My name is Hayden Gulley, and I was raised in the rural town of Pearsall, Texas. I've attended a Christian school my entire life, where I've been taught academics and the values of faith, service, and stewardship. Growing up in a small town with deep agricultural roots, I found my passion early—caring for animals and working in agriculture has never been just a hobby for me; it's a way of life and a calling I plan to pursue for the rest of my life. Since I could walk, I've been involved in showing cattle. Through 4-H, I've raised and shown animals at local and state competitions, learning the importance of dedication, early mornings, and attention to detail. These experiences taught me that animal care goes far beyond feeding and grooming—it's about forming a relationship based on respect, trust, and responsibility. Whether making sure my steer is comfortable before a show or noticing subtle signs of illness in livestock, I've learned to be attentive, patient, and compassionate. My passion for agriculture and animals deepened as I learned more about the science behind it. I became fascinated with how proper nutrition, environment, and health care affect animal welfare, meat quality, productivity, and sustainability. That's when I developed a strong interest in meat science. Understanding how we raise and care for animals directly impacts the quality and safety of the food we consume, which has helped me realize that my role in agriculture has a ripple effect beyond the barn or pasture. It affects communities, families, and our future food systems. Caring for animals, especially in a rural community like mine, has shown me that this field is more than a career—it's a service. After my parents divorced, my mother became the sole provider for me and my two younger sisters. She's a teacher, and watching her work so hard to support us inspired me to take on more responsibility and find ways to contribute meaningfully. That's part of why I've committed myself to agriculture—I know I can make a real difference in the lives of animals and those who depend on them. My ultimate goal is to study Animal Science at Texas A&M University and attend veterinary school. I plan to return to Pearsall to open a veterinary clinic serving pets and livestock. Access to affordable, high-quality veterinary care is limited in rural areas like mine, and I want to change that. I also want to offer educational outreach—especially to students in FFA and 4-H—to help prepare the next generation of agricultural leaders. Agriculture and animal care are more than just industries—they are the backbone of rural America and essential to feeding and sustaining our world. I believe that when we treat animals with respect and compassion, raise them responsibly, and use science to guide our practices, we create a better future for everyone. That's the future I want to be part of. In addition to my agricultural work, I've stayed active in my church, volunteering regularly and learning what it means to lead by serving others. Whether helping at a livestock show or organizing a church fundraiser, I bring the same heart, work ethic, and sense of purpose to everything I do. This scholarship would help me continue pursuing my passion and return it to the community that has shaped me. I'm ready to take the next step—not just for myself but also for the animals I care about, the people I want to serve, and the future I hope to build in agriculture.

Animal care and welfare play a vital role in conservation efforts across the globe. While conservation is often associated with endangered species and protected lands, it also relies on how we care for animals in our communities, farms, and ecosystems. Healthy animals—whether wild, domestic, or agricultural—are essential to maintaining balance in our environment, supporting biodiversity, and ensuring sustainable relationships between people, animals, and the land. As someone who has grown up showing cattle, working in 4-H, and volunteering through my church, I've seen firsthand how animal care and ethical treatment can build stronger communities and contribute to a larger purpose. Conservation begins with respect for life, land, and the connection between the two. As a future veterinary professional, I believe one of the most potent ways to support conservation is by improving animal welfare in rural and agricultural settings. When animals are cared for properly—given medical attention, proper nutrition, and safe environments—they thrive. In turn, they contribute to sustainable food systems, healthy ecosystems, and the well-being of those who depend on them. One key part of animal welfare that directly affects conservation is education. Many people want to do right by their animals but lack access to proper information or resources. For example, veterinary care can be challenging in my hometown of Pearsall, Texas, especially for low-income families and livestock owners. By educating owners on preventive care, disease control, and humane treatment, we not only improve animal health but also reduce the spread of illness, protect native wildlife, and promote responsible land stewardship. I plan to study Animal Science at Texas A&M University and then attend veterinary school, with the long-term goal of returning to my rural community to open a clinic. This clinic will serve a dual purpose: providing high-quality care for pets and livestock, and educating the public on how good animal care supports broader conservation goals. Whether it's helping a rancher maintain a healthy herd without overgrazing or teaching kids in 4-H about sustainable animal husbandry, I want to be part of a generation of veterinary professionals who don't just treat animals, but protect the future of agriculture and our natural resources. I also have a growing passion for meat science, which is key in sustainable agriculture and food production. Understanding the link between animal health, meat quality, and environmental impact helps us raise animals more efficiently and humanely. As a future veterinary professional, I hope to promote practices that reduce waste, improve food safety, and support ethical meat production. These efforts directly support conservation by using fewer resources, reducing environmental stress, and preserving land and water for future generations. Beyond technical skills, I bring compassion, community service, and faith into everything I do. As someone who has attended Christian school my entire life, I believe in being a good steward of God's creation. Volunteering in church and 4-H has taught me to lead with empathy, serve others humbly, and use my talents for a greater purpose. Ultimately, conservation is not just about saving species—it's about building a better world for all living things. Through animal care, education, and sustainable veterinary practices, I believe I can make a lasting impact on both the animals I serve and the environment we share. This scholarship would bring me closer to that goal and help me return home to serve the people, animals, and land that have given so much to me.

My name is Hayden Gulley, and I am a senior preparing to graduate after spending my entire academic career in a Christian school. Growing up in Pearsall, Texas, and attending a faith-based school have shaped me into a person who values integrity, service, and compassion. These values are not only part of my education but also a foundation for how I live and how I plan to build my future. I developed a deep love for animals and agriculture from a young age. I have shown cattle my entire life through 4-H, and these experiences taught me responsibility, patience, and the importance of hard work. They also opened my eyes to the role animals play in rural life—not just as pets or livestock, but as part of the livelihood of families and the heart of small communities like mine. My passion for animal care has grown alongside a strong interest in meat science, which has helped me understand the connection between animal health, food safety, and public well-being. I come from a hardworking family. After my parents’ divorce, my mother, a teacher, became the primary provider for me and my two younger sisters. Watching her strength and sacrifice showed me what it means to persevere and serve others, even in the face of challenges. Her support has been a driving force behind my commitment to education and my goal to give back. I plan to pursue a degree in Animal Science at Texas A&M University and then continue to veterinary school. My ultimate goal is to return to Pearsall and open a veterinary clinic that serves our rural community. Access to affordable and quality veterinary care is limited in small towns like mine. Families often have to travel far for basic services or without them. I want to change that by providing a local solution serving pets and livestock. But my vision goes beyond treating animals. I want my clinic to be an education, mentorship, and outreach hub. I plan to offer programs that teach young people about animal care, responsible livestock management, and even opportunities in veterinary medicine. I especially want to mentor students from small towns who may not see a clear path to college or a medical career. I want to show them it’s possible—because I’ll have done it myself. In addition to my agricultural involvement, I’ve volunteered in my church, helping with youth ministry, events, and community service projects. These experiences have helped me develop strong leadership skills and a deep commitment to helping others. I try to lead by example and always look for ways to be a light in the lives of those around me—whether that’s through offering encouragement, helping a younger 4-H member, or just showing up and doing the work. I believe I should be selected for this scholarship because of my dedication to using my education not just for personal success, but to make a lasting difference in the lives of others. I have a clear vision, a heart for service, and a strong foundation of faith and hard work guiding me. This scholarship would help lift some of the financial burden off my family and allow me to stay focused on my long-term goals—helping animals, supporting rural families, and inspiring the next generation in my community. Thank you for considering me as a candidate. I am ready to take the next step in my journey and use what I’ve learned to bring light, healing, and hope to those around me.

One of the most meaningful contributions I’ve made to my community has come through my involvement in my church and 4-H. Growing up in Pearsall, Texas, a small rural town with strong agricultural roots, I’ve always felt a deep responsibility to give back. One outstanding project was a 4-H animal care outreach event I helped organize at our local barn. The goal was to educate members and local families on animal health, nutrition, and care, especially those with livestock or pets but limited veterinary resources. I helped prepare materials at this event and mentored younger 4-H members in caring for their animals. For many, it was their first time learning about vaccinations, parasite prevention, and proper feeding practices. Knowing I helped fill a knowledge gap and inspired others to care for their animals responsibly left a lasting impact on me. It also reaffirmed my passion for both animal health and community education. Showing cattle has been a massive part of my life. From a young age, I was in the show ring with steers, learning the discipline, responsibility, and hard work required to raise high-quality livestock. This experience deepened my love for animals and sparked a passion for meat science. I became fascinated with the connection between proper animal care, nutrition, and high-quality meat production. Understanding how animal health and welfare directly affect meat quality made me realize that veterinary care isn’t just about individual animals—it plays a vital role in our food system and public health. I’ve decided to pursue a career as a veterinary technician for three reasons: my passion for animal care, my desire to serve rural communities, and my interest in applying science to challenges like food production and animal health. First, I’ve always had a strong connection to animals. Whether through 4-H, showing cattle, or caring for pets, I’ve found joy and purpose in ensuring animals are healthy and well-cared for. Veterinary technicians play a vital role in this work. They are the backbone of veterinary practices, from assisting in surgery to monitoring recovery. It’s a career where I make a tangible difference daily. Second, I want to serve small, rural towns like mine. In Pearsall and nearby communities, access to veterinary care is limited. People often travel far for basic services or go without them altogether. As a veterinary technician, I want to return to my hometown and work in or open a clinic offering affordable, compassionate care to pets and livestock. I also hope to provide outreach and education to help others understand the importance of animal health in family life and agriculture. Third, I’m drawn to the field because of my passion for science, especially meat science. I’m fascinated by how veterinary care influences meat quality, animal welfare, and food safety. Becoming a veterinary technician allows me to combine my love for animals, my interest in science, and my livestock background in a rewarding and essential career. It’s also a field where I’ll constantly learn and grow. Coming from a single-parent household, with my mother, a teacher, working hard to support me and my two younger sisters, I’ve learned the value of determination, gratitude, and service. I plan to study animal science at Texas A&M University, where I hope to deepen my knowledge of veterinary care and meat science. After, I’ll return home to serve the community that raised me. This scholarship would bring me one step closer to that dream. It would ease the financial burden of education and help me build a future centered around service, science, and improving the lives of animals and people in rural communities like mine.

When I think about creating a legacy, I don’t imagine fame or recognition—I think about impact. I believe a legacy is about what you leave behind in the hearts of others and in the community that helped shape you. For me, that community is Pearsall, Texas, a small rural town where I was raised by a strong and selfless mother, alongside my two younger sisters. After my parents’ divorce, my mom, a local teacher, became our family’s sole provider. Watching her work tirelessly to support us gave me a deep appreciation for service, sacrifice, and community values that now guide my own goals for the future. I dream of earning a degree in Animal Science from Texas A&M University and then attending veterinary school. From a young age, I’ve had a deep love and respect for animals, and that passion has only grown as I’ve become more involved in organizations like 4-H and my local church. Through these experiences, I’ve learned leadership, responsibility, and how to serve others. Whether it’s helping younger 4-H members prepare their animals for show or volunteering during community events through my church, I’ve found joy in lifting others. That’s how I try to shine my light—by being present, dependable, and willing to give back. Eventually, I hope to return to Pearsall and open my veterinary clinic. Access to affordable and compassionate animal care is limited in rural towns like mine. Many families, including those raising livestock or owning pets, struggle to find nearby services or must travel far for basic veterinary needs. My goal is to change that. I want to build a practice that treats animals, educates owners, supports local farmers and ranchers, and provides mentorship for young people interested in animal science or veterinary careers. This clinic won’t just be a business; it will be a legacy built on service. I want it to reflect the values my mother instilled in me: hard work, compassion, and community. I plan to offer programs for students to learn about animal health, organize community outreach for pet vaccinations and wellness, and support local 4-H and FFA chapters. I also hope to eventually create a scholarship fund for rural students who want to pursue veterinary medicine but lack financial support. My light shines brightest when helping others, my family, church, or community. I don’t have all the answers yet, but I have a clear vision and a heart full of determination. With the proper education, hard work, and support, I can build something meaningful that will last long after I hang up my stethoscope. This scholarship would not only ease the financial burden of pursuing higher education but also bring me one step closer to building a future rooted in purpose. I’m ready to give back to the town that raised me and to make a difference one animal, one family, and one life at a time.

Growing up in Pearsall, Texas, I’ve experienced the real impact that finances can have on a family’s future. When my parents went through a difficult divorce, my life changed in many ways, but one of the most significant changes was financial. My mother, a hardworking teacher, became the sole provider for me and my two younger sisters. Watching her work tirelessly to care for all of us while still showing up for her students has been both humbling and inspiring. To help support our family, I took on a part-time job. Through that experience, I began to understand the value of money, how quickly it can go, and how carefully it must be managed. I learned to budget for essentials, save what I could, and contribute at home. While these weren’t lessons taught in a classroom, they were real-world financial lessons that taught me discipline, responsibility, and gratitude. Unfortunately, financial education isn’t something many students receive in-depth at school. Most of what I know about managing money has come from observing my mom, trial and error, and seeking out resources online. I’ve started learning about credit, budgeting, savings strategies, and how student loans work to prepare myself for the future, especially as I pursue veterinary school. My dream is to become a veterinarian. I’ve always had a deep love and respect for animals. I want to dedicate my life to caring for them, especially in rural communities like mine that often lack access to affordable veterinary services. I know veterinary school will be a major financial investment, which is why I’m working hard now to build a strong financial foundation. I’m applying for scholarships like this one not just to lessen the burden on my family, but to avoid taking on more debt than necessary and to stay focused on my education. My long-term goal is not only to become a skilled veterinarian but to use my career to give back. I want to open a clinic in a small town or an underserved area and provide care to both pets and livestock, making sure animals get the treatment they need, regardless of their owners’ income. I also want to educate others about animal care and support the next generation of students like myself, who may come from difficult backgrounds but still dream big. More than anything, I want to show my little sisters that where you come from doesn’t define where you’re going. Financial hardship can be a heavy weight, but it can also be a powerful motivator. Thanks to what I’ve learned through experience—and with the support of scholarships like this—I’m determined to build a better future for myself, my family, and the animals I’ll one day care for.