I was diagnosed with hearing loss at the age of seven. This led to a lot of my biggest setbacks in life. I'll be honest about getting through my school, social life, and sports. Each part has its own story but I'm grateful for the lessons I learned through persevering from my hardships. I will talk about how I overcame my hearing loss and managed to play soccer, have a normal high school experience, and make long-lasting friendships and relationships. Growing up I always had a passion for playing soccer. It was in my blood, my lifeline, my sole purpose of living. I felt as if I was destined to go pro, then I got diagnosed. Honestly, when I was diagnosed I was relieved, it gave me answers and it gave my mom answers too. According to my mom, I had been having issues with hearing her ever since I was a toddler so she was happy but devastated, solely because she never looked into it and thought I was just being a brat. It took her a while to accept it. When she finally accepted it she tried everything to talk me out of playing soccer for at least a month because hearing aids aren't cheap and two I was still adjusting to just having them. That meant going through constant ear pains for almost two months. I ended up having to play soccer without my hearing aids for almost 5 years of my life, which led to constant arguments with refs and parents, solely because I either kept playing on when they said stop or I just stopped running because I heard a whistle. I eventually figured out that the way I should play is aggressive, block the sound out, and play on until my coach gives me a signal this worked out until my doctor cleared me to play with my hearing aids. I adapted to playing without my hearing and with it, it just took time and a lot of effort. I started going to school in America in 2nd grade because I moved from Nigeria. I had a thick accent at the time causing miscommunications between my teachers and peers, this led to bullying and the teachers never stepped in until I did something back. I would get bullied about my hearing aids saying I'm like RoboCop and I felt betrayed by my mom and my teachers at that time. I felt betrayed by my mom because she said moving here would be great for me, and I felt betrayed by my teachers because they never tried to help me settle in. Honestly, I never truly adapted to it, it was more like my community adapted to it as we grew up, and we became mature and understanding of people's differences. I had to work through a decade of being "different" to not caring and adapting to what society and what people want from us. Society made me feel horrible about wearing a hearing aid as I was growing up leaving me to fend for myself. Thank you for reading my essay.

To be a good person you have to give back to your community in one way or another, this could be raising money for a specific demographic, donating to a local charity, or hosting fundraisers for indigenous groups. For me, volunteering has made me see the world with new eyes as I've grown up. I used to be a spoilt brat, my mom would get me almost anything I wanted even if she couldn't afford it, and in my head, I assumed that most people got this kind of treatment. Yes I grew up in Nigeria till I was about seven and those memories are drilled in my head, but Nigeria isn't how those ads show it to be. Nigeria is beautiful, lively, and wonderful, so for me, I never saw the world as a place of pain. Growing up I never really knew the importance of volunteering or donating, I just thought it was an excuse my mom was using to get me out of the house. It probably was but from her doing that she showed me that the world isn't all rainbows and glitters, that in some reality the roles could be reversed. I could be the guy begging for money, food, or clothes and I'm looking at someone begging them for these things and they rudely drive off, scream "fuck off" or just spit at you. My mom didn't want me to be those people, she always said "Just because these people are living on the streets or starving, or dying doesn't mean that their lives are worth less than yours, we're all humans, and honestly that person could be someone important later in if things go well for them". From this, I learned never to judge a book by its cover. My mom would always take me back to Nigeria every summer to volunteer at her school. I would work with the babies and toddlers since she felt I wouldn't have any control over the older kids, which I agree with her on, and honestly, I like being around little kids. It makes me feel like an older brother, since I'm the youngest in my family I never knew what it was like to have a younger sibling, and this gave me that chance. The kids were honestly a handful; the toddlers would draw on the walls when they literally had booked to draw in, and the babies were even worse they would poop themselves and laugh when I come to change them, cry when there was nothing to even be crying about. Honestly, those months I spent there every year, they've thought me patience. These things to some people may not be as important to them as it is to me obviously, we have different experiences and goals. These are core values for my career because I want to be a finance major and if you judge someone based on how they look you've lost a potential deal out of it. If you aren't patient with a potential client because the yare skeptical or hesitant, you've possibly lost your company millions or even billions of dollars.

I am hard of hearing. I've been like this since the age of seven and will remain like this for the rest of my life. My disability has put me in terrible positions at times, there have been times I've failed tests solely because I couldn't hear my teacher and they took points off on the assignment (Spanish) or I don't hear the teacher give instruction and I end up missing something on the assignment. Yes I do have accommodations and I do wear hearing aids but they don't entirely give me my full hearing back. It's almost like stretching for a sport, you do it a lot, but you don't entirely need it for the sport you play when eating right and exercising plays a bigger impact in your recovery than stretching does. In my Junior year of high school, my Spanish final was a speaking comprehension where the teacher ask you questions in Spanish and you respond in Spanish I needed a B to pass the class with a B for the year. That sounds easy right. when he started talking it was easy I understood some words even though it was a bit hard since he had a thick Cuban accent, not his fault at all. Then the problem starts to arise. I kept saying "huh" after everything he said making him repeat it each time at the end he took points off for each time, and because I misheard sometimes my response would be wrong. In the end, he told me "Jed I like you, you're a great kid with a tremendous future ahead of you, you could even have a better one when you fix certain things about the way you act sometimes, but nonetheless you're a great kid. I have to be honest I'm going to give you a 60% for this assignment because honestly, you got a 20% if I follow what the rubric I used said. I know you want an advanced diploma that's why you're even taking this class, but I advise you to drop this class because it will sink your GPA and I don't think you will do good at all in Spanish III, depending on your teacher, most of the speech will be in Spanish." honestly when he said that it broke my heart. It stuck with me as you can see since I wrote every word he said. I thanked him for being honest and asked him to go to my counselor. when I got in the room with my counselor I cried, I felt like he was right, and truth be told I really was struggling with Spanish I never truly got everything people would say unless there were speaking to me like a toddler. Next year I'm still going to take Spanish III because I still believe I can get an advanced diploma. I'll be honest, I haven't overcome it yet. I've always been the kid that on the outside I don't let it affect me, but it does. I can almost never go out to the pool with my friends and when I do I have to always bring my case to make sure my hearing aids don't get wet, or if I forget them I just sit and watch. It even affects me mentally, I've doubted myself a lot when I play soccer just because I can hardly hear what's happening in the game. I won't give up though on overcoming this obstacle in my life, but it's a long journey for me and I'll take that journey the best way possible.

Volunteering has changed my mindset by leading me into a motivated life, where I push myself to achieve specific goals to give back to people who have helped me in my life and to my community. Growing up I've always done a summer trip back to Nigeria from the age of seven to about 14 years old where I volunteer at my moms' school and help teach kids. I usually handled toddlers from about 8 months to about 2 years old. I used to raise money for widows with my mom because she felt compassionate towards them and wanted us to raise money for them when I was in Boy Scouts my pack went to a retirement home when we were about nine years old and we spent Christmas singing for them playing with them, and even cooking for them. In each paragraph, I will talk about how each of these volunteer opportunities changed me into the person that I am today. Whenever we went back to Nigeria we would spend about a month or two there. and I would typically assist the teachers in the pre-k to kindergarten classes with their students. I would help feed them, carry them, play with them, the only thing I honestly didn't do was change diapers. Mainly because I didn't know how to and no teacher wants to make a kid change another kid's diapers that they aren't even related to for the first time. Doing these things helped me learn discipline and develop my concentration, because if I didn't do them the right way I would get scolded by the kid's parents, my mom, and the teachers. These things gave me a sense of responsibility and maturity that people my age do not have and I'm grateful my mom gave me the chance to develop it at an early age. My mom and I started raising money for widows because she had a friend back in Nigeria who lost her husband due to Ebola at the time, and when he died she get hit with a massive amount of debt and couldn't do anything about it. The job she had wasn't high paying since she never went to college. She eventually gave up on everything entirely and sadly killed herself. this pushed my mom into a sad state of mind and after about two months of grieving decided that she will do what she can to stop something like this from happening to other widows. For about three months she asked me and my brothers to donate as much money as they can and ask others we knew to do the same. We raised nearly about 3 million Naira (Nigerian money) which is about 4 thousand dollars. seeing my mother do this also pushed me to help out in any way I could to the less fortunate since I'm just a kid with limited resources I've been limited to simply just donating money or joining any support group at church that wanted to give back to their community and even society. This scholarship would help me lower the cost of college since as I said before I don't know how much support I will get from my family. So bringing the cost down for college is really important so that I don't fall into massive debt after college. Yes, college graduation is a while away for me, but I don't want to regret not starting now. Thank you for reading.

Mathematics is an essential part of everyday life, and it holds a significant place in my heart. From the time I was a child, I have always been fascinated by numbers and equations. The beauty of math lies in its ability to solve complex problems and find logical solutions to real-world issues. In this essay, I will discuss why I think math is essential, how it affects our daily lives, and why I love learning it. One of the reasons why math is important is that it provides us with critical thinking skills. Mathematics requires analytical thinking, logical reasoning, and problem-solving skills. These skills are essential for everyday life, and they help us make informed decisions. For instance, when we decide on buying a product, we use mathematical reasoning to calculate the cost and determine if it fits within our budget. We also use math when we compare prices and determine the best value for our money. Another reason why math is important is that it helps us understand the world around us. Mathematics is the language of science and technology, and it plays a vital role in advancing our knowledge of the natural world. For example, engineers use math to design and build bridges, airplanes, and buildings. Scientists use math to develop theories and models that help them understand the universe, from the smallest particles to the most massive galaxies. Mathematics is also essential in running a successful business. As an aspiring entrepreneur, I understand the importance of math in managing finances, analyzing data, and making informed decisions. In business, math is used to calculate profits, expenses, and taxes. It is also used to analyze market trends and make predictions about the future. Without math, it would be challenging to run a successful business and make informed decisions. In addition to its practical applications, I love learning math because it is a beautiful and elegant subject. Mathematics is a language that describes the patterns and structures that underlie the natural world. It is a subject that is both challenging and rewarding, and it provides a sense of satisfaction when you solve a difficult problem or prove a theorem. Learning math also helps me develop discipline, perseverance, and a love of learning. In conclusion, math is an essential subject that affects our daily lives in many ways. It provides critical thinking skills, helps us understand the natural world, and is essential in running a successful business. Learning math is a rewarding experience that helps us develop discipline, perseverance, and a love of learning. As I continue to pursue my passion for math, I am confident that it will help me achieve my goals and make a positive impact on the world.

Being a member of my school's black student union has been an immensely fulfilling experience for me. Not only have I been able to contribute to my community, but I've also had the chance to organize events that bring people together. Whether it's a cultural celebration or a fundraiser for a local charity, I've learned firsthand how community engagement can have a positive impact on individuals and society as a whole. Aside from my involvement with the black student union, I'm also part of a local soccer team. While I enjoy playing the sport, what I find most rewarding is helping to train younger kids on the team. Through this, I'm able to share my passion for the game while also teaching important life skills such as teamwork, communication, and perseverance. In addition to my community involvement, I am also dedicated to my academic pursuits. I am constantly seeking out new challenges and opportunities to expand my knowledge and skill set. I believe that education is the key to unlocking one's full potential, and I am committed to pursuing excellence in all aspects of my life. Whether it's through taking on leadership roles in student organizations, participating in research projects, or seeking out internships and other experiential learning opportunities, I am always looking for ways to grow and develop as a person. Ultimately, my goal is to use my education to make a positive impact on the world and help others achieve their own goals and aspirations. As for my future plans, I'm determined to pursue an education in business administration after completing my undergraduate degree. I believe that obtaining a graduate degree in this field will equip me with the necessary knowledge and skills to become a successful entrepreneur. My ultimate goal is to start my own business. I'm confident that the experience and knowledge I gain from working under someone else will enable me to create a successful venture of my own. I'm committed to working hard, being dedicated, and remaining engaged in my community to make a positive difference in the world around me. In conclusion, I strongly believe that supporting one's community is an integral part of being a responsible and engaged member of society. Whether it's through volunteering, organizing events, or simply lending a helping hand to those in need, there are countless ways to make a positive impact. I'm grateful for the opportunities I've had so far to support my community and look forward to continuing to do so in the future.

When my family first came to the United States, we faced several challenges that tested our resilience and determination. Perhaps the greatest challenge of all was the pervasive racism that we encountered daily. As immigrants to the country, my family and I were often treated as second-class citizens, looked down upon by others because of our skin color and accents even by the people who looked just like us. It was a difficult and painful experience, but we refused to let it break us. Instead, we used these experiences as motivation to work harder and prove ourselves to those who doubted us. We were determined to succeed, no matter what obstacles we encountered along the way. Another challenge that we faced was the discovery that I had lost my hearing. This was a devastating blow to our family, as we struggled to come to terms with this unexpected news. We had to learn how to communicate with each other in new and different ways, and I had to work hard to adapt to a new way of life. Despite the challenges, my family never gave up. We persevered through the struggles and hardships, always striving to be the best that we could be. And eventually, we began to see the fruits of our labor. We started to make new friends and build new relationships, and my mom and older brothers started to find steady ground in their careers. Looking back on those difficult times, I can see how they have shaped me into the person I am today. I am stronger, more resilient, and more determined than ever before. I have learned how to overcome adversity and never give up, no matter how difficult the situation may seem. In many ways, the challenges that my family faced when coming to the United States have helped me to become the person I am today. I am proud of my heritage and proud of the struggles that we have overcome. And I am grateful for the opportunities that this country has provided me with, as well as the support and love of my family. Together, we have weathered the storms and emerged stronger on the other side. After a daunting journey, my family and I finally found peace in America. We've worked tirelessly to establish ourselves, and now we have a solid foundation to build on. Our future is bright, and we are excited to continue moving forward in life.

Growing up, I didn't really have much exposure to financial education. My family was never really well-off, and we often had to make do with what we had. We didn't really talk about money much, and I never really learned much about how to manage it. However, that all changed when my older brother came home from college. He had taken a personal finance class and was eager to share his newfound knowledge with me. He taught me about budgeting, saving, and investing. I was amazed at how much there was to learn about money, and I was grateful to have someone who could teach me. Since then, I've been trying to learn as much as I can about personal finance. I've read books, watched videos, and attended seminars. I've learned about credit scores, taxes, and retirement planning. I've even started planning on investing in the stock market when I turn 18, something that would have seemed impossible to me just a few months ago. All of this knowledge has given me a sense of control over my finances that I never had before. I no longer feel scared about not knowing how to handle money. I know how to make my money work for me, and I'm confident that I can achieve my financial goals. But my goals aren't just about me. I want to use what I've learned to help others, particularly those in developing countries. I believe that financial education is one of the most powerful tools we have to combat poverty and inequality. When people know how to manage their money, they can build better lives for themselves and their families. That's why I'm committed to sharing my knowledge with others. I plan on volunteering with organizations that provide financial education to low-income communities, and I even plan on starting my own blog to share tips and resources with anyone who wants to learn. I believe that everyone deserves to be financially literate, and I'm going to do my part to make that a reality. In conclusion, my personal experiences with finances and financial education have taught me the importance of being proactive and taking control of my own financial future. I'm grateful to my brother for introducing me to this world of knowledge, and I'm excited to continue learning and sharing with others. With the right tools and knowledge, we can all achieve financial independence and build better lives for ourselves and those around us.

As I reflect on my educational journey, I can confidently say that my mom has been the most influential person in my life. She has been my biggest supporter, motivator, and guide throughout my academic journey. Her unwavering support and encouragement have helped me reach my educational goals and become the person I am today. From a young age, my mom instilled in me the importance of education to me. She would always tell me that education is the key to success and that I should never give up on my dreams. As a single mother, she made countless sacrifices to ensure that I had access to quality education. She would work long hours to provide for our family and still find the time to help me with my homework and studies. One of the things I admire most about my mom is her dedication to my education. She would stay up late with me studying for exams, patiently explaining complex concepts until I understood them. She would quiz me on vocabulary words, help me with math problems, and review my essays. Her support and guidance gave me the confidence to tackle difficult subjects and push myself to excel. My mom also encouraged me to take on challenging classes and pushed me to see them through. She believed in my abilities even when I doubted myself. She would tell me that I was capable of achieving great things and that I should never settle for less. Her words of encouragement gave me the motivation to work harder and strive for academic excellence. One of the most important lessons my mom taught me was the value of perseverance. She showed me that success requires hard work, dedication, and persistence. Whenever I faced obstacles or setbacks, she would remind me that failure is not the end, but an opportunity to learn and grow. Her unwavering support and belief in me gave me the strength to keep going, even when things seemed impossible. In conclusion, my mom has been the backbone of my educational journey. Her love, support, and guidance have helped me reach my educational goals and become the person I am today. I am grateful for everything she has done for me and will always cherish the lessons she has taught me. I hope to one day make her proud by achieving my dreams and making a positive impact in the world.

In today's society, effective leadership skills are highly valued and sought after. The ability to inspire and motivate others while also being fair and empathetic is essential for success. As a soccer player and captain of two teams, I have learned that leading by example and effective communication are crucial to achieving success. I place great emphasis on actively listening to all perspectives before making decisions, and I provide constructive feedback to help others grow. As someone who aspires to become a business owner, I understand that strong leadership skills are essential for achieving success. I firmly believe that a strong commitment and diligent effort can help anyone become a skilled and impactful leader capable of making a positive impact on the world. By embodying these qualities, individuals can effectively lead their teams toward success, inspire their peers, and make a positive impact on society as a whole. The importance of leadership skills cannot be overstated. Leaders play a critical role in shaping the direction of their organizations and inspiring their employees to achieve their goals. Effective leadership can lead to increased morale, productivity, and overall success for the organization. On the other hand, poor leadership can lead to high turnover rates, low morale, and a lack of direction. One of the most important qualities of a good leader is the ability to listen actively. By listening to the opinions and perspectives of others, leaders can gain a better understanding of the issues at hand and make more informed decisions. Additionally, actively listening to employees can help them feel valued and respected, which can lead to increased loyalty and productivity. Another important quality of a good leader is the ability to provide constructive feedback. By providing feedback that is specific, actionable, and focused on improvement, leaders can help their employees grow and develop their skills. This can lead to increased confidence, motivation, and competency, which can ultimately benefit the organization as a whole. Effective communication is also essential for good leadership. By communicating clearly and consistently, leaders can ensure that their employees understand their goals and expectations. This can help to avoid misunderstandings and confusion, which can lead to decreased productivity and morale. Finally, good leaders must be able to inspire and motivate their employees. By setting a positive example, recognizing achievements, and providing opportunities for growth and development, leaders can help their employees feel valued and motivated to succeed. This can lead to increased loyalty, productivity, and overall success for the organization. In conclusion, the ability to lead effectively is essential for success in today's society. By embodying the qualities of active listening, providing constructive feedback, effective communication, and inspiration, individuals can become skilled and impactful leaders capable of making a positive impact on the world. With dedication and diligence, anyone can develop their leadership skills and achieve their goals.

As a student who has faced numerous obstacles, the DRIVEN scholarship resonates deeply with me. I am a determined individual who believes that opportunities should be available to all, regardless of their background, socio-economic situation, or any other factors that may be perceived as barriers. One of the most significant obstacles that I have had to overcome is my hearing loss. Growing up, I faced many challenges in communicating with others, particularly in school settings. However, I refused to let my hearing loss define me and worked hard to find alternative ways to communicate effectively. I learned sign language and utilized assistive technology to stay on top of my studies and build meaningful relationships with my peers. Moving from Nigeria to America was another significant hurdle that I had to face. Adapting to a new culture and educational system was not easy, but I was determined to succeed. By embracing my unique background and experiences, I was able to bring a fresh perspective to the classroom and engage with my peers and teachers in meaningful ways. Unfortunately, my journey has also been marked by instances of bullying and discrimination. However, I have never let these negative experiences bring me down. Instead, I have always strived to maintain respect for myself and others, even in the face of adversity. I have also used these experiences as an opportunity to innovate and find new ways to promote equality and nurture positive relationships with those around me. In terms of versatility, I have always been willing to take on new challenges and adapt to new situations. Whether it's learning a new language or taking on a leadership role in a club or organization, I have never shied away from opportunities to grow and develop as a person. Lastly, I believe that nurturing positive relationships with others is essential to creating a more just and equitable world. By promoting empathy and understanding, we can break down barriers and build bridges between individuals and communities. I have always sought to nurture positive relationships with those around me, whether it's through volunteering in my community or simply taking the time to listen to someone who needs a shoulder to lean on. In conclusion, the DRIVEN scholarship is an incredible opportunity that aligns with my values and experiences. I am a determined, respectful, innovative, versatile, and nurturing individual who has overcome many obstacles in my life. I believe that I have the potential to make a positive impact in my community and beyond, and I am excited about the possibility of receiving this scholarship to help me achieve my goals. Thank you for considering my application.

If I could have everyone in the world read just one book, it would undoubtedly be "Wonder" by R. J. Palacio. This book is a heartwarming tale that sheds light on various important issues such as bullying, deformity, and human nature. "Wonder," tells the story of August Pullman, a young boy with a facial deformity. The book follows August's journey as he starts attending a mainstream school for the first time, and how he navigates the challenges and triumphs of middle school life. Throughout the book, we see how August's physical appearance affects the way others treat him, and how he learns to stand up for himself and make true friends. One of the most significant themes in "Wonder" is bullying. The book depicts how August is bullied and ridiculed by some of his classmates, but it also shows the power of kindness and empathy. Through the character of August's friend, Summer, we see how small acts of kindness can have a profound impact on someone's life. Moreover, the book also explores the concept of deformity. August's physical appearance sets him apart from others, and the book delves into the challenges he faces because of it. However, it also shows that physical appearance does not define a person, and that true beauty lies within. Finally, "Wonder" is a powerful commentary on human nature. The book shows that people are capable of both great kindness and extreme cruelty. It highlights the importance of empathy and understanding and encourages readers to look beyond appearances and treat others with kindness and respect. In conclusion, "Wonder" by R. J. Palacio is a truly remarkable book that has the power to change lives. It is a must-read for people of all ages, as it teaches us valuable lessons about bullying, deformity, and human nature. If everyone in the world read this book, the world would be a kinder, more empathetic place.

As someone who has always been interested in numbers and financial management, pursuing a career in accounting has been a natural choice for me. From a young age, I have been fascinated by the way businesses operate and how they handle their finances. As I grew older, my interests only intensified, and I started to realize the importance of a good accountant in the success of any business. Accountants play a crucial role in the financial management of businesses. They help businesses keep track of their finances, prepare financial statements, and ensure that all financial transactions are accurate and compliant with regulations. They also provide valuable insights and recommendations to businesses on how to improve their financial performance and reduce costs. As someone who wants to become a business owner someday, I understand the importance of having a good accountant on my team. A good accountant can help me keep track of my finances, prepare tax returns, and provide valuable financial advice that can help me grow my business. In addition, having an accountant can also help me save time and money by ensuring that all financial transactions are accurate and compliant with regulations. Becoming an accountant myself can also greatly benefit my future business endeavors. By having a deep understanding of accounting principles and practices, I can confidently manage my finances and make informed decisions that can help my business grow. Moreover, as an accountant, I can also provide my accounting services to other businesses, which can provide an additional source of income. In addition to helping businesses, accountants also play an important role in the broader public. They ensure that financial information is accurate and transparent, which helps to maintain the integrity of financial markets and protect investors. They also help to ensure that businesses pay their fair share of taxes, which helps to fund important public services. In conclusion, pursuing a career in accounting is a logical choice for me given my interests and aspirations. Accountants are important to businesses and the broader public, and their services are essential to the success of any business. By becoming an accountant, I can help businesses manage their finances, provide valuable financial advice, and contribute to the broader public good. Furthermore, being an accountant can greatly benefit my business endeavors, providing me with the tools and knowledge necessary to succeed as a business owner. I wish everyone could see the benefits of being an accountant as well as I do, hopefully, this becomes possible one day

Leadership is an essential quality that everyone should possess. It is not only about being in charge but also about setting an excellent example for others to follow. In my everyday life, I exemplify leadership through my passion for soccer and my involvement with my club activities at school. Soccer is more than just a game for me; it is a passion. I have played soccer for as long as I can remember and have always loved the sport. On the soccer field, I demonstrate my leadership skills by being a team player. I encourage my teammates, lead by example, and motivate them to do their best. I understand that soccer is not just about individual talent but also about teamwork. Therefore, I make sure that everyone feels included and that we work together to achieve our goals. My leadership skills also extend to my involvement in club activities at school. I am a member of several clubs, and I take my responsibilities seriously. For instance, in the debate club, I take the initiative to research and prepare materials that we can use during our meetings. I also encourage active participation from my fellow members and lead by example in terms of punctuality and preparedness. In the drama club, I help to organize rehearsals, coordinate with other members, and ensure that everyone is on the same page. I believe that my leadership skills in these clubs have helped to make them a success. In addition to my involvement in extracurricular activities, I also exemplify leadership in my academic life. I am a hardworking student who is always striving for excellence. I set high standards for myself and am not satisfied with mediocrity. I push myself to do better, and this motivation rubs off on my peers. My classmates often come to me for help with their assignments, and I am always willing to lend a hand. I believe that my academic achievements and dedication to my studies inspire others to do the same. In conclusion, leadership is not just about being in charge; it is about setting an excellent example for others to follow. In my everyday life, I exemplify leadership through my passion for soccer, my involvement in club activities at school, and my dedication to my studies. I believe that my leadership skills have helped me to be a better person and have positively impacted those around me.

Growing up with hearing loss was a challenging experience for me. It prevented me from achieving certain things that I always wanted to do. But, I never let my hearing loss define me, and I have always strived to achieve my goals and pursue my passions. Communication was the biggest challenge I faced due to my hearing loss. I underwent speech therapy at a young age, which helped me develop my speech and language skills. However, I still struggled to understand others in noisy environments or when people spoke too quickly. To overcome this, I learned to rely on visual cues such as lip-reading and body language. I also learned to be patient and ask people to repeat or speak louder when I didn't understand them. Despite these challenges, I never let my hearing loss stop me from doing what I love. I found solace in playing soccer and expressing myself creatively. Soccer became my passion, and it was something that I could easily connect with. I also had a supportive community of friends and family who always encouraged me to pursue my dreams, and I'm thankful for them otherwise I wouldn't be where I am today. Looking toward the future, I want to help my community become a safer and more inclusive place for people with hearing loss. I want to spread awareness and understanding about hearing loss so that it becomes normalized and not viewed as something strange or abnormal. Education and advocacy are key to achieving this. Volunteering at local schools and educating children about hearing loss is one way I plan to achieve this. I want to teach them about the challenges faced by people with hearing loss so that they can foster empathy and understanding in young minds. I also plan to advocate for better accessibility in public spaces, such as movie theaters and public transportation. It is important to make these spaces more hearing aid friendly so that people with hearing loss can enjoy them without barriers. In conclusion, my hearing loss has been a significant challenge in my life, but it has also taught me many things. I have learned to be patient, resilient, and to never give up. I hope to use my experiences to inspire others and make a positive impact in the world. By working together and supporting one another, we can create a world that is more inclusive and accepting of all people, all ethnicity, and backgrounds regardless of their abilities.

As a member of my local community, I have often noticed the growing issue of obesity and poor health among my neighbors. While many factors contribute to this problem, one of the biggest is the lack of access to healthy, affordable food. It is no secret that healthier options tend to cost more, making it difficult for those on a tight budget to make the necessary changes to their diet. However, I believe that there is a business opportunity here that could not only benefit my community but also potentially impact the world. My idea is to start a business that provides a cheaper way for people to access healthy, organic food. The goal would be to create a store that offers food options that are both nutritious and affordable. By doing so, I believe that I could help lower the obesity rate in my local area and potentially even around the world if done right. To develop this business, I would start by reaching out to local farmers. I would seek to make a deal with them that would allow me to purchase their organic produce at a lower cost. I hope that by purchasing in bulk, I could negotiate a price that would be lower than what most people would pay for organic food at a store. I would then take this product and prepare it in a way that would make it visually appealing and tasty. This could include creating salads, soups, and other dishes that are both healthy and delicious. Once the food is prepared, I would sell it in my store at a lower price than what people would typically pay for organic food. I would also make sure to advertise my business in a way that highlights the health benefits of the food I offer. This would include sharing information about the nutritional value of the food and highlighting the fact that it is organic and free from harmful chemicals. To expand this business, I would seek to partner with other organizations that are focused on promoting healthy eating habits. This could include local schools, community centers, and even hospitals. By partnering with these organizations, I could help to spread the word about my business and reach a wider audience. In conclusion, I believe that starting a business that offers a cheaper way to access healthy, organic food would be a great way to contribute to the general welfare of my local community. By doing so, I could help to lower the obesity rate and promote better health for those in my area. Additionally, I believe that this business has the potential to impact the world by showing that healthy food options can be both affordable and delicious. With the right strategy and partnerships, I believe that this business could truly make a difference in the lives of many people.

As someone who is passionate about making a positive impact on the world, I believe that education is one of the most powerful tools we have to effect change. With my future education, I plan to use my knowledge and skills to touch the lives of others and help them succeed in their pursuits. There are many ways that I hope to make a difference in the lives of those around me. One of the most important ways is through mentorship and guidance. I have been fortunate to have had many mentors and role models throughout my life, and I know firsthand how valuable their advice and support can be. As I continue my education, I plan to seek out opportunities to mentor others and share my experiences and expertise with them. In addition to mentorship, I plan to use my future degree to help the world by working in a field that aligns with my values and allows me to make a positive impact. Specifically, I am interested in pursuing a degree in environmental science, with a focus on sustainable development and conservation. I believe that our natural resources are precious and must be protected for future generations, and I am committed to doing my part to ensure that they are utilized in a responsible and sustainable way. Through my education in environmental science, I hope to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to make a meaningful impact in this field. I plan to work with organizations and communities to develop sustainable practices that not only protect the environment but also benefit the people who depend on it. Whether it's through developing renewable energy sources, implementing conservation programs, or advocating for environmental policies, I am committed to using my education to make a difference. In addition to my work in environmental science, I also plan to use my future education to help others succeed in their own pursuits. As someone who has benefited greatly from mentorship and guidance, I believe that it is important to pay it forward and help others achieve their goals. Whether it's through offering career advice, providing resources and support, or simply being a listening ear, I am committed to helping others succeed in any way that I can. Overall, I believe that education is a powerful tool for making a positive impact on the world. Through mentorship, environmental science, and helping others achieve their goals, I hope to use my future education to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those around me. By working together, we can create a better world for ourselves and future generations.

When I first started playing soccer, I faced a lot of challenges. One of the biggest obstacles I had to overcome was my hearing impairment. While I have a hearing aid that helps me function in everyday life, it made it difficult for me to join certain teams and communicate with my teammates on the field. I remember feeling frustrated and discouraged that my hearing impairment was holding me back from pursuing my passion for soccer. However, the worst time in my soccer career was when I was cut from a team because of my hearing aid. The coach told me that he didn't think I would be able to keep up with the speed of the game and that my hearing impairment would be a liability for the team. It was a devastating blow to my confidence and made me question whether I should continue playing soccer at all. But I didn't let that setback define me. Instead, I used it as motivation to work harder and prove people wrong. I joined a different team and worked tirelessly to improve my skills and prove that my hearing impairment wasn't a hindrance to my abilities as a soccer player. The best time in my soccer career came during the Covid pandemic. While many people were struggling with the isolation and uncertainty of the pandemic, I found solace in soccer. With the cancellation of games and practices, I had more time to focus on my training and work on improving my skills. I also started watching more soccer games and studying the tactics of professional players, which helped me become a more strategic and thoughtful player. Beyond soccer, Covid also taught me the importance of resilience and adaptability. I learned to be flexible in the face of unexpected challenges and to find ways to stay motivated and focused even when things seemed uncertain. These skills have helped me become a better soccer player and a stronger person overall. As for how the scholarship would help me achieve my goals, it would provide me with the financial support I need to continue pursuing my passion for soccer. With the scholarship, I could afford to attend soccer camps and clinics to further improve my skills, as well as purchase new gear and equipment. Additionally, the scholarship would give me the confidence and motivation to continue striving toward my goals and pursuing my dreams.

Education has always been my passion, as I believe it has the power to change lives and shape a brighter future for everyone. My own educational journey was enriched by the presence of some exceptional teachers who played a crucial role in shaping my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. Their influence inspired me to embrace learning and make a positive impact in the world around me. My mentors were not just teachers, but role models who instilled in me the importance of hard work, perseverance, and empathy. They not only taught me the necessary academic skills but also helped me develop my character and personality. Their unwavering support and guidance helped me follow my passions and achieve my goals, for which I will be forever grateful. As an educator, my primary objective is to establish a safe and supportive learning environment that will leave a lasting impression on my students. I firmly believe that every student has the potential to succeed, and it is my duty to help them unlock that potential. By offering engaging, stimulating, and thought-provoking learning experiences, I endeavor to empower my students to achieve their objectives and reach their full potential. To achieve this goal, I plan to inspire curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking in my students. These are the fundamental skills needed for success in any field, and I aim to instill them in my students through practical projects, stimulating class discussions, and real-world applications. By encouraging my students to question, explore, and think critically, I hope to cultivate a lifelong love of learning. Another way I intend to have a positive impact on my students is by being a mentor and role model to them. Like my teachers before me, I aspire to have a profound influence on my students' beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. By embodying kindness, respect, and integrity, I aim to inspire my students to become confident, compassionate, and responsible individuals. In conclusion, my unwavering passion for education drives me to make a meaningful difference in the lives of my students. Thanks to the exceptional educators who have influenced my life, I am now in a position to pay it forward and be a positive influence on my students. Through my teaching, I hope to leave a lasting impact on my students by inspiring curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking, and by being a mentor and role model to them. Ultimately, I believe that education can transform lives and create a brighter future for all, and I am committed to being a part of that change.

My career goal is to one day either be a successful business owner or a professional soccer player, maybe even both. this scholarship would help with that by giving me the financial freedom to not have to worry about out-of-state tuition or if I'll be in debt after I graduate from college. I want to get the highest degree I possibly can and I plan on getting my Master's degree in Business administration, but getting there is a long and expensive route I want to at least eliminate the expensive one. I want to be successful so I can help others reach a point in their lives where they can help someone else. I grew up in a single-mother household so most of our help came from friends and strangers we didn't know or people my mom knew, and I thank them for their help without them I don't think I would even be writing this essay, without them I wouldn't be pushing myself to reach my potential and even push past that, without them I wouldn't feel the dire need to give back to the world as they allowed me to see the world. I remember when my mom was trying to donate money to a foundation that wanted to help widows. I was about seven years old so I don't remember every detail, but I do remember my mom would ask strangers for money so she could go and donate it to the foundation. I didn't like seeing my mom beg for things nor did I like seeing widows in need of help. So I decided that I and my brothers would do the begging and give our mom the money. Before we did that I remember I had about $300 in my piggy bank (Idk how I got that much money as a seven-year-old) and I decided to give the money to my mom, she cried and said thank you but she couldn't take it. I was still determined to help raise the money so I told my brother to take it and he did. Me and my brothers raised about $2,000 that year for the widows and every penny went back to them. Fast forward by 3 years, I had joined the boy scouts and we did fundraisers and donated money and things like that. I remember we had a field trip to a retirement home and we were there to sing for them, dance, and help them in any way we could, and I saw a familiar face. It was one of the ladies from the widow donating we did 3 years prior. She came up to me and said thank you. That made me feel proud of myself, it made me feel like I could make a change in my community and the world, and this lady was living proof of that.