"I don't run away from a challenge because I am afraid. Instead, I run towards it. Because, the only way to escape fear is to trample it beneath your foot."- Nadia Comaneci A 'YOU GOT IT GIRL' is not someone who just 'faces difficulties', but someone who faces difficulties head-on, stomaching their fear and doubts, pushing towards the end goal to become better, for herself and for those around her. I am a 'YGIG' because I go the extra mile in times of difficulty without complaint or disdain. I push through calamity and hardship because I know there is something better on the other side, and that the few who push through will be refined like gold. Gold is what I want to be, and will one day be. This scholarship will directly help me go to college. Coming from a low-income family, I always assumed that going to college would mean going into debt and, in turn, being poor for majority of my life. Yet, through people like you and keeping an open mind, I've learned how much opportunity and help there is out in the world; you just have to be motivated and diligent to find it. My goal is to graduate from college with a Bachelor's degree and go into overseas education for impoverished kids and youth. This scholarship will help me achieve my goals and further the reality of my dreams. I did competitive stand-up martial arts for about 10 years of my life. Martial arts and combat sports are unique because you use only your own body, and your main competition is yourself. Yes, we fight other people, but our only limitation is our own ability. I won multiple tournaments in Kata/Form competition as well as sparring matches. Really, though, karate was a way for me to push myself and have a goal to work towards. Whether it was kicking over my head with force, or learning fast gun take-a-ways, I had to train. I would be in the gym every day, lifting, running, and training to be the best at my sport that I could be. Martial arts helped me become the person I am today. Yet, the reason I trained so hard WAS to be strong. Physically strong. Throughout my childhood and early teens, my mom's health severely declined. She has a host of rare chronic illnesses that led her to become disabled. So, I knew in case of an emergency, I would have to be able to lift her, or move her, which meant I needed to be strong, and have good stamina. Her story is a big part of my story, as we've helped each other overcome different obstacles. For me, I learned how to take care of her, my 3 siblings, and a house. For her, she learned strength isn't just in what you DO but in WHO you are. Which is what being a YGIG is all about. Fighting through obstacles and barriers and uplifting people along the way. My mom is my superhero. She immigrated here at age 21, has worked her entire life, overcame an abusive childhood, and has kept a smile even through losing her physical abilities. She inspires me every day to chase my dreams and make the most of the things I have. This scholarship will help my journey in so many ways. It will help pay for tuition and living expenses for the whole school year. It will help me train for this new season of life, where I will be challenged with new difficulties, but able to come out like gold.

I am the friend people call when they're contemplating suicide. I am the person who pushes the wheelchair for another mile even when it's 100 degrees out. I am the person who never asks for help because as a listener, i know everyone's struggles and hardships; and refuse to add to them. I love people. I love people so much and so deeply- i've never met a stranger, just a few strange people here and there. My name is Jael Brattrud, and i am a determinded, hardworking young lady who is a good investment for the community and society itself. From as long as i could remember, i've been told i have a 'strong' personality. Growing up in a big, mixed, family, i am a die-hard extrovert who loves hearing people's stories and lives. Like Andrea, i consider myself an encourager- a big cheerleader, if you will. I am the oldest of 4 kids, and am kinda like mom 2.0. My mom is disabled, so i've learned how to serve in the big things, and how to be grateful in the small things. Throughout my life, i've known it is my dream to serve the underserved- the kids and people in this world who don't think they're special. The people in life who are like wall flowers; waiting for someone to look at them, pick them up and shower them with time and attention. I want to be that person who spots a wall flower and helps them bloom. Currently, i volunteer at a local non-profit karate school that gives free karate lessons to kids who cannot afford it in Riverside, CA. Growing up low-income, I know what it's like to not have much. But what you have or don't have, doesn't have to determine how much you give- you know? I now give free piano lessons to adults and kids who want to learn- but cannot afford it. Going to college will give me the tools i need to learn, grow, develop and mature into a person, who is better equip to help my community. When i was in high school, one of my closest friends tried to take her life. When i found that out, every night i would talk to her and pray she would know how worthy she is- how loved she is. After my mom's health became to decrease, i saw how medications and pain can also effect someone's mental health. i watched my mom battle depression and fight a will to stay a live. It hurt and was hard for me. I stopped going to school and took up homeschooling because it was easier on my family driving wise. My dad works full time as a pastor, which means lots of home visits, office meetings and serving. Lots of serving others. So, most my childhood up until now, i've helped take care of my mom and 3 siblings; doing laundry, cooking, changing IVs and stuff like that. And i love it. There's been moments where i felt unseen or unappreiactied, but it makes me want to lift up others all the more so. My dream is to be an oversees missionary, and help teach kids in 3rd world nations english while also doing counseling/therapy for families who cannot afford it. My life has been full of so many little blessings, and "winks" from God (if you will) that i want to pass that on and give it to others. I think my mom's condition and my family life really shaped me into the person i am now, but so has my experience with other teenagers. At 16 i struggled with feeling overwhelmed with school, home responsibilities and a new volleyball team. Soon, I would find myself in a bad relationship and bad friendships that only worsened my mental health and anxiety- people who wanted to take advantage of my giving. Until one day, i really felt God speak to me to let things go. And i did. Soon, i was serving others again; with a new mindset and heart. Whether it be in music, youth groups, and home, i feel at peace routing and helping others. This is what brings me peace. Now, i am a summer camp counselor for girls 6th-11th grade, and i love it. Something that makes me different from other students is that i have grit, and passion to achieve my dreams. I know how many people wish they could have the opportunities i have, and i want to make the most of it. Going to other countries on mission trips, i've seen how much we have here in the states, and i am so grateful. But in addition to the gratitude i feel, i also feel a moral obligation to do the abouslute best, and most i can, to honor those who cant. Not in some twisted messed up way, but in a lifestyle of gratitude. When my mom first fell ill, she'd tell me "Jael don't hate running. Don't hate working out, or doing laundry or anything 'small thing.' Because there are many of us out there who wish they would bend over, or lean down pain free. So do it with a smile and appreciate what God has given you." I carry that message with me everywhere. I want you to invest in me, because i will continue to invest in others- and with a college degree my investment in others can be deeper and stronger. This scholarship alone would cover more than 1/3 rd of my yearly college costs- which is a huge impact! Thank you for your time, i appreciate you believing in students like me, and routing for the underdogs in life.

When i was 14, i would tell people "Oh, i'm a runner. I love running!" In reality i was insecure; trying to outrun the problems in my home- trying to outrun what disease and illness had done to my family. At 16 i would say "i'm going for a run." While i would go hang out with people who worsened my life, and pushed me to do things i knew were wrong. Hi, my name is Jael Brattrud and i am a runner. I am more than that, but every part of my identity is akin to the identity of being a runner. Runners are discipline, strong, patient and tough. They're tough mentally, emotionally and spiritually because they know how to push through the hard things in life. Yet, what happens when you can't outrun what life throws at you? By the time i was 14, my mom was using a wheelchair and i was so insecure of my own body I was running for all the wrong reasons. My mom had always been healthy. She was tall and lean- her outward beauty matched her inward beauty. I remember her always being into fitness, running, lifting and cooking healthy meals. Sometimes the uncontrollable happens, and your left with the pieces. My mom was diagnosed with a host of chronic illness, which in a few years manifested into immobility and permanent disability. . At that point, my life seemed to fall apart. How can you describe watching someone you love suffer because of something unfixable, something you cant help, something that is hurting them? " The gem cannot be perfected without friction, nor man perfected without trials."- Seneca. Due to my mom becoming ill, i learned how to serve. I am the oldest of 4 kids, all of us born about 2 years after each other. I learned how to cook, clean, do laundry and take care of my mom, to help my family- my dad works full time and loves us; but it's alot to take care of a family and work full time. As time went on, i grew in resentment towards God, towards my family and even towards my own body. I soon found myself in relationships and friendships that were toxic and lead me down a road i didnt want to be on. So, i started running. I'd run to clear my mind, to get away from home and to convince myself my friends and relationship were good. Then, i went to Mexico on a mission trip. As a kid, my dream was to be a missionary- and it had felt like an impossible feat in the recent years of my life. When the opportunity came for me to help serve in Mexico i did. I got to see so many things, and help feed kids, clean rooms, and serve. Coming back home, i felt like a new person. I regained my dream of wanting to be a missionary and wanting to serve people. My running mentality changed- now i run to be strong for those i love, and to have endurance to help people when its needed. I grew a deep appreciation for my body and every way it can move and function without pain. God blessed me with new friends, and a love that was satisfied without a boy. My dream is to help people and do missionary work full time and going to college will give me the foundation i need to achieve that. I will be studying biblical studies and psychology/counseling to learn the best ways to serve and help people. Thank you!

It was 1:34 am and I got a text from my friend. "I love you" was all she said, and then a few sentences about how much she appreciated all of our time together. For some reason, i woke up- even though my phone was charging in the kitchen of my home. I'm a morning person, and strongly believe in routines, so my phone is always off and in another room while i am fast asleep by 10:30 pm. For some reason deep in my belly i woke up knowing i had to call this friend. So, i got up and saw her messages. Panicked, i called right away- and thank goodness i did. We were on the phone for such a long time i was half asleep- but grateful. Unfortunately, I've had too many friends try to take their own life. Suicide is a real thing and I've known too many people leave life because of it. For me, loss has come in many different forms- each of which are heavy, hard and strange. Being a youth leader, I've lost kids in my youth group. Being a friend I've lost friends. Kids that felt like my little brothers and sisters- friends that i thought we're going to be there when I have kids and get married. Those that we lose to death, we mourn and grieve, and somehow have to live with it. It feels like a part of us will always be under water- and never breathe again. Those that we lose to addiction- I'm not sure yet. Loss and grief is strange because i don't believe we were built for death. I believe the human race was meant to live forever on a perfect earth- but because of corruption and evil, we die- and it's unnatural. When someone dies, it's over- theres nothing else we can do to save them. But those we lose to addiction, to self-harm to suicidal thoughts- still have hope. We still have a chance to get them back and help them. My dream is to help young people through counseling, therapy and hands-on missions. When i was 13-14 years old, my mom was put on serious medication for her health conditions. These meds caused thoughts, and darkness that scared me to my core. However, through that time in my life, i got to learn so much about the depth and darkness of suicidal thoughts, anxiety and depression. I learned techniques on how to help someone going through that and how to listen. I feel I can make a difference in suicide prevention because I've had first hand experience talking people out of suicide. Listening to friends for hours- relaying trauma after trauma, watching my heart break alongside theirs. I will make a difference in suicide prevention- because I genuinely care about young people and their mental health. If my friends- those kids in my youth group and so many more people in life- had someone to talk to, someone checkin in on them, someone they knew cared- we wouldn't have lost them. I am that person who cares, who checks in on people, who wants and dreams of making a difference for the young people struggling with mental illnesses today. I want to see young people come out of addiction, out of anxiety, out of depression and out of mental illness. I hope for a day when everyone sleeps peacefully with no texts, calls or tears in the middle of the night. Thank you for your time, I hope we can partner- to see a difference in the mental health of GenZ.

We live in a world that rewards hard work and often the work that is seen is done by men. Yet, i think most of the hardest work done and achieved, is gone unnoticed because it is done in quiet,- by strong, humble women. Being a woman is one of life's greatest gifts to humanity. Women have access to a complex mind- can read and feel emotions at higher speeds than men, and are innately beautiful. To be a woman in today's world can look foggy or seem blurred- to be a woman, a strong female, is a challenge for many young girls' in today's society. For me, being a female student athlete (and an aspiring woman) while balancing school and life, has proved a great challenge, but has pushed me to grow in so many different ways. I have learned discipline, time management, and how to reason with difficult people, even when physically worn out. For 9 years of my life (age 6-16) I trained in competitive stand up martial arts. 2-3 times a week i had 2 hour practices, on top of training, running and lifting everyday on my own. Martial arts is a primary male dominated sport, which in itself was a challenge for a little female like me. Not just mentally, but a LITERAL challenge. Practice involved me fighting and training against boys who were bigger, stronger, and faster. Sometimes, we'd have "life simulation" practices; which meant practicing real life scenarios, having to defend ourselves. Being a girl, I always had more situations to practice. Not only that, my situations were comparatively more violent. One simulation, I was to walk in a line- as though i was walking home from school. Before i knew it was thrown to the ground with my hair being pulled- and there i was, kicking and using what i had learned to get free. Balancing a sport with school and life isn't just about planning practices around birthday parties and such- it's more than that. The balance is everything- the way you perceive people, what you eat and drink, and how you live life. Because of my sport, i learned priorities. Yes, i prioritized my sport, but i learned the value of my family because of my sport. I come from a big family- I am the oldest of 4 kids. My mom is disabled and my dad works full time, so we are an ever moving, busy family. We've never had a lot, but we've always had each other. Martial arts taught me discipline and contentment, to which, i took home with me. Martial arts is the only sport where it's just you- no equipment, no water, just you. Coming from my home, I know what it's like to not have much, which is another reason why martial arts is so special to me. I've learned how to help take care of my siblings and mom- to use the discipline, contentment and self-control martial arts taught me. My dream is to help underprivileged kids especially females through eduction and opportunity. Going to college will give me the foundation i need to become a license therapist which will later help me help others. I currently volunteer at a local karate non-profit which I love doing and would like to do on a bigger scale after college. Sports, school and life are all things that can make or break you; and for me, it has made me into a strong, disciplined woman. Thank you for your time, I really appreciate your help in making college possible for young women like me.

You can be rich, attractive, smart and athletic, but if you don't have good people to live life with, and to love, what's the point? I want to help people- and be a person with resources to give access to a better life. This scholarship would help me achieve my dream of going to college, and would give me the resources and tools i need to help my community and serve the underserved. My plan for the future is to finish college with a degree in psychology and counseling. I have been accepted into Life Pacific University, which offers all the classes and resources i need to help equip me for my dreams. This education would give me the foundation i need to help kids who have experienced trauma or abuse. I want to be a missionary oversees and help kids in under developed nations, or i would like to work in the public schools here in the states as a counselor for high school students. Either way, i want to help kids who don't have access to help. During college, i will be commuting weekly, to serve my community on the weekends. I currently work at a church and help give free music lessons to kids who cant afford to learn piano or guitar. I also volunteer weekly at a local non-profit karate school, to help teach kids basic defense skills and training. This school has been so much fun- seeing kids earn confidence and discipline is amazing. I dream of being able to help underprivileged kids through education, hands-on activities and communication. Growing up in a big, low-income family, i didn't have access to counseling, therapy or even hands-on education with professionals; like learning how to sew, cook, or do basic adult things. I was blessed with great parents that did their very best. When i was 11 years old, my mom was diagnosed with some chronic illnesses which has lead her to be permanently disabled. My dad works full time to provide for my mom, and the 4 of us kids. Which in southern California, is ALOT to provide for. I always thought that if i want to achieve my dreams, that would automatically come with thousands of dollars of debt. But because of people like you, i have a chance to achieve my dreams- without a ghost of debt looming over me. I am so grateful for your time, and helping kids like me. I appreciate this more than you know, and i hope you can invest in me- as it is my dream to help invest in others. Thank you!

"The sun looks down on nothing half so good as a household laughing together over a meal." - C.S Lewis. Every person has dreams, desires, hopes and aspirations. Eating dinner around a table, with people you love, people you call family- is a dream for some. For others, it's a luxury they take for granted. . My name is Jael Brattrud, and i am a high school senior in southern California. I've grown up in a low-income house, with a big-mixed family. From before i was born, my parents always believed in a family unit- which meant long nights in hospitals, long drives with casseroles in hand, or sloppily made birthday cakes. I am the oldest of four kids, but it wasn't always that way. For a while, my parents were parents to many other kids who didn't have a home. They were emergency foster parents to 7 different kids all at different times, overlapping each other. It was hard- but good. The older i got, i look back and realize, how hard it must have been raising a family, with so little. I grew up with many brothers and sisters who weren't my blood, but were family. I took for granted what i had- like so many. When i was 11 years old, my mom was diagnosed with a host of diseases that soon left her immobile. Dinners around the table became less and less and it felt as though my family was growing further and further apart. In the same time frame, i lost a few of my closest friends- which left me feeling so alone. Community is so important, but good community is what makes a difference. Yeah, you can be apart of a community- but if its bad, it'll leave you worse than you were before. When my mom was newly ill, i found a community of young people. A community- yes, that pulled me further from my family and further from what i believe. Parties, loneliness and boys were all growing aspects in my life- while sadness and fear grew bigger and bigger. It wasn't until i found God that my life changed around. My faith is the only reason i'm here; in a sound mind, going to college. After getting saved, i found a new family. A true, good, community of people who love Jesus and love people. The relationships i've made in the past 4 years, have shaped me into the person i am now. Not only has this community given me friends and mentors; but it has brought me back home. I've reconciled with my parents, and have a good relationship with my siblings. My dream is to help young girls who don't have community have one. In recent years, I've given free piano lessons to underprivileged kids who cant afford it. I'm also a youth camp counselor for my youth group. College will give me the tools to help build community for those who need it most.

At my very lowest, when i thought i was all alone- worth nothing, for no one- Jesus found me. I fell in love with Him and His people. My name is Jael Brattrud and it is my dream to be a missionary to the unreached people groups. To those on Earth who have no concept, or idea of a God who sent His son to die for them. I want to pursue ministry because I love the Lord with all my heart. I want to pursue ministry because i feel called to it. I want to pursue ministry because i know that is God's plan for my life. When i was 11 years old, my life turned upside down. I've grown up in southern California, born unto my parents who are church planters/pastors. 3 Weeks after they graduated college, they got married and started a church in Riverside, California. A church comprised of tattooed faced men and women. A church built of broken, desperate people. A church of people i call family, 20 years later. However, when i was 11 years old, my mom was diagnosed with a grip of chronic, debilitating spinal diseases- which since, has made her permanently disabled. This really hurt my relationship with God and even brought me to a point where i hated Him, His plans, and even His church. I wanted nothing to do with God. One night, in a dark room, i sat on my knees, with tears running hot down my face. God met me on an altar. There, that very night at 13 years old, i gave my life to Jesus. I was born again with the power of the Holy Spirit. That week, i spoke in tongues for the first time. I heard God's call for me to missions, i fell in love with him, and saw his hand in everyone i met. My heart broke for his people. Especially those in the middle East, and muslim nations. Even now- when i think of Kyrgyzstan, Kazakstan, Tajikistan etc. it brings me to tears- knowing God's heart for those people, as well as people unsaved everywhere. Though i was only 13 years old, I still can remember that night like it was yesterday- it was the first time i truly felt loved and seen. It was like i was seeing in color for the first time, and had a soft breakable heart. A heart that was breaking for the unreached. Because of that night, I currently go evangelizing every Saturday with a group of friends around Riverside, telling people about Jesus and what he's done. My next step in life, is going to bible college. There, i will gain a better knowledge for the bible, gospel, and how to better evangelize to others. In this specific school, i will go on 2-3 international mission trips a year, which is amazing to me. Since first being born again, I've had the joy to go on several mission trips to South America and within the States. I currently serve as a worship leader and youth leader at my church which i love. I desire my life to be a sweet offering to God, and i know this next step will help me move forward in what God has called me to do. Investing in me, is investing in the hundreds of lives i will get to touch and pray for. Thank you for your time, i hope you have great rest of your day.

After 4 long hours in Southern California heat, i pushed out push-up after pushup, kick after kick, kata after kata- punch after punch. To achieve the one thing i had worked 8 years for, the thing i've worked hardest for in my life; my black belt. Karate has been a huge part of my life. From age 5 to now, karate has been a cornerstone, teaching me how to be confident, respectful and content in life. My whole life, my family has stuck together through thick and thin. We never made a lot of money, but we learned how to find purpose in the small things of life. Whether it was playing catch in the front yard, or making box brownies with mom, we found a way to make life special. I am one of 4 kids; the oldest. When i was 11 years old, my mom was in a car accident, which revealed numerous chronic illnesses, leaving her permanently disabled. Since then, I've learned what it means to be apart of a family, what it means to sacrifice- what it means to give unconditionally. Because of our family's condition, and income, life was hard. The 4 of us kids moved to online school because it was simpler driving wise on my dad. Yet, through all that, i was determined to learn, and help my brothers and sister learn. Now, im graduating and going to college, which is a huge leap for my family and I! When i was about 2 years old, my dad met a Karate instructor named Jim Tucker. Tucker grew up traveling to Okinawa Japan training Shudokan Karate, and it soon became Jim's dream to run a free-nonprofit dojo, to help underprivileged kids have access to quality martial arts. Together, my dad and Mr.Tucker found a place they turned into a dojo, and by the time i was 5, we had 3 practices a week, with a team of instructors giving back to kids who couldn't afford karate. It's been a journey, a real beautiful one. For me, karate has given me so much. I learned discipline at a young age and mental toughness. But i also learned how to be generous and how to give. Karate tought me throughout my life that you can achieve anything through hard work. Being Korean and American, I've learned how to navigate different social settings with different kinds of people, and be confident wherever i am. Now, i am an 18 year old black belt, who teaches karate once a week at that same non-profit dojo teaching 20-30 kids a class. I also give free piano lessons to kids who can't afford it, in addition to helping my family more, now that i can drive and such. This scholarship will allow me to continue helping underserved kids while also gaining a higher education. It is my dream to do missionary work overseas and help kids who don't have resources. College will give me the tools and connections to make my dreams true, and your help in that would be not only an investment in me, but an investment in hundreds of other kids in the future. It already is. Thank you for your time, have a blessed day.

No one sat with him at lunch. His mom was newly divorced, and he was one of over six siblings. He wasn't good at sports and was very shy. Making friends is hard, especially when you're not good at the traditionally "cool" things. Yet, alone with a guitar, his fingers filled the empty space he was feeling. There are so many kids like this boy in my community. When I met him, I knew I wanted to help. For me, music helped save my mental health. So, for this young boy, I taught him guitar. Chord by chord, his confidence grew. I saw how his perception of himself began to grow more positive, but also, the way people saw him changed. He became more outgoing and started making more friends. I love teaching him, it not only fills me, but I love how healing music is and that I get to share that. Now, I give guitar lessons to multiple kids for free, as well as piano lessons. The issue in my community is there are too many kids without parents who are able to be fully involved. Many families are single-parent households or have parents that need to work full-time or both! This results in kids who don't get enough love, attention, and one-on-one time with loving people. I've seen this issue and have taken steps to love and care for the kids in my community. I love listening to them and helping them heal through music.

I've always loved people. The way they talk, express themselves, and even the faces they make; reflected something I knew wasn't of this world. My work in speech and debate prepared me to share my Christian faith in so many ways. Debate taught me how to read different cues in people's faces, as well as listen to their opinions and arguments- before launching into something outrageous. Speech has helped me so, so much. Because of my work in both speech and debate, I now get to preach at my youth group once a month, and thanks to these classes, I know how to convey, capture, and speak to an audience. When I was around 13 years old, I was born again and saved. I knew I loved Jesus more than life itself. I knew I had to share this newfound peace with the world and with others. The thing was, I didnt know how to speak to people. On one occasion in high school, I overheard a girl my age speaking up for things that, as a Christian, I don't agree with. She was fiery and passionate as she spoke on these political issues. The debating, passionate part of my mind piped up, and before I knew it, I was debating this girl, burning her and her points to the ground. As people began to gather, my emotion only heightened; where soon, it was no longer an equal debate- it was me, a hell-fire-filled "Jesus-lover" squashing a once passionate girl and her opinions. As people cheered, I saw the glisten in her eyes, and the heat rises in her cheeks. Suddenly, my heart broke. I had used this tool of speech to hurt someone. Not only that, I pushed her further from Jesus. Later that day, I found her and apologized. Her name was Adelina, and well, she wasn't happy with me. I intentionally tried to be kinder to her, but I caused a wedge. Now, 5 years later, I've learned a lot. Speech and debate have helped me in debates where I am defending my faith and having constructive conversations with people. Yet, now, I strive to listen first and speak as Jesus did. Clear and direct, but kind and compassionate. Since that "fiery debate," I've prayed for hundreds of people and had dozens of constructive conversations where I was able to see the other person's side without condemning them. College is a place where I will not only learn more about Jesus, but I will learn more tools on how to share his name and bring more into the kingdom of heaven.

Every kid deserves to be loved. Every person deserves to be loved. An issue with our society today is that there are not enough selfless, kind, well-educated adults loving our children and youth. Kids thirst for love and attention and look for it in all the wrong places if it can’t be obtained in a healthy way. My dream is to help serve underprivileged kids and youth both in Southern California and worldwide by teaching English and overseeing non-profit efforts. This scholarship could help me achieve my dreams. I want to be an overseas missionary with an English degree, helping educate those who cannot afford it. Going to college would give me the tools and knowledge I need to pour into those who don’t have anyone pouring into them. Growing up in a low-income household of 6, my parents were busy with four kids and work. Not only this, but being an interracial home presented challenges in itself. I didn't look like a lot of other kids at school, and my brothers were often teased for being "Chinese" when we were Korean! Most of the time, I don't think people are outwardly racist. But I do think it's easier for people to gravitate towards wealthier, privileged kids because it often means they can get something out of it, you know? Later in my childhood, my mom became permanently disabled, which was hard for my family. My parents did the best they could, but sometimes life throws you things that are out of your control. Due to this, my three siblings and I became homeschooled, and I became a primary help in my family. My dad worked full time, and my mom needed lots of help changing IVs, using the bathroom, or even just brushing her hair. This was hard for my mental health, but obstacles make us stronger. Luckily, I had a few young women intentionally pouring into me. Whether it was math tutoring or coffee dates, these women poured love into me. Now that I am of age, I want to help the future “Jael’s,” but I want to expand that to the world. I want to help young girls who don’t have well-educated, loving role models. In the past few years, I’ve had the privilege of giving free music lessons to underprivileged kids in Riverside Ca. I teach piano and guitar, but more than that, I give attention to these kids who might not get it at home. I love them. I want to do that for more kids on a bigger scale, and receiving an education would make me a better asset to help serve them. Thank you for reading this I hope to partner with you to make a difference in the lives of kids who need it most.

Everyone in life, at some point or another, will feel lonely. In life, we lose friends, family members, and sometimes, people just- change. When I was 15 years old, I lost my best friend, my mom was newly disabled, and I was doing online school. In the same time frame, 3 of my other close friends moved away, all for different unrelated reasons. Life felt so lonely and just hard. In my pain, I turned to anyone who paid attention to me, whether it was a guy I somewhat knew or a random teacher who was paid to check in on me. I just wanted to stop feeling lonely. The pain in my chest felt like a second heartbeat, constantly nagging my heart. When that guy and I stopped talking, I cried for days, exclaiming to my dad, "You don't understand! I have no friends; I feel so alone. It hurts." For weeks, I felt hopeless and alone. My days suddenly grew longer, and my phone no longer rang. It wasn't until I found hope that I began to smile again. I know religion is controversial to some people, and it might even cost me scholarships. Finding God is what changed my entire life. I remember one night, I was so angry at the world. So mad at God- if He was there. He had taken away my mom's walking ability, he had taken my friends, he was the reason I was so miserable- right? I cried hot tears of anger in the privacy of under the covers of my bed. "God, if you're real, why? Why would this happen to me?" Then, like a whisper, in the back of my mind, I heard a still, small voice saying, "I've been with you all along. I'm the friend you've been waiting for. Do not be afraid, for I have good plans for you, Jael." Suddenly, a weight was lifted off my chest- and I knew, I knew God was real. I got plugged back into my local church and made many friends my age. I began reading not only the Bible but other books, too! I read 100 books in the year 2022. Soon, my life began to have hope again. I didn't feel alone anymore, and I knew I was never really alone. I've decided to study theology, to know more about this God who says "You're never alone."

Success to me is being heard. Success is taking your kid on a nice vacation- no matter their color or face shape. Success is having an equal opportunity to work wherever I want to and receive the same pay as my male counterparts. Success is living happily and comfortable enough to pour into those I love. I come from a low-income, mixed-race family of 6. My mom is a first-generation Korean and immigrated to the States from Canada when she was in her early twenties. She met my dad at a small college, and from there, they started a family. Poverty has always been a challenge in our bloodline. Dad came from a family of 6 where they ate white 'wonder' bread for dinner most nights. Mom was abandoned and had to work from age 13. As a kid, my parents did everything they could to give me, my brothers, and my sister the best life possible. We would cram into our little car and spend hours at the park playing. I didn't understand why some people just seemed 'better off' than us. Was it because we were a mixed-race family? Was it because we were a big family? I'm not sure why, but it never stopped us from loving each other and others. College has always been a big dream of mine. Seven years ago, my mom was diagnosed with some rare genetic diseases that a car accident had revealed. From then on, she was legally disabled and could no longer work. My dad does everything he can to provide for us, and I help around the house, schooling my younger siblings and taking care of mom. Going to college seemed impossible for a long, long time. Yet, I can see that with the help of people like you, my dream is possible. I give free music lessons (piano and guitar) to kids in my community, and I want to be able to do that on a bigger scale. I help volunteer for multiple sports/karate organizations, and I see how much hope it brings socially challenged kids. College would give me the education and ability to build a system in which I could further help my community. Receiving an education would also give me the resume I need to help in schools or big-scale community help. Being an inspiration for the kids here and showing them that anything is possible- that would be success.

Growing up in Riverside, California, I was shaped by my community. Riverside, Rubidoux, and Moreno Valley are three cities all close together that are extremely underserved. Throughout my life, I've volunteered in all these communities, seeing the joy of giving to underprivileged, minority kids and people. I grew up in a low-income, bi-racial family of 6, and as a kid, we didn't have much. My brothers wanted to play basketball, so my dad became a volunteer basketball coach for Moreno Valley Recreational Center (and still is after 10 years)! I used to make sandwiches for the little kids, and I still help with their practices. Now that I'm older, I give free piano and guitar lessons to kids who can't afford it. Coming from a low-income home, I know how hard it is to pay for music lessons- but I know how healing music can be. So, after a few years of lessons, I decided I would share my knowledge with kids who couldn't afford it. Honestly, it has been so, so healing. Seeing these kids with no father, no money, and so much hardship beams with happiness and accomplishment. Getting to teach them music has been a great joy in my life. I also volunteer at a local non-profit karate school that aims to help underserved kids, giving them access to quality martial arts for free. Giving back to the community has shaped my life in so many ways. For one, it has given me purpose and joy when I thought there was none. When I was 11 years old, my mom was in a car accident that left her forever disabled. This led me to a dark place mentally, which then led to toxic relationships and friendships that hurt me more. I felt so lost and hopeless. Yet, giving piano lessons to this little girl in Riverside gave me hope. Teaching kids karate and seeing them smile- the best feeling ever. One young boy I used to teach was so broken and hopeless. At 7 years old, he had no father and an overworked mom, and he was getting bullied at school. Yet, through my volunteering, I saw him grow. By the time he was eight, he was smiling, happy, and no longer getting bullied. Volunteering in my community helped that change happen. I still give free music lessons and help volunteer to teach karate, but I also help give food to the Riverside homeless community through a local church. Through this church, I've also helped run basketball camps, flag football seminars, and toy giveaways for minority kids in the community. Nothing can express the joy and lessons I've gained through volunteering. I've learned how to work with many difficult parents and kids, but I've also learned how to be compassionate to those who have bad situations. I've got to hold babies and sing with orphans- I've played basketball with kids who have no money- and I've eaten with those who had no food. Going to college would prove to all these kids here that living your dreams is possible. I want to be that inspiration for all these kids, and I hope to do that!

Hello, my name is Jael Brattrud and here's a little about me. I grew up the oldest of 4 kids in a small house located in Moreno Valley, California. We crammed together in shared rooms, because that's the best i parents could do. My parents are church planters and started a small church in a rough area of Riverside California. They believed it was their duty to help disadvantaged youth, kids and people, helping them grow in faith and well-being. Growing up, we didn’t have a lot of money, but we tried to help those worse off than us. I remember handing sandwiches to homeless people while clinging on to my mother's hand. And staying up late while my parents did odd jobs for money. My mom is first generation Korean and immigrated from Canada when she was a young adult. She met my dad in college, and they began life together shortly after graduating. When i was 11 years old, my mom was in a car accident, that lead to a series of health complications. She was diagnosed with a host of rare, chronic, genetic diseases that the accident had "activated." Within a year, she could barely walk. Life was hard for my family. We were already barely making ends meet- and now, dad had to not only work, but take care of my mom (and us). Due to this, all 4 of us kids became homeschooled simply because my dad couldn't drive us to school, and work. So, I began helping teach my siblings the best i knew how. I'd spend extra time diving into textbooks and watching educational videos to better help my family. I took on the chores and house jobs my mom could no longer do. This meant cooking, cleaning and doing laundry for 6 people. My mom's medical bills took a large chunk of the money dad brought in. Even though we are on state insurance, theres a lot of expenses health insurance doesn't pay. As time progressed, my mom's health got worse and worse. This led me to learn a lot about health care, first aid and proper care taking. At age 14, I learned how to properly clean and change my mom's pick line. I took first aid classes, and CPR classes to get certified in case of emergency. Life was super challenging mentally and often lead me to be incredibly sad and overwhelmed. As an outlet for these emotions, I picked up numerous hobbies to do when I had time. I began teaching myself guitar and took piano lessons from a friend of a friend. I started running and weightlifting, so that, in case of an emergency, I’d be strong enough to help my mom and siblings. Now, that i'm almost an adult, i get to help my family in any ways they need. Going to college has always been a dream of mine that i thought was impossible. But and this scholarship can actually make my dream come true!