I’ve always heard people say that family is everything, but I didn’t truly understand the depth of that until my brother’s car accident. It was a time of heartache, uncertainty, and loss, but it also showed me what real compassion looks like. Before this, I thought I understood what it meant to care for someone, but I had no idea how far people could go for someone they loved until I saw it happen in front of me. It was a normal day when we got the call. My brother had been in a car accident, and two of his friends didn’t make it. My brother was in the hospital with serious injuries. I remember feeling numb, not knowing how to process it all. My brother wasn’t just physically hurt, he was also dealing with the emotional weight of losing his friends. Seeing him struggle was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to face. What struck me most, though, was how the people around him responded. Our family came together immediately, offering their support. We all took turns staying with him, just being there. But it was the hospital staff that opened my eyes to the power of compassion. They didn’t just focus on his physical recovery—they made sure to check in on him emotionally, too. One nurse in particular stood out. She didn’t rush through her tasks like some do; she took the time to listen to my brother, to sit with him when he needed it most. She could tell when he needed to talk and when he just needed someone to quietly sit with him. Her care went beyond just doing her job—it was about making him feel seen and heard. The moment I’ll never forget was when my brother, groggy from the anesthesia after his surgery, insisted on getting up to check on his friends’ families. He was in so much pain, but he knew how important it was. Even though he was struggling, he wanted to make sure they knew how much he cared. That moment made me see what compassion truly is—it’s not just about offering help when things are easy; it’s about showing up when it’s hard, when everything is uncertain, and when you don’t even know what to say. It’s about being there, no matter the cost. Seeing my brother go through this process of physical healing, but also emotional recovery, changed me. I realized that compassion isn’t just about being kind in the good moments; it’s about being there in the toughest, darkest times. The people who were there for my brother—the friends, the family, the doctors, and the nurses—showed me that compassion means putting someone else’s needs above your own, even when it’s uncomfortable or inconvenient. I’ve tried to carry that lesson with me in the years since. I think about my brother’s recovery often, especially the way people showed up for him when he needed them most. It’s changed the way I view relationships. It’s taught me that compassion is something you do, not just something you feel. It takes time, effort, and sometimes sacrifice, but it makes all the difference. Seeing my brother get through that tough time, with so many people showing him love and support, has been one of the most powerful reminders in my life of what true compassion is—and how it can help heal even the deepest wounds.

“We all know your dad just pays for all of your stuff,” a kid in my class told me. I stared at him, and my body went numb. I don’t know why I felt that way—I had always grown up without a father. But I guess I wasn’t ready to tell other people that. On this day, though, I built the courage to say out loud, “My father passed away when I was little.” When I told the guy in my class that, I saw the look on his face. It was a look of pity, and it reminded me of the reason why I don’t tell people that my father died when I was young because I never have been the one who wants people to feel sorry for me. Losing him very young and growing up without a father has shaped me in ways I never expected. It’s made me more independent and resilient, forcing me to grow up faster than most kids my age. I’ve learned to navigate life’s challenges without the constant support of a father, and while that hasn’t been easy, it’s taught me strength and perseverance. Watching my mom work tirelessly to provide for my brother and me has inspired me to be strong for myself and my family. Her sacrifices have shown me what it means to be selfless and hardworking, and that has fueled my desire to make her proud. Growing up without a father has motivated me to excel in school. I’ve always understood that education is the key to creating a better future, not just for myself but also for my family. I push myself to succeed because I know that doing well academically can open doors and relieve some of the financial burden on my mom. I’ve taken on leadership roles in Key Club, National Honor Society, and other service organizations, which have helped me develop strong leadership and time management skills. Balancing academics and extracurriculars hasn’t always been easy, but I’ve learned how to stay disciplined and focused on my goals. Financially, things have been difficult. With only one income, my mom has worked incredibly hard to ensure that my brother and I have what we need. I’ve always been aware of our situation, which is why I’ve taken every opportunity to apply for scholarships and pursue leadership roles that not only build my skills but also demonstrate my commitment to making a difference. I’m determined to continue pursuing my dream of becoming a nurse without placing additional stress on my family. Growing up without a father has been one of the hardest things I’ve had to endure, but it has also given me the strength, determination, and compassion to push forward. While his absence has brought challenges, it’s also given me the motivation to succeed and create a future where I can make a positive impact on the lives of others.

Growing up in a single-parent household, I’ve seen firsthand how difficult it can be to manage finances with limited resources. My mom, who raised me and my brother on her own, worked tirelessly to provide for us, even while battling cancer. Despite her sacrifices, money was always tight, and watching her juggle bills, medical expenses, and everyday needs taught me early on how important it is to be financially responsible. Seeing her strength and determination has inspired me to work hard and make smart financial decisions so I can create a stable future for myself and give back to her one day. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve become more aware of how quickly money can disappear. When I got my license and started going out with friends, I realized how expensive even small outings could be. I’ve worked part-time jobs, including lifeguarding, but between paying for gas and hanging out with friends, I saw how easy it was to spend everything I earned. This made me more conscious of tracking my spending and thinking carefully about whether something was a need or just a want. I’ve learned that financial discipline isn’t just about saving money—it’s about making intentional choices that align with my goals. This past year, I’ve been focused on preparing for college and figuring out how I’ll manage my expenses while pursuing my nursing degree. I’ve applied for scholarships, knowing that securing financial aid will be crucial in helping me stay focused on my studies without the added stress of money. I’ve also been considering part-time jobs and looking into opportunities to work on campus to supplement what I’ve saved. I know that if I’m mindful of my spending and continue to work hard, I can avoid the financial struggles I’ve witnessed growing up. In the future, I want to use what I’ve learned about financial responsibility to build a life where I don’t have to worry about making ends meet. I want to create a secure and stable environment for my future family, where I can provide for my children and teach them the value of hard work and smart financial decisions. I’ve seen how financial stress can take a toll on families, and I’m determined to break that cycle by being intentional with my money and making informed choices. Ultimately, financial security isn’t just about having money—it’s about peace of mind. I want to be in a position where I can give back to my mom for everything she’s done for me and help ease her financial burden. I also want to make sure that I’m prepared for whatever challenges life throws my way. Through careful planning, smart spending, and a commitment to staying financially wise, I’m confident that I can build a future where I can thrive and help others along the way.

Being a light in someone's day or life has always been the heart of who I am because I know the feeling of having that light taken away from you. I know what it's like to experience difficult times and tragedy, to have that pit in your stomach that just won't go away, and to feel guilty. These are the feelings people have to go through every day and some people have to go through it alone. I want to change that in any way I can. When someone's light gets taken away I want to be the sunshine that can be brought back into their life. At a basketball camp in Virginia, I noticed all my teammates staring at me agitatedly. They handed me a phone, and I read the headline: 2 teens died in a car crash and two seriously injured… Tavis Williamson. I go numb and feel nothing. My brother was in a car crash. I called my mom immediately. Tavis was in surgery, but his two close friends in the car did not make it. This was the first time I had felt my light get taken away. In the aftermath of the accident, my family came together like never before. We leaned on each other for support, finding strength in unity. I took on new responsibilities, stepping up to help however I could. It was a period of growth and maturity when I discovered resilience within myself that I never knew existed. Every day was a new challenge, but it was also an opportunity to show love and support to be there for my brother and my family. As my brother slowly healed, I found myself viewing life through a different lens. I started to look around at people every day and realize every person is going through some type of hardship in their life. The simple joys became more profound, and the moments shared with loved ones became more precious. I became more vocal in expressing my emotions, telling those around me how much they meant to me. The accident opened my eyes to the struggles of others, making me more compassionate and understanding. I started to notice the little things, the small acts of kindness that made a big difference in bringing the light back into my life. I became more patient, willing to lend a hand, and eager to make a positive impact. My journey has been shaped by a deep desire to help others and make a difference in the world. The experiences I've had, from volunteering at the children's hospital to greeting veterans, have strengthened my resolve to pursue a career in nursing. I dream of attending the University of Alabama to become a nurse, but coming from a single-mother household, this seems like an impossible goal. Despite the financial and logistical challenges, I am determined to find a way to achieve this dream. I believe anyone who has a dream should follow it, so I am committed to working hard and persevering through the obstacles that come my way.

Attending a university means everything to me and my family. It’s not just about earning a degree; it’s about breaking barriers, setting an example, and proving that dreams can be bigger than life's obstacles. Growing up in a single-parent household, I’ve seen my mom work tirelessly to give me opportunities she never had. She’s always been my biggest supporter, pushing me to aim higher even when the odds weren’t in our favor. Pursuing higher education is my way of honoring her sacrifices and showing her that all the struggles were worth it. For my family, I will be the first to go to college. That fact alone carries so much weight. It’s exciting, but it’s also scary because there’s no roadmap to follow. I’ve had to figure out college applications, financial aid, and the next steps on my own. My mom has always supported me emotionally, but this is uncharted territory for both of us. It’s a lot of pressure, but it’s also a privilege. I get to pave the way for my family and hopefully inspire my younger siblings to chase their dreams, no matter how impossible they might seem. For me, going to college means opportunity. It’s the chance to create a life of stability that my family has always dreamed of but never had. My mom has worked so hard, but we’ve always had to be careful with money, sometimes putting necessities before dreams. With a nursing degree, I’ll be able to give back to her in ways that matter—making sure she never has to worry about bills, and that she gets to relax and enjoy life for once. She deserves that, and I want to give it to her. Beyond my family, attending university is a way for me to make a difference. I’ve always been drawn to helping others, and nursing feels like my calling. Watching my grandmother struggle with dementia and my brother recover from his car accident taught me how important compassionate care is. I want to be there for others in their most vulnerable moments, the same way I’ve been there for my family. I want to use my education to uplift others and show them the same kindness and understanding that has kept me going. This isn’t just about me. It’s about my family, my future patients, and proving that no matter where you come from, you can achieve greatness. Going to college is my first step toward creating a better life for my family and giving back to the community that has shaped me into who I am today. It’s a chance to break the cycle, rise above the challenges, and build something lasting—not just for me, but for everyone who believes in me.

Nursing isn’t just a career goal for me—it feels like a part of who I am. The decision to pursue this path didn’t happen all at once but grew out of experiences that deeply shaped how I view care, resilience, and compassion. It’s about the way people show up for each other in the hardest times and how much strength can be found in even the smallest acts of kindness. For me, it started with my family. My mom is a single parent and a cancer survivor, and she’s the strongest person I know. Watching her fight through treatment and come out on the other side showed me what it means to have both physical and emotional support during life’s toughest battles. She’s the reason I believe so deeply in the power of caregiving. Then there’s my grandmother, who has dementia and arthritis. Being part of her journey has taught me patience and empathy—the kind of understanding you need when someone is vulnerable and depends on you. But the moment that truly solidified my calling to nursing was my brother’s car accident. He survived, but two of his friends didn’t. That loss was devastating, and I’ll never forget the weight of his grief as he cried in my arms. He was recovering from surgery, battling both physical pain and the emotional toll of survivor’s guilt. In those moments, I realized how much more healing is needed than just medical care. People need comfort, compassion, and someone to stand with them when the world feels unbearable. I want to be that person for others. To get ahead of the game of becoming a nurse, I’m taking a class at my high school to become a CNA. I’ve also been giving back to my community in ways that align with my passion for helping others. Through volunteering, I’ve worked on projects like organizing Christmas gifts for children battling cancer and creating cards with messages for military members. These experiences have shown me that even small acts of service can have an impact. In the future, I hope to work as a nurse in underserved communities, where access to care is often limited. I want to focus on providing not just medical help but also emotional support to those who might feel forgotten. Nursing is about more than treating an illness; it’s about reminding people they are valued and cared for, no matter their circumstances. For me, nursing isn’t just a job—it’s a mission. It’s about using my experiences to bring comfort to others and being the kind of person who can make even the hardest days a little easier for someone else.

Oh, Sabrina Carpenter? She’s pretty much the definition of goals. Not only is she an insanely talented singer and actress, but she also seems to have this down-to-earth vibe that makes her feel like a best friend you’ve never met. I mean, she’s been in the spotlight for a while, but she always keeps it real—she’s not afraid to show her personality, whether she’s singing her heart out or posting something funny on Instagram. Her music hits me in a way that’s hard to describe. Like, some of her songs are just pure energy, you know? When “Sue Me” came out, I was instantly obsessed. It’s got that confidence-boosting, “don’t mess with me” kind of vibe that makes you want to strut around like you own the place. But then she can also slow it down with songs like “Skin” and hit you in the feels. I think that balance is one of the things I admire about her—she can be bold, but she’s also not afraid to show her vulnerable side. As for how her career has impacted me, well, it’s honestly about more than just her music. It’s about how she’s built this amazing, multi-faceted career with all kinds of creative projects. She started with acting, and now she’s thriving as a singer, and it just shows how following your passions can take you places you never expected. Her career makes me want to be bold and try new things—whether that’s exploring different forms of creativity, like songwriting or acting, or just pushing myself to be more confident in what I love to do. Plus, she’s like this walking reminder that it’s okay to be yourself, even when you’re in the spotlight. No fake persona, no trying to be someone else—just Sabrina being Sabrina. It’s inspired me to embrace my weirdness and not feel pressured to fit into a box. And hey, if I can someday achieve even a fraction of the success and authenticity she’s got, I’ll be more than happy. So yeah, Sabrina’s career has had a huge impact on me. She’s taught me that it’s not just about being talented, it’s about being real, trying new things, and staying true to who you are. Plus, she’s just a total vibe, and who doesn’t love that?

Understanding the nature of the universe is a little like trying to solve a massive jigsaw puzzle that, every time you think you’re done, someone flips it upside down and says, “Oops, I forgot to tell you—it’s a 3D puzzle!” But that’s what makes it so exciting, right? The mystery of the universe is like an invitation to get curious, to ask, “What’s out there?” and to dive into the unknown. Because let’s face it—if we had all the answers already, we’d probably just be sitting around, bored, trying to figure out why socks mysteriously vanish in the laundry. (If someone figures that out, please let me know.) So, why is it important to keep searching for answers about the universe? Well, for one thing, we’re pretty good at solving problems here on Earth, but let’s not get too cocky. We’ve figured out how to make pizza delivery happen in 30 minutes or less, but we still don’t know what dark matter is. That’s a little concerning, don’t you think? It’s like getting a phone with a ton of new apps and not knowing what half of them do. But understanding the universe could lead us to new technologies, cures for diseases, or maybe even a way to stop that annoying feeling of existential dread after staying up too late watching science documentaries on YouTube. Take gravity, for example. We know it exists because, well, it keeps us from floating off into space, which is great for all of us who enjoy having solid ground under our feet. But understanding how gravity works on a cosmic scale opens up new doors. Imagine figuring out how we can manipulate gravity. We could potentially travel faster than light (take that, Star Trek!) or even live on other planets without floating around like confused astronauts. How cool would that be? One concept I’m particularly fascinated by is the theory of relativity. It’s all about how space and time bend and stretch based on the presence of mass. It’s like that feeling when you sit down on your bed and your mattress just sinks a little too much—except instead of your mattress, it’s the fabric of space-time itself. Now, I’m not saying I’m going to figure it all out anytime soon, but I think asking those “What if?” questions is the key to making discoveries. Maybe I won’t be the one to invent the next big thing in physics, but I can be part of the conversation. After all, even Einstein had to start somewhere—probably with a pretty confused look on his face as he tried to understand how the universe works. In my studies, I plan to combine creativity with scientific methods. Science is not just about numbers and equations; it’s about asking questions and dreaming up new possibilities. Who knows, maybe one day I’ll discover a way to figure out the nature of dark energy and where all my missing socks go—because at this point, it’s the same mystery. But really, the journey of discovery itself is what excites me. So whether I’m studying quantum mechanics or just daydreaming about what’s beyond our observable universe, I’ll be on the lookout for the next big “Aha!” moment. And who knows, maybe that moment will come when I’m sitting at home, still trying to solve the age-old mystery of the disappearing socks.

Billie Eilish’s music resonates with me on a deep emotional level. Her ability to capture complex emotions and experiences in her lyrics has always drawn me in. Three songs, in particular, stand out to me: “everything i wanted,” “bury a friend,” and “idontwannabeyouanymore.” Each of these tracks speaks to different aspects of human emotion, and they have helped me understand my feelings more clearly. “everything i wanted” is the first song that truly made me reflect on the concept of success and its underlying emptiness. The lyrics, “I had a dream, I got everything I wanted / But when I wake up, I see you with me,” speak to the idea that even when things look perfect from the outside, there can still be an internal struggle. For me, this song resonates with the pressure of societal expectations and the realization that material success doesn’t necessarily bring happiness. It reminds me that what truly matters is the relationships and the connections we have, rather than chasing after external validation. “bury a friend” is haunting in both its sound and its lyrics. It captures a sense of inner conflict and the unsettling feeling of confronting one’s darkest thoughts. The line “What do you want from me? / Why don’t you run from me?” hits home, as it reminds me of moments in my life when I’ve been overwhelmed by my self-doubt. The song’s eerie atmosphere mirrors the confusion that comes with feeling lost or disconnected from oneself, something that many people experience but often struggle to express. “Idontwannabeyouanymore” speaks to the vulnerability that comes with struggling with self-image. The song is about feeling like you don’t live up to your expectations, and it reminds me of times when I’ve been too harsh on myself. The lyrics, “I don’t wanna be you anymore,” echo the desire to break free from negative self-perception. It has helped me realize that it’s okay to feel like I don’t have everything figured out, and it’s okay to not always feel confident. These three songs by Billie Eilish resonate with me because they reflect emotions that are often difficult to express. Her music has taught me that it’s okay to experience pain, confusion, and insecurity and that acknowledging these feelings is a step toward growth. Billie’s ability to create music that connects so deeply with her listeners is a testament to her artistry, and it has played an important role in my journey of self-discovery.

The night my brother came home after his car accident is forever etched in my memory. He survived, but two of his best friends didn’t. The grief he carried was unbearable. I watched him sit next to me, trembling, unable to speak. His pain was suffocating, and then, without warning, tears began to fall. He cried in my arms, his body shaking with the weight of his loss. I didn’t know what to say or how to fix it, but I knew at that moment that being there for him—offering my love and presence—was the most important thing I could do. His tears weren’t just from the accident. They were from the guilt of surviving, from the overwhelming sorrow of losing his friends, and from the pain of being left behind. As I held him, I realized something that changed my perspective on healing: emotional support is just as essential as physical care. His wounds were not only on the outside—they were deep within, and no amount of time or medical treatment could fix that without someone to help him process the grief. That night shaped my desire to help others who are struggling with their mental health. I want to be the person who provides not only medical care but also emotional support. In my future career as a nurse, I plan to offer a safe space for patients to express their emotions, and to let them know they are not alone. I want to be the one who listens without judgment, who understands that healing isn’t just physical—it’s emotional and mental as well. My brother’s pain taught me that sometimes, all a person needs is someone to hold them in their darkest moments. That’s the kind of support I want to give. I want to break down the stigma surrounding mental health, to help others feel comfortable asking for help when they need it most. My experiences have shown me that emotional healing is just as important as physical recovery, and I am committed to providing both as I pursue my career in healthcare.

Jack Terry’s story is a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of the human spirit. Despite facing unimaginable adversity—losing his family in the Holocaust and enduring the horrors of three concentration camps—he not only survived but went on to build an extraordinary life. His perseverance, drive, and ambition to create a meaningful life for himself, despite overwhelming odds, are qualities that deeply inspire me. He showed that no matter the challenges we face, we can overcome them and contribute to the world in meaningful ways. His commitment to sharing his story and educating others about hope and survival is something I admire deeply, and it motivates me to keep pushing forward in my own life. Much like Jack, I have faced multiple challenges. Growing up in a single-parent household, my mother worked very hard to provide for me while battling cancer. Despite our financial situation, she never let me feel disadvantaged in love or opportunity. Witnessing her strength in the face of such distress shaped my understanding of resilience. But it wasn’t until I helped my brother recover after a devastating car accident, where two of his friends tragically passed away, that I truly grasped what it meant to persevere. Helping him through his recovery taught me the importance of being a source of strength for others. It showed me how vital sympathy and support can be during times of need, and it motivated me to pursue a career in healthcare. Through these experiences, I have learned that adversity doesn’t define us—it shapes us. While my life has been marked by hardship, I’ve discovered that facing those challenges with resilience can lead to growth and a deeper sense of purpose. Much like Jack Terry, who rose above his past to become an accomplished professional and a source of inspiration for others, I am determined to use my journey to make a positive impact. I’ve learned the importance of empathy, hard work, and helping others through difficult times. These lessons have fueled my ambition to become a nurse and use my skills to support people who need care the most. I want to give back to my community by working with underserved populations and providing care and support to those who face health challenges or come from backgrounds similar to mine. Through my studies, I will equip myself with the knowledge and skills needed to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. Jack’s story teaches us that, no matter where we come from or what we’ve been through, we can make an impact. I am committed to using my education to honor that lesson and serve others with compassion and dedication, just as Jack Terry did throughout his life.

Growing up in a single-parent household has been one of the most defining parts of my life. My mom, who raised me on her own while surviving cancer, is the strongest person I know. She taught me how to face challenges head-on and never let circumstances hold me back. While we didn’t always have everything, she made sure I never felt like I was missing anything that mattered. Her determination to give me the best life possible shaped who I am today and fueled my motivation to succeed. There were plenty of times when it wasn’t easy. Watching my mom work long hours and sacrifice so much for me wasn’t something I fully understood as a child, but as I got older, I began to see the strength it took for her to keep going. We didn’t have the luxury of expensive vacations or brand-new things, but what we did have was each other. I learned to appreciate every opportunity, even if it wasn’t handed to me. That’s what made me value education and hard work so much—I saw how those things could open doors and create the kind of future my mom worked so hard for me to have. At the same time, coming from a single-parent household taught me empathy. It made me more aware of the struggles other people go through, whether it’s financial stress, health challenges, or feeling like the odds are stacked against you. That awareness is what inspired me to pursue a career in nursing. I’ve seen firsthand how much of a difference compassion and care can make in someone’s life. Whether it was helping my grandmother, who has dementia, or supporting my brother as he recovered from a traumatic car accident, I’ve realized that I want to spend my life helping others through their hardest moments. In the future, I plan to give back to my community by working in healthcare, particularly with often overlooked people. Whether that’s providing care in nursing homes, volunteering at free clinics, or mentoring young people in similar situations, I want to be a resource for others. I know what it’s like to feel like the world is working against you, and I want to remind people that they’re never alone. Life hasn’t always been easy, but it’s shaped me into someone who values perseverance, compassion, and the power of giving back. Those are lessons I carry with me every day, and I can’t wait to use them to make a difference.

As I sit next to my grandma who doesn't remember what she did 5 minutes ago because she suffers from dementia, it made me realize the true meaning of empowerment. It goes way beyond being strong or independent; it is the ability to make choices, face challenges, and motivate others to do the same thing. I believe empowerment is about gaining control, even during difficult times, and using that strength to inspire those around us. Watching my grandma face her struggles with dignity and resolve taught me that empowerment creates a chain reaction that starts with an individual and extends to others. Empowerment has remarkably influenced my view of the world and my commitment to helping others. Growing up in a single-parent home with my mother, a cancer survivor, I quickly learned the value of strength. My mother's courage in overcoming her illness while raising my brother and me showed me how empowerment can turn challenges into opportunities. Her determination inspired me to pursue my aspirations, regardless of the obstacles I might face in life. In my own experiences, empowerment has driven my education journey and community service. As a high school student, I became active in organizations such as Key Club and Families4Families, where I learned the impact of community support. Through volunteering--whether it was distributing holiday gifts for children with cancer or preparing care packages for military personnel-- I witnessed how even small acts of kindness can help those in need and make the world a better place. Empowerment is not only a personal achievement: it's a collective experience that strengthens bonds and builds strong communities. Empowerment is also about personal development. By facing challenges, I have learned to view setbacks as an opportunity for growth. When my brother survived a serious car accident, I took on the responsibility of caring for him during his recovery. This experience was one of the most demanding periods of my life, yet it revealed how inner strength can ease healing. Coupled with my mother's and grandmother's struggles, this journey has strengthened my desire to become a nurse and to contribute to a more compassionate and empowered society. Ultimately, empowerment is a cyclical process. When you find the courage to rise above your struggles, it inspires others to do the same. My goal in life is to continue this cycle by empowering those around me through acts of kindness, care, and compassion. Whether through my future career as a nurse or my ongoing community involvement, I aspire to be a source of strength for others, just as my family has been for me.