Dear OG Dance School for Healing Self, LLC, The question of making mental health care affordable and accessible is personal to me. I've experienced the challenges of seeking therapy, where costs can be high, especially without insurance. My unique contribution aims to revolutionize mental health care by creating an inclusive online platform. This platform would connect individuals with licensed therapists at a fraction of the cost, breaking financial barriers. Additionally, I envision fostering supportive communities where people can connect, share experiences, and find peer support. Combating isolation and loneliness, these safe spaces would empower individuals on their mental health journeys. To ensure credibility, I would collaborate with licensed therapists and reputable organizations. Education and awareness about mental health would be integrated, breaking down stigmas and encouraging open conversations. In summary, my vision focuses on an affordable online platform and supportive communities, bridging the gap and making mental health care accessible to all. Thank you for considering my contribution. Isela Mendoza.

Dear Leslie Holloway, When it comes to reaching my educational goals, no one has been a more steadfast and supportive presence in my life than my father. His unwavering love, guidance, and belief in my potential have been instrumental in shaping my journey. Throughout my life, my father has been a source of inspiration and wisdom. He has openly shared his experiences, regrets, wishes, and dreams, allowing me to learn from his path and make informed decisions for my future. His candidness about his life's journey has provided valuable insights and a broader perspective, making me more aware of the choices I make and the impact they may have on my aspirations. My father's belief in me is truly remarkable. He sees my potential, even during times when I may doubt myself, and he continuously strives to instill a strong work ethic and resilience within me. Knowing that he has faith in my abilities motivates me to push myself beyond my limits and strive for greatness. One of the most profound ways my father has supported me is by encouraging me to carve my path. He loves me enough to allow me the freedom to pursue my dreams and passions, even if they diverge from his own experiences. His unconditional support has given me the confidence to embrace my individuality and find my unique way forward. As I reflect on my upbringing, I now understand that my father has always been there for me, even during times when I thought he wasn't as present as I wished him to be. He has been a pillar of emotion and even though our financial circumstances might not have been ideal, he has continued to cheer me on. His love and guidance, though from a distance, have been unwavering and have shaped the person I am today. I owe my father a deep sense of gratitude for instilling in me the will to be great and to reach my full potential. His belief in me and his endless support are driving forces behind my educational pursuits, and I am determined to make him proud. I want to not only fulfill my aspirations but also exceed the expectations he has for me, as a testament to his love and dedication. In conclusion, I am fortunate to have such a loving and supportive father in my life. His influence has been transformative, and I carry his encouragement in my heart as I continue to strive for greatness, not only for myself but also for him. With heartfelt appreciation, Isela Mendoza.

Dear Dounya Discala, Thank you for acknowledging the challenges that women face both in academics and the workforce. Indeed, overcoming these obstacles requires resilience, determination, and a strong work ethic. A time when I demonstrated tenacity was during my college years when I realized that women often face unique challenges that their male counterparts may not encounter. The gender disparity in the workforce, particularly in terms of pay, was a striking revelation for me. It was disheartening to learn that women, despite their qualifications and hard work, still earn less than their male colleagues. According to recent statistics, on average, women earn approximately 81 cents for every dollar earned by men in the same position and with the same qualifications. This knowledge sparked a fire within me to persevere despite the obstacles and work towards empowering myself and other women. I encountered instances where I felt unsafe walking down the street when there were groups of men nearby, a fear that my male counterparts might not understand. Additionally, I observed that women often had to work harder to be perceived as charismatic or to be regarded as equals in professional settings, especially in male-dominated industries. Learning from these experiences, I recognized the importance of supporting gender equality and championing women's rights in the workplace. It reinforced my belief in the need for a more inclusive and diverse workforce, where individuals are judged based on their abilities and contributions rather than their gender. Reflecting on history, I cannot overlook the struggles of women during the suffrage movement. The fight for women's right to vote was a significant milestone in the journey toward gender equality, as it challenged the societal norms that suppressed women's voices and participation. It serves as a reminder that progress has been made, but there is still work to be done to ensure equal opportunities for all. As I move forward in my career, I am committed to breaking down barriers and advocating for a workplace that values the talents of all individuals, regardless of their gender. I believe that by supporting and empowering each other, we can create a more equitable and inclusive society for future generations. Thank you for allowing me to share my experiences and thoughts on this important topic. I hope that by discussing the challenges women face and acknowledging the historical struggles for suffrage, we can foster understanding and inspire positive change. With determination and optimism, Isela Mendoza.

Dear Sheehan, Thank you for providing me with the opportunity to share my personal experiences and how they have impacted my life in profound ways. The topics of mental health, suicide, and LGBTQIA+ experiences are deeply significant to me, and I believe it's essential to discuss them openly to create a supportive and understanding community. Over the years, I have faced several challenges related to mental health, including periods of depression and anxiety. At one point, I constantly questioned whether something was wrong with me, and it was a relief when I finally discovered that I had ADHD, which had been misinterpreted as anxiety. This realization was a turning point for me, as it allowed me to better understand myself and take the necessary steps to improve my mental well-being. During my journey, I have had moments where I felt lost, struggling to find my way through the complexities of my thoughts and emotions. Talking to a therapist has been instrumental in helping me navigate these feelings and bring clarity to my mind. By seeking professional support, I have been able to shift my focus from self-doubt to self-discovery, ultimately granting me the freedom to be my authentic self. As I continue to work on my mental well-being, I find myself in a place of peace and self-love. Embracing my identity and understanding my ADHD has given me a renewed sense of purpose and belonging. It has empowered me to confront the challenges that come my way, and through the ups and downs, I am committed to growing and evolving. Additionally, my journey as part of the LGBTQIA+ community has also shaped me profoundly. Coming out to my family was an important and courageous step for me, but it was disheartening to be met with some dismissive reactions. However, I refuse to let negative responses define me or my worth. Instead, I am determined to stand tall and fight for the life that is truly meant for me. I firmly believe that sharing our stories and experiences can foster empathy, understanding, and acceptance. By opening up about mental health and LGBTQIA+ issues, we can break down the stigmas surrounding them and create a more inclusive society. I am grateful for the progress I've made on my journey, and I am committed to supporting others who may be facing similar challenges. Thank you for giving me this opportunity to share a part of my story. I hope that by doing so, we can contribute to a world that embraces and celebrates every individual, regardless of their background or experiences. With gratitude and resilience, Isela Mendoza.

Dear Koci Family, I hope this message finds you well. I am excited to share my aspirations and the reasons behind my chosen path, which align perfectly with the essence of the scholarship celebrating Jessie Koci's achievements. Firstly, I must express my admiration for Jessie Koci, a remarkable individual whose accomplishments and tenacity have left an indelible mark on the world. As a retired business owner, mother of two, and an embodiment of the "get-it-done" spirit, she serves as an inspiration to countless individuals like myself who aspire to become successful entrepreneurs. I am currently pursuing a degree in Communications with a concentration in Marketing. This choice was fueled by my deep-rooted fascination for understanding consumer behavior, crafting innovative strategies, and making meaningful connections with diverse audiences. I believe that this field will equip me with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in the world of entrepreneurship. The decision to embark on an entrepreneurial career is not only a reflection of my passion for business but also an homage to individuals like Jessie Koci, who have demonstrated the power of forging one's path. As an all-around "get-it-done" kind of person, I am driven by the desire for autonomy, the potential to effect positive change, and the opportunity to bring my vision to life. I am honored to be considered for the Jessie Koci Scholarship, which celebrates the achievements of a remarkable woman and encourages others, like myself, to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. The values of determination, resilience, and the determination to create something meaningful resonate deeply with me, and I aspire to embody these qualities in my journey. In pursuit of a successful entrepreneurial career, I recognize the significance of continuous learning, adaptability, and embracing challenges. I am committed to leveraging my knowledge and experience to navigate the complexities of business ownership while staying open to innovative ideas and insights. In conclusion, I am truly grateful for the opportunity to be considered for the Jessie Koci Scholarship. Jessie's legacy serves as a guiding light as I endeavor to carve my path in the entrepreneurial world. With determination, resilience, and the vision to make a positive impact, I aim to honor her spirit and leave a mark of my own. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the prospect of contributing to the entrepreneurial community and creating a legacy of inspiration, just like Jessie Koci. Sincerely, Isela Mendoza.

There is a philosophical belief that as a child you are a sponge and you absorb what surrounds you. I had no idea what that meant at first glance but after a while, I believed it to be true for the fact that people are molded depending on the environment they grow up in, of course, an individual has the opportunity to change and mold themselves later on. However, I have absorbed the experiences and values of being a part of a tight-knit family. I have come across peers or acquaintances who do not obtain the same family experience that I did and with great empathy and humility, I feel for them because growing up in a Hispanic family you receive and give so much to each other. Through my family, I have learned that they accept people into their lives and it has made me aware that when you have genuine intentions, you are not afraid to accept and love wholly. It can be easy to forget what you have until it is no longer there so the philosophy that I live by is remembering to be in the moment with those I do have in my life still. A few wise words from my aunt are, "when I die I hope everyone is laughing rather than crying because that will mean that I have lived a memorable life and people will remember me by how joyous I was and continue to feel that even after I have passed." Those words have stuck with me since and are a reminder to live gracefully through my family. I have had the privilege to learn so much from the individuals in my family, such as what it means to be there, to support and love unconditionally, and to understand that no matter what hardships you experience in life you have a group of people who will help you without judgment, who are always accepting you with open arms even when it comes to people outside of the family environment. Absorbing all of this has made me into a person who, outside of family, can empathize with strangers, help and give to the community, and build meaningful relationships with people. As a first-generation college applicant, it gives me the resilience to continue forward for my family members who did not have the same opportunities as I have and be a person who is proud to be a Hispanic American and can fight forward knowing I have a lineage of strong ancestors and family cheering me on.