Coming out as transgender six years ago was one of the most liberating and painful experiences of my life. I had hoped that opening up to my parents would bring understanding and support, but instead, I was met with resistance, invalidation, and years of being deadnamed and misgendered. They refused to see me for who I am, clinging instead to a version of me that made them more comfortable. Every “she,” every wrong name, felt like being erased in real time—and that wore on me emotionally and mentally. Despite this, I held onto my truth, because I knew living authentically was not a choice, but a necessity. College gave me the freedom I never had at home. It’s where I finally found the space to breathe, exist, and thrive. Away from the constant misgendering and control, I was able to begin hormone replacement therapy (HRT), a step I had long dreamed of taking. Starting HRT felt like finally aligning my body with my identity—it gave me the confidence to live fully and unapologetically. I’ve never been happier. Each day I wake up more at peace with myself, and that feeling drives me to want to help others experience that same liberation. Though my path hasn’t been easy, the challenges I’ve faced have shaped me into a resilient, compassionate, and determined individual. I’ve learned how to stand up for myself and others in ways I never thought possible. On campus, I’ve become actively involved in LGBTQ+ advocacy, joining our queer student alliance and organizing events around education, mental health, and allyship. I use my voice and experiences to build awareness and to support those who, like me, have felt unseen or silenced. One of my proudest moments was mentoring a younger trans student through their coming-out process. Being there for someone else the way I wished someone had been there for me felt like coming full circle. I’m currently pursuing a degree in education with the goal of working at the intersection of LGBTQ+ rights, youth mental health, and community empowerment. I want to create safe, affirming spaces for LGBTQ+ youth, particularly those who come from unsupportive or unsafe home environments. I know firsthand how much it means to be seen and validated, and I want to dedicate my life to making that a reality for others. Financing my education has been a struggle. I support myself through part-time work and federal student loans, which often leaves me stretched thin and stressed. Receiving this scholarship would ease my financial burden, allowing me to focus more on my studies, activism, and professional development. More than just money, this scholarship would be an affirmation of my journey and my potential to create meaningful change in the world. I’m committed to using my education as a tool for advocacy—not just for myself, but for the LGBTQ+ community at large. I’ve come a long way from the scared kid who felt invisible in their own home. Now, I’m building a life I’m proud of—and I’m determined to help others do the same.

If I had the opportunity to design a mandatory class for all students from kindergarten through twelfth grade, I would create a course centered on practical life skills. This class would aim to equip students with the essential knowledge and abilities needed to navigate the complexities of everyday life, fostering independence, resilience, and well-being. The curriculum would be carefully structured to evolve with the students as they progress through their education, ensuring that the content remains relevant and engaging at each stage of development. In the early years, the focus would be on building foundational skills. Young learners would be introduced to basic concepts such as personal hygiene, healthy eating habits, and simple household chores. They would learn how to manage their time effectively, follow instructions, and work collaboratively with others. Activities would include hands-on projects like planting a small garden, preparing simple snacks, and organizing their belongings. These experiences would help them develop a sense of responsibility and self-sufficiency from a young age. As students move into middle school, the curriculum would expand to cover more complex topics. Financial literacy would become a key focus, with lessons on budgeting, saving, and understanding the basics of credit. Students would learn how to create a personal budget, track their expenses, and set financial goals. They would also be introduced to the concept of investing and the importance of saving for the future. In addition to financial skills, students would also learn about nutrition and healthy cooking. They would learn how to plan balanced meals, read food labels, and prepare simple recipes. This knowledge would empower them to make informed choices about their health and well-being. In high school, the curriculum would delve into even more advanced topics, preparing students for the challenges and responsibilities of adulthood. They would learn about personal finance in greater detail, including how to manage debt, apply for loans, and understand the basics of taxes. They would also learn about career planning, including how to write a resume, prepare for a job interview, and explore different career paths. In addition to these practical skills, students would also develop their communication and problem-solving abilities. They would learn how to communicate effectively in different situations, resolve conflicts peacefully, and make informed decisions. The impact of such a class would be far-reaching. By equipping students with practical life skills, we would empower them to become more independent, responsible, and successful adults. They would be better prepared to manage their finances, take care of their health, and navigate the complexities of the modern world. Moreover, they would be more likely to contribute positively to their communities and lead fulfilling lives. By investing in the development of these essential skills, we would be investing in the future of our society.

Teaching, in its most profound sense, transcends the mere transmission of facts and figures; it is about kindling a lifelong love for learning and fostering the holistic development of individuals. My commitment to making a lasting impact extends beyond the classroom, rooted in a deep-seated belief in service and community engagement. From volunteering at the local community center to mentoring younger students, I have actively sought opportunities to serve others, shaping my perspective on the transformative power of education. One of the most impactful experiences has been mentoring young wrestlers at the local youth wrestling club. As a volunteer coach and mentor, I worked with elementary and middle school students, providing technical instruction, physical conditioning, and guidance on sportsmanship and mental toughness. This experience taught me the importance of clear communication, positive reinforcement, and adapting my coaching style to meet the individual needs of each wrestler. I encountered kids who faced various challenges, from a lack of confidence to performance anxiety. Witnessing their growth, both on and off the mat, was incredibly rewarding. I learned to tailor my approach to help them overcome obstacles, providing not only wrestling techniques but also a supportive and encouraging presence. Seeing these young athletes gain confidence, improve their skills, and develop a love for the sport solidified my commitment to creating a positive and empowering environment where every wrestler feels valued and has the opportunity to reach their full potential. Beyond formal volunteer work, I have also sought opportunities to serve in everyday life. Whether it's helping an elderly neighbor with groceries or tutoring a classmate who is struggling with a difficult concept, I believe that small acts of kindness can make a big difference. These experiences have reinforced the importance of empathy, compassion, and a willingness to go the extra mile to support others. Looking ahead, I aspire to instill in my future students a sense of curiosity, critical thinking, and social responsibility that extends far beyond academic knowledge. I hope to inspire them to become active and engaged citizens who are committed to making a positive difference in their communities and the world. By fostering a classroom culture of collaboration, respect, and intellectual exploration, I aim to empower my students to become lifelong learners who are equipped to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. I envision a classroom where students feel safe to take risks, express their ideas, and challenge conventional thinking. Ultimately, my goal is to create a ripple effect, where the impact of my teaching extends far beyond the walls of the classroom, shaping the lives of my students and the communities they serve. I believe that education is a powerful tool for social change, and I am committed to using my skills and passion to empower the next generation of leaders and change-makers.