyone needs to do their part in strengthening the bond of communities. Growing up homeschooled and being around my seven siblings all the time taught me how to work as a team, pick up my own slack, and fill in gaps that my other siblings might have created. For the past estimated ten years, my mom has organized a group of kids every Tuesday in the summers to volunteer at a soup kitchen/poverty center called Response to Love; and when I graduated eighth grade and was old enough to, I started going as well. This consisted of either working in the food kitchen serving to the people in the community, working the thrift shops, organizing bags to give to people in the food pantry, or most recently, helping out with the paperwork for the organizer. Although I was nervous at the beginning to do this and step out of my comfort zone in such a way, I quickly got past my fears and learned to love doing it. There are not many things that are superior to having the opportunity to change so many people's lives, and right when I started volunteering at Response to Love I understood that. Those experiences not only led me to become more confident and friendly but allowed me to meet so many inspiring and wonderful people who spend so much of their time dedicated to the community in Buffalo. Another thing I credit to my experience volunteering is my desire to help people not only in my free time with volunteering but also in my career. As a lawyer, I want to help people and change their lives for the better. I want to potentially make changes in policies to minimize the lower class and make those who are not born with as many opportunities feel worthy and empower them. But I know I cannot do that just by myself, which is what makes it so important for people to work together. As Helen Keller said, "Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much."

Perfectionism, bossiness, control-freak; are all terms to describe how I lived. I never played poker - gambling plastic coins was far too risky. Every year, I loved going on rollercoaster rides that were not too daring - that gave me just the right amount of butterflies, but not too much. But, my adventurous friends were never satisfied with the “boring” rides and inevitably ended up going on the scariest rides the park had to offer. So when my friend said, "You’re going on this ride with me!” My sun-tanned face whitened at his remark. But despite my stubbornness, he finally convinced me to at least get in the grueling 30-minute line. “God said to John, ‘come forth, and you shall inherit eternal life.’ But John came fifth and won a toaster,” I joked to my friend, trying to take my mind off of my sweaty palms and uneasy demeanor. I could not decide which was worse - closing my eyes or opening them and seeing the entire amusement park as if it were pocket-sized. My incessant need for control nagged at me because of how useless I was in this situation. After multiple corny dad-jokes and a couple of prayers, we reached the peak of the 205-foot drop of the Ride of Steel, and within two seconds that felt like forever, the roller coaster plummeted downward. Within seconds of the estimated 3-minute ride, I shot my arms up in the arm and screamed - not because I felt fearful, but because I felt fearless. I learned a difficult but valuable lesson that day: it is good to take risks; it is okay not to be in control. I learned that to acquire something, in my case, courage, you had to let go.

One of the most influential things I have done is to use my voice to promote the sacredness of life in all forms. In January of 2021, a Youth Minister at a nearby parish asked me if I could give a talk about a teen’s perspective on “Why I Am Pro-Life” during a family youth group event. I agreed to do this, and this opened up a new passion of mine, and a month later, I was asked to co-write and present a video for a virtual retreat on my experience at the numerous Marches for Life I have attended in the past. Six months later, I learned of another Pro-Life talk opportunity at another parish in the Buffalo Diocese. The lady orchestrating the event for a Confirmation Class had heard of my experience giving pro-life talks and recruited me to give one. Because of the more mature audience and because of the atmosphere of the talk, it was much more in-depth about the reason-based, spiritual, and biological aspects of my beliefs about the realities of abortion. These opportunities allowed me to share my pro-life views with my peers not only led me to deepen my foundation in my Catholic beliefs but have also provided me with the tools necessary for me to contribute to the Kingdom of God by being a witness to the Church’s teachings and possibly planting a seed in someone else’s heart.

One of the most influential things I have done is to use my voice to promote the sacredness of life in all forms. In January of 2021, a Youth Minister at a nearby parish asked me if I could give a talk about a teen’s perspective on “Why I Am Pro-Life” during a family youth group event. I agreed to do this, and this opened up a new passion of mine, and a month later, I was asked to co-write and present a video for a virtual retreat on my experience at the numerous Marches for Life I have attended in the past. Six months later, I learned of another Pro-Life talk opportunity at another parish in the Buffalo Diocese. The lady orchestrating the event for a Confirmation Class had heard of my experience giving pro-life talks and recruited me to give one. Because of the more mature audience and because of the atmosphere of the talk, it was much more in-depth about the reason-based, spiritual, and biological aspects of my beliefs about the realities of abortion. These opportunities allowed me to share my pro-life views with my peers not only led me to deepen my foundation in my Catholic beliefs but have also provided me with the tools necessary for me to contribute to the Kingdom of God by being a witness to the Church’s teachings and possibly planting a seed in someone else’s heart.

Just recently for school, I read what has become one of my favorite books: A Man for All Seasons. This book is the telling of the last part of the life of Sir Thomas More, Lord High Chancellor of England for King Henry III, leading up to execution. Objectively speaking, a story based upon real-life magnifies the inspiring effect it has on its readers, and this was no exception. As a Catholic and an aspiring lawyer, his story particularly resonates with me because of his dedication to the English government and his Catholic faith. St. Thomas More is someone that I deeply admire not only as an incredible figure in the Catholic Church but also as an important historical figure. His brave solidarity with not only the Catholic Church but his integrity within the political atmosphere serves as a timeless example for citizens of any country and peoples of all religions. He had given his whole life to God and country, but in 1534, when King Henry VIII abandoned the Catholic Church and claimed the role as Head of the Church of England, Sir Thomas More refused to denounce his own beliefs. He stayed true to his morals and on July 6th, 1535, he paid the ultimate and died in The Tower of London on the basis of treason. One of his most notable quotes clearly indicates the respect he had for his country, but also his overruling fear of God: "I die the king's faithful servant, but God's first.”

We have all heard the phrase "the world is your oyster," yet how many people take advantage of what the world has to offer? Going to college was never a question in my mind. Benjamin Franklin stated: “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest." I want to attend college to expand my knowledge and increase my intellect. I want to pursue higher education to broaden my opportunities for a career that I will love. I want to build a community at the college of my choice to obtain memories I can cherish for the rest of my life. I want to make a difference in the future, and that future begins tomorrow. I have an affinity for leadership; ergo, throughout high school, I have participated in Mock Trial groups and voted president of a recently formed PAC group: Political Action Committee for Truth. I also participate in a Snowboarding club and various youth groups associated with my homeschooling group. I enjoy music and the arts and have participated in local high school musicals and musical productions, and I have been taking private voice lessons. Over the past few years, I have accumulated a passion and an appreciation for three things. First, I try to prioritize my faith and follow God's will so that I might live up to my full potential. I believe that to accomplish great things, I will need to have a strong moral compass, and my faith and religion have helped form mine. Second, I have increased my interest in politics and the American government. I have built this passion through listening to podcasts, reading books, or spending hours researching a particular topic. This hobby has fostered a deeper appreciation for my country and inspired me to pursue a career directly involved in the law. Third, from a young age, I have always had a wanderlust. In the future, I hope to study abroad and travel to as many countries as I can. Through traveling, I wish to broaden my knowledge of the world by experiencing and learning from different cultures. I never want to look back on my life and think of all the things I wish I had accomplished or experienced, but rather be proud of what I did. We have all heard the Wayne Gretsky quote, "You miss 100% of the shots you don't take," and I want to take every single shot that I can.

History and Politics are two of my favorite subjects. Ergo, it is unsurprising that my favorite book, one that not only interested me enough to truly enjoy reading but also taught me a lot about those two interests is George Orwell's Animal Farm. Before reading this book, I had a vague idea of what Communism or Socialism was, the differences between the revolt leaders, or what the governmental system looked like in Russia during the Russian Revolution in 1917. In a Freshman year Literature class at a homeschool cooperative, the teacher assigned us the book Animal Farm. Off the bat, I judged the plain book cover and assumed it would be extremely dull. But alas, "never judge a book by its cover," and I was nearly a chapter in, and I could not put it down. I have read many books in my life, yet I have never come across any book with the same level of creativity as George Orwell in his anecdotal story of using farm animals to simplify the complex matters of Communism in Russia. I have always loved classic, heartwarming books, such as the Anne of Green Gables series or Jane Austin romance novels. Yet none exceed the fondness I have for Animal Farm. Animal Farm is my favorite book because it checks all the boxes: knowledge of political systems and historical figures, the resonation of a complex philosophy, and yet it retains its amusement and intrigue. This book has also furthered my interest in pursuing Law and deepened my understanding of history and politics.

Back in September, I learned that a local all-boys Catholic high school was bringing back their musical theater program after they had canceled it in 2021, due to COVID-19. I participated in the ensemble for two of their musical productions during my Freshman and Sophomore years and knew that I wanted to participate in it again. However, for my Senior year, I was determined to try out for the lead female role. Ever since I was little, I have always aspired to have a female lead in a musical. I knew the competition was very tough, so I began singing every day since I had heard of the tryouts. I worked hard researching singing techniques and doing daily exercises to improve my voice and singing range. In December, I tried out for their Spring musical, and a week later, I found out they cast me as the female lead. I have always loved to sing and consider it my best skill; one of the best feelings in the world is being able to see the fruits of my labors and to be able to perform and share with others through my singing, acting, and dancing.

What makes a book inspiring? A relatable storyline? A story that allows you to feel as if you were experiencing a whole different life? For everyone, there is a book, for everyone, there is a plot, for everyone, there is an inspiration. I retrieve inspiration from many novels, from romance to historical fiction, to jovial short stories. However, it was not a heartwarming love story or lighthearted fiction that has the biggest claim of inspiration over me, but a timeless, anecdotal classic: A Man for All Seasons. This book is the telling of the last part of the life of Sir Thomas More, Lord High Chancellor of England for King Henry III, leading up to execution. Objectively speaking, a story based upon real-life magnifies the inspiring effect it has on its readers. As a Catholic and an aspiring lawyer, his story particularly resonates with me. The book, although written in play form, does a splendid job sticking true to historical facts while sustaining its intrigue. St. Thomas More is not only an incredible figure in the Catholic Church, but also an important historial figure. His brave solidarity to not only the Catholic Church but his integrity within the political atmosphere serves as a timeless example for citizens of any country and peoples of all religions.

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, stress levels have been exacerbated. I have always been prone to anxiety since I was younger when I asked my mom why it felt like I had butterflies in my stomach for no apparent reason, so I was no exception to the heightened anxiety of the last year and a half. However, this past year and a half, I have also learned to deal with this increasing anxiety. One of my struggles with "self-care" is taking care of myself without prioritizing myself in a self-indulgent way. Thus, I needed to find a stress reliever that would benefit not only my mental health but also benefit my character. It didn't take me too long to realize I already had an answer to this problem: I knew how to crochet. According to a study by the University of Wollongong, crocheting helped people relax by 85%, decrease stress by 81%, and decrease anxiety by 57%. So instead of wasting my time watching TV or watching Youtube, I decided to be productive and crochet while I do so. Self-care for me means taking care of yourself to help others. I wanted to reduce my stress to instead focus my efforts on helping other people in my life. Crocheting has been the perfect outlet to relieve my anxiety, and I can bring joy to others as I give away the gifts I crocheted. This has impacted my life tremendously as I have learned to grow in generosity and use my time efficiently.

Starting last year, I have experienced several changes in my life; including getting a job, learning to drive, getting ready for college, becoming an aunt, and taking on leadership roles. But this is the general idea of change. Now let's look at this differently: Starting last year, I have experienced several changes in my life, including becoming more responsible, financially and emotionally, I have experienced having other people's lives rest on my abilities, I have learned how to invest in my future by spending time diligently applying to colleges and excelling academically, discovering and exercising my maternal tendencies in babysitting, and I have discovered and nurtured talents I will use throughout my life and career. Both are good, positive, areas of change in my life, but what is the drive behind it? Everything I do, I like to do for a purpose: if I watch a movie, I want it to benefit my character or fuel hopes, or give me a chance to see someone else's perspective. If I take a class in school, I want to focus on them so I can utilize the skills I learn in the career I choose. If I spend money, I want to spend it on something that I know will benefit me in the long run. Life is so short, but we only have one. I don't want to waste my life stuck in a pattern that doesn't benefit my soul or the people around me. I want to grow and learn and change to become the best version of myself, so I can do all I can to leave the world a better place than I found it. So I can reach my tilos.

Starting last year, I have experienced several changes in my life; including getting a job, learning to drive, getting ready for college, becoming an aunt, and taking on leadership roles. But this is the general idea of change. Now let's look at this differently: Starting last year, I have experienced several changes in my life, including becoming more responsible, financially and emotionally, I have experienced having other people's lives rest on my abilities, I have learned how to invest in my future by spending time diligently applying to colleges and excelling academically, discovering and exercising my maternal tendencies in babysitting, and I have discovered and nurtured talents I will use throughout my life and career. Both are good, positive, areas of change in my life, but what is the drive behind it? Everything I do, I like to do for a purpose: if I watch a movie, I want it to benefit my character or fuel hopes, or give me a chance to see someone else's perspective. If I take a class in school, I want to focus on them so I can utilize the skills I learn in the career I choose. If I spend money, I want to spend it on something that I know will benefit me in the long run. Life is so short, but we only have one. I don't want to waste my life stuck in a pattern that doesn't benefit my soul or the people around me. I want to grow and learn and change to become the best version of myself, so I can do all I can to leave the world a better place than I found it. So I can reach my tilos.

Independence means being a leader. In the seventh grade I was asked by my homeschool cooperative teacher if I wanted to be a witness or an attorney for a Mock Trial. With no rhyme or reason, my hand shot up when she asked who wanted to be an attorney. I had no idea what an attorney was. Four years later, I got a phone call from a family friend who was a Youth Minister at a local parish. She asked me if I could give a talk to the Youth Group and their families regarding abortion because she had heard that I was passionate about the subject. I had never given a talk before, besides presentations at the homeschool cooperative. I agreed but doubted my abilities. Flash forward one year after that, multiple Mock Trials with a high school team, as the lead attorney, two more pro-life talks, and I know exactly what I am going to do with my life. I knew that I had to battle my wars with words. I knew God called me to lead. Being independent is being a leader of your own life, being self-sufficient and being self-preserving, but also being dependent on the one person you need: God. Independence is running away from the cliff even if everyone else is running towards it, and instead running towards your goals.

Growing up, I had always been the chatty, slightly argumentative but still respectful, and intelligent "little girl." As middle school progressed, I started applying myself more and honing down on my studies. Seventh grade came along, and all I wanted to do with my life, after watching many episodes of NCIS and similar shows, was to be a cop. One day, my mom asked me after hearing this, "do you think you'd be able to point a gun at someone?" That left me thinking for a long, long time. Not too long after this impactful question, I was asked in a homeschool cooperative class if I wanted to be a witness or an attorney for a Mock Trial the teacher was putting together. With no reason to back this up, my hand shot up when she asked who wanted to be an attorney. I had no idea what an attorney was. Four years later, I got a phone call from a family friend who was a Youth Minister at a local parish. She asked me if I could give a talk to the Youth Group and their families regarding abortion because she had heard that I was passionate about the subject. I had never given a talk before, besides presentations at the homeschool cooperative. I agreed but doubted my abilities. Flash forward one year after that, multiple Mock Trials with a high school team, as the lead attorney, two more pro-life talks, and I know exactly what I am going to do with my life. Although I believe that being a cop is such a noble and tough profession, I had known after that conversation with my mom that I could not battle my wars with guns but with words. I knew God called me to lead. It took me that long to realize that there are so many ways to do so. A leader is someone who sticks up for a just cause that they believe in even when they are scared. A leader is open to guidance, like the question posed by my mother, but also believes he or she can accomplish everything with God and by His will. Both of those events had a tremendous impact on who and what I want to be in my life. Those events taught me that I had a talent for composing and delivering words that could touch and persuade people. It seemed scary when I agreed to do them, but when I stood up on that stand and I stood up in front of these parish families, I knew one thing: this is what God has called me to do. Next fall, I am majoring in Political Science at Franciscan University of Steubenville, and hopefully to a law school after that. I want to work in Civil Law, working directly with the Pro-Life movement. From then perhaps politics, maybe a family. But one thing is for certain: I am going to use my voice as a weapon for justice and my brains and heart as instruments of God's merciful will. I will be a just and kind leader who is worthy enough to serve the causes for which I am most passionate.

One of my earliest childhood memories is when I was about two years old. My mom gave away my broken crib and I had to switch to a "big kid bed." To the bewilderment of my family, I sobbed and begged my mom to keep it as I saw the garbage truck take it away. My family's attempts to cheer me up by telling me how "cool" it was to have a big kid bed didn't help my attitude at all. I knew I didn't want to give away my crib, and no one could say anything to change my mind. When I was in 7th grade, I could not have cared less about my future career. I didn't know anything about our government, nor did I even understand what a lawyer was. Then, I participated in a beginner Mock Trial, and everything changed. With the same determination I had when I was two years old, at 12 years old, I wanted to become a lawyer. Next fall, five years later, I am still determined to attend college and study Political Science, and after that, pursue a law degree. I want to be involved in politics, multiple facets of the law, and help others. I want to make a positive difference in this world and use my education and abilities as tools to obtain this goal. My earliest memory not only shows my determination I have displayed since I was young, but continues to inspire me to never let go of this determination, for it is an important part of who I was, and always will be.

Friendship to me means having someone you can go to when you're sad, happy, angry, confused, lonely, or anxious and sharing the burden or excitement with you. What is friendship, if not a bond of love and connection between two or more people? In 1 Corinthians Chapter 13, it says, "Love is patient." Friendship means someone who sticks with you when you need them most and through the times you aren't your best. "Love is kind." Friendship is treating another with respect and utmost charity. "Love is not envious or boastful or rude." A true friend will be happy for you in all of your accomplishments and is conscious of where you might lack talents, and does not press on your insecurities. "It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things." A friend will help you bear your cross, believe your worries, hope for your good, and endures through the tough times with you. Finally, the scripture verse ends with: "Love never ends." This echoes a common saying: "people may come and go, but true friends make footprints on your heart." True friendship, true loving friendship, outlasts any conflict, time, or separation.

I can't even count the number of times one of my family members has told me "patience is a virtue." Therefore, it was instilled in me at a young age that many situations would go a little smoother, be more little more productive, and end a little bit more positively. It also didn't take me long to figure out that at the foundation of every good cause, there is a sense of patience that upholds it. This mentality is something that every person can benefit from, regardless of their stage of life and occupation. Too often do we take the easy, instantly gratifying route and less thorough, gradual, and ultimately more rewarding route. Impatience also keeps us from obtaining and living up to our potential, or even pursuing something that we might exceed at. When I was younger, I always viewed crocheting as something that required an obscene amount of patience, and at that point in my life - I didn't believe I possessed it. Until one day, I decided to try it out -I could always stop if it got too hard, right? I didn't give up. Instead, I learned a valuable lesson: how gratifying it is to be able to reap the benefits of something you worked so hard, so tirelessly, and so patiently for. Flash-forward three years, and I still love spending hours crocheting hats, blankets, washcloths, and other things to give my family and friends. Thus I learned another benefit of practicing patience: that patience is one of the best investments you could ever make.

Ever since I was younger, I have loved collecting antiques and decorating my room with them. If you gave me the option of a new decoration versus a decoration old and worn, I would choose the latter. Only recently did I realize something: we need to start appreciating the old to move forward. We need to appreciate the earth, and how old and beautiful it is but also appreciate old items we can repurpose. We need to rejuvenate and work with what we have. For the past three years, I have formed a hobby in crocheting. Most of the yarn that I own I purchased, or others for me, from a yard sale. As I am currently making a project used from scraps from re-used and re-cycled yarn, I am constantly reminded of how important it is to rejuvenate and work with what I have. As the youngest girl in my family and having many older girl cousins, I receive a lot of hand-me-downs. Now that I have a job and the responsibility of buying my clothes, I understand the importance of hand-me-downs and thrifted clothes from a financial and environmental perspective. Every time I wear my sister’s blouse, or my cousin’s skirt, I truly appreciate how I have rejuvenated and worked with what I was given. To make a change, we need people to do the big things, such as leading environmental awareness rallies, but we also need everyone to do the little things to create a solution. Although I have never done anything particularly noteworthy, this is how I contribute to the solution.

Growing up, I have heard numerous stories of religious men and women, patriots, and zealots who gave up their lives for a cause. Nowadays, in first-world countries, the most common form of protest is through "virtual movements." Thus, it is hard to imagine having to give up your life instead of giving up your beliefs, as the battlefield lies primarily behind a phone or computer screen. I have thought a lot about the extent I would go to uphold and defend my beliefs. I have asked myself, "are strong beliefs worth having if you aren't willing to die for them?" As a strong Christian and Catholic woman, I possess many strong, controversial, and unpopular beliefs. As a woman who values the life of every single human being of every background, color, culture, and stage of life, I possess many strong, controversial, and unpopular beliefs. As an American who loves her country and its original values, I possess many strong, controversial, and unpopular beliefs. One of those strong, controversial, and contemporarily unpopular beliefs is the sacred importance of liberty. It was not the price of tea that singularly fueled a revolution, but the value our founding fathers placed on an individual's God-given right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. As Ronald Reagan said, "Freedom is never more than one generation away." We are continually fighting the battle for our freedoms as we dwell in the age of forced vaccinations, the legal killing of our unborn children, and human trafficking. What quote means a lot to me? One that displays the conviction of an individual, and a belief that is worth all the risk: "Give me liberty or give me death." -Patrick Henry

“Abortion is the ultimate exploitation of women.” -Alice Paul, American Women’s Rights Activist Roe v. Wade, the supreme court decision legalizing abortion states, “In the first trimester of pregnancy, the state may not regulate the abortion decision; only the pregnant woman and her attending physician can make that decision. In the second trimester, the state may impose regulations on abortion that are reasonably related to maternal health. In the third trimester, once the fetus reaches the point of “viability,” a state may regulate abortions or prohibit them entirely, so long as the laws contain exceptions for cases when abortion is necessary to save the life or health of the mother.” Under the term “health of the mother,” abortions are practically limitless up to and including the third trimester. This includes Partial-Birth abortions, known as “intact dilation and extraction.” This is when the doctor delivers a substantial amount of the baby’s body, and crushes the baby’s skull, or removes the baby’s brain by suction. According to CBS News, in February of 2020, Senate Democrats “blocked a pair of Republican bills that would ban most late-term abortions and threaten prison for doctors who didn't try saving the lives of infants born alive during abortions” Since Roe v. Wade does not specifically say at which point in the pregnancy abortion is not allowed, by supporting Roe v. Wade, you are consequently supporting a court decision that allows the killing of a baby seconds before the baby is born. The greatest evil of our time is what Mother Teresa referred to as “profoundly anti-woman." Because "Three-quarters of its victims are women: Half the babies and all the mothers.” We can solve this problem by educating ourselves and others, taking care of these mothers, and providing a society that upholds the dignity of human life.

What is the purpose of an individual life? How can one person make a difference? How can I be that person to bring the change? These are all questions everyone asks themselves at least once in their life. How do we answer these questions? By our character, actions, words, and legacy. So, let us start by answering the first question: What is the purpose of an individual life? Regardless of denominations, most moral human beings can agree that our lives should positively impact others. As a religious woman, I believe that the purpose of life is to serve God on earth and join him in heaven. How can one person make a difference? Mother Teresa, Gandhi, Abraham Lincoln, Rosa Parks, and Martin Luther King Jr. are individuals, to name a few, who have changed the world in their own unique and powerful ways. One of these individuals is J.F.K., who said, "Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country." How do I think society can most effectively empower women? We should be asking, "how can we, as women, create a society that empowers everyone?" We can't just sit around, waiting for opportunities to fall on our laps because they won't. Although it's an overused phrase, we need to "be the change we want to see." This doesn't mean every woman needs to run for office and create new legislation or do anything dramatic. We can start small. We can begin by showing family, friends, and co-workers kindness. We need to be examples and witnesses of what our society can and should look like. How can I be that person to bring the change? It is easy to sign a petition or email someone complaining about something, but it is hard to be kind, loving, merciful, and charitable. But are any real problems solved by taking the easy path? No, they aren't. Real problems require perseverance and diligence to obtain worthwhile solutions. First, we have to change how we approach conversations with everyone: people we have known for years, people we meet in the stores, and people we talk to on the phone. We need to have open minds, we need to think critically, and we need to develop a charitable regard for those who have different beliefs. Society needs to be a reflection of a people who collectively create an atmosphere of love, kindness, and forgiveness. That is the way it will be the most empowering to women.

One of my earliest childhood memories is when I was about two years old, and my mom gave away my broken crib, and I had to switch to a "big kid bed." To the bewilderment of my family, I sobbed and begged my mom to keep it as I saw the garbage truck take it away. My family's attempts to cheer me up by telling me how "cool" it was to have a big kid bed didn't help my attitude at all. I knew I didn't want to give away my crib, and no one could say anything to change my mind. Flash forward fourteen years, I haven't changed much, besides becoming practical enough to understand a broken crib wouldn't have been a good option. Nonetheless, I've always been a going-against-the-grain kind of girl, and I am not swayed by the "it isn't cool" or "normal" argument. My parents have always said, as many do, "be a leader, not a follower." Because of this upbringing, I have grown up taking charge and leading whenever the opportunity presented itself. Whether that be in running for and winning, the presidency of a recently formed PAC group (Political Action Committee for Truth), being selected as lead attorney for a Mock Trial Team, or playing lead roles in musical productions. Just recently, I reflected on how I don't mind speaking in public. I realized I still get nervous speaking in front of people, but the challenge is what I enjoy. I still got anxious when I gave a talk in front at a family/youth group meeting, when I gave each of my closing statements for Mock Trials, or when I gave presentations for a public speaking class. But the satisfaction I received by completing these tasks is beyond any hardship I might've faced in the process. When I was in 7th grade, I could not have cared less about my future career. I didn't know anything about our government, nor did I even understand what a lawyer was. Then, I participated in a beginner Mock Trial, and everything changed. With the same determination I had when I was two years old, at 12 years old, I wanted to become a lawyer. Next fall, four years later, I am still determined to attend college and study Political Science, and after that, pursue a law degree. I want to be involved in politics, multiple facets of the law, and help others. I want to make a positive difference in this world and use my education and abilities as tools to obtain this goal.

We have all heard the phrase "the world is your oyster," yet how many people take advantage of what the world has to offer? Going to college was never a question in my mind. Benjamin Franklin stated: “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest." I want to attend college to expand my knowledge and increase my intellect. I want to pursue higher education to broaden my opportunities for a career that I will love. I want to build a community at the college of my choice to obtain memories I can cherish for the rest of my life. I want to make a difference in the future, and that future begins tomorrow. I have an affinity for leadership; ergo, throughout high school, I have participated in Mock Trial groups and voted president of a recently formed PAC group: Political Action Committee for Truth. I also participate in a Snowboarding club and various youth groups associated with my homeschooling group. I enjoy music and the arts and have participated in local high school musicals and musical productions, and I have been taking private voice lessons. Over the past few years, I have accumulated a passion and an appreciation for three things. First, I try to prioritize my faith and follow God's will so that I might live up to my full potential. I believe that to accomplish great things, I will need to have a strong moral compass, and my faith and religion have helped form mine. Second, I have increased my interest in politics and the American government. I have built this passion through listening to podcasts, reading books, or spending hours researching a particular topic. This hobby has fostered a deeper appreciation for my country and inspired me to pursue a career directly involved in the law. Third, from a young age, I have always had a wanderlust. In the future, I hope to study abroad and travel to as many countries as I can. Through traveling, I wish to broaden my knowledge of the world by experiencing and learning from different cultures. I never want to look back on my life and think of all the things I wish I had accomplished or experienced, but rather be proud of what I did. We have all heard the Wayne Gretsky quote, "You miss 100% of the shots you don't take," and I want to take every single shot that I can.