I am currently a senior in high school and will be graduating with 37 college credits. I take pride in being a hardworking and caring student who always tries to put others first. School has always been important to me, but so has being someone that others can depend on. Whether that is helping a classmate, supporting a teammate, or showing up for my family, I try to be someone who works hard and cares about the people around me. My parents are divorced, and because of that, I learned responsibility at a young age. Growing up between two households was not always easy, and there were times when I felt caught in the middle. Those experiences forced me to grow up faster than many of my peers, but they also helped shape the person I am today. I learned how to adapt, stay strong, and continue moving forward even when situations felt difficult. Another responsibility I have taken on is working. I babysit almost every night after school so that I can pay for my own needs and wants. Balancing school, sports, and work has not always been easy, but it has taught me important life skills. I have learned determination, maturity, and the importance of showing up for others. When families trust me to care for their children, I take that responsibility seriously. These experiences have helped shape the way I view leadership and the type of impact I want to make in my community. In the future, I plan to pursue a career in accounting. I want to make a positive impact in the accounting field by helping businesses stay organized and financially strong. Accountants do much more than work with numbers; they help people make important decisions that affect their businesses, families, and futures. I hope to contribute to the field by improving accounting software and developing better spreadsheets that make financial information easier for business owners and accountants to understand and use. By helping businesses stay financially stable and organized, I believe I can make a meaningful difference in the lives of many people. One challenge that I had to overcome was experiencing bullying. During high school, I was pressured by peers to drink alcohol. I knew it was not the right decision for me, so I chose to say no. Unfortunately, some of my friends began to bully me because I did not want to fit in with their choices. They told other people, and for a while, it felt like I could not catch a break. It was a difficult time, but I stayed true to my values and refused to compromise who I was just to be accepted. That experience taught me a lot about character and self-respect. I realized that true strength comes from standing by your values, even when it is difficult. Instead of letting those experiences define me in a negative way, I used them as motivation to focus on my goals and surround myself with people who respect my choices. The challenges I have faced have helped shape me into a determined, responsible, and compassionate person. As I move forward into college and my future career, I hope to continue working hard, helping others, and making a positive difference in the world around me.

Entrepreneurship will allow me to give back to the community that helped shape who I am today. Growing up in a small town, I have seen how much people rely on one another for support, whether it is through local businesses, agriculture, or simply lending a helping hand. Because of this, I want my future career to not only provide for my family but also create opportunities for others in my community. My goal is to attend college and earn a degree in Accounting and Finance so I can open my own accounting firm one day. Through this career, I want to help individuals, families, and small businesses better understand their finances. Many people feel overwhelmed by taxes, budgeting, and financial planning. By offering guidance and clear advice, I hope to give people the confidence to make smart financial decisions that can improve their lives long-term. Financial knowledge can open doors for people, and I want to be someone who helps others walk through those doors. Alongside my career in accounting, I also hope to continue growing my family’s feedlot business. Agriculture is the backbone of many rural communities, including mine. Being involved in the feedlot will allow me to support other producers and give people opportunities to invest in cattle who may not otherwise have the chance. I want to help others learn how agriculture can be both a livelihood and an investment that strengthens our local economy. By combining my knowledge of finance with agriculture, I will be able to support both the business and agricultural sides of my community. Giving back to my community is already something that has been important in my life. Throughout high school, I have looked for ways to help others whenever I can. I have volunteered through my church during soup suppers and Sunday brunches, helping clean, organize, and serve meals so events could run smoothly for the community. I also helped with a summer reading program where I worked with younger students to strengthen their literacy skills. Watching them gain confidence in their reading reminded me that even small efforts can make a lasting difference. In addition, I have been involved in activities like the National Honor Society, where community service is an important part of what we do. These experiences have shown me that leadership is not always about big gestures. Often, it is about stepping up when someone needs help and being willing to serve others. Entrepreneurship will allow me to continue that mindset throughout my career. By building an accounting business and supporting my family’s feedlot, I will be able to create opportunities, provide guidance, and invest back into the community that has invested so much in me. My goal is not only to succeed personally, but to use that success to help others grow alongside me.

I am currently a senior in high school, and I will graduate as the salutatorian of my class with a 4.02 GPA. By the time I graduate, I will also have earned 37 college credits. While I am proud of these accomplishments, they do not fully represent who I am. I am a determined and empathetic individual who has faced many challenges growing up. Those challenges have helped shape my character and have taught me the importance of perseverance, responsibility, and understanding others. My upbringing in a single-parent household has impacted my life tremendously. After my parents divorced when I was young, my mother became responsible for providing for four children on her own. Supporting a family of five was not easy, and there were many times when money, stress, and uncertainty weighed heavily on our household. My mother worked hard to support us, but the pressure she carried often became overwhelming. Over time, my mother developed a struggle with alcohol as a way to cope with the stress in her life. When I was younger, I did not fully understand what was happening. I thought it was simply how adults dealt with their problems. As I grew older, however, I began to realize that many of the challenges my family faced were much deeper than I had once believed. Growing up in this environment forced me to become more independent and responsible at a young age. I learned to take care of my responsibilities, stay focused on my education, and support my siblings whenever I could. There were times when it felt difficult to balance everything, but I refused to let my circumstances define my future. One realization that truly changed my perspective came when I began reflecting on my mother’s struggles. For a long time, it was easy for me to feel frustrated or confused about the choices she made. However, as I matured, I started to see her situation differently. I realized that she was not simply avoiding her problems, but rather trying to cope with an overwhelming amount of pressure while raising four children on her own. This realization helped me develop a deeper sense of empathy and understanding for others. It taught me that people often carry struggles that others may never see. Instead of judging others based on their circumstances or decisions, I learned to approach situations with compassion and patience. These experiences have shaped the person I am today. They have strengthened my determination to succeed and motivated me to create a better future for myself. They have also helped me become someone who values hard work, resilience, and understanding others. As I continue my education and move toward my future career, I will carry these lessons with me. My upbringing has not only taught me how to overcome adversity, but it has also shown me the importance of empathy and perseverance. Those qualities will continue to guide me as I pursue my goals and strive to make a positive impact in the lives of others.

I am currently a senior at Palmer Public Schools and will graduate on May 9, 2026. At 17 years old, I have already begun taking steps toward my future by enrolling in college courses during my junior year of high school. By the time I graduate, I will have earned 37 college credits. While this achievement reflects my commitment to education, it also represents my determination to build a strong foundation for the future I have always envisioned. When I was two years old, my parents divorced. Growing up in that environment shaped many of the values I carry with me today. I learned early on how important resilience, independence, and hard work are in life. My family’s experiences taught me that stability is not something to take for granted; it is something you work for. Because of this, I have always been motivated to create a secure future not only for myself, but for the people around me. After high school, I plan to attend the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and pursue a double major in Accounting and Finance. Numbers, organization, and problem-solving have always come naturally to me, but more importantly, I enjoy using those skills to help others. My long-term goal is to become both a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and a Certified Financial Analyst (CFA). These careers will allow me to guide individuals and businesses toward financial stability and growth. While attending college, I plan to gain real-world experience by working at Lutz’s accounting firm. This opportunity would allow me to apply what I learn in the classroom to real financial situations while also learning from experienced professionals in the field. Eventually, I hope to open my own accounting firm where I can provide financial guidance to businesses and individuals within my community. At the same time, I also plan to take over my family’s feedlot, continuing a tradition that is deeply meaningful to my family. My dream is to combine these two paths, business and agriculture, while building something that will benefit both my family and my community. Achieving these goals will require dedication, education, and financial responsibility. During college, I will focus heavily on my academics while also gaining practical experience in the accounting field. I will continue learning how to manage finances responsibly so that I can eventually open my own business and successfully operate my family’s feedlot. Several traits will help me succeed in this career path. Leadership is one of my strongest qualities. I am willing to step forward, take initiative, and guide others when challenges arise. Determination is another trait that has shaped who I am. I do not give up easily, and when obstacles appear, I work harder to overcome them rather than allowing them to stop my progress. Finally, my organizational skills allow me to manage responsibilities effectively and stay focused on long-term goals. I understand that success does not happen overnight. It requires persistence, patience, and the willingness to keep learning. However, I believe my experiences, work ethic, and determination have prepared me to pursue my goals with confidence. By continuing my education and gaining experience in the accounting field, I hope to build a career that not only provides stability for my future but also allows me to support my family, contribute to my community, and create opportunities for others.

My name is Hana Mamot, and I am a caring, determined, and goal-oriented individual with a strong desire to build a meaningful future through education. I plan to attend the University of Nebraska-Lincoln to earn a bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Finance. After completing my undergraduate education, I hope to pursue both the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Certified Financial Analyst (CFA) certifications. These goals reflect not only my passion for numbers and organization but also my desire to help others make confident and informed financial decisions. Growing up with divorced parents shaped many of the values I carry with me today. From a young age, I learned the importance of empathy, communication, and resilience. Experiencing challenges within my own family helped me understand how much stability and support can mean in someone’s life. It also taught me to be compassionate toward others, because everyone is facing struggles that may not always be visible. These experiences helped shape the person I am today. Someone who works hard, supports others, and strives to create a more secure future. Throughout high school, I have taken pride in being dependable and committed to everything I do. Whether it is in my academics, extracurricular activities, or helping others in my community, I always aim to give my best effort. I believe that success does not come from talent alone, but from persistence, responsibility, and the willingness to keep moving forward even when things become difficult. These qualities continue to motivate me as I prepare for the next stage of my education. Receiving this scholarship would make a meaningful difference in my ability to pursue my college education. While I strongly believe that hard work and determination open doors, I also understand that the financial burden of higher education can be overwhelming. This scholarship would ease some of that pressure and allow me to fully dedicate myself to my studies and long-term goals. With less financial stress, I would have the opportunity to focus on my coursework, pursue internships, and take on opportunities that will help me grow academically and professionally. Education is deeply important to me not only because it will provide me with a stable career, but also because I want to set an example for my family. I want them to see that persistence, dedication, and self-belief can turn dreams into reality. Being able to pursue higher education represents more than just personal success; it represents growth, opportunity, and the ability to give back to the people who have supported me along the way. I have already taken steps to prepare for the financial responsibilities of college. I carefully budget my expenses, maintain a savings account dedicated to my education, and apply for every scholarship opportunity available to me. These actions reflect my commitment to building a strong and responsible future. However, receiving this scholarship would provide the additional support needed to push myself even further in my academic journey. This scholarship would represent more than financial assistance. It would serve as encouragement and a reminder that others believe in my potential and are willing to invest in my future. With that support, I will continue to work hard, pursue my goals, and use my education to make a positive impact on the lives of others.

Jack Terry’s story inspires me to continue sharing my story and encouraging others through their hardships. After learning about his experiences and the adversity he faced, I realized how powerful it can be when someone chooses to help others despite the struggles they have endured. Even though our adversities are different, his story reminds me that everyone faces challenges, and through those challenges, we can support and uplift one another. Sometimes the most meaningful thing we can do is remind someone that they are not alone. The biggest adversity I have faced in my life was the loss of my grandpa to cancer. He battled cancer for more than six years and endured the side effects of radiation for over four of those years. Despite everything he went through, he remained strong and continued living his life with determination. Toward the end of his life, he was doing well and even outlived his life expectancy. My family truly believed he was improving. However, he eventually became sick with a virus, and because his immune system had been weakened from years of treatments, his body could not fight it off. His passing came as a shock to my entire family. I was at school when I found out, and in that moment, my world felt like it stopped. My grandpa had always been a huge part of my life, someone I looked up to and relied on. I have always considered myself a strong person who keeps my emotions to myself, but that day I could not hold back my tears. Losing him changed my life in ways I never expected. Although losing my grandpa was one of the hardest moments of my life, it taught me some of the most important lessons I carry with me today. I learned that time is something we should never take for granted. The people we love will not always be here, which makes every moment we share with them even more valuable. Since his passing, I have made it a priority to spend meaningful time with my family and create memories that will last a lifetime. Like Jack Terry, I also want to help others by sharing my experiences and reminding them that they are not alone. Grief and hardship can make people feel isolated, but knowing that someone else understands can make an incredible difference. My experiences have taught me the importance of empathy, compassion, and being willing to listen when others are struggling. As I pursue my studies in accounting and finance, my goal is not only to build a successful career but also to give back to the people around me. I hope to use my education to help individuals and families make better financial decisions so they can create stability and opportunities for their futures. Financial struggles can be overwhelming, and I want to be someone who helps others navigate those challenges with confidence. Adversity has shaped who I am today. My grandpa’s strength and Jack Terry’s story both inspire me to continue moving forward, helping others along the way. Through my education, my experiences, and my compassion for others, I hope to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those around me.

Mental health and substance abuse have shaped my life from my earliest memories. Growing up, alcohol was always present in my home. I cannot recall a time when I did not worry about whether my parents were safe or whether I would make it home safely myself. Even as a child, I learned to be cautious, especially about riding in a car with them after they had been drinking. That constant fear became my normal. My parents were not kind when they drank. The fighting was frequent, loud, and damaging. While some of the harm was physical, much of it was emotional and long-lasting. My twin and I were often caught in the middle of situations we were too young to understand or handle. Eventually, my parents divorced, which ultimately was for the better. My father sought help and was able to turn his life around, but my mother continues to struggle with alcoholism. Watching one parent recover while the other did not was confusing and painful, and it deeply affected how I viewed myself and the world around me. Because my parents were unable to be fully present, I grew up too fast. I became the responsible one, the “parent” in the house, taking on duties and emotional burdens that were never meant for a child. At the same time, I was constantly being torn down. The negative words I heard, especially from my mom, stayed with me. Over time, they shaped how I saw myself. I never felt worthy, capable, or good enough, no matter how hard I tried. By the time I reached high school, the weight of my childhood began to show in my mental health. I could not quiet my thoughts at night. I would lie awake, staring at the ceiling, replaying worries and fears I could not escape. Sleep, which once came easily, became a struggle. Eventually, I was diagnosed with anxiety driven by intrusive thoughts. While I continue to live with anxiety today, I have learned that it does not define me; it is something I manage, not something that controls my future. Personal growth has been one of the hardest and most important challenges of my life. For years, I lacked confidence and doubted every decision I made. Through counseling and surrounding myself with a healthier, more supportive group of friends, I slowly began to rebuild my sense of self. I learned how to challenge the negative beliefs I had internalized and recognize my own worth. Choosing to grow, even when it was uncomfortable, taught me strength and resilience. My educational goals are rooted in that growth. I plan to attend the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and pursue a bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Finance. I have always been drawn to numbers, organization, and structure: things that provided stability when my personal life did not. I want to help others understand their finances and feel empowered by knowledge rather than overwhelmed by it. After earning my undergraduate degree, I plan to continue my education by completing a master’s degree and preparing for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) exams. These certifications will allow me to build credibility and make a meaningful impact in the financial field. Managing my recovery remains a priority as I work toward these goals. I plan to continue counseling when needed, maintain healthy boundaries with family, and rely on routines that support both my mental health and academic success. Staying organized, managing my time, and asking for help when I need it are tools I now view as strengths, not weaknesses. Applying for scholarships will help reduce financial stress, allowing me to focus on my education, while working during college will provide valuable experience and independence. In the future, I hope to own and operate my own accounting firm, serving individuals, families, and small businesses, especially in rural communities where financial resources can be limited. I also plan to take over my family’s feedlot and manage its financial operations, combining my professional knowledge with my agricultural roots. My past has taught me responsibility, perseverance, and empathy. While mental health challenges and substance abuse shaped my childhood, they do not define my future. Instead, they have motivated me to build a life grounded in stability, purpose, and growth.

The Jim Maxwell Memorial Scholarship represents an opportunity not only to relieve financial stress but to honor the values of faith that have been essential to my life. I grew up in a single-parent household where I learned about staying true to faith, core values, and perseverance. My faith has been a constant source of inspiration and guidance to help shape me into the individual I am today. As I was growing up, I always went to church. I started to feel a connection with my faith community because of the time I spent at church. They taught me how to honor my faith and the Ten Commandments to help guide my life. My father was diagnosed with cancer when I was eight years old, and even though he was feeling poorly, he still provided for our family as a single parent. His faith in God never went away, and it made him closer to God. My dad showed me how to stay close to my faith and to never walk away from God. I found my purpose in church when my dad would encourage me to sign up for volunteering activities. I started helping with Soup Suppers, masses, and classes. I learned that I could impact more people’s lives, and it was a calling. I started to learn that service was something I enjoyed. I started looking forward to church activies and I started instilling the belief of God into my peers. I am not afraid to talk about God to my friends. With my faith as a substructure, I learned how to turn my problems over to God’s hands. My hardships taught me that God is in my corner, and he gave me compassion, resourcefulness, and guidance within my life. I also learned that my future career had to do with helping others. I am able to combine my passion for support with my math skills to pursue a career in accounting and finance. I desire to become a Certified Public Accountant and Certified Financial Analyst after I attain my Bachelor’s degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. I hope to be able to help others with their finances. Work, academics, and church have all been major parts of my life. I had to learn how to balance them all and set my priorities straight. During high school, it all seemed like a lot to do, but I easily learned that my faith was my top priority. I can go to my faith in all sorts of seasons of my life and feel secure. I am committed to using my college degree to help serve God and the community. I intend to live out my core values of service and passion within youth like Jim Maxwell did. This scholarship represents faith over power and money. There is a commitment attached to the scholarship of service, faith, and encouragement throughout the youth. With the support of this scholarship, I will be able to focus on my education and fulfill these commitments instead of working the majority of my time in college. My lifelong goal isn’t just to become a CPA and CFA, but to educate others about God and all he did for us. Looking back on my faith journey, I am reminded how God has never failed me. My obstacles helped shape me into the kind character I am and led me to my destination. I am appreciative of the opportunity to apply for the Jim Maxwell Memorial Scholarship, and I am committed to carrying forward his legacy by living a life resolved around faith, compassion, and service.

The higher education field I plan to study is accounting and finance. I have always been interested in numbers, records, and understanding how financial decisions shape outcomes. This interest began at a young age while spending time at my dad’s feedlot, where he regularly showed me financial records and explained how decisions affected the business. Seeing how accurate recordkeeping and financial planning directly influenced success sparked my appreciation for accounting and finance and showed me the importance of understanding money beyond basic math. I chose this field because accounting and finance allow me to combine analytical skills with meaningful impact. Financial stability and organization are essential for individuals and businesses to thrive, and I want to help others make informed financial decisions. Whether it is assisting a business in staying organized, helping an owner plan for growth, or ensuring accuracy and accountability, accounting and finance align with my belief in working not only for personal success but also to support others. I have planned an entrepreneurial career because I want to build something of my own that reflects my values and priorities. Entrepreneurship offers the opportunity to create a business that serves others while also allowing flexibility and independence. In the future, I want a career that enables me to support my family while being present for important moments in their lives. Owning a business would give me the ability to balance professional success with personal responsibilities, which is a key reason I am pursuing a business-focused education. I believe I will be successful in my business endeavors while many are not because of my background, work ethic, and determination. Growing up around my dad’s business gave me early exposure to how businesses operate and the importance of accurate financial management. I learned to recognize errors in financial records and understand how small mistakes can lead to larger problems if not addressed. This experience taught me attention to detail, responsibility, and the value of consistency: skills that are critical for success in accounting, finance, and entrepreneurship. In addition, I am a determined individual who does not give up when challenges arise. I understand that business success requires patience, discipline, and continuous learning. I am willing to put in the time and effort to improve, adapt, and make informed decisions. These qualities set successful entrepreneurs apart from those who struggle, and they are traits I consistently demonstrate in both academic and personal settings. To me, a successful life means providing for my family while having a career I genuinely enjoy. It also means making a positive impact on others while earning a living. Success is not only measured by income, but by fulfillment, stability, and the ability to help others succeed as well. My choice to study accounting and finance supports this vision, as it equips me with the knowledge and skills to build a meaningful career rooted in service, responsibility, and long-term success.

My relationship with Jesus has shaped who I am, how I see the world, and how I choose to live my life. It did not develop overnight, and it was not always easy. My faith grew through effort, prayer, and perseverance, especially during moments when I felt tired, overwhelmed, or uncertain. Through those moments, I learned that faith is not about perfection, but about trust and commitment, even when answers are not clear. Jesus has become the center of my life and the foundation I return to during both joy and hardship. My faith gives meaning to the blessings I often take for granted, such as attending church, spending time with my family, and feeling supported even during difficult seasons. When my family faced serious health challenges, my relationship with Jesus gave me strength when I felt weak and hope when fear felt overwhelming. I learned to lean on prayer and trust that God was walking beside me, even when I did not understand His plan. Through my relationship with Jesus, I have grown more confident in my faith and more willing to speak honestly about what I believe. Faith has taught me compassion, patience, and humility. It has helped me understand the importance of treating others with kindness and respect, regardless of differences. I have had opportunities to encourage others who are struggling by listening, supporting them, and reminding them that they are never alone. These moments have deepened my understanding that faith is not meant to be kept private; it is meant to be lived. As I continue my educational journey, I plan to implement my faith through my actions, attitude, and leadership. While I may not always speak openly about my beliefs in every setting, I will strive to reflect Christ through integrity, honesty, and compassion. I want my peers to see faith through how I treat others, how I handle challenges, and how I remain grounded when life becomes stressful. I believe that leading by example is one of the most powerful ways to share faith. I also plan to stay actively involved in faith-based communities throughout college. Maintaining a strong relationship with Jesus will help me remain focused on my values while navigating new experiences and responsibilities. I hope to encourage others by being a source of support and positivity, reminding them that faith can provide peace, purpose, and direction during uncertain times. My relationship with Jesus has taught me that faith is not just something I believe. It is something I live every day. As I pursue higher education, I will carry my faith with me, allowing it to guide my decisions, strengthen my character, and shape the person I am becoming. I trust that through faith, I will continue to grow not only as a student, but as a person who strives to serve others and honor God in all that I do.

Growing up in a blended family household shaped who I am in ways I did not fully understand until I was older. I never had the experience of being with all of my siblings at once. I have three half-siblings and a twin; my half-brother from my dad’s side and two half-sisters from my mom’s. When my parents divorced, the only sibling who was always with me was my twin. From a young age, I learned what it felt like to be split between households, responsibilities, and emotions. Both of my parents struggled with alcoholism, and because they could not communicate with each other, my twin and I were often placed in the middle. We became the messengers, the listeners, and sometimes the emotional support neither parent should have needed from a child. Many of my childhood memories are not of peace or stability, but of arguments, raised voices, and being yelled at simply for asking my parents to stop speaking badly about one another. Living in that environment forced me to grow up quickly. I learned how deeply words can hurt, how conflict can affect children, and how instability can follow a family for years. Although my upbringing was difficult, it also gave me something invaluable: empathy. I became deeply aware of how other people feel and how easily someone can be struggling beneath the surface. As I grew older, I developed a strong desire to help others, especially families and children who feel unheard or overwhelmed. When people in high school asked me what I wanted to do with my future, I initially believed I wanted to be a teacher because of the positive impact my teachers had on my life during times when I needed support and consistency. However, during my junior year, I discovered a love for math and problem-solving. That realization led me to accounting and finance, a field I never expected to feel so personally connected to. Many of my parents’ arguments revolved around finances, stress, and uncertainty. I saw firsthand how financial strain can tear relationships apart and how children are often the silent victims of that stress. This experience inspired me to want to help families manage their finances so that money does not become a source of constant conflict in their homes. My future goal is to attend the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and earn a bachelor’s degree in accounting and finance. I plan to become both a Certified Public Accountant and a Certified Financial Analyst. One day, I hope to own my own accounting firm and operate my family’s feedlot, combining my professional skills with my personal roots. Even if my career path continues to evolve, I know that my purpose will remain the same: using my talents to help others find stability, security, and peace. Being raised in a blended, unstable household taught me resilience, compassion, and responsibility. I cannot change my past, but I can use what I learned from it to create a future where I make a difference. Through my dedication to finance and my caring personality, I hope to help others build stronger families, healthier futures, and lives with fewer burdens than the ones I grew up carrying.

Anxiety has been a constant presence in my life, long before I had the words to name it. As a child, I did not understand why my heart raced during simple conversations or why my hands shook when nothing was wrong. I picked at my fingers and hair without realizing it was a response to the worry that followed me everywhere. All I knew was that I felt constantly on edge, trapped in my own thoughts, and unsure how to quiet my mind. As I grew older, anxiety began to affect my daily life more noticeably, especially in school. While others focused on lessons and conversations, my thoughts spiraled into worries about how I was perceived, whether I had said the wrong thing, or how past moments might be judged. This constant overthinking made it difficult to concentrate in class and complete assignments efficiently. My lack of sleep, caused by restless nights filled with worry, left me exhausted and irritable. I was not the version of myself I wanted to be, and that realization was painful. Living with anxiety has challenged me, but it has also shaped my character in powerful ways. I learned resilience by showing up even when my mind told me I could not. I learned discipline by pushing through moments of fear and self-doubt. Most importantly, I learned self-awareness: recognizing my limits while still striving to grow beyond them. Anxiety forced me to work harder than I ever expected, but in doing so, it taught me perseverance, empathy, and determination. These qualities now guide my goals for the future. I plan to attend the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, where I intend to pursue a bachelor’s degree in accounting and finance. I aspire to become both a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA). These careers require precision, responsibility, and focus, skills I have developed through years of managing anxiety while meeting academic and personal expectations. In the long term, I hope to take ownership of my family’s feedlot, which has been passed down through four generations. This operation represents more than a business; it represents legacy, responsibility, and trust. I want to honor my family’s work while expanding the operation to create opportunities for others in my community. My experiences with anxiety have taught me the value of stability, thoughtful decision-making, and leadership rooted in understanding: qualities that will serve me well in both finance and agriculture. Although anxiety has made my journey more difficult, it has never defined my limits. Instead, it has strengthened my resolve to succeed. I carry my experiences with me not as obstacles, but as proof of my ability to overcome adversity and pursue a future built on purpose, resilience, and growth.

I want to make a change in my life because I believe I deserve stability, peace, and the opportunity to grow into the person I am meant to become. For much of my life, emotional tension and family conflict made it difficult for me to feel secure or confident in myself. I reached a point where simply getting through each day felt heavier than it should. I didn't enjoy the simple things in life, such as waking up; I was dejected. Wanting more than survival, I chose to pursue change so I could build a future defined by purpose rather than pain. The first steps I took toward this change required courage and honesty. I began counseling to better understand myself and develop healthy coping strategies. Through that process, I learned how to manage anxiety, regulate my emotions, and respond thoughtfully instead of reacting out of stress. I learned how to be respectful and honest towards those who made me upset. Counseling helped me rediscover joy and confidence, even in challenging situations, and taught me skills I will carry with me for the rest of my life. Another pivotal step was choosing a healthier living environment. Moving into my father’s home provided me with emotional stability and the space to focus on my well-being and goals. In that environment, I was able to prioritize my education, regain self-belief, and envision a future beyond the limitations I once felt surrounded by. I was courageous because I didn't want conflict with my mom, but I had to do what was in my best interest. These choices were not easy, but they were necessary steps toward becoming stronger, more independent, and more hopeful. This scholarship would allow me to continue that transformation through higher education. College represents a fresh start, a chance to learn who I am outside of past challenges and to pursue my goals with confidence. Financial support would relieve a significant burden and allow me to focus fully on my studies in accounting and finance, a field that aligns with my desire for stability, structure, and service. I plan to pay this opportunity forward by helping others gain financial clarity and independence. With my education, I hope to assist individuals and families in making informed financial decisions so they can escape situations that hold them back. By empowering others through knowledge and support, I want to be the helping hand I once needed, turning my second chance into opportunities for many more

When I am confronted with adversity, whether mental or physical, the first step I take is allowing myself to acknowledge what I am feeling while staying determined to move forward. Through many difficult experiences, I have learned that ignoring my emotions only makes challenges heavier and more exhausting. Instead, I have grown to understand that expressing my feelings in healthy ways and leaning on trusted people allows me to regain focus and continue pursuing my career aspirations. One of the most difficult physical challenges I have faced was a lifelong injury that prevented me from continuing in an activity I loved. At first, this felt devastating because it took away something that had always motivated me. However, I refused to let my circumstances define my effort or my character. Even though I could no longer participate the same way, I continued to show up for my teammates and support them from the sidelines. I encouraged them, celebrated their progress, and reminded myself that leadership and commitment do not disappear when obstacles arise. This experience taught me perseverance and adaptability, skills that will be essential as I work toward my future career. Mentally, I have faced significant adversity as well. I experienced bullying at school and struggled with challenges at home, which often made it feel like everything was stacked against me. There were moments when continuing to push forward felt overwhelming, but I knew that giving up would only limit my future. To take control of my situation, I began counseling to learn coping strategies that would help me manage stress and maintain my goals. Through counseling, I learned how to process my emotions, build resilience, and create healthier ways to respond to challenges instead of allowing them to derail my progress. These experiences taught me that asking for help is not a weakness; it is a strength. By learning how to take care of my mental well-being, I became more focused, motivated, and confident in my ability to succeed. Even during difficult moments, I kept reminding myself of my long-term goals and the impact I want to make through my career. My aspirations give me purpose and direction, especially during times when obstacles try to slow me down. Adversity has shaped me into someone who does not give up when things become difficult. Instead, I adapt, seek support, and remain committed to my goals. I continue to push forward because I want to prove to myself that I am capable of achieving success despite challenges. These experiences have strengthened my determination and prepared me to face future obstacles with resilience, discipline, and a clear sense of purpose as I work toward my career aspirations.

Writing has always been a form of free expression for me. It is a way to put thoughts and emotions into words and allow both the writer and the reader to find meaning in them. I love that writing gives people the chance to express their feelings openly while also creating something others can relate to. Through writing, stories can be shared, emotions can be understood, and connections can be formed. Writing allows people to feel seen, and that is what makes it so powerful to me. One of the things I love most about writing is that there is no strict right or wrong way to do it. Writing gives people the freedom to say as much or as little as they want. Some days, writing allows me to pour everything I am feeling onto the page, and other days it helps me express things simply and clearly. That freedom makes writing feel safe. I do not feel judged when I write, because the words on the page do not define who I am; they reflect what I am feeling in that moment. Writing gives me a space where I can be honest with myself before sharing that honesty with others. A specific moment when writing truly helped me was during my parents’ divorce. At the time, I struggled to talk openly about how I felt. I felt confused, overwhelmed, and unsure of how to express everything I was carrying emotionally. Writing became the one place where I could say what I could not say out loud. I wrote about my feelings, my fears, and the changes happening in my life. Putting those emotions into words helped me process what was happening and made the situation feel more manageable. Writing allowed me to release emotions I had been holding in, and it reminded me that my feelings were valid. Writing has also helped me understand myself better overall. When I put my thoughts into words, I can slow down and reflect on my experiences. Writing helps me make sense of difficult moments and find meaning in them. At the same time, it allows me to share my story in a way that could help someone else feel less alone. Knowing that my writing could comfort or support another person is one of the main reasons I continue to write. As I move into college, I plan to make writing a consistent part of my life. I will continue writing through my coursework, especially in essays that allow me to reflect, analyze, and clearly express my ideas. I also plan to take creative writing classes to strengthen my skills and explore different styles of writing. These opportunities will help me grow as a writer and challenge me to think in new ways. Outside of class, I hope to use writing as a personal outlet. College will bring new challenges and responsibilities, and writing will help me stay grounded. Whether through journaling, personal essays, or creative pieces, I plan to use writing to express my thoughts honestly and continue growing. Writing has always been more than just an assignment to me; it is a passion. I plan to carry it with me throughout college and beyond.

Basketball has played an important role in my life and has helped shape who I am today. Throughout my basketball career, I achieved several accomplishments that I am proud of. I earned a starting position on my team and consistently contributed by scoring the most points. These accomplishments were the result of hard work, commitment, and countless hours of practice. Beyond individual achievements, basketball allowed me to build strong friendships, learn teamwork, and make a positive impact within my school and community. While my basketball career brought many rewarding moments, it also came with significant challenges. One of the biggest obstacles I faced was a lifelong knee injury that ultimately ended my ability to compete in sports. During my junior year, while playing volleyball, I suffered a knee injury that forced me to stop playing both volleyball and basketball. Being told that I would no longer be able to play competitively was devastating. Basketball had been a major part of my identity, and losing the ability to play felt like losing a piece of myself. At that moment, it felt as though my athletic career had come to an unexpected and painful end. Instead of walking away from the sport completely, I chose to stay involved by becoming a student manager for the basketball team. Although I could no longer be on the court, I still wanted to support my teammates and contribute in any way I could. I attended every practice and game, helped encourage my teammates, and made sure they knew I was still there for them. While the role was different from what I had imagined for myself, it taught me that leadership and support do not always come from scoring points or playing minutes on the court. Through this experience, I learned the true meaning of perseverance. I had to push forward even when things did not turn out the way I had planned. Adjusting to a new role was not easy, but it taught me how to stay committed even when circumstances change. Basketball showed me that setbacks do not define failure; how one responds to them does. The lessons I learned through basketball will continue to help me achieve my goals in the future. Perseverance, discipline, and teamwork are qualities that will be essential as I pursue a career in accounting. There will be challenging moments, especially during demanding times like tax season, but basketball taught me how to push through pressure, stay focused, and remain dedicated to my responsibilities. Just as I had to adapt after my injury, I will be able to adjust to challenges in my academic and professional life. Although my basketball career did not end the way I originally imagined, it shaped me into a stronger and more resilient person. Basketball taught me how to work hard, support others, and persevere through adversity. These lessons will stay with me far beyond the court and help guide me as I work toward my future goals.

I am a senior in high school, and I will be graduating with 36 college credits. I take pride in being a hardworking and caring student who consistently puts others first. My parents are divorced, and because of that, I have learned responsibility at a young age. I babysit almost every night after school so I can pay for my own needs and wants. Balancing school, sports, and work has taught me determination, maturity, and the importance of showing up for other people. These experiences have shaped the way I view leadership and the type of impact I want to make in my community through youth sports. I hope to make a positive difference by showing young athletes what real encouragement looks like. In sports, encouragement is more than cheering for someone; it’s helping people believe in themselves even when things aren’t going perfectly. I’ve seen teams with all the talent in the world fall apart simply because the support within the group disappears. Encouragement affects every part of a team. When players know they’re backed up by their teammates, even if they aren’t getting much playing time, they feel valued. They work harder. They stay connected. I’ve practiced encouragement on every team I’ve been a part of, and I have seen firsthand how it can completely change the energy of a game or even the season. Another way I plan to impact my community is by modeling positive leadership. Many people think leadership is about being the best player, but to me, it’s about setting an example that others want to follow. When I volunteer for community events or help a coach with younger teams, I’ve noticed how other student-athletes join me simply because they feel inspired to help too. That’s the kind of leadership I want to bring into youth sports: leadership that brings people together and makes everyone feel like they belong. Youth sports are more than just games. They teach determination, teamwork, communication, and resilience. These are the same skills people use in their everyday lives and in the community. When kids learn these lessons early, how to handle pressure, how to respect others, how to stay positive even when things get tough, they grow into adults who can make a difference in the world around them. I want to help youth athletes gain those skills and understand their importance. My goal is to be the kind of mentor I needed when I was younger. I want to create an environment where every kid feels seen, supported, and encouraged to be their best. Whether I am helping coach younger teams, volunteering at camps, or simply being a positive presence on the sidelines, I want to help young athletes grow not only as players but also as people. By investing my time and energy into youth sports, I hope to strengthen my community one team, one practice, and one young athlete at a time.

I am a senior in high school who will graduate with 36 college credit hours, and I plan to attend the University of Nebraska-Lincoln to pursue degrees that will eventually allow me to earn my CPA and CFA. I’m motivated, caring, and committed to using my education to make a meaningful impact on my community. Many of the experiences I have lived through have shaped who I am, and one of the most significant has been my family’s long journey with sepsis. My first memory of truly understanding how serious sepsis could be happened during a drive I will never forget. My grandfather, who has always been a steady and comforting presence in my life, became suddenly and extremely ill. I drove him to the hospital as quickly and safely as I could, doing everything in my power to stay calm. He has always been a father figure to me, and seeing him in such a vulnerable state was overwhelming. I kept hoping he would get the care he needed in time. In that moment, I realized just how frightening medical emergencies can be, especially when they involve someone you love deeply. Before then, sepsis had always just been a word I heard throughout childhood. My mom often mentioned my grandpa’s medical struggles, but I didn’t fully understand what sepsis meant or how dangerous it could be. As I grew older, I learned that sepsis is not just a minor illness; it’s a severe and potentially life-threatening condition. It quickly became something my family talked about often, because my grandpa experienced it more than once. His hospital stays sometimes stretched into months, and each time he had to fight hard to recover. One of the most difficult parts of sepsis is that it can escalate quickly, and my grandpa sometimes waited too long to seek help. Those moments have been some of the scariest for me. I remember one situation where the doctors told us that if we had arrived much later, he might not have survived. Hearing that made everything feel very real. It also made me even more aware of how important it is to pay attention to symptoms and seek medical care early. While I am incredibly grateful that my grandfather is still here with us, I know that many families do not get the same outcome. These experiences have left a lasting impact on me. I deal with anxiety, especially when it comes to the health of the people I care about, because I have seen how quickly things can change. At the same time, going through this has taught me valuable lessons. It has made me appreciate the importance of time, health, and being present with family. I’ve learned how essential it is to advocate for medical attention when something feels wrong, even if it feels uncomfortable to speak up. Sepsis has been a difficult part of my life, but it has also shaped me into a more empathetic, attentive, and responsible person. It has influenced the way I support my family, the way I think about my future career, and the way I approach every day with more gratitude.

To me, a legacy is the impact someone leaves behind: what people remember, the lessons they passed down, and the values that continue to shape others long after they’re gone. A legacy isn’t just a memory; it’s a ripple that carries forward through generations. In my own family, I’ve seen how a person’s kindness, work ethic, or courage can continue to influence others. When my great-grandma passed away, our family kept her stories alive, and even those who never met her learned from the way she lived. That showed me that legacy is more than a moment in time; it’s something lasting, meaningful, and powerful. Legacies shape the world we live in. They connect us to our past and guide the choices we make today. Without the legacies of people who came before us, we wouldn’t understand our family history, our culture, or the progress our society has made. Every person has the potential to leave a legacy, but the ones that last are the ones built on impact, on choices that uplift others, strengthen families, or contribute something valuable to the world. My upbringing has played a major role in shaping the kind of legacy I want to create. Growing up, my parents struggled with addiction and a difficult relationship, and their challenges often affected my twin and me. Their divorce and the instability in our home taught me what it feels like to be in the middle of situations a child shouldn’t have to navigate. I learned to stay quiet about my feelings, to adjust, and to take on responsibilities that weren’t mine. Even though those years were hard, they shaped my values, my strength, and my determination. Because of what I experienced, I am intentional about the type of future I want to build. I plan to break the cycles I grew up with by creating a stable, healthy, and supportive environment for my future family. I do not want alcohol or unresolved conflict to play a role in my household. I want my children to feel heard and supported, something I didn’t always have when I was younger. My experiences taught me the importance of emotional openness, healthy communication, and fairness. I know now how important it is for parents to take responsibility for their own struggles instead of placing it on their children. I also plan to build a legacy of strength, compassion, and change. Instead of repeating harmful patterns, I want to model boundaries, respect, and emotional well-being. I want to show that your beginning does not have to define your future. My path will be different because I am choosing to grow from my past instead of carrying it forward. In the end, the legacy I hope to leave is one of resilience, proof that difficult beginnings can lead to powerful outcomes. I want my story to show that cycles can be broken, families can change, and the next generation can grow up experiencing something better than the generation before. That is the kind of legacy I want to create, and that is why my upbringing has shaped not only where I come from, but exactly where I’m determined to go.

I am a senior in high school, and by graduation, I will have earned 36 college credits. I am a determined and caring student who wants the best for myself and the people around me. I grew up in a home shaped by divorce, and now I am also navigating the challenges of having both my dad and grandpa battling cancer. Even with all of this, I have always made time to volunteer in my community. Helping others without expecting recognition has become one of the most meaningful parts of my life. Mental illness has had a deep impact on my family and me. For as long as I can remember, the environment at home was tense and unpredictable. My parents both struggled with their mental health, and instead of seeking support, they turned to alcohol to cope. This led to conflict, instability, and a home life where emotions were rarely talked about in a healthy way. Their struggles shaped my childhood and changed the way my twin and I learned to communicate, express ourselves, and understand our own feelings. Living in that environment meant that I often had to be strong before I even understood what strength really meant. Because of these experiences, I eventually began facing my own mental health challenges. I struggled with anxiety and depression, especially because I grew up being told to keep my feelings to myself. I often felt overwhelmed, worried, and unsure of how to express what I was going through. Without healthy communication at home, I didn’t know how to ask for help, even when I needed it. Over time, these feelings became heavier, and I realized that something had to change. I needed to take control of my well-being in a way that my parents never had the chance to. The turning point came when I decided to start counseling. I began meeting with a counselor every week, and she also allowed me to reach out whenever I needed support. For the first time, I had a safe place to speak openly about what I felt. Counseling helped me understand that my experiences were valid and that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. I learned coping strategies, communication skills, and, most importantly, how to set boundaries that protect my mental health. Counseling has helped me rebuild confidence and learn who I am outside of the challenges I grew up with. While mental illness has affected my family in difficult ways, it has also taught me resilience, empathy, and the importance of getting support when it’s needed. I am proud of the progress I’ve made, and I hope to continue growing into someone who breaks cycles, supports others, and creates the kind of stability I didn’t always have.

My “Pie in the Sky” dream is to own my own accounting firm. It feels big, almost unreal at times, but it’s something that has stayed in the back of my mind for years. I’ve always loved math; not in a flashy, prodigy kind of way, but in a steady, dependable way. Numbers make sense to me. They’re organized, clear, and fair. In seventh grade, when I started taking advanced math classes, I realized how much I enjoyed challenging myself and how good it felt to understand something I had worked hard for. That’s when accounting first clicked for me. My dream also started at home. My family owns a feedlot, and I grew up spending a lot of time there. While most people might notice the animals or the equipment first, I always found myself curious about the business side of everything. My dad would show me the records, expenses, sales, and spreadsheets, and I became fascinated. I didn’t just glance; I wanted to understand how it all worked together. I even started looking forward to going up to the feedlot just so I could flip through the paperwork and track new entries. That’s when I realized I didn’t just like numbers; I liked what numbers could tell you about a business, and how they could guide people toward better decisions. Even though this dream inspires me, it honestly feels a little out of reach right now. Thinking about owning a business, having the money, the confidence, and the responsibility, can be intimidating. I’ve never seen someone like me run an entire firm, so sometimes I wonder if I’m aiming too high. But this dream matters to me, and that’s what gives me the courage to keep going. I know that reaching this goal will take time, work, and a lot of patience. The first step is earning my degree, majoring in business and accounting, and possibly minoring in finance. College will give me the foundation and credibility I need, but it will also help me grow my confidence and skills. After graduating, I plan to get a job at an accounting firm so I can learn how to handle real clients, communicate professionally, and understand what the day-to-day life of an accountant looks like. From there, I want to work toward my master’s degree and eventually take the CPA exam. Becoming a certified public accountant is a huge milestone and something I’m willing to work extremely hard for. Once I’m certified and have enough experience, I want to begin building my own business, whether that means starting from scratch or finding an older building to restore and turn into my firm. I picture creating a place where people feel comfortable asking questions about their finances, a place where I can help people the same way I’ve watched numbers help my family’s business. Each step might be slow, but every class, job, and challenge will help me become the kind of business owner I hope to be. My “Pie in the Sky” dream may feel far away, but it’s a dream I’m committed to reaching. And even if it’s out of reach right now, I know that with hard work, courage, and the determination I’ve carried with me since seventh grade, I can get there one day.

Being a first-generation college student means carrying both responsibility and pride. To me, it represents determination, leadership, and the courage to step into something completely new. No one in my family has walked this path before, so I have had to motivate myself, make decisions on my own, and prepare for college without having someone at home who could guide me through the process. Choosing to be first-generation means choosing resilience, showing up for my future even when it feels uncertain. This experience strongly influences my career goals. Because I am the first in my family to pursue higher education, I feel driven to make the most of the opportunity. I plan to earn my bachelor’s degree in accounting, maintain a 4.0 GPA, and eventually become a Certified Public Accountant. I also hope to own my own business one day. By achieving these goals, I want to show my peers and younger students in my community that college can open doors, even for those who come from small or rural backgrounds like mine. Being first-generation also shapes how I think about the future of my family. One of my long-term goals is to take over and improve our family’s feedlot. Understanding business, finance, and accounting will give me the knowledge to not only maintain what my family has built but expand it in ways that support both our community and future generations. Education, to me, is the tool that will allow me to honor my roots while creating new possibilities. This scholarship would make a meaningful difference. It would allow me to focus on my coursework instead of working long hours, giving me the time I need to take advanced classes, stay involved on campus, and prepare for the CPA path. It would also ease the financial pressure on my family, who have worked hard to support me even though they were never able to attend college themselves. Being a first-generation college student means walking into the unknown, but it also means hope, ambition, and possibility. I am committed to using my education to help my family, serve my community, and build the future I have always imagined.

What makes me a non-traditional student isn’t just the path I’ve taken through school; it’s the life experiences that forced me to grow up faster than most people my age. I’ve always been someone who sees potential in others and pushes them to reach it. I encourage people because I know what it feels like to need encouragement and not have anyone to offer it. That is part of why my educational path looks different: alongside completing 36 college credit hours while still in high school, I have dedicated myself to lifting others up, even while overcoming challenges of my own. My home life has shaped much of who I am. I grew up with divorced and alcoholic parents, constantly navigating emotional instability, conflict, and uncertainty. I learned early on to hide my own emotions because expressing them often made things worse. By the time I reached middle school and high school, everything I’d buried began to surface. I struggled mentally and emotionally, and I had to seek support to stay afloat. Moving between homes, dealing with family problems, and trying to succeed in school at the same time set me apart from a typical student experience. But these challenges also taught me resilience, responsibility, and compassion, qualities I now use to help others. I see Andrea’s defining qualities reflected in how I show up for my community. Kindness is something I practice every day, from being a listening ear to taking on responsibilities that others might avoid. Perseverance shows up in the moments when I agree to help with something that I have no idea how to do, like the time I was asked to create a burial plot layout for my community. I had never done anything like it, but instead of backing out, I researched, contacted companies, found formats, and figured out a plan. It took time and dedication, but finishing that project taught me how capable I truly am. I invest my time, energy, and resources into my community because I want people to feel supported in ways I didn’t always have growing up. I encourage classmates to join sports, take challenging classes, and believe in themselves. When people feel seen and supported, they grow, and being part of that transformation means everything to me. A specific moment that changed me was when I met my boyfriend and his family. Until then, I didn’t fully understand what it felt like to be cared for without conditions. My parents were rarely home, often putting my twin and me in the middle of their conflicts. I was used to being put down, ignored, or blamed. But his family treated me with respect, warmth, and consistency. Being around them helped me realize that the way I grew up didn’t have to define my future or the family I build one day. Their kindness taught me how powerful compassion can be, and it pushed me to become a more thoughtful, understanding person. That experience continues to guide me as I move forward; I want to carry those values into my own life and create a healthier, happier environment for the people I love. What drives me today is the desire to prove to myself that I can rise above where I started. I want to make a difference not only in my own life but also in the lives of my peers and my community. I want to succeed because I’ve fought for every opportunity, and because I know my younger self wouldn’t believe the person I’ve become. I’m motivated by my dream of taking over my family’s business someday. Studying accounting will help me understand the business world, manage finances responsibly, and continue improving the business that means so much to my family. I embody resilience because I have never let hardship stop me. Even through my mental health battles, I stayed committed to school and to bettering myself. I learned not to let people’s opinions distract me from my goals. And I embody generosity by always showing up for others: listening when they need support, putting their needs ahead of my own when they are struggling, and offering encouragement that can help them move forward. I may not have had a traditional upbringing, but it gave me something just as important: strength, empathy, and a deep desire to make life better for the people around me. These experiences shaped who I am today and fuel the person I am becoming. I am honest about my journey because it reminds me why I work so hard and why I want to continue carrying the same spirit of resilience and compassion that defined Andrea’s life. Through education, service, and leadership, I hope to turn every challenge I’ve faced into a reason to lift others higher.

Building credit early is important to me because it lays the foundation for the financial future I want. I understand that a strong credit score affects almost every major decision I will make as an adult, from qualifying for loans to securing lower interest rates. If I wait too long to build credit, I risk paying more for the same opportunities, whether it’s financing a car or getting approved for a mortgage. One of my biggest dreams is to own a home, and I know that establishing credit now will make it easier and more affordable to achieve that goal later. Taking control of my financial future means being intentional today, so I can live more freely tomorrow. I plan to manage my financial future by staying disciplined with my payments, continuing to build my credit history responsibly, and making thoughtful investments. Paying my bills on time is one of the simplest but most powerful habits I can maintain. I also want to continue investing so that my money can grow over time and help cover future expenses, such as student loans or a down payment on a home. My goal is not just to earn money, but to manage it wisely. A smart money move I made early in life was beginning to invest at the age of twelve. After learning about investing, I talked to my parents, and they helped me open accounts that allowed me to buy stocks and bonds. Starting early taught me patience and showed me how money can grow when it is put in the right place. I also opened a certificate of deposit so that part of my savings could earn interest safely. Another beneficial decision was keeping more money in my savings account than in my checking account. Even though the interest was small, I liked the idea that my money was working for me. I also began building my credit responsibly by becoming an authorized user on my parents’ credit card. This helped me create a positive credit history before I turned eighteen. Once I was old enough, I opened my own credit card and made sure to pay the balance in full every month. These habits helped me understand how credit works and taught me to treat it with respect. Growing up, I was always careful with my money in general; I never enjoyed spending on things I didn’t need. That mindset has helped me stay grounded and avoid unnecessary debt. What motivates me most is my family. They have always encouraged me to aim high and believe in myself. Their support inspires me to make wise choices that will benefit my future. I am also motivated by my friends, who push me to be my best and celebrate my successes. With the right foundation, discipline, and support system, I am confident I can take control of my financial future and create the life I envision for myself.

Being a first-generation college student means carrying both responsibility and pride. To me, it represents determination, leadership, and the courage to step into something completely new. No one in my family has walked this path before, so I have had to motivate myself, make decisions independently, and prepare for college through hard work in high school. Being first-generation means choosing resilience: showing up for my future even when it feels uncertain. One of the biggest challenges I have faced is my parents’ divorce. For a long time, I felt stuck in the middle of their arguments, trying to keep the peace without upsetting either of them. It was overwhelming, and I didn’t always know how to express what I needed. Eventually, I learned to communicate my feelings calmly and honestly. Speaking up taught me that I deserved to be heard and that setting boundaries is an important part of growing up. That experience made me stronger, more mature, and more understanding of others. Another challenge has been navigating high school while dealing with anxiety. I have always cared deeply about what people think of me, so when classmates made hurtful comments, both to my face and behind my back, it affected me deeply. My anxiety would spike because I worried about disappointing people or making someone upset. Over time, I learned to remind myself of my worth and to accept that not everyone will like me. I still treat people with kindness, but I no longer let their opinions control how I feel about myself. That shift has taught me confidence, self-respect, and emotional strength. This scholarship would make a meaningful difference in my journey. It would give me the opportunity to focus on my studies without the pressure of working long hours. More time for academics means I can take advanced courses, stay involved on campus, and fully prepare for my future career. I plan to earn my bachelor’s degree in accounting and eventually pursue a master’s degree and become a Certified Public Accountant. I want to use my education to help people, support my community, and create a stable future for myself and my family. My biggest motivation is my family. I want to show them what is possible and make them proud. I am also driven by my long-term goal of taking over my family’s feedlot someday. Understanding business, finances, and accounting will allow me to continue our family legacy while improving and expanding it. This scholarship would bring me one step closer to those dreams by giving me the chance to focus on becoming the best student and future leader I can be. Being a first-generation student means choosing a path filled with hard work and uncertainty, but also hope and possibility. I am determined to continue moving forward, using every challenge as motivation to build the future I’ve always imagined.

Motivated and high-achieving students from disadvantaged backgrounds deserve opportunities such as scholarships and grants because they have learned how to succeed despite challenges that could have easily held them back. These students understand the value of hard work and persistence because their success has never come easily; it has been earned through determination, resilience, and sacrifice. I know this from personal experience. Growing up with divorced parents, I often moved between two homes filled with tension and uncertainty. Many nights, I came home to arguments or responsibilities that made it hard to focus on being a kid. I took on the role of cooking dinner and managing tasks that most children didn’t have to worry about. Still, I made a promise to myself that my circumstances would not define my future. I showed up to school every day ready to work hard, learn, and grow. Even when my home life felt overwhelming, I found strength in my education. School became a place where I could focus on something positive: my goals. I studied late into the night, asked for help when I needed it, and dedicated myself to understanding every lesson. I learned how to balance responsibilities, manage stress, and stay disciplined. Those skills helped me earn strong grades and become a motivated, high-achieving student. Over time, I also learned how to manage my anxiety and negative thoughts in healthy ways. There were days when it was difficult to stay focused, but I used school as motivation to keep pushing forward. My experiences taught me the power of perseverance, and I’m proud that I never gave up on myself, even during my hardest moments. This grant would help me continue on the path I’ve worked so hard to stay on. I plan to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). My goal is to use my knowledge to help others make smart financial decisions and achieve stability in their own lives. This scholarship would help cover the costs of tuition, textbooks, housing, and transportation, expenses that can quickly add up and become overwhelming. More than anything, receiving this grant would remind me that my hard work matters and that others believe in my potential. It would allow me to focus fully on my studies and future career instead of worrying about financial barriers. This opportunity would not just support my education; it would empower me to continue overcoming obstacles and to use my success to inspire others who come from similar backgrounds.

“Grandma, don’t die!” I screamed as I was being dragged out of the hospital room. My grandma had always been my rock. She was there when I needed advice, comfort, or just someone to listen. Cancer was suddenly taking her life and changing mine forever. Her diagnosis came out of nowhere, and less than a week later, she was gone. Saying goodbye to her was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do. Before she passed, she told me to “keep the farm going and make the family proud.” Those words stuck with me. I didn’t realize at the time that cancer would continue to be such a big part of my life. My grandma passed from heart cancer, and not long after, my dad, grandpa, and brother were all diagnosed with colon cancer. Cancer doesn’t just affect the person fighting it; it affects everyone around them. I’ve seen my family struggle with the physical pain, the emotional toll, and the embarrassment that comes with their illness. I’ve had to clean up after them when they were too weak to move, and I’ve even taken on the responsibility of buying medical supplies because they felt too ashamed to do it themselves. These experiences have taught me compassion, patience, and resilience. But cancer also brings financial challenges that many people don’t see. Treatments are incredibly expensive, and my family has struggled to keep up with the cost of chemotherapy, hospital visits, and medications. I’ve watched my dad and grandpa make tough financial decisions, choosing between paying for bills or paying for treatments that might give them more time. Seeing their stress and sacrifices inspired me to want to make a difference in a practical way. That’s why I chose to pursue a career in accounting. I want to help families like mine better manage their finances so that when life’s hardest moments happen, they’re not left feeling hopeless. Through accounting and financial planning, I can teach people how to budget, save, and invest for emergencies. My goal is to help families prepare for the unexpected and relieve some of the financial burdens that often come with serious illnesses like cancer. I know firsthand how overwhelming cancer can be; not just emotionally, but financially. If I can help even one family avoid the stress of choosing between health and financial stability, I’ll feel like I’ve honored my grandma’s final wish. She told me to make the family proud, and I believe using my skills in finance to support others is exactly how I can do that. Cancer has taught me strength, compassion, and the importance of financial security. It has shaped my purpose and my career path. I want to be more than just an accountant; I want to be someone who gives others hope in their hardest times.

When I was only nineteen months old, my parents divorced. At that age, I didn’t understand much, but as I grew older, I began to see the effects of their separation more clearly. My parents were open about their divorce, but the tension between them never really disappeared. When I was about five years old, they officially separated after years of arguing and disagreements that often placed my twin and me in the middle. My mom gained full custody, and although she provided for us, her resentment toward my dad often became part of our daily lives. For years, my mom tried to keep my dad out of our lives. She would speak negatively about him and rarely allowed us to visit. I remember many nights spent crying for my dad because he was my safe place; the person who made me feel secure and loved. As I got older, the tension between my mom and me grew worse. I would stand up for my dad, which often led to more conflict. When my twin and I were twelve, we finally convinced our mom to let us live with our dad full-time. She agreed, wanting more freedom to spend time with her boyfriend and go out, and from that point on, my dad became my full-time parent. Living with a single parent has shaped who I am in profound ways. It taught me that people’s home lives are not always what they seem, and that kindness matters more than we realize. I’ve learned to be empathetic, to listen before judging, and to understand that everyone carries unseen burdens. I also realized that sometimes separation is necessary for peace; that two parents apart can create a healthier environment than two parents constantly in conflict. I am incredibly grateful to have one loving, supportive parent who has taught me responsibility, compassion, and strength. The challenges I faced weren’t easy. I endured judgment from classmates who didn’t understand what it was like to come from a divorced family. Some made comments or assumptions that hurt deeply, but over time, I learned that their words came from ignorance, not truth. I also had to learn how to set boundaries with my mom and speak up for myself. It took courage to stop letting her words about my dad affect me. I realized that protecting my peace and standing up for what’s right was a sign of strength, not disrespect. These experiences have shaped my goals for the future. I plan to make a difference in the world through my education in accounting. I have seen firsthand how financial disagreements can strain relationships and even lead to separation. I want to help families and couples manage their finances in ways that bring them together rather than push them apart. My goal is to use my accounting degree to educate people on how to communicate about money, plan responsibly, and work as a team. I believe that financial understanding can reduce conflict and strengthen families, something I wish my parents had experienced. My journey has not been easy, but it has given me perspective, resilience, and purpose. Through education, I hope to turn my challenges into something positive by helping others build financial stability and stronger relationships. My past has shaped my future, and I’m determined to use it to make a difference.

My plans for the future involve earning my college degree, beginning my career in accounting, and continuing my family’s legacy in agriculture. In the fall of 2026, I will attend the University of Nebraska–Lincoln to major in Accounting. During college, I plan to work part-time to gain experience in the accounting field and ensure it’s the right fit for me. My goal is to complete my Bachelor’s degree in four years and then spend a fifth year earning my Master’s degree while preparing for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam. Through this academic journey, I hope to develop both the technical and personal skills necessary for a successful career. College will not only teach me accounting principles but also life skills such as problem-solving, organization, and financial responsibility, skills that will help me in every aspect of my future. Having a strong financial background will also help me manage my own life effectively and serve as an example to my future clients. I want to demonstrate that financial literacy is empowering and that with knowledge and planning, anyone can achieve stability and success. Another major goal of mine is to one day take over my family’s feedlot. Our feedlot has been passed down for four generations, and I don’t want to see that legacy fade away. I have grown up surrounded by the values of hard work, dedication, and perseverance that agriculture represents. By combining my accounting education with my background in agriculture, I can handle the financial side of the operation efficiently and help the feedlot continue to thrive. My goal is to carry on my family’s legacy while introducing modern financial and business practices to help it grow for future generations. This scholarship will help me immensely in reaching these goals. It will relieve some of the financial burden that comes with pursuing higher education and allow me to focus more on my studies rather than working full-time to pay for expenses. With this support, I will have more time to prepare for exams, participate in extracurricular activities, and gain hands-on experience through internships. Each of these experiences will strengthen my education and prepare me for success in the professional world. The financial assistance from this scholarship will also allow me to afford tuition, books, and necessary supplies without taking on excessive student loans. Reducing that financial pressure means I can devote my energy to academic excellence and personal growth. Education is something I value deeply; it represents opportunity, stability, and the ability to make a meaningful impact. This scholarship would bring me one step closer to achieving my lifelong goals and allow me to continue building on the foundation that my family has worked so hard to create. In the future, I hope to use my education to give back to my community, whether through helping local businesses manage their finances or keeping our family feedlot strong for generations to come. With dedication, integrity, and this scholarship’s support, I am confident that I can turn my goals into reality.

Recovery has taken on many meanings throughout my life. At first, it felt unreachable, something distant and impossible to achieve. After my dad divorced my mom, he began to rebuild his life and connect with others again. Watching him rediscover happiness and purpose showed me that recovery isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress. It’s about finding light again, even after going through darkness. Today, recovery means taking small, steady steps toward a bigger goal. It means showing up for yourself and for others, even on the hard days. I have learned that recovery requires patience, courage, and a strong commitment to dedication. It’s not a quick process, but a lifelong commitment to growth. I’ve witnessed several family members recover from addiction and personal setbacks, and their perseverance continues to inspire me. Recovery, to me, is proof that healing is possible; that no matter how broken life may seem, renewal is always within reach.

I grew up as a country girl on a farm, where my days were filled with chores, family, and the smell of fresh hay. My dad owns a feedlot, and from the time I was little, I followed him everywhere, whether it was in the pens with cattle or in the office where the real numbers behind the business were kept. While most people think of farming as all physical labor, I saw early on that the financial side was just as important. That was where I became curious, and that curiosity eventually shaped my dream of working in accounting. Math has always been my favorite subject. It felt natural to me, almost like second nature. I enjoyed the challenge of solving problems and the way each answer built on the one before it. To me, math was never just about numbers on a page. It was about learning how things worked and how I could use that knowledge to make things better. Every time I tackled a new concept or solved a tricky problem, I felt a little more confident in what I could achieve. That confidence inspired me to keep pushing myself to learn more and grow. My dad encouraged me to start helping in the office when I was young. At first, I thought I was just “playing” at his desk, but as I got older, I realized I was actually learning skills that mattered. I started helping with small tasks like organizing receipts or checking records, and before long, I found myself drawn to the budgeting and financial tracking. I loved seeing how everything connected. The decisions we made about feed, supplies, and livestock all showed up in the numbers. It was like watching a story unfold, and I wanted to learn how to tell that story myself. Those early experiences showed me that math isn’t just something I enjoy; it’s something I can use to make a difference. I realized that accounting was the perfect fit for me because it combines my love for problem-solving with my desire to help people. I want to be the kind of accountant who not only manages numbers but also supports families, businesses, and communities by helping them succeed financially. For me, that dream starts at home, with my family’s feedlot. I have also developed a strong interest in entrepreneurship. Growing up, I watched my dad make tough choices and balance risks with rewards, and I admired his dedication to keeping our business running. His example taught me that owning a business requires not only hard work but also creativity and leadership. I want to bring new ideas into our family business and eventually take ownership of it myself. My dad used to joke about me running the feedlot one day, but now it’s something I truly want. What started as curiosity in a farm office has turned into a passion and a goal. Math has shaped who I am by giving me confidence, and STEM has given me direction by opening doors to the career I want to pursue. I hope to take what I’ve learned from growing up on a farm and use my education in accounting to make a real difference, not just for my family, but for others as well.

My faith has deeply influenced the person I am today. It has taught me to be forgiving, compassionate, and resilient. From a young age, I have tried to live in a way that reflects God’s love; showing patience, offering kindness, and seeking to understand rather than judge. My faith is not something I keep hidden; it is the foundation for the choices I make and the values I hold. The most difficult experience in my life was my parents' divorce. As a child, I carried a heavy burden, believing I might have been the reason they separated. I felt unsure of my place. In those moments of confusion, I leaned on my faith to carry me. I prayed constantly, asking God for strength. Through prayer, I realized their divorce wasn’t my fault. God had a greater plan for us. My faith gave me the courage to move forward with confidence, trusting that His plan included growth and healing. Without faith, I wouldn’t have been able to face the sadness I felt. Looking back, I see how faith transformed a painful moment into an opportunity to grow stronger and more empathetic toward others. Faith has not only shaped how I handle challenges but has also inspired me to serve others. I believe that giving back is a way to reflect God’s love. Through volunteering and community involvement, I have been able to live out my faith in action. As president of my school’s National Honor Society, I helped lead projects that directly impacted my community. We created a burial plot to honor those who had no one to provide for them, served food at community events, raised funds for speakers, and organized drives to support families in need. Each of these opportunities reminded me that leadership is not about recognition but about lifting others. Beyond NHS, I have also been active in Fellowship of Christian Athletes. This group allowed me to combine my love for sports with my passion for sharing faith. Together, we organized events that encouraged students to lean on God through their challenges. Volleyball, in particular, became more than just a sport; it became a platform to lead by example. Whether by encouraging a teammate after a tough game or showing kindness to an opponent, I found ways to serve others through my actions on and off the court. These experiences taught me the importance of being bold in my faith, never shying away from sharing the hope and encouragement God has given me. The motivation for all of my community involvement comes from the desire to make a difference. I do not want to look back on my high school years and see myself as a bystander. Instead, I want to know that I used my time and talents to improve their lives. These experiences have shaped me into someone more compassionate. They also taught me practical skills, like how to communicate clearly, lead with humility, and bring people together. Just as importantly, I have seen the impact on others: students encouraged to volunteer, families supported in times of need, and peers who stepped up as leaders themselves. Alongside my faith and service, family has always been one of the most important parts of my life. To me, family means supporting one another through both challenges and triumphs. It means celebrating each other’s accomplishments, helping one another in times of struggle, and staying connected through honesty and love. My family has shaped who I am by teaching me to treat others with kindness and respect. They have modeled what it means to persevere and to prioritize relationships. One way I try to strengthen my family is by being a listener. Whenever a family member needs to talk, I make sure I am available. I also try to foster closeness by encouraging open communication. I have learned that unspoken feelings can create distance, so I make it a priority to express how I am feeling and encourage others to do the same. This has helped my family move past disagreements and build deeper trust. Small acts, like checking in regularly or keeping family traditions alive, also allow me to show that I value and honor the bond we share. Ultimately, my faith, service, and family are all interconnected. My faith teaches me to serve others with love, my service helps me live out that faith, and my family gives me the foundation of support to grow and lead with confidence. Together, they have shaped me into the person I am today; someone who strives to lead with kindness, remain steadfast in faith, and stay deeply connected to family. I know these values will continue to guide me not only in college but throughout my life as I seek to make a meaningful difference in the world.

The qualities and experiences that make me a “You Got It Girl” are my resilience, my positive attitude, and my ability to encourage others even through personal challenges. I am a kind, caring, and supportive person who is always seeking ways to uplift others. My journey has shown me that strength is not only measured by athletic ability, but also by character and perseverance. Sports have been an important part of my life since childhood. I began playing volleyball in fifth grade and discovered my potential as I entered high school, becoming a starter on the team. I also played basketball during my freshman and sophomore years as a guard and starter. Athletics taught me discipline, teamwork, and leadership, but they also gave me some of my greatest challenges. After my junior year, I suffered a life-long injury that prevented me from participating in sports that involve running and jumping. This setback was incredibly difficult because, in my small Class D school in Nebraska, sports are everything; they are what bring people together, and for years, they had been my identity. Although I could no longer compete physically, I refused to let the injury take away my love for the game or my role as a teammate. I continued to attend practices, games, and team-bonding events, supporting my teammates and encouraging them from the sidelines. This experience empowered me to discover my worth beyond the sports field. I realized that I could still be a leader, motivator, and role model even without being on the court. That growth allowed me to embrace new opportunities, such as serving in my school’s National Honor Society. I have been a member since my junior year, and this year I was honored to become president. Leading NHS has strengthened my confidence and taught me that leadership comes in many forms. Someone I admire deeply is my English teacher. She is open-minded, compassionate, and always willing to show up for others. Her faith, determination, and ability to be a safe space for her students inspire me to live with the same courage and authenticity. She reminds me that the most powerful leaders are the ones who lead with empathy. Receiving the YGIG Scholarship would allow me to focus more fully on my education as I pursue a degree in Accounting at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. Without the constant stress of balancing full-time work with school, I will have the time and energy to be involved in student leadership and community service, all while working toward becoming a CPA. This scholarship matters to me because it represents more than financial support; it represents encouragement, empowerment, and the belief that I can continue building toward something bigger, even after my athletic career ended unexpectedly. To me, being a student-athlete means being determined, resilient, and willing to encourage others no matter the circumstances. Even though my athletic journey took an unexpected turn, I still embody those qualities every day. I am proud to be a “You Got It Girl,” and I know that with this scholarship, I will continue to push forward, inspire others, and achieve my goals.

ADHD has impacted my education ever since I was young. Sitting in the classroom, I would immediately start to worry, and my mind would drift. It was hard for me to focus on what I was learning, and I was easily distracted. Over time, I realized this wasn’t just a one-time struggle; it was recurring. My brain seemed unable to shut off, and I constantly felt the urge to move and be active. Family members began to notice changes in me, especially my twin sister. She often commented on my demeanor and how different I seemed. At first, I was in denial. I didn’t want to admit that something might be wrong. For a while, I believed that having ADHD and anxiety meant I should be ashamed. I thought it reflected weakness, so I pushed the feelings aside even as they grew stronger. The turning point came when I opened up to my twin sister about how overwhelmed I felt. She encouraged me to talk to our mom and even stood by my side when I finally did. It was a difficult conversation; my mom had never believed in mental health challenges and was strongly against medication. I was scared, but I knew I couldn’t keep struggling alone. My inability to sleep, eat, or concentrate had become too much to ignore. After weighing the pros and cons, I made the decision to seek help. Choosing to go on medication was not easy, but it became a lifeline. I realized I deserved the chance to sparkle; to show my accomplishments and embrace the person I wanted to be. With support from my sister and, eventually, understanding from my mom, I began to take control of my ADHD and anxiety instead of letting them control me. Once I started treatment, the changes were significant. I could focus better in school and regain the grades I worked so hard for. Education has always been important to me, and being able to give my full effort again felt empowering. My personal life also transformed. I no longer dreaded waking up each day, worried about being teased for fidgeting or struggling to keep still. Instead, I felt happier and more confident. My friends and family noticed the shift too. They saw me smiling more, engaging more, and genuinely enjoying life again. ADHD will always be a part of me, but I no longer see it as something that holds me back. Instead, it has taught me resilience, self-advocacy, and the importance of seeking help when it’s needed. What once felt like a burden has now become a source of strength because it forced me to grow, adapt, and fight for myself. Today, I sparkle not because my challenges disappeared, but because I overcame them. ADHD may shape how I learn and live, but it does not define me. With the lessons I’ve learned, I am better prepared for school, for life, and for any obstacles that come my way.

I am pursuing a career in marketing because I believe it is one of the most powerful tools for growth, both for individuals and businesses. Marketing connects producers with consumers, spreads awareness of products and services, and drives the economy forward. Without effective marketing, even the best ideas or products can go unnoticed. To me, marketing is not just about selling; it is about communication, problem-solving, and creating opportunities for success. My greatest inspiration to enter this field comes from my family. I grew up on our family-owned feedlot, and I have always admired the dedication my father and grandfather put into building and maintaining it. For as long as I can remember, they have spoken about the possibility of me taking it over one day. I don’t see this responsibility as a burden; instead, I view it as an honor and an opportunity to carry forward what they started. Their hard work has provided for our family and contributed to our community, and I feel motivated to use my education to strengthen the business so it can thrive for generations to come. I want to make sure that their sacrifices and efforts are not lost but expanded upon. Another reason I am drawn to marketing is my passion for math. Numbers have always been a language I connect with easily, and marketing provides countless opportunities to put that strength to use. Whether it is analyzing data, tracking records, or budgeting effectively, math forms the backbone of smart marketing decisions. I also love the human side of numbers; the fact that behind every data point is a person with needs, goals, and choices. Being able to help businesses understand their customers and then meet those needs excited me, because success is not just about profit; it is also about making people’s lives better. I am particularly interested in the behind-the-scenes aspects of marketing. It fascinated me how strategies are developed, how campaigns are tested, and how different approaches can lead to different outcomes. I enjoy problem-solving, and marketing challenges me to think critically about how to make a business more visible, more efficient, and more impactful. For my family’s feedlot, I look forward to using these skills to increase awareness, expand our customer base, and adapt to changing markets. With the right marketing approach, I believe I can ensure that our feedlot not only survives but grows in ways my father and grandfather never thought possible. Ultimately, my motivation for pursuing marketing comes from a combination of passion, purpose, and family. I want to combine my love of math and problem-solving with my desire to help others succeed, all while honoring the legacy of the business my family built. Marketing will give me the tools to connect tradition with innovation, ensuring that our family feedlot can continue to thrive while also making a meaningful contribution to the economy. For me, marketing is not just a career choice; it is a way to carry forward my family’s story while building a future I can be proud of.

A global or local issue that matters deeply to me is poverty. I have seen how financial hardship can limit opportunities, create stress, and make people feel as though their future is out of reach. Poverty is not just about the absence of money; it is about the absence of security, stability, and choices. I care about the well-being of others because I want people to feel hope rather than regret about their lives. Even as a high school senior, I have already found ways, big and small, to help people manage their finances and begin building stronger futures. My first experiences with this began at home. I watched my sisters struggle with decisions about where to keep their money, how to budget, and how to save. They did not always know which financial institutions would benefit them most or how to make their money grow. I stepped in to help them compare different banks, weigh the pros and cons, and choose options that would support their goals. I also showed them how setting aside even a small portion of their income could build into something meaningful over time. These moments may seem simple, but they taught me that financial literacy can be a powerful tool in breaking cycles of stress and uncertainty. I have also shared what I know with classmates and friends, encouraging them to think about saving and investing earlier rather than later. While my knowledge is still growing, I have realized that many young people, especially those from lower-income backgrounds, are never taught these skills. Without them, it becomes much harder to escape financial struggle. I want to change that. This is why I plan to study accounting in college. I want to gain both the technical expertise and the professional credibility to guide individuals, families, and even communities toward greater financial stability. My goal is not just to work with numbers, but to translate them into strategies that empower people. I imagine myself one day running community workshops, offering free financial planning sessions, or volunteering with an organization that supports low-income families. In this way, I can combine my education with my passion to make a direct impact on the lives of others. Poverty is a large and complex issue, and I know that I alone cannot solve it. But I believe in starting with what I can do, where I am. By teaching one person how to budget, showing one family how to save, or guiding one student to open their first bank account, I am planting seeds of change. With the education and opportunities college will provide, I will be better equipped to serve my community and contribute to breaking down barriers created by poverty. I believe that positive change begins with knowledge, compassion, and the willingness to share what we have with others. For me, that begins with financial literacy. It is my way of addressing poverty not just as a statistic, but as a human reality that I can help transform, one person at a time.

Growing up with a single mother was never easy, but it has been one of the most defining experiences of my life. Without my dad around to share the responsibilities, my mom carried the weight of everything: groceries, school supplies, doctor visits, bills, vehicles, and clothes. There were many days when I could see the exhaustion in her eyes, yet she kept moving forward for me. She gave me more than just food on the table and a roof over my head; she gave me the gift of perseverance and unconditional love. From a young age, I understood that my mom’s determination was what kept us afloat. She worked long hours, stretched every dollar, and still managed to show up for me when I needed her most. I remember the times when she would come home after a tiring day, yet still sit with me to help with homework or listen to me talk about my day. Those moments taught me that true strength is not about never being tired, it’s about showing up even when you are. Her resilience shaped me in ways I am still discovering. I learned that challenges are not dead ends, but stepping stones. For example, when school felt overwhelming or when I doubted myself, I reminded myself of how my mom never gave up, even when she had every reason to. She showed me that obstacles are temporary, but the effort you put into overcoming them can change your future. One of the greatest lessons I learned from my mother is the value of patience and perseverance. She waited years to accomplish some of her own dreams, but she never stopped working towards them. Watching her sacrifices taught me to look at my own goals with the same mindset. Whether it is my education, career, or the kind of person I want to become, I now understand that success isn’t about how fast you reach it; it is about not giving up along the way. My mom’s example also instilled in me a deep appreciation for responsibility. I grew up helping out in any way I could, whether it was taking on chores, caring for siblings, or being mindful of our budget. These small acts gave me a sense of independence and maturity early on. They also reminded me that family is about teamwork, even if that team is smaller than most. Most importantly, being raised by a single mother has made me empathetic. I recognize the struggles others face and feel compelled to lend a helping hand when I can. My mom showed me that strength doesn’t mean doing everything alone; it often means leaning on and supporting others. I aspire to carry these values into my future. Determination, patience, responsibility, and empathy are all qualities I gained from my mom, and they will guide me through college and beyond. She is my role model, and if I can become even half the person she is, I will consider myself successful.

Life has a way of testing our strength when we least expect it. For me, that moment came during my junior year when my specialist told me I would never be able to compete in sports again. In less than a minute, my world was turned upside down. Volleyball had been my passion, my joy, and my identity. The thought of missing my senior season, of sitting on the sidelines while my friends lived the dream I had worked so hard for, was devastating. At first, I felt lost. But after the shock wore off, I realized that while I could no longer contribute on the court, I could still contribute off it. I made the decision to keep showing up. I attended every practice, team bonding activity, and game. I supported my teammates, cheered them on, and built even stronger bonds with them. Choosing to stay involved wasn’t easy; walking into the gym every day was a reminder of what I had lost, but it taught me resilience. Advertising doesn’t define us; how we respond to it does. By showing up, I proved to myself that my value wasn’t just tied to performance, but also to loyalty, encouragement, and leadership. That same mindset shaped how I support others in my life. I know what it feels like to be alone, and I never want my friends or family to feel that way. Even during my hardest times, I put others before myself, because helping them reminds me that we can carry one another through challenges. My dedication to others extends beyond my family and teammates into my community. When our town mentioned the need for an updated burial plot record, I volunteered without hesitation. What started as a passing idea turned into more than 80 hours of careful research and organization. I built the record from scratch so that families would have access to this important information. It wasn’t always easy work, but it mattered deeply to me because it strengthened our community. As president of our National Honor Society chapter, I have also worked on several service projects. One effort has been collecting can tabs for the Ronald McDonald House, an organization that directly supports children and families in need, including families from our own community. More recently, I decided to collect tabs and recycle them at Kramer’s to raise funds for a young boy at our school who has been battling diabetes since he was three years old. His medical expenses are overwhelming, and I wanted to do something to ease that burden. Small efforts like these remind me that even simple acts of service can make a meaningful difference. Through these experiences, I have learned that success in adversity comes from resilience and that fulfillment comes from helping others. My challenges taught me that even when life doesn’t go as planned, we can still create purpose by showing up, serving, and lifting others up along the way.

Did you know that about 53% of people in the United States are affected by stress, and globally, over 60% of people are affected? I am one of those people. Going to school is a daunting task when all my brain is telling me are negative thoughts. I worry about everything and everyone. I always want the best for people, even if they don’t want it for themselves. When I am sitting at school, it is like I am in my own world. I can just hear my interrogating thoughts. It takes me a long time to complete my homework because my anxiety is flaring constantly. I do not only worry about people. I worry about homework, my grades, family problems, financial responsibilities, and countless other things. I am always worrying about something. When I finally think that I get my intrusive thoughts to go away, they suddenly flood my brain. Starting my senior year, I thought that my anxiety would decrease because I don’t have as many important tests coming up. However, my brain still makes me worry all the time. I am usually sad during the day because I am too worried about everything happening in my life. In my junior year, I decided to take college classes, but I couldn’t find time to fit them all into my schedule, so I had to complete all of the work on my own. What I thought would decrease my stress this year would be to only take as many college classes as could fit into my schedule. However, I am still constantly worrying about anything else. I still worry about my college classes even though I am plenty ahead. I am still a very successful student, and I maintain great grades, but I have to work a lot to focus when my brain is nagging at me. A month and a half ago, my mom took me to the doctor to get on anxiety medication. I have already upped my dosage once. My body has to get used to the medication, so I have to wait a month until I can up my dosage. I am only at twenty milligrams. To help me put my mental health as a priority, I try to set aside time each night to do my hobbies and reflect on the good things that happened that day. I love reading, and I have found out that the one thing that makes my mind shut off is reading. Therefore, I always try to read right before bed to help me relax. I also believe that reflection on the positive outcomes of the day helps me stress less. It helps me realize the impact that I made on myself and others. Moreover, I try to talk about my feelings more often. I do not have a good relationship with my mom, so I tend to talk to my dad or twin sister about my feelings a lot. They have learned that I just need someone to listen to me vent. They have been a great helping hand, making me realize that I am not alone and that they want me to succeed. My doctors have also made me come to realize that I can not control my intrusive thoughts and that it is okay that I need help. Without these people sitting in my corner and helping me out, I do not know I ever could have gotten the help that I needed. It is still a learning process for me as I still experience anxiety a lot, but I know that I can get there.

Selflessness was always a trait my parents inherited, and I took on too. Growing up, my parents always put others before themselves. My parents would always make sure that we kids and their other family members were taken care of first. My dad owns a family feedlot, so if anyone needed a job, he would hire them on the spot to help out family members. Whenever anyone came to either of my parents for financial help, they would always help with no questions asked. I also took on that trait from my parents. I always put others' needs before my own. I strive to make others happy, even if I am going through a hard time myself. Additionally, if I am super busy, I still take time out of my hectic day to help others. I have a twin who struggles with school, so I have always taken a lot of time to help her. I love being able to help her succeed and see all the lights click together for her. I also help my friends and other siblings with their homework, finding scholarships, working, and anything else that they may need help with. My sister, who is going to college to receive her master's degree, asked me to help her find scholarships. She didn’t realize that graduate students could have scholarships as well. I love being able to help her out to find scholarships so she doesn’t have to worry about financial problems. Additionally, I love getting people items that they want but don’t want to buy themselves. I always try my best to help out anyone around me. I want to watch people succeed and be happy. I don’t ever want people to return the favor and do things for me; I just genuinely want them to be happy. Moreover, I help numerous classmates write papers and generate ideas for their papers. I have also spent many nights on the phone with friends or texting them, helping them with any homework questions they might have. Even if I am not close with someone, I still help them whenever they ask. I also volunteer for numerous organizations. I participate in Volleyball, Basketball, FFA, Choir, Band, Yearbook, NHS, and NSHSS. I love volunteering for activities to help our school become a better place. I try my best to participate in all the activities that I can. This past year, I had a lifelong injury, so even though I can’t participate in physical activities, I still go to all of the practices and help the team in any way possible. I do not go around bragging about being in activities. I just stay quiet and do what I need to do to help my school grow. I also spent two full weeks working on making a cemetery map to help benefit our community. I love being able to help make a difference in the community, friends, family, and peers. I enjoy watching others put a smile on their face because of a kind act that I did.

Sitting at a desk observing all my family feedlot’s accounting records was when I knew I needed math. Math always caught my interest. I would always be the first one in my class to complete my homework and have them done correctly. For Christmas I would ask Santa for math workbooks to help advance my math skills. Sitting there solving math problems works my brain. If I can’t figure out what to do next my brain keeps spinning until I finally figure it out. I love the challenge that math presents to me. I want to be the best at math so it drives me to challenge myself. Knowing that my family Feedlot is in my hands, I want to work at being the best at math. I’m the fourth generation of the Feedlot. Math is needed in every aspect of life. Building a house, financing your business, paying bills, buying items, and so much more. Math keeps our World afloat. Without math we wouldn’t be as industrialized as we are today. People use math daily without even thinking about it. Math is needed in every single major. Even if one is a farmer and thinks math is useless, they will use it. Math is essential in everyone’s life. Even if one hires an accountant, one will still have to use math. Math is the back bone of our World.