My wife, Rebecca, and I are both pursuing a career in the trades. She is working towards being a massage therapist while I am going through the plumbing apprenticeship program. We both value hard work and helping others. I chose the plumbing trade for many reasons. I do well with math and critical thinking, but sitting in a college classroom for hours on end and racking up student debt was not something I was interested in. Plumbing appealed to me because my proficiency in math and working out problems would help me in the field. It also offers job security, essential skills, and opportunities for growth. I grew up without a father to teach me practical, hands-on skills, as my father struggled with alcoholism and was often absent. My single mother worked tirelessly to provide for our family, and witnessing her financial struggles motivated me to seek a career that offered stability and the ability to care for my own family. I was lucky to have friends whose father’s taught be the basics of using tools so that I was comfortable enough to take the leap into pursuing a trade. Plumbing is the perfect avenue to gain more self reliance for my future home, while also securing a brighter future for my family. My wife chose to pursue massage therapy because she values helping others feel better. She can’t handle blood, so she knew she wouldn’t be able to be a nurse. But she knew that if she was going to have be away from her future children to work, it had better be for a good reason. As a senior in high school, she was in a minor car accident that left her with and bad back pain and neck pain. She was able to get massages which helped her pain disappear. From that moment on, she knew she could help others the way her massage therapist helped her. We both need many tools and supplies for our chosen trades. Rebecca needs a massage table, oils, lotions, sheets, and various massage tools for different modalities. I need hand tools, power tools, and personal protective equipement. The cost of tools, especially power tools, adds up quickly. Rebecca is very close to graduating. We are expecting a baby in October and we are on WIC. We know it is unusual for two people to apply to a scholarship in one application. The reason we are doing it this way is because Rebecca’s massage school isn’t accredited because it’s such a niche school so she can’t sign up for a Bold.org account or get financial aid. Since the scholarship applies so well to both of us, we thought it would be worth a shot. Thank you very much for your consideration and your generosity.

My name is Jared Medearis. I grew up in a small town around many strong men who were loggers, military, or trade workers. My mother raised my brother and I by herself, so I looked up to these men as role models. When I graduated high school, I considered going into the military. With a lot of prayer and consulting the girl I was dating seriously, I felt like I should go a different route. I went to college and tried my hand at a few classes that would lead me to desk jobs. I soon realized that a desk job was not what I wanted. I wanted to be like the men I grew up around, so I set my sights on the trades. I worked with a plumbing company for several years before getting into the apprenticeship program. By the time I did get into the program, the girl I mentioned earlier became my wife and we had two sons. Plumbing is hard work. It takes mental strength and physical resilience to put my own body on the line and plumb for my community. Our country would be a different place without indoor plumbing. Our everyday lives are impacted drastically by having clean drinking water readily available and a functioning sewer system. Every day, I contribute to maintaining the healthy lifestyle we have because of indoor plumbing. Eventually, I would like to use my education to impact the world outside of the United States. Much like Doctors Without Borders, there is a Plumbing Without Borders program where plumbers install wells, upgrade current plumbing systems, and construct other essential plumbing systems in third-world communities. Plumbing prevents so many illnesses that plague third-world countries. I would love to bless others and increase their access to safe water and sanitation. If my life pans out in a way that doesn’t allow me to do Plumbing Without Borders, I at least want to raise my sons to be men who work hard and respect the trades. It seems like many people don’t respect the work we do, even though their lives would be totally different without us. I want to empower my sons and other boys to know that dirty hands and clean money is a good way to live. The trades aren’t a career path that should be looked down on. They deserve the same respect as any other profession that keeps our world running. Receiving this scholarship would be a blessing to me and my family. It would help ease the burden of providing for a family and paying for school. Thank you for your consideration.

My journey toward becoming a plumber has had both meaningful achievements and failures. Both have increased my determination to succeed in the plumbing trade. Through my achievements and failures I have learned the value of perseverance and dedication. I know these qualities will help me grow even more in my field and help me contribute to my community more meaningfully. One of my biggest achievements was earning the rank of Eagle Scout. This accomplishment required hard work, dedication, and the ability to lead and manage a large scale project. For my Eagle Scout Project, I organized the restoration of a park in my small town. This involved creating a project plan, working with the mayor, and coordinating volunteers. I faced obstacles like weather delays, a lack of resources, and difficult feedback during my presentation to the Eagle Scout Board of Review. It was difficult to finish my project, but I learned to accept constructive criticism, adjust my plans, and keep pushing forward. The end result was very satisfying. The park was successfully restored, the community was very grateful, and I learned invaluable lessons about leadership, problem solving, and resilience. Achieving my Eagle Scout rank solidified my belief that persistence and teamwork can enable me to accomplish goals that may seem daunting. On the flip side, one of my most meaningful failures was at the beginning of my high school basketball experience. I was passionate about the sport, but I was not a naturally gifted player. I was much shorter and smaller than the other players. I struggled with skills that others found easy. This felt like a big setback. I was sure that the only reason I was on the team was because I have a small high school and they needed the players. Instead of giving up myself to the bench, I used this feeling of failure as motivation to work harder. I spent countless hours practicing, refining my technique, and learning from my teammates. By the time I was a senior, I had worked my way up to becoming a starting Varsity player. What started out as a failure turned into a success because of perseverance and hard work. This experience also helped me realize that success is not defined by natural talent alone, but by dedication, effort, and a willingness to push through challenges. These experiences have greatly influenced my decision to pursue plumbing. Plumbing requires persistence, problem solving, and adaptability. I’ve developed these qualities through overcoming challenges in basketball and my Eagle Scout project. I know the road to becoming a journeyman plumber won’t always be smooth, but I feel prepared to face any challenges that come my way. I learned to turn failure into opportunity for growth and that will help me immensely with plumbing. Each project, no matter how challenging, will be an opportunity to learn, adapt, and contribute to my community’s well-being. Success in any field is achieved by embracing failure, learning from it, and pushing forward.

My name is Jared Medearis, and I am currently in my second year of a plumbing apprenticeship. As a father of three, I am deeply motivated by the desire to provide for my family and build a future that offers both financial stability and personal fulfillment. I grew up without a father figure to teach me hands-on skills, as my father struggled with alcoholism and was often absent. My single mother worked tirelessly to provide for our family, and her sacrifices motivated me to seek a career that would not only offer job security but also provide me with the practical skills I had missed growing up. Plumbing was the perfect fit. Plumbing appealed to me not just because it guarantees a stable income, but because it allows me to directly impact the quality of life for individuals and families by ensuring safe, reliable access to water and sanitation. I approach each job with the mindset that my work can improve someone’s daily life, whether it’s repairing a simple leak or ensuring that a new system is built to last. Upon completing my plumbing apprenticeship, my first goal is to become a foreman. I’ve been fortunate to work for an employer who has been incredibly supportive of my growth and development, and I plan to express my gratitude by working with him for several years. During this time, I will continue to learn and refine my skills, gaining the necessary experience to eventually open my own plumbing business. Owning a business will not only provide greater control over my future but will also allow me to give back to my community by providing jobs and ensuring high-quality service. Once my business is established and requires less of my daily involvement, I plan to join the Plumbers Without Borders program. I am passionate about using my trade to make a difference, and this program offers an opportunity to improve access to safe water and sanitation in underserved communities around the world. I’ve seen firsthand how crucial plumbing is to public health, and I am eager to contribute to these global efforts. I am extremely grateful for your consideration of my application for this scholarship. The opportunity to further my education in plumbing would not only support my career aspirations but also help me provide a better life for my family. I am deeply committed to using the skills I gain to contribute to my community and the world. Your support would play a pivotal role in helping me achieve these goals, and for that, I am sincerely thankful.

My name is Jared Medearis, and I am currently pursuing a career in plumbing. At this time, I am a second year apprentice. This trade appealed to me because it provides job security, essential life skills, and ample opportunities for personal and professional growth. Plumbing is not just a career for me, it is a pathway to building the future I’ve always dreamed of for my family. To me, a successful life is not just about professional success—it’s about having a close-knit family, spending time together, and ensuring our essential needs are met. Plumbing offers the unique opportunity to achieve that balance. It allows me to earn a stable living while being present for my family. If I accomplish only two things in life, I want to be a great plumber and a great father. I am confident that my work ethic, resilience, and determination will help me achieve both. Upon completing my plumbing apprenticeship, my first goal is to become a foreman. I’ve been fortunate to work for an employer who has been incredibly supportive of my growth and development, and I plan to express my gratitude by working with him for several years. During this time, I will continue to learn and refine my skills, gaining the necessary experience to eventually open my own plumbing business. Owning a business will not only provide greater control over my future but will also allow me to give back to my community by providing jobs and ensuring high-quality service. Once my business is established and requires less of my daily involvement, I plan to join the Plumbers Without Borders program. I am passionate about using my trade to make a difference, and this program offers an opportunity to improve access to safe water and sanitation in underserved communities around the world. I’ve seen firsthand how crucial plumbing is to public health, and I am eager to contribute to these global efforts. In summary, plumbing is more than just a trade for me—it is a means to achieve financial security, personal fulfillment, and the chance to give back to others. Through my work, I aim to build a future for my family, grow a successful business, and make a meaningful impact both locally and globally. With the foundation I am building today, I am excited for the opportunities that lie ahead and the difference I will be able to make for my family and my community.

My name is Jared Medearis, and I am a proud father of three with a passion for the outdoors, basketball, weightlifting, and motorcycles. Currently, I’m in my second year as a plumbing apprentice, dedicated to building a fulfilling career while balancing family life and personal interests. Throughout my life, I’ve been committed to service, and I’ve learned that the greatest fulfillment comes from helping others. Growing up in a challenging environment without a father figure to teach me practical skills, I found guidance and purpose in the Boy Scouts. As a Scout, I was able to give back to my community by leading projects like restoring a local park as part of my Eagle Scout service project. This experience not only taught me valuable leadership and project management skills but also reinforced my commitment to improving the lives of others. Restoring the park required me to plan, organize, and work with a team, ensuring the project was completed successfully. The sense of pride I felt in giving back to the community left a lasting impression on me and further fueled my desire to continue helping others throughout my life. During my time serving a two-year mission for my church in California, I was able to assist people in profound ways. My mission focused on service, and I walked the streets of California, talking to people about faith, offering emotional support, and helping those in need. It was during this time that I truly learned the value of compassion and how small acts of service can make a significant difference in someone’s life. Whether it was listening to someone’s struggles, providing assistance with small tasks, or simply being there for others, I discovered the power of kindness and empathy. As I enter the plumbing profession, I see this as a natural extension of my commitment to serving others. Plumbing is essential to every community, and I am excited to use my trade skills to make a positive impact. I understand that plumbing is not just about fixing pipes and systems—it’s about improving people’s lives by ensuring they have access to clean water, proper sanitation, and a safe living environment. I plan to approach every job with the same level of service I learned in Scouts and during my mission: with integrity, diligence, and a focus on the well-being of others. Whether I’m working on residential repairs or helping a business maintain their plumbing systems, I know that I’ll be contributing to the safety and comfort of my community. In the future, I hope to use my skills to mentor young apprentices or volunteer in my community, teaching others the trades and the importance of craftsmanship. I’ve seen firsthand how learning a trade can change someone’s life, and I want to be a part of that transformation for others. Ultimately, I aim to build a career that not only supports my family but also gives me the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the lives of others through service. I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to apply for this scholarship, and I look forward to using it to further my education and training in the plumbing trade. By continuing to develop my skills and pursuing a career in plumbing, I am committed to helping others in ways that are practical, lasting, and impactful.

My name is Jared Medearis, and I am currently in my second year of plumbing apprenticeship. Over the years, I’ve explored several career paths. While some failed to ignite my passion, others didn’t provide the financial stability my growing family needed. When my wife and I learned we were expecting our first child, the urgency to find a stable and fulfilling career became undeniable. With prayer and guidance from trusted family and friends, I decided to pursue plumbing. Although I had no prior experience, I was confident in my ability to learn and succeed. As I gained hands-on experience, my passion for plumbing and the skilled trades grew. I developed a deep appreciation for their critical role in society. The encouragement of my employers, combined with my desire to provide a good life for my family, motivated me to fully commit to this career path. Growing up, I didn’t have the guidance of a father who could teach me practical, hands-on skills. My father struggled with alcoholism and was often absent, leaving my single mother to provide for our family. When I was twelve, I joined the Scouting program, where I began to learn many things my father didn’t teach me. The skills I gained in Scouts shaped who I am and have been highly beneficial in my plumbing apprenticeship. I built a strong foundation of integrity, service, and moral values. I learned outdoor survival skills, first aid, and how to be adaptable and resilient. Through various requirements and adventures, I developed problem-solving skills that have proven invaluable. My Eagle Scout project involved planning and overseeing the restoration of a community park, which required presenting my plan to a board of directors. I learned to accept constructive criticism and continue moving forward, despite the challenges. This large endeavor solidified the work ethic, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities I had been honing throughout my time in Scouts. I attended a small high school where I participated in many sports. While I was naturally talented in a few, the sport I was most passionate about—basketball—was the one I struggled with the most. Determined to improve, I spent extra hours practicing each day, lifting weights to improve my performance, and learning from my teammates. By my senior year, I was a starting Varsity player. This experience taught me the value of perseverance. After graduation, I decided to serve a mission for my church. I left home and served in California for two years. This experience helped shape me into the man I am today. Everything I had learned from basketball and Scouts was put to the test. I lived with different roommates and, with limited adult supervision, walked the streets of California, talking to people about God. This time of intense independence, focused on serving others, made me bold yet compassionate, self-disciplined, courageous, and responsible. I had both challenging and transformative experiences that have stayed with me. What I learned from my upbringing and life experiences led me to plumbing. Without being a fast learner and valuing hard work, I wouldn’t have succeeded in this apprenticeship program. I would be incredibly grateful to receive this scholarship to continue my journey in this rewarding career.

When my wife and I learned we were expecting our first child, I felt an urgent need to find a career that would provide financial stability and personal fulfillment. I explored several career paths, but many either failed to ignite my passion or couldn’t offer the stability my growing family needed. After much prayer and guidance from trusted family and friends, I decided to pursue plumbing—a trade I came to admire for its essential role in society and the opportunities it provides for growth and security. Plumbing appealed to me because it offers job security, valuable hands-on skills, and the potential to provide a better life for my family. Growing up, I lacked the guidance of a father who could teach me practical skills. My father struggled with alcoholism and was often absent, leaving my single mother to shoulder the financial and emotional burdens of raising our family. Watching her work tirelessly to make ends meet inspired me to pursue a career that would offer both stability and the ability to care for my own family. Plumbing became the perfect avenue to gain the self-reliance skills my father never taught me, while also securing a brighter future for my children. Since beginning my plumbing journey, my confidence has grown immensely. I’ve learned how to use power tools, troubleshoot problems, and think critically to solve complex issues. For example, tasks like replacing a leaky kitchen faucet—once daunting—have become second nature. Each new skill I master brings a sense of accomplishment and empowerment. These experiences have taught me the value of persistence and the satisfaction of overcoming challenges. I know I will be successful in this trade because I am a hard worker and am not afraid to tackle difficult problems. My determination to succeed, combined with my willingness to continue learning, drives me forward every day. The diverse aspects of plumbing—whether repiping a house, clearing drains, or installing water heaters—ensure job security as long as I remain a dedicated and reliable employee. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I saw many people lose their jobs, but plumbing remained an essential service. This financial stability will allow me to spend more time with my children, eliminate the need to work multiple jobs, and provide a life of stability and opportunity for my family. To me, a successful life means having a close-knit family that enjoys spending time together and a career that meets our essential needs while allowing for family fun and quality time. Plumbing enables me to achieve this vision. If I only accomplish two things in life, I want to be a great plumber and a great father. I am confident that my work ethic and determination will allow me to achieve both.

In college, I explored several career paths. Some didn’t ignite my passion, while others wouldn’t provide the financial stability my growing family needed. When my wife and I learned we were expecting our first child, the urgency to find a stable and fulfilling career increased significantly. Through prayer and guidance from trusted family and friends, I decided to pursue plumbing. Although I had no prior experience, I was confident in my ability to learn. With encouragement from my wife and father figures, I reached out to a family acquaintance about joining his plumbing crew. As I gained hands-on experience, my passion for plumbing and skilled trades grew. I developed a deep appreciation for their critical role in society. My employers’ encouragement and my desire to provide a better life for my family motivated me to fully commit to this career path. For the past two years, I have been enrolled in a plumbing apprenticeship program. This experience has not only enhanced my confidence but has also allowed me to develop valuable skills such as using power tools, maintaining my home, and improving my critical thinking. Each day, as I work and attend classes, I feel a growing sense of inspiration. I take pride in helping others maintain and improve their homes while simultaneously creating a better future for myself and my family. After completing my apprenticeship, I plan to become a foreman and eventually open my own plumbing business. My employer has been incredibly supportive throughout my journey, and I intend to work for him for several years as a way of expressing my gratitude. After gaining sufficient experience, I hope to establish my own company. Once my business is successful and requires less of my day-to-day involvement, I aspire to join the Plumbers Without Borders program, contributing to efforts that improve access to safe water and sanitation in underserved communities around the world. The decision to pursue plumbing was not without challenges. As I mentioned earlier, I had no prior experience in the field. In the beginning, I earned the nickname “one-man wrecking crew” from my coworkers due to my lack of skills and understanding. Despite my hard work, I often felt lost and discouraged, doubting whether I had made the right career choice. I worried that my inexperience might even cost me my job. One day, my foreman and the company owner held a meeting with me. They outlined the areas where I was struggling and offered clear advice on how to improve. That meeting became a pivotal moment in my career. I had a choice: I could let their feedback offend me, or I could embrace their constructive criticism and use it to grow. I chose humility and accepted their advice. Slowly but surely, I began to improve. My lack of experience placed me far behind the learning curve, but with the patience and support of my employer and coworkers, I learned from my mistakes and made significant progress. The journey was far from easy, but it taught me the value of humility and perseverance. Recently, my employer told me I am now his most valuable employee because of my willingness to accept feedback and strive for improvement. Hearing those words validated all the hard work and challenges I’ve overcome. I am proud of the progress I’ve made and am committed to continuing to grow, no matter the obstacles I may face.

My name is Jared Medearis, and I spent most of my childhood on a basketball court by myself. This was largely because I struggled with anxiety and depression. I never loved crowds, mostly because I feared public humiliation and judgment from my peers. I found peace in being alone, shooting hoops, or listening to music through my headphones. It wasn’t until I was about 14 years old that a therapist explained I was dealing with something common among teens and adults worldwide—anxiety and depression. Depression and anxiety often stem from trauma, and my childhood was marked by severe traumatic experiences. My mom, brother, and I endured abuse and neglect at the hands of two different fathers before we finally left them. Being a victim of child abuse made me feel different from other kids, which led to bullying and public ridicule. I clung to the few people who showed me love and respect. To this day, the hardest part of depression is feeling like I can’t turn to anyone for help. I often feel trapped, as though no one can truly understand what it feels like to drown on the inside. Therapists, my spouse, close friends, and family all offer support, but they can only do so much. If I hadn’t found sports and my faith in Jesus Christ as a teenager, I don’t think I would have made it this far. I cling to the things that bring light into my life. As an adult, I turn to city leagues and pickup games at the gym to fill my spare time—time I might otherwise spend overthinking, spiraling into hopelessness, or focusing on what I lack. Reading the Word of God reminds me that I am a beloved son of God, and He is always there to lift me up. I also practice words of affirmation, and my wife has received advice and training from counselors on how to support me through my struggles with depression. I am pursuing a career in plumbing because it makes me feel like the man I want to be. My stepfather said many hurtful things that still haunt me, and for a long time, I believed I wasn’t going to amount to anything. I wasn’t handy at all, but I always wanted to be. My wife encouraged me to give plumbing a try, and I was fortunate to find a patient and supportive boss who took the time to teach me. Now, when I complete a plumbing project and hear positive feedback, I feel a sense of accomplishment that few other things provide. What started as a temporary job has become a source of personal fulfillment, and I am determined to pursue it as my career. I have felt alone for over fifteen years, but I know that I am not. Even though my brain struggles to comprehend the love that others have for me, I know it exists. I am worth something, even if the only person who doubts it at times is me. Pursuing my passion for plumbing is my way of proving to myself that I am capable and worthy.

My name is Jared Medearis, and I spent most of my childhood on a basketball court by myself. This was largely because I struggled with anxiety and depression. I never loved crowds, mostly because I feared public humiliation and judgment from my peers. I found peace in being alone, shooting hoops, or listening to music through my headphones. It wasn’t until I was about 14 years old that a therapist explained I was dealing with something common among teens and adults worldwide—anxiety and depression. Depression and anxiety often stem from trauma, and my childhood was marked by severe traumatic experiences. My mom, brother, and I endured abuse and neglect at the hands of two different fathers before we finally left them. Being a victim of child abuse made me feel different from other kids, which led to bullying and public ridicule. I clung to the few people who showed me love and respect. To this day, the hardest part of depression is feeling like I can’t turn to anyone for help. I often feel trapped, as though no one can truly understand what it feels like to drown on the inside. Therapists, my spouse, close friends, and family all offer support, but they can only do so much. If I hadn’t found sports and my faith in Jesus Christ as a teenager, I don’t think I would have made it this far. I cling to the things that bring light into my life. As an adult, I turn to city leagues and pickup games at the gym to fill my spare time—time I might otherwise spend overthinking, spiraling into hopelessness, or focusing on what I lack. Reading the Word of God reminds me that I am a beloved son of God, and He is always there to lift me up. I also practice words of affirmation, and my wife has received advice and training from counselors on how to support me through my struggles with depression. I am pursuing a career in plumbing because it makes me feel like the man I want to be. My stepfather said many hurtful things that still haunt me, and for a long time, I believed I wasn’t going to amount to anything. I wasn’t handy at all, but I always wanted to be. My wife encouraged me to give plumbing a try, and I was fortunate to find a patient and supportive boss who took the time to teach me. Now, when I complete a plumbing project and hear positive feedback, I feel a sense of accomplishment that few other things provide. What started as a temporary job has become a source of personal fulfillment, and I am determined to pursue it as my career. I have felt alone for over fifteen years, but I know that I am not. Even though my brain struggles to comprehend the love that others have for me, I know it exists. I am worth something, even if the only person who doubts it at times is me. Pursuing my passion for plumbing is my way of proving to myself that I am capable and worthy.

My career goals include becoming the foreman of a plumbing crew and eventually discovering my niche to open my own plumbing company. I am currently in my second year of my plumbing apprenticeship program. My employer has supported me in many ways as I worked to join the plumbing apprenticeship program. After graduating as a journeyman plumber, I plan to continue working for him for several years as a way of showing my gratitude. After at least five years, I plan to expand my horizons and open my own business. The road to higher education has been challenging for me. I live in Oregon with my wife and three kids. In recent years, Oregon was ranked as the fifth most expensive state to live in, with a cost of living 31.43% higher than the national average. While many plumbing companies cover their apprentices’ schooling, my company is one of the few that does not. To support our family and pay for our education, my wife and I each work two jobs. Despite these challenges, we are committed to building a better future for our children while prioritizing time with them. My goal is to complete higher education so I can secure a fulfilling job that allows me to support my family and spend quality time with them. A career that helps others while balancing my personal and professional life is only achievable through higher education. This scholarship would reduce the financial burden of becoming a journeyman plumber. I would use it to cover tuition and gas expenses, as my college is an hour away from home. With this support, I could work fewer hours at my second job, lowering my stress and allowing me to focus more on my classes and apprenticeship. It would be an honor to receive this assistance.

Every day, ads, music, and television influence us to act impulsively. Self-control is a part of everyday life, yet many people seem to lack it. I value the self-control that I have developed because it is an important characteristic that is dwindling away. My self-control will help me have better health, relationships, finances, and a career throughout my life journey. Physical and mental health require self-control. It is easier to stay at home or do other activities than it is to exercise. That is evident in the amount of people who make regular exercise a New Year's Resolution and then give up a few months into the year. The same can be said about eating healthy. It requires self-control to eat healthy portion sizes in a country that has all-you-can-eat buffets, bottomless fries, free refills, and large serving sizes. However, with the self-control that I have diligently developed, I make the effort to eat well and exercise. My mind and body thank me for it. My mind is clear, my body functions properly, and I have greater confidence because of how I feel in my body. All of these benefits cascade into other aspects of my life. Acting impulsively is dangerous to relationships. On the other hand, having the self-control to keep calm in a difficult situation, think before I speak, and simply doing what is right instead of what I may want to do bless my relationships. I have experienced conversations that could have easily escalated, turn into effective communication. Serving my husband instead of watching an extra episode of a TV show makes him feel more loved. Cleaning up after a family get-together instead of going straight home makes my parents feel more appreciated. I am not perfect, but I have seen how my relationships with those around me flourish when I exercise self-control. Financial self-control is being attacked left and right. Everywhere I look, there is an ad for using some sort of buy-now, pay-later system. Even when I make a small $30 purchase online, I am given the offer to make payments on it instead of paying in full. Desperately avoiding the financial temptations that sneak into my mind has required great self-control. The results are less debt, more savings, and gratitude for what I have instead of a longing for what I lack. Pursuing a career has required exercising my self-control in all of the situations previously mentioned. My career path requires physical exertion, so taking care of my physical health will help me be successful. In order to be a great student and employee, I must strive to treat others kindly and do what is right even when it is difficult. Paying for my higher education requires financial self-control so that I can successfully pay tuition while meeting the needs of life. Successfully exercising my self-control will give me a more healthy and fulfilling life. Nothing in the world has more value to me than that.

A Father's Bargain by Wolves at the Gate is the song that has the most important message to me. It is a hard-core metal song about Jesus Christ's sacrifice and Atonement for us. With powerful instrumentals and lyrics, it paints a picture of mankind's sinful state and how Christ suffered so we can be forgiven and live with Heavenly Father again. Throughout my life, I have gone to church to learn about Christ and his sacrifice for us. This song has the most important message to me because it brings in an element to the doctrine that I don't think about often - how Heavenly Father felt about allowing Jesus Christ to make that sacrifice. "O my son, you must understand that if I show mercy You must reckon to pay, the last bit of my rage For justice reigns upon this throne; perfection without flaw How can the wicked find their peace and still have broken every law?" When I hear this song, my heart is filled with the unimaginable heartache and pain that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ went through. All so we can be forgiven and cleansed and be worthy to live in God's presence again. As the singer cries "If only you knew of the grace and love that our God has for all, You'd turn and look into the face of Jesus the Savior, who calls... So receive this love and grace, believe his love and grace." Without Christ, we are nothing. This song gives me a renewed resolve to follow Christ, which is the most important thing in all eternity.

My childhood had dark times that weighed me down into adolescence. I struggled with mental health, until one day, a pair of missionaries from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints came to my family's door. As I learned more about Christ and what he did for the world, I felt light coming into my life. The peace and direction I get through prayer and studying the scriptures are unlike anything in the world. I want to share that light with others. In a world that often feels overwhelming and contentious, Christ offers peace that "passeth all understanding" (Philippians 4:7). I want to see more people in my community, country, and the world coming unto Christ and finding peace. Four years ago, I dedicated two years of my life to sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ. I went out every day with the sole intention of speaking to people about Christ. Some people I helped had believed but lost their faith. Others didn't know of Christ as more than a man. No matter their background, I saw the change in people as they started to follow Christ more fully in their lives. They became more kind, patient, and loving. After my two-year mission, I continued with my education and started a family. I share the light of Christ every day in my home. With my wife and two boys, I pray at meals and before bed, I tell Bible stories, and I watch uplifting movies and shows. My oldest son is three years old. Hearing him pray fills my heart with joy. In my church organization, I volunteer to teach the 15-year-old youth Sunday school class. Every Sunday, we walk through the Bible and other scriptures. For many, the teenage years are when people decide who they want to be. They dabble in different hobbies, venture from what their parents have taught them, and push boundaries. By teaching the youth in my community, I am offering them an avenue that isn't as common today but is very fulfilling. Every day, I see the blessings that come from following Christ. I want everyone in my community and the world to experience and see those blessings. If everyone believed in and followed Jesus Christ's teachings, the world would be a safer and happier place.

I grew up in a small town where almost everyone knew their way around one skilled trade or another. However, I had an absent father who didn't teach me any of those skills, and a single mother who couldn't teach me even if she had the time. As I grew older, I wanted to be the kind of husband and father that could take care of my home and teach my children to do the same. When it came time to decide on a career path, I gravitated towards options that would teach me some of those skills. Having seen the financial struggle of a single parent, job security and income were also important factors in my career exploration. I am pursuing plumbing because it gives me the self-reliance I yearned for in my youth, it is an important field of work, and as a plumber, I can provide for my family. Learning a skill that is so essential to society has given me greater confidence. Pursuing plumbing is teaching me how to use power tools, allowing me to repair and maintain the plumbing in my own home, and enabling me to serve others who need plumbing assistance. For example, being able to update my kitchen faucet on my own gave me a great sense of satisfaction and accomplishment. What is now a simple do-it-yourself project was once a project that seemed unattainable. Many people who are interested in trades shy away from plumbing because it isn't the most glamorous job, but our lives would be very different without it. Access to clean water, facilities that keep our homes clear of waste, and getting hot water in seconds are all blessings from plumbing that I feel many people take for granted. The beginnings of plumbing started centuries ago. The long history of plumbing innovation has improved our quality of life immensely. I don't want to see this trade be diminished in any way. I consider it a privilege to be part of such a profound legacy. Plumbing is an essential job. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many people were out of work. I was blessed to be able to keep working because people need clear drains and running water. There are many aspects to plumbing, so I don't have to worry about not having work. Whether it is repiping homes, roto rooting drains, or servicing water heaters, there is always someone out there who needs or wants something done. Plumbing also opens the door to being a code inspector, teaching apprentices, or starting my own business. I am confident that I will always be able to provide for my wife and kids because I am pursuing a career in plumbing. Of the many trade career paths that are important to society and the economy, I am carrying on the legacy of plumbing. Learning to plumb is teaching me valuable life skills. Pursuing plumbing allows me to provide for my family in an honest way that I can be proud of. Plumbing is helping me be the man I have always wanted to be.