I was raised on the hard work, grittiness, and determination of the trades. My father has been a construction worker since I can remember, and his dedication to the trade impressed me very much. I've seen him come home from late workdays, tired but content with what he accomplished. My uncles, too, construction laborers, felt the same pride. Witnessing the tangible fruits of their labor—structures, roads, and buildings that benefited their communities—made me appreciate the worth of skilled trades and the men who labored behind them. These powerful male role models in my life didn't just expose me to the world of construction; they encouraged me to reach farther within it. I don't just want to be part of the crew—I want to be in charge of it. That is why I am interested in a construction management career. I would like to be involved in all phases of the building process: from planning and budgeting to team management and resolving real-time issues on the job site. Construction management combines leadership, critical thinking, and communication—skills I’m eager to sharpen and apply in a field that continues to build the world around us. What draws me most to construction is the ability to create something tangible and lasting. It’s a field where hard work pays off in real time, where the results of your effort can be seen and touched. I want to be part of that change—converting ideas on blueprints into hospitals, homes, buildings, and infrastructure that will last decades. But I also recognize that this trade, like most, has challenges in its own right—specifically around gender equality. As a woman, I am aware that construction and trades are historically known to be male-dominated industries. There are still barriers, both visible and invisible, that discourage women from pursuing these careers. I’ve heard the stereotypes and felt the weight of doubt that often comes with being a woman interested in this field. But instead of letting that discourage me, it has motivated me even more. I hope to be a presence and a voice that encourages others to redefine the way people view what a construction professional is. By moving into a leadership role in construction management, I feel I can be an example for other young women who are afraid to pursue this type of career. I wish to show that capability is not governed by gender, and that women have the strength, intelligence, and vision to do any job, even in the skilled trades and construction management. Diversity leads to better collaboration, new ideas, and greater results—and I wish to be a part of making that a reality. Long term, I would like to coach and advise other women who are starting out in the industry, making sure that the environment is more accepting and that everyone gets a chance to succeed. I also want to work on sustainable, community-based projects that leave a long-term, positive footprint. Building is not just about building buildings—it's building lives, opportunities, and futures. In brief, I am passionate about building because it connects my family legacy, my personal goals, and my desire to leave a lasting legacy. With inspiration and encouragement from my dad and uncles, and a drive to break barriers for women, I'm ready to enter this profession not just to construct—but to lead, inspire, and raise the bar.

One of my finest personal achievements that I am most proud of is having graduated high school a full year ahead of time with an Advanced Regents Diploma, having performed over 100 hours of volunteer service, and having received the Seal of Civic Readiness. Not only does this accomplishment attest to my academic dedication, but it also signifies a lifelong dream achieved through perseverance, discipline, and purpose. As a kid, I always fantasized about graduating early. It was not just about finishing school sooner—it was about proving to myself that I could set a challenging goal and follow through with it. The possibility of moving into the next stage of life sooner sustained me even when I was stuck. It meant taking a heavier course load, planning out my time precisely, and regularly pushing myself outside of my comfort zone. But I never lost the dream that I had for myself, and that dream drove my commitment. The Advanced Regents Diploma was not something that was easily achieved. It was not simply a question of passing the required examinations, but of excelling in a wide range of courses, from math and science to foreign languages and social studies. Each test and project took hours to study for, and I consistently worked late into the night along with volunteer commitments. However, I stayed organized and kept my eye on the reason why I was doing it—for the doors of opportunity it would open to my future and allow my dream to become a reality. Besides my studies, I volunteered over 100 hours in the community. These helped mold me as a person and enabled me to see the world with a more compassionate eye. I volunteered for local organizations, mentored younger kids, and took part in local events. These activities taught me the importance of giving back and enabled me to acquire good communication and leadership skills. Another important milestone was being awarded the Seal of Civic Readiness. It represented more than just civic knowledge itself—it signaled that I was engaged with my community and committed to being an active, engaged citizen. This recognition made me remember that education is not just about personal accomplishment but also about contributing to the world we live in. Graduating early was a defining experience of my life. It showed me that hard work pays off and that dreams, no matter how lofty, can be achieved through sheer persistence. It enabled me to get a jump start on my goals and gave me confidence in my ability to take on new challenges. Above all, it showed me the value of setting intentions, making commitments, and trusting myself even when the path ahead is uncertain. This accomplishment has defined me as a person today. It's more than a line on a résumé or a piece of paper—it's a reminder of the drive, tenacity, and passion that I put into all that I do. It's a reminder that I can do more than I often give myself credit for, and it encourages me to continue setting goals that challenge me to be more than ordinary.

My name is Janessa Williams, i am from New York and i am attending Louisiana State University. Not only am i attending an expensive school, i will be paying out of state tuition. The amount i have to pay with the help of financial aid is still extremely expensive. The only main support i have is fasfa and my mother. I need this scholarship because i need more financial help. My mother is the only consistent parent i have, she has three children and takes care of us. This tuition would be making mother work extra hard which is why i also chose to work and try to make money. My father isn't fully in my life, he isn't consistent with me. He isn't someone i can ask to help me with scholarship. My life hasn't been easy but i try my best to overcome my obstacles. With everything going on in my life, i still managed to stay on top of my school work. I graduated a whole year early, along with an advanced regents diploma. I even completed over 100 volunteer hours and had received a seal of civic readiness. I did a business course and received a business certification. All of my accomplishments felt like a waste of time. I applied for countless scholarships and didn't receive not one award for it. I don't want my accomplishments to go overlooked. I worked hard in school and i feel that i should receive an award for it. I studied countless hours, barely slept and made sure i graduated with all of these awards and recognitions. I feel as i deserve this scholarship because i worked for it. I was determined and focused in school and i will continue to do so in college. I am worthy of this scholarship.

Softball, a sport that may look easy but is actually the opposite. The amount of dedication, determination and resillience needed is uncanny. I learned that the hard way, coming into my second year of high school, i joined a junior varsity team thinking i was already for varsity. That was up until it was time to perform my first game, i didn't know teamwork or how to face adversity. First game, i couldn't even catch the balls that were hit on my base. I felt like i was the worst player ever, and to be honest, it had hurt my ego. The way i felt that game was a sadness i never felt before and i wanted to make sure i never felt that again so i took softball serious. Yes, its a game but it eventually taught me more even more than on the field. Playing softball taught me life isn't always about winning, a minor setback is set for a bigger comeback. And i always stood with that in my heart. Just because i lost a couple of games didn't mean anything to me because i knew i put my all into every game i did. I learned so much from playing and having team mates. Team mates are the best thing yet, you get to share your ideas, and express yourself, having team mates makes you feel like your not alone. I had later joined the varsity team the next year and learned even more. Softball wasn't just a sport to me, it was a second classroom. A classroom that taught me to be a determined and independent young woman. It taught me to be a well rounded young lady who carries herself very well just like i do on the field. I learned that losses doesn't define me, my life or image. It also taught me winning isn't absolutely everything because it can be taken away at any moment. Another lesson i received was how to face adversity especially under pressure. Stressing myself isn't the key to getting anything right because i would just get all wrong if so. I can go on and on about what softball taught me but that what take up more than the word count. I just want to say that this sport means so much to me and has a special place in my heart. I carry these lessons with me especially as i am going to an out of state college. Away from family and friends but with the knowledge i have gained from this sport, i know i will do great things.

Volunteer work may be unimportant to some as it does not bring money. For me, though, volunteer work has never been about as petty a matter as money. My community was always first to me, and serving it back has always been something I take personally, so long as I can remember. No matter whether I'm volunteering at my old elementary school, PS 254, or helping the homeless by way of food and coat drives, I feel great to know I'm really making a difference. It is especially close to my heart that I am helping the homeless because my father was homeless growing up. Being able to volunteer with him has taught me all about compassion and how giving back is so rewarding. I have volunteered at PS 254 for over 40 hours within the last year, the same institution that molded me into the person I am today. To have volunteered there again has provided me with a chance to give back to the institution where I learned and acquired. My responsibilities vary from assisting teachers in their tasks, engaging in school events, and helping students with homework. Serving as a role model to the younger students has been a rewarding and educating experience. By doing so, I have been able to develop leadership abilities, patience, and responsibility. These are characteristics that will stay with me as I continue to grow academically and personally. Other than my volunteer work at PS 254, I'm also involved with my father's nonprofit, IGotHeart. My dad started IGotHeart after witnessing his own experience with homelessness during his childhood. He wanted to give back to those who are struggling like he did. My dad and I host coat drives, feed people, and have direct contact with the needy. The goal is not just to provide essentials, but to show people that they are valued and not forgotten. Being part of this work has taught me the importance of human connection and community support. One of the most powerful things I've learned from IGotHeart is the impact of small actions with a large effect. In a food drive, I donated a meal to a mom who told me that her son had not eaten for days. That single experience was a reminder of just how crucial kindness and compassion are. My dad's experience emboldens me and reminds me just how critical this work is. Assisting human beings means doing more than merely surviving — bringing back dignity and hope. These have enlightened me to individuals struggling on a daily basis, including myself at times in the past. These have made me a better person, however.

Being a female athlete in a male-dominated world has shaped me into someone who is confident, disciplined, and unafraid to take up space. My experience playing softball, while managing a rigorous academic and extracurricular schedule, taught me how to push through challenges and lead with strength and purpose. Softball was more than a game to me—a second classroom. On the field, I learned to do under pressure and to stand my ground in the face of competition. As a girl in sports, I had to try harder for respect. But rather than shrinking from it, I took it as motivation. I showed up, worked harder, and let my performance speak for itself. At the same time, I was also poised to achieve academic success. I had graduated a full year early with an Advanced Regents Diploma, which required me to stay ahead of schedule, maintain a high GPA, and meet stringent graduation requirements. While others would find it hard to juggle school and athletics, I went one better. I was inducted into the National Honor Society, named Arista. I completed way over one hundred hours of community service, and earned the Seal of Civic Readiness—demonstrating my commitment not just to scholarship, but to being an active, informed citizen and scholar. I also pursued career-oriented opportunities, earning a business certification while in high school. It was not easy balancing sports practices, games, community service events, and school deadlines—but I did it by staying organized, focused, and determined. Every hour I spent studying late into the night or showing up to volunteer after a grueling game taught me that success is not given, it's earned through perseverance and determination. I wanted to show that i can take on anything in life, especially school. They made me tough and resilient in environments where women are overlooked or underestimated. I've learned to advocate for myself, lead by example, and believe in myself—even when others won't. Through it all, I became not only a better student and athlete, but a better young woman. My path to this point has equipped me for whatever challenge comes next. I've shown that I can thrive under pressure, grow as a leader, and hold my own in rooms that weren't always designed for me. And I will keep breaking through barriers—not only for me, but for all the girls who are ready to do the same. It's time to prove the people against us and try to belittle us wrong.

Having been raised in New York City, construction has never been something in the background happening to me—it's been a part of my life. From the ever-changing skyline to the road crews, the subway construction and building crews, construction is the lifeblood of this city. But for me, it's personal. My uncle and my father are proud members of Laborers' Local 79, one of the city's most respected and diligent unions. They have taught me what hard work, skill, and commitment truly mean in constructing something that endures. Among my earliest childhood memories are listening to tales from the work site—some of brilliant work, others of close calls and lessons learned. Those tales did more than interest me in construction—it informed me of the real risks and the importance of sound safety measures. Growing up surrounded by family members who are in the industry has left few questions in my head that union labor is not just a career—it's a lifestyle and a vocation. While I am interested in all of the building trades, my most intriguing one would be elevator and escalator installation and repair. When you are in a city like New York and there is so much utilization of vertical transportation throughout buildings and within the subway, it is an absolutely necessary trade. I think it is interesting to think about the necessity of precision, technical ability, and attention to detail in such a trade. It's a technical exchange that combines electrical, mechanical, and safety systems—and it is a tremendous responsibility, because people put their lives in the hands of this equipment every day. Elevator and escalator work is not only a challenging but rewarding career, but the ability to be part of something that is crucial to urban existence. I want to be the kind of person who keeps the city going—literally—yet also makes sure the systems people rely on are safe and efficiently maintained. Safety is a very high priority for me, and it's an area where I believe true change can be made. Too often, construction site accidents happen because of shortcuts, outdated equipment, or lack of training. One way I’d like to effect change is by pushing for more hands-on, scenario-based safety training for all workers—not just new ones. This means simulating real job site conditions and teaching people how to respond to electrical failures, mechanical malfunctions, or other high-risk situations in real time. Mental health among the trades is another aspect that needs more attention. Construction workers, such as elevator installers who perform high-risk work, work long hours and stressful jobs. Promoting awareness of mental health, the ability to access support services, and providing an environment where the worker feels at ease speaking about what they are experiencing are all key actions in a move towards improving safety and overall quality of life on the job site. Having been raised in a union family and in a city built by union labor, I would like to carry on the tradition—by laboring in the trade, but by laboring to improve it. Whether it's making safety guidelines stay ahead of technology or making workers feel taken care of both on and off the job site, I would like to be included in the next generation that makes the construction industry stronger and safer. And I am confident that starting in a firm union trade like elevator and escalator installation is the right first step.

Whats love island without a challenge? Time to spice some things up between the islanders and see what they can handle. A sisterhood or brotherhood broken? or strengthen? A couple teared apart? In this challenge, we will reveal secrets, but can they guess who said it. In the villa, word spreads around and it gets messy. You know what else gets messy? Sand! I present the "Secrets in the Sand" challenge. Dig deep for the truth or risk being buried in the lies. This is a game that requires physical teamwork. The Islanders will dig up treasure chests buried in the sand, each containing a juicy secret about someone in the villa. When the chest is open, they must guess who the secret belongs to. If they are correct, they will earn points and reveal hidden truths. Get it wrong? Well you just made it really awkward. Buried throughout are colorful treasure chests marked with a number. A large chalkboard is used to keep track of points. There will only be groups of 2, couples will be separated. Each round, a clue is read aloud. One team has to dig up a chest, inside is the card with the secret and that team gets 30 seconds to discuss who they think it is. If revealed, the person must explain and if incorrect, the secret stay an anonymous and tension builds. Here is how the scoring works, +2 for correct guess, +1 if the team digs up the chest within 30 seconds, and 0 points for incorrect guesses. There is a twist however, there will be some double trouble chests. Meaning there will be 2 linked secrets. This challenge reveals real drama, nothing scripted or forced. It encourages honesty, creates fun conflict along with physical and mental mix. Who said sand is the only messy thing in the villa?