Although the Covid-19 pandemic may have been the most frightening time for many people, I have witnessed much good come from the pandemic. Without question, it was the scare of the pandemic that prompted many families to completely reorganize their lives to accommodate their loved ones. When daycares closed down, neighbors and family members took care of younger children, enabling parents to work for their families. During the pandemic, my family and I made the choice to care for my four year old cousin, Trey, who lives with asthma. As soon as the news channels reported that those with lung conditions would most likely be affected by Covid-19, my mother immediately thought of Trey. She grabbed her phone in a hurry and called her older sister, Amanda, who is Trey’s mother. Amanda was a first-time mother who was required to go to work because she was a bank teller. My mother thought of the sudden weight on Amanda who was surely frightened for her child’s life, so she insisted that Amanda let her care for Trey until the pandemic settled down. Obviously, we had no idea how long we were committing to care for Trey. But without those first eight months of the pandemic, I doubt that I would have recognized my heartfelt desire to care for children. Spending time with Trey placed me in different roles to care for him, but the most important opportunity was teaching Trey how to use his fingers to move game pieces when playing board games. This simple enjoyment proved to be an essential tool to aid me with identifying my career choice: an occupational therapist for children. However, my mother quickly informed me that a pediatric occupational therapist will sometimes work with a child who has special needs, reminding me that Trey is a gifted child who quickly understands. Thus, as soon as the pandemic allowed me to, I began serving with Wonderfully Made, a local organization for children who live with special needs. With my twin brother, Luke, living with a severe brain injury and a brain stem injury for 15 years, I knew how to work well with the children of Wonderfully Made. However, I desired to engage in more opportunities to work with special needs children, so I began to volunteer for the ARC of Walker County (Jasper, AL). In addition, I committed to volunteer with United Ability (Birmingham, AL), especially as a teen summer volunteer for the Giving is Good Program, working closely with handicapped children. If not for the pandemic, I doubt that I would have declared my major as an occupational therapist for special needs children at such a young age. Without question, I know that the pandemic was used to shine a light on my future. My volunteer opportunities will surely prepare me as a future occupational therapist for children who need the most support.

Many who recognize my academic achievements assume that I have not faced any obstacles to inhibit my success. However, the obstacle that I faced began when I was only 13 years old. My vision suddenly began to worsen, prompting my orthokeratologist to prescribe me Atropine drops, which have been documented to slow the progression of myopia, or nearsightedness. Unfortunately, even when my physician doubled my Atropine prescription, my vision only continued to worsen. Thus, my orthokeratologist elected to aggressively treat my severe myopia by prescribing Ortho-K lenses. With these hard contact lenses that are worn at night, my retinas are pushed back and my corneas are reshaped. Just two weeks ago, my current orthokeratologist, Dr. Chad Green (Tuscaloosa, Alabama), informed me that while these lenses have definitely prevented retinal detachment for me, my case of myopia is so severe that I will have to indefinitely wear these lenses to permanently prevent retinal detachment. Instead of being discouraged about my lifetime commitment to fight retinal detachment, I am abundantly grateful that my father, who is the sole provider of our home, uses his hourly wage for me to keep my vision: $1,200 per set of lenses every two years. In addition, my father pays the price for the monthly eye solutions and frequent orthokeratology exams. There are diseases that have no cure, but my severe myopia has a treatment through Ortho-K lenses. I am beyond blessed that America offers patients like me the opportunity to use these lenses. Moreover, I live less than two hours from the only orthokeratologist in Alabama: Dr. Chad Green. If not for my Ortho-K lenses, Dr. Green undeniably claims that I would have been inflicted with complete blindness of both eyes. Therefore, the lesson that I have learned is to give thanks in all circumstances; there is always someone else who has a more difficult road to walk. Knowing that I could have been a disabled person and living alongside my brother, Luke, who has fought to live a productive life in spite of his severe brain injury and brain stem injury, I am driven to give back to the special needs community. Although I do serve my school, Hope Christian School, as a member of the National Beta Club and Key Club, I have served with Wonderfully Made, a local organization for children who live with special needs, since August of 2021. Currently, I am a volunteer for the ARC of Walker County (Jasper, AL), specifically with the annual fundraiser, Casino Night. In addition, I volunteer with United Ability (Birmingham, AL) with “Gone Fishin’, Not Just Wishin’;” the annual fundraiser, United Ability Day, which is a T-shirt drive; and as a teen summer volunteer for the Giving is Good Program. Locally, I also volunteer at the Burkett Center of Jefferson County Schools (Kimberly, AL), a school for handicapped children, with special events and by fulfilling requested donations. Although I have completed all of the requirements to graduate high school, I could not imagine graduating without Luke. Thus, for my senior year, I am choosing to attend Wallace State Community College (Hanceville, Alabama) for the fall and spring semesters; serve in the National Beta Club and Key Club; and continue to volunteer at United Ability, a nonprofit organization for children and adults who live with special needs. With each opportunity to serve my community, I am able to further improve my work skills, specifically my communication skills, teamwork, and task management. Without question, I am confident that serving at United Ability will fulfill my personal and professional goal: to serve children who live with special needs.

A Swedish proverb states, "He who buys what he does not need steals from himself." How true it is that many suffer from an impulse to purchase! Many young adults want to acquire the home and its contents as well as the vehicles that their parents own, but they do not consider the laborious days that their parents endured to acquire such blessings. Also, it is a common practice for today's youth to be freely handed merchandise, especially smart phones, from their parents without any payment required or rules to follow. Without question, we are living in a world of entitlement without the days of hard labor that earned such a right. However, I have been blessed to live in a home where I have been taught valuable financial lessons. In fact, it is my mom who has told me the most helpful advice that I will likely ever receive. She says, "Do not buy it if you do not need it. You will need that money for a rainy day." Since my dad has always been the sole provider of our home, and my mom has always been too sick to work outside our home, I have learned from an early age that I can do without. For example, we have never paid for a cable bill; instead, we borrow movies from the local library and pay for Amazon Prime. We cannot always afford new clothes, so we purchase gently used clothes from the thrift stores. In turn, we have used this money for a rainy day on new tires, for high electricity bills, and to replace appliances. Simply explained, I have everything that I really need, and there is always a greater need to be seen, so save that rainy day money!

A piece of art that inspires me is Crazy Socks, Tiny Love, which is a painting that promotes awareness of the genetic disorder Down syndrome. It was painted by Jenn Chemasko, a mother whose daughter lives with Down Syndrome, who paints to "celebrate the good and beautiful things in life," per Chemasko's website. [To note, the Mayo Clinic defines Down syndrome as a genetic disorder caused when abnormal cell division results in an extra full or partial copy of chromosome 21.] In the painting's description, Jenn Chemasko reminds viewers that the chromosomes look similar to pairs of socks, but the 21st chromosome looks mismatched compared to the other matching chromosome pairs. In Jenn Chemasko's Crazy Socks, Tiny Love painting, Down syndrome is beautifully and simply depicted by painting a picture of children wearing socks. It is assumed that the child in a dress with mismatched socks is a girl. Beside the girl, it is presumed that the child only wearing mismatched socks is a boy. This indicates that Down syndrome can be acquired by males and females. Jenn Chemasko's Crazy Sock, Tiny Love painting certainly inspires me to promote awareness for those who need the most support. For example, on Down Syndrome Day, which is March 21st, I can wear mismatched socks as well as clothes with yellow and blue, which are designated Down syndrome colors. Also, since my brother has lived with a moderately severe traumatic brain injury for 15 years, I can promote TBI awareness by wearing green for TBI throughout the month of March, the month designated for TBI awareness. Without their support groups, those who live with special needs may never make the world aware of their infinite possibilities. We can all group together to support those who need a helping hand!

To positively impact the climate, I implement climate saving strategies in and around my home. For example, I save energy by using a programmable thermostat, LED light bulbs, and energy-efficient electrical appliances. Also, I always make sure to turn off lights that are not in use, and I replace the HVAC air filter once monthly. Furthermore, I wash my laundry in cold water and hang some clothes to air dry. However, I also make wise food choices to better the climate. For instance, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and thus, reduce the use of energy, land, and water, I eat less meat and dairy products and choose to eat more natural foods, such as vegetables, fruits, and nuts. By having a compost pile, I am able to enrich the soil of my seasonal garden. To prevent food waste, I am careful to only prepare the required amount of food, being sure to eat all leftover food within a few days. Additionally, I choose to positively impact the climate by sensibly using my car. For example, to use less gasoline, I regularly carpool with others. By keeping my car's tires properly inflated, I improve my car's gas mileage. To reduce water use, I wash my car at self-serve car wash facilities instead of at home. Finally, I also make other choices to benefit the climate. For instance, I periodically sort through my closet to donate unused items to families in need. When I receive purchases in the mail, I save the boxes and packaging for future use. In addition, I recycle aluminum drink and soup cans. Moreover, instead of purchasing new items, like clothing or small appliances, I choose to repair and reuse some of these items. Thus, with these personal choices, I trust that I positively impact the climate.

Through my brother's struggle of living 15 years with a moderately severe traumatic brain injury, I have became very familiar with society's treatment of individuals who live with disabilities. Often times these members of society are not appreciated or valued; they are even considered as people who could easily be discarded. Thus, for the last several years, I have assumed an active role in befriending and working alongside those who need the most support. In August of 2021, I determined that my career calling was to become an occupational therapist for children who live with special needs. To affirm my calling, I began serving in the Wonderfully Made Ministry, a ministry for children who live with special needs. Being blessed as I worked with and cared for these children fostered the importance of regularly volunteering with those of the special needs community. Now I am a volunteer for two nonprofits, the ARC of Walker County (Jasper, AL) and United Ability (Birmingham, AL), but I also volunteer at the Burkett Center of Jefferson County Schools (Kimberly, AL) with special events and by fulfilling requested donations. As I continue to serve and befriend those who are in need of the most support, I unconditionally testify that I sincerely cherish my community service opportunities with these nonprofits and friendships with their members.

Community service was instilled in me as a child. From nine to twelve years old, I served our local community at a food pantry and clothes closet, The Mission of Hope (Dora, AL), which required me to bag soda cans, sort nonperishable goods, purchase select gifts for the clients’ children, and donate seasonal items for clients and their families. At twelve years old, I began serving our local community through group mission projects, such as home projects for elderly members, donations of needed items for local nonprofits, manual labor at local schools and nonprofits, and tutoring opportunities for elementary and intermediate students. Currently, my concentration with community service is to serve members of the special needs community. In August of 2021, I determined that my career calling was to become an occupational therapist for children who live with special needs. To affirm my calling, I began serving in the Wonderfully Made Ministry, a ministry for children who live with special needs. Being blessed as I worked with and cared for these children fostered the importance of regularly volunteering with those of the special needs community. Now I am a volunteer for two nonprofits, the ARC of Walker County (Jasper, AL) and United Ability (Birmingham, AL), but I also volunteer at the Burkett Center of Jefferson County Schools (Kimberly, AL) with special events and by fulfilling requested donations. As I continue to serve those who are in need of the most support, I unconditionally testify that I sincerely cherish my community service opportunities with these nonprofits.

Shakuntala Devi, known as a mental calculator, once stated, "Without mathematics, there's nothing you can do. Everything around you is mathematics. Everything around you is numbers." How true it is that math is an essential academic subject used in every day life! Every independent person relies on math to create and balance a budget, shop sensibly for groceries, measure ingredients for cooking and baking, manage time, and drive safely. In addition, math is applied when administering exercise routines, officiating sports, forecasting weather, and solving various real-life problems. In fact, many careers, like those of doctors, engineers, construction workers, and automotive mechanics, use math on a daily basis. A popular acronym for math says, "Mistakes Allow Thinking to Happen." Although this is an elementary understanding of math, it is true that mistakes made while learning math build understanding. Perhaps a person's intelligence will not allow them to learn many math disciplines, but they can learn arithmetic, the simple manipulation of numbers that uses addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Also, measurement of length and weight as well as understanding how to read a calendar and thermometer are essential math concepts for daily life. In fact, with mastery of only arithmetic and measurement, a person of any intellect can independently live in today's world. An Italian astronomer, physicist, and engineer, Galileo Galilei, once affirmed, "Mathematics is the key and door to the sciences." Without question, many sciences cannot be completely understood without mathematics. For example, in physical science, math is applied with calculations and measurements of objects as well as their characteristics. With classical physics and chemistry, stated values of objects are used to solve equations. In addition, astronomy utilizes math with distances, sizes, and masses of large objects. Thus, since math is the primary approach to offer structure, order, and relation, it is routinely used with even the most elementary sciences. Personally, I do not only excel in math; I consider it a hobby. Without question, if a student enjoys learning an academic discipline, they may apply the subject with other avenues. For example, I enjoy math so much that I tutor students of any grade level with any math discipline. Also, I will graduate high school after completing six math courses: Honors Algebra 1, Honors Algebra 2 with Trigonometry, Honors Geometry, Honors Precalculus Trigonometry, AP Calculus BC, and Elementary Statistics as a dual enrollment course. In addition, my math ability is affirmed with my ACT Math score of 34, and my SAT math score of 750. Moreover, I have utilized math in Honors Physics and Honors Chemistry. With this depth of knowledge in mathematics, I anticipate opportunities to teach others who lack the intelligence, opportunity, or discipline to learn mathematical concepts. Although I am fortunate to have advanced understanding in math, I realize that most people do not have this gift. In fact, most people in today's world struggle with learning math, regardless of the commitment that they have given to the academic subject. Thus, I choose not to keep my math ability to myself. Instead, I choose to share my talent with those who lack this same understanding. We should all be on the same playing field, and if we are not, we should strengthen one another's weaknesses. Teaching math is the way I choose to strengthen others, and I greatly anticipate each opportunity to do so.

Matt Haig, English author and journalist, once stated: "Mental health problems don't define who you are. They are something you experience." However, the problem with mental health is the view that much of society assumes. Instead of considering mental health concerns as an illness, like a more apparent concern such as someone who has poor vision wearing prescription eyeglasses, many choose to cast a shadow over the person who shares their struggles. Perhaps the most simple solution to helping those who struggle with mental health is to be a friend. Winnie the Pooh, also known as the "silly, old bear," once said, "A friend is someone who helps you up when you're down, and if they can't, they lie down beside you and listen." Without question, each person needs a friend. But someone who struggles with mental health issues needs the most committed friend, a friend who will listen to another's concerns without judgement. An individual who truly cares would only concentrate on the moment that lays before them and determine a way to help. A friend would offer a distressed person reassurance of their commitment while also suggesting opportunities to escape their unsettling thoughts, like grouping with other friends for dinner or a movie. Yet sometimes a friend does not understand their limits in such a situation. Most people are completely unaware that a vulnerable person is quite unlikely to attend a counseling session; it will take several conversations before they will listen to this sound piece of advise. Also, often times people with mental health issues are reminded to practice self-care, which they translate as others viewing them as incapable or immature. Thus, listening attentively, keeping an open mind, and offering opportunities for distract a distressed friend are the best avenues to begin their healing process.

Perhaps the greatest quotes of all time comes from Helen Keller, the most well known disability rights advocate who was also an American author. My favorite quote from Helen Keller states: "I am only one, but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something; and because I cannot do everything I will not refuse to do the something that I can do." How remarkable of a statement this is, coming from someone who once had a whole world to overcome! Helen Keller only knew darkness and silence all of her days, but she did not let those tremendous obstacles erase her future. Indeed, I am just one person, but just one person can choose to be productive. With Helen Keller's quotes, I am continually reminded that it is my responsibility to acquire the knowledge, utilize my independence, and find the courage to accomplish the tasks that lay before me. Certainly, my obstacles are not as great as profound darkness and silence, which affirms that it is entirely within my reach to overcome these obstacles. How blessed of a person I am to not live in a world seemingly alone with only the touch of my family and teacher to guide my way! My blessings are countless, and I surely must remember them all.

Albert Einstein, a German-born theoretical physicist, once stated, "Education is not the learning of facts, but the training of the mind to think." However, today's public schools are not designed to teach students. Instead, these schools pay teachers to lecture facts and to teach textbooks. If the student memorizes the facts, it is concluded that either the teacher effectively teaches, or the student is a capable learner. In contrast, if the student cannot memorize the facts, it is assumed that the teacher cannot productively teach students, or a student does not have the ability to adequately learn. But I do not believe that education is so simply defined or understood. Instead, I am convinced that students are not allowed to offer their input regarding their educational path. Today's educators do not take into account that students often choose to homeschool to form their own academic direction. If today's students are offered control of so much of their lives, education should be another opportunity for students to assume their independence. Certainly, elementary and intermediate grade students will likely always be required to learn foundations of all subjects as a whole group, enabling all students to enter ninth grade after learning the same content. However, if public schooled students who are in high school were offered the freedom to choose their academic courses, they would be more likely to comply with course requirements, comprehend the course content, and adhere to school attendance. To implement this academic solution, the State Board of Education and each local school board would be required to be much more involved with student success. For example, the board would invest in research regarding a variety of e-learning opportunities as well as textbooks for various courses. In addition, certified teachers for these subjects would be allowed to offer their input regarding projects, observations, and other essential assignments, making each subject the best learning opportunity that it has been in decades. By implementing an online enrollment for each school year, course sequencing could be easily verified for each student per school year. Also, classes with few students would offer these students opportunities for independent studies, which would enable students to complete their preferred courses while eliminating the need to supply teachers for small classes. Albert Einstein was unequivocally accurate in saying, "Education is what remains after one has forgotten everything he learned in school." Obviously, students will only attain the information that they determine to be important to them. By placing a student in their preferred learning environment, they are offered a place of contentment. With e-learning, students' education can be verified by logged hours and completed course work. Independent studies would eliminate stress for teachers as students prepare for college responsibility. If students selected their academic path during their high school years, they would encounter the most meaningful learning that they have ever experienced. Without question, students' confidence would grow, and their knowledge would soar, making capable and dedicated employees for tomorrow's world.

Carol Ryrie Brink, an American author, once stated, "The most truly generous persons are those who give silently without hope of praise or reward." As a private person, I agree that generosity should be kept a private matter. After all, no one needs to know about the gift that has been given. To applaud oneself would cast a shadow on the generous gift. A generous person is a rarity in the world of which we live. On any given day, my generation will literally run around anyone in their path to be first in line. Furthermore, I have noticed that even some middle-aged people, like those of my parents' or grandparents' ages, consistently think of themselves before considering others. Perhaps the elderly members of society are most committed to being generous. But this must make us question if generosity is a reality that is fading away. In my home, I am expected to be generous. By being consistently aware of my surroundings, I easily find impromptu opportunities to give to others, like letting them be in front of me in line, opening a door for them, or carrying their groceries. In addition, when I donate a monetary gift, it is done anonymously, providing a need without a praise to me. With community service opportunities, I do not discuss my commitments with others because it would only make others question my motives. Thus, generosity is the much needed gift that is offered in silence.

A Swedish proverb states, "He who buys what he does not need steals from himself." How true it is that many suffer from an impulse to purchase! Many young adults want to acquire the home and its contents as well as the vehicles that their parents own, but they do not consider the laborious days that their parents endured to acquire such blessings. Also, it is common practice for today's youth to be freely handed merchandise, especially cell phones, from their parents without any payment required or rules to follow. Without question, we are living in a world of entitlement without the days of hard labor that earned such a right. However, I have been blessed to live in a home where I have been taught valuable financial lessons. In fact, it is my mom who has told me the wisest piece of advice that I will likely ever receive. She says, "Do not buy it if you do not need it. You will need that money for a rainy day." Since my dad has always been the sole provider of our home, and my mom has always been too sick to work outside our home, I have learned from an early age that I can do without. For example, we have never paid for a cable bill, so we borrow movies from the local library and pay for Amazon Prime. We cannot always afford new clothes, but we can purchase gently used clothes from the thrift stores. In turn, we have used this money for a rainy day on new tires, for high electricity bills, and to replace appliances. Simply explained, I have everything that I really need, and there is always a greater need to be seen, so save that rainy day money!

Although the Covid-19 pandemic may have been the most frightening time of many people's lives, I have witnessed much good come from the pandemic. Without question, it was the scare of the pandemic that prompted many families to completely reorganize their lives to accommodate their loved ones. When daycares closed down, neighbors and family members took care of younger children, allowing parents to work for their families. To eliminate the spread of the Covid-19 coronavirus, younger family members purchased groceries for older family members. Also, when families could no longer visit their older family members in nursing homes, many chose to open their homes to their elderly family members. In addition, I watched the business world change for the better. Although it was surely a struggle in the beginning, I witnessed restaurants survive with to-go meal options that proved to be more economical for families to purchase. In addition, many businesses realized that their workers really could work from home every day, saving money by not leasing a building to provide a place for employees to work. Even grocery stores changed their policies, offering allotted shopping times for the elderly to shop alone, which kept society's older members safe while the stores maintained their revenue. Also, stores began to clean their facilities more regularly, which still continues in most stores today. With these positive changes due to the pandemic, I have much hope that the future will be better. In my community, I have recognized that although many believe that the pandemic has ceased, neighbors still continue to work together for the betterment of one another. Moreover, many families had a change of heart and now anticipate opportunities to care for the elderly and youngest members of their families. Also, restaurants continue to offer families support with money saving deals on family meals. The employees of small companies continue to work from home, saving on fuel and using their time exclusively for work without the time wasted to commute. Perhaps these changes will indefinitely continue, reviving a continual hope in humanity.

Within the last several years, my parents' credit card information has been repeatedly stolen via system breaches. Thus, without question, I am most excited about furthering the technology of cybersecurity. Having one's credit card information stolen is one of the greatest concerns and inconveniences for a consumer. Perhaps my parents were most inconvenienced when a security breach occurred less than one week before we were to leave for a family vacation, requiring them to use their debit card to pay our hotel bill and keep a pile of cash in our car for all other purchases. With that family vacation, it seemed like we had stepped into a time capsule to have a 1980s vacation before credit cards became so popular. In the near future, I hope that cybersecurity will further develop to completely prohibit digital attacks of systems, networks, and other programs of trusted companies. Although consumers who frequently pay attention to their online banking may note illegal activity, those who do not regularly check their online banking may encounter multiple false transactions before they report such charges to their financial institution. In addition, it is inconvenient to replace the previous credit card information with new credit card information, requiring the consumer to spend many hours and phone calls with companies to make all accounts current. But with impenetrable cybersecurity, consumers' lives will not be rudely disrupted, and lives can be lived with common expectations.

Without question, my favorite book is A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. The story begins with Ebenezer Scrooge being faced with The Ghost of Christmas Past, who is the ghost of Scrooge's previous business partner, Jacob Marley. Although Scrooge is thrilled to see Marley, Ebenezer Scrooge becomes disgruntled when Jacob Marley reminds him of the joys that he has lost due to his greed for money. Also, Marley wears a heavy chain that represents the depth of his greed; the greater the greed, the heavier the chain. In fact, Jacob Marley warns Ebenezer Scrooge to change his ways before his chain becomes even heavier than Marley's chain. Then, two more ghosts visit Scrooge: The Ghost of Christmas Present and The Ghost of Christmas Future. Representing generosity and good will, The Ghost of Christmas Present reveals to Ebenezer Scrooge how his assistant, Bob Cratchit, and his wife finds joy in their lives, regardless of the poverty of which they live with their crippled son, Tiny Tim, and his siblings. Reminding Scrooge of the fear of death, The Ghost of Christmas Future predicts that Ebenezer Scrooge will suffer the same fate as Marley if he does not change his ways. But The Ghost of Christmas Future also offers Scrooge a reflection of the Cratchits' inevitable loss of Tiny Tim if his needs are not cared for. Without delay, Ebenezer Scrooge changes his ways, fulfilling the needs of all those he has wronged the following day, which is Christmas Day. Undeniably, The Christmas Carol is my favorite book because it offers me opportunities to reflect on my current life. It urges me to live as a generous person. With each reading of the same story, I am prompted to consider those who live in despair and fulfill their needs.

Margaret E. Kuhn, an American activist who founded the Gray Panthers movement, once stated, "Old age is not a disease. It is strength and survivorship, triumph over all kinds of vicissitudes and disappointments, trials and diseases." Without question, many in today's society discard elderly people as if they have lost their purpose. In fact, those of my generation will literally run around those who are elderly to be first in line instead of honoring elderly people with being served first. Without question, the parents of these youth are to blame for their children's lack of manners. But regardless of one's upbringing, each individual can assume the responsibility to offer honor and respect to their elderly neighbors. To improve the lives of my community's elderly members, I think of them before I consider myself. For example, by being consistently aware of my surroundings, I easily find impromptu opportunities to serve an elderly person, like letting them be in front of me in line, opening a door for them, or carrying their groceries. Also, if I know that an elderly neighbor does not receive regular visits from their family, I assume the responsibility to regularly call them on the telephone, occasionally visit them at their home, or always remember them during the holiday season. When school is not in session, I especially look forward to making homemade candy and cookies with my mom, which we deliver to widows, widowers, and homebound neighbors. With all certainty, I receive the greatest blessing as I serve my elderly neighbors by the simplicity of their honest smiles and contagious laughs.

A Swedish proverb states, "He who buys what he does not need steals from himself." How true it is that many suffer from an impulse to purchase! Many young adults want to acquire the home and its contents as well as the vehicles that their parents own, but they do not consider the laborious days that their parents endured to acquire such blessings. Also, it is common practice for today's youth to be freely handed merchandise, especially cell phones, from their parents without any payment required or rules to follow. Without question, we are living in a world of entitlement without the days of hard labor that earned such a right. However, I have been blessed to live in a home where I have been taught valuable financial lessons. In fact, it is my mom who has told me the most helpful piece of advice that I will likely ever receive. She says, "Do not buy it if you do not need it. You will need that money for a rainy day." Since my dad has always been the sole provider of our home, and my mom has always been too sick to work outside our home, I have learned from an early age that I can do without. For example, we have never paid for a cable bill, so we borrow movies from the local library and pay for Amazon Prime. We cannot always afford new clothes, but we can purchase gently used clothes from the thrift stores. In turn, we have used this money for a rainy day on new tires, for high electricity bills, and to replace appliances. Simply explained, I have everything that I really need, and there is always a greater need to be seen, so save that rainy day money!

Mother Teresa, a Roman Catholic nun and missionary, once stated, "Being unwanted, unloved, uncared for, forgotten by everybody... I think that is a much greater hunger, a much greater poverty than the person who has nothing to eat." How easily this world ignores today's countless orphans! They are not only found in third world countries. In reality, orphans live in our country, in our state, and even in our home town. Everyday, children are left to be alone. I have seen children been taken from their drug-addicted parents. Children have even been left in the hands of state officials when their parents do not survive tragic events, such as the Covid-19 pandemic. Furthermore, children have been the sole survivors of common everyday tragedies, like car accidents and residential fires. In each of these situations, one may assume that grandparents will care for their grandchildren, but not every case of an orphaned child is so simply resolved. However, there are several opportunities to aid today's orphans. For example, financially blessed and selfless adults can become foster parents for a foster care agency, like Alabama's Open Your Heart, Open Your Home program, "a recruitment and retention program that focuses on recruiting adoptive and foster parents for Alabama's children." In addition, monetary donations can be sent to a local foster closet to help maintain their supply of essential clothing and personal needs for displaced children. Also, many foster care agencies accept volunteers to care for orphans during select hours of the day, which enables a person without financial opportunity to be actively involved in foster care. With these diverse options, surely we could ensure that all children have a place to call home.

Albert Einstein, a German-born theoretical physicist, once stated, "Creativity is intelligence having fun." Many insist that I am most creative at working with children. For example, when children do not want to clean up their toys, I will sing a song that says, "Clean up, clean up, we all have to do our share," making us all look like we are a group working in harmony, like the seven dwarfs from the age-old fairy tale. Also, to encourage children to listen, I will gently touch my own ears as the children promptly touch theirs, and we will collectively ask, "Where are your listening ears? Can you find them?" By chance, if this strategy is ineffective, I will chant, "One, two, three; eyes on me," which is bound to get their attention. In addition, in my personal life, I play the piano. After several years of practice, I am now able to randomly play any song from a random song book. This is considered talented to many because playing instruments is becoming a lost art with those of my generation. However, once I begin to play a song, everyone always joins in to sing, offering me moments to catch my audience off guard as I randomly and creatively change the original songs. What a happy time we have from just one tickle of the ivories!

John Muir, a prominent Scottish-American naturalist, once stated, "In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks." As a longtime nature enthusiast, I absolutely agree that a simple walk outside always offers me more than I expect. Living in a rural area, I am blessed to take a stroll outside without being disturbed by noisy street traffic. The unsightly view of yellow pollen that covers my porch swing may be my first observation, but I soon consider the beauty of the Bradford pear and magnolia trees in my yard. I feel the breeze on my skin, watching it rustle the trees' leaves at the very same moment. When I look up to the sky, I still observe the clouds, like I am a young boy, hoping that my imagination will discover an animal's outline. But I also consider the blessing of the soil when I study my neighbor's vegetable garden, knowing that the toil of the land and planting of the seeds will produce vegetables to eat during our economy's time of uncertainty. Since I was a young boy, it has been instilled in me to appreciate nature. From ages two to ten years old, I helped my grandfather tend his seasonal vegetable garden, learning about common insects, the sun's importance, and the purpose of the rain. Perhaps my best memories of the outdoors were with my twin brother, Luke, when we played in the forbidden forests behind our grandparents' homes. For family vacations, my parents have always included visits to state parks and nature preserves where we would walk on large stones in the creeks and observe the rushing water as it seemed to chase us. With such memories as these, moments in nature certainly offered me more than I ever searched for.

When I was eleven years old, my optometrist determined that I had too much vision loss in just one year. To prevent more vision loss, my doctor prescribed me atropine sulfate eye drops to slow the progression of my vision loss. However, after six months of using these drops, my vision loss had continued to progress, so my optometrist increased my prescription strength. Unfortunately, using this stronger prescription for six months did not slow down the progression of my vision loss either. Thus, at twelve years old, my optometrist predicted that I would likely have retinal detachment in both eyes within a couple of years, if I did not begin an aggressive treatment with hard contact lenses known as orthokeratology. Although I was concerned when I heard this possible diagnosis, I was thankful that my parents were willing to purchase the $1,200 contact lenses, which are designed to push back my retinas while reshaping my corneas as I slept in the lenses. In just three days of treatment, I gained six points of vision in each eye! With persistence of wearing these contacts each night for about five years, my optometrist says that my eyes are still positively responding to the orthokeratology treatment. Recently, I have been informed that I may potentially cease the orthokeratology treatment and resume using the atropine sulfate eye drops, which I will use each night until the age of 21. Having stable eye health and vision is a gift that many take for granted. However, I will never forget the day when I learned that I could lose my sight. I am thankful for the technology of orthokeratology and that it restored much of my vision through my persistence. I will forever be grateful to my parents for their commitment to restore my vision.

Pablo Picasso, an artistic genius of Spanish descent, once stated, "The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away." Without question, the meaning for my life is to humbly live alongside those who are not as likely to achieve. By choosing this untrodden path, I am reminded that those who live with mental and developmental disabilities are only in need of humble servants and friends. Through volunteer work with two nonprofits, the ARC of Walker County (Jasper, AL) and United Ability (Birmingham, AL), as well as the Burkett Center of Jefferson County Schools (Kimberly, AL), I am offered blessed opportunities to live with and befriend those who need the most support. In addition, my volunteer work has continually revealed to me that these individuals are not as incapable as many think they may be. In fact, I have learned that most are only in need of considerate friends who will speak with them and assist them as needed. To continue to humbly live alongside this group of people, I trust that my A.A.S. as an Occupational Therapy Assistant and my Master's degree in Occupational Therapy will provide doors of opportunity. It is my personal belief that the last, like disabled or elderly members of society, should be served first, and the first, like the most intelligent or prominent members of society, should be served last. For me, this is the meaning of my life that could certainly leave a positive impact on the world.

Ralph Waldo Emerson, an American essayist and philosopher, once stated, "Cultivate the habit of being grateful for every good thing that comes to you, and to give thanks continuously. And because all things have contributed to your advancement, you should include all things in your gratitude." Without question, I have experienced incredible sadness and struggle in my young life. When such events are experienced before adulthood, a person's gratitude matures beyond that of their peers. Indeed, there are many reasons that I live with continual gratitude and appreciation. Of all these, how frightening it was in July of 2021, when I suddenly passed out, looking completely deceased except for the shallow breathing that I had! My parents testify that they were uncertain if I would be admitted to the local hospital or funeral home. I was completely passed out, and I did not respond to stimuli nor anyone's voice. There was no reason to believe that my existence would continue or cease. However, a few minutes later, I did begin moving. A few weeks later, I learned that I had passed out due to a well established coronavirus. However, it had overcome my immune system because I had a dreadfully low vitamin D level. For two months, I did not have the strength to complete my course work, drive, or help at my home. It was the most desperate situation that I had ever endured, and I absolutely questioned if I would ever live my life normally again. How thankful I was to have my independence and previous abilities restored two months later! Now I am always grateful, especially when I reflect on my time of sickness. I am thankful for a strong immune system and ability to accomplish on my own. Every day truly is a blessing.

Herman Melville, an American novelist and poet, once stated, "It is better to fail in originality than to succeed in imitation." In order to affirm my originality, I must speak my personal beliefs and thoughts. When these are challenged by others, I share my past experiences as well as experiences of well known influencers to affirm the truth in my beliefs. Although I respect those with different opinions, I am rarely swayed to alter my belief system. In fact, I seek out opportunities to be challenged by others. To acquire my A.A.S. as an Occupational Therapy Assistant, I look forward to attending Wallace State Community College (Hanceville, AL), a public community college located in a suburban area. However, to attain my Master's in Occupational Therapy, I will attend Belmont University (Nashville, TN), a private, Christian university located in an urban area. With such a contrast between these two upper educational institutions, I anticipate my belief system to be frequently challenged. Still, I look forward to the opportunities to express my well established beliefs and thoughts to those around me.

Jim Stovall, an American writer, once stated, "You need to be aware of what others are doing, applaud their efforts, acknowledge their successes, and encourage them in their pursuits. When we all help one another, everybody wins." How blessed I am to have been raised in a family that encourages others! From an early age, my mother taught me to introduce myself to others, listen to their concerns, and encourage them if they are downtrodden. Offering others encouragement not only blesses them, it blesses the one who encourages them. Encouragement can simply be offered through a smile to a stranger, a written letter to a friend, or a word of encouragement to a teacher. Indeed, I know that I have been an effective encourager when I receive a smile in return, a thanks for a letter, or a kind word in return. As such communication as this continues, simple encouragement may even evolve into friendship. To encourage others, I choose to implement a few strategies. For example, I encourage them to reflect on their achievements and consider the struggles that they have overcome. Also, I often share an encouraging word, quote, or book with a discouraged friend. Furthermore, I remind someone who is discouraged that their best is good enough. In addition, I prompt the person to write a list of their accomplishments, which serves as their reminder that they have successfully overcome trials. Finally, I make time to inquire about the concerns that were told to me, reminding the discouraged individual that I am available for support.

Conrad Hilton, an American businessman and founder of the Hilton Hotels chain, once stated, "Achievement seems to be connected with action. Successful men and women keep on moving. They make mistakes, but they don't quit." Thus, to make a bucket list, I must be committed to making my goals become a reality. Perhaps my most probable objective is to acquire an A.A.S. as an Occupational Therapy Assistant and Master's in Occupational Therapy. Then, I anticipate becoming a home owner and a happily married man; I want a love with anticipation to see each other every single day. Hopefully, after a few years of marriage, I can become a father, a committed father like my father is for me. However, I have achieved some goals on my bucket list. Above all, I am thrilled that the possibility of retinal detachment has been eliminated with the hard contact lenses that I wear each night. I am also thankful to be a licensed driver because it is a citizen's right that many take for granted. Recently, I have applied for many scholarships, and I am very proud of the commitment that I have made to submit specific essays. Finally, I am grateful that I am volunteering with nonprofits, which offers me opportunities to regularly work with and care for those who live with mental and developmental disabilities.

William Hazlitt, an English essayist and philosopher, once stated, "As is our confidence, so is our capacity." It is true that my confidence determines the challenges I choose to pursue. My confidence is not a secret of which only I am familiar; it is reflected through my conversations, course work, and community service. If a person suffers with self-confidence, they are too bashful to independently function in society. In contrast, if an individual is more self-confident, they will consistently put their best foot forward, choosing to ignore criticism from others and function independently in today's world. To maintain my self-confidence, I choose to implement a few strategies. For example, I reflect on my achievements and consider the struggles that I have overcome. Also, by surrounding myself with those who support me and my efforts, I am consistently encouraged as I face any obstacle. Furthermore, my parents have always told me that my best is good enough, so I remind myself of this whenever I feel challenged or defeated. In addition, sometimes I will write a list of my accomplishments, which serves as a reminder that I have been successful with overcoming trials. Finally, by reading biographies of others who have attained victory or overcome obstacles, I am inspired to maintain and strengthen my confidence to better myself.

Ralph Waldo Emerson, an American essayist and philosopher, once stated, "Every natural power exhilarates; a true talent delights the possessor first." Personally, I am delighted to have the talent to effectively work with young children, which I practice by volunteering with children at nonprofits and babysitting my younger cousins who are ages three and six. Also, I relish in playing my piano, practicing each night and performing at local venues upon request. In addition, I am able to teach all levels of math to any student, tutoring for Wise Guys Tutoring and teaching students upon request. During my community service opportunities, I have been told that my social skills are superior to my peers; I engage socially with others in various settings, including at benefit functions for nonprofits and with my peers at school. Finally, many have informed me that I offer the most polite refusals, which I exercise with eye contact and a firm yet polite voice whenever my morals or schedule does not agree with the opportunity at hand.

My best skill is writing effectively. Throughout my high school years, I have always achieved a grade of 90-100 on all of my writing compositions. With my English teacher's approval, I took the writing portion for my ACT, earning a seven of a twelve, which placed me in the 34th percentile of all ACT test takers. (Since six is the most common score, I was very proud that I placed higher than average.) In addition, those who read my compositions actually anticipate reading my writing, which is perhaps the greatest measure of my writing ability. To improve my writing ability, I seek to apply my writing in a variety of ways. For example, I am currently writing responses to questions for scholarship applications. Also, I write essays to 40-minute timed essay prompts twice-weekly. In addition, I research and summarize current events once weekly. Finally, I choose to write personal letters to celebrate individuals' birthdays and other special occasions whenever opportunities come available.

According to Oxford Languages, the word motivation is defined as the general desire or willingness to do something. Personally, my motivation is the desire to achieve a variety of goals. For example, currently, I am successfully completing my last two challenging subjects in high school: AP Calculus BC and Advanced Chemistry. In just a few days, I will accomplish organizing and hosting my first nonprofit event, the ARC of Walker County's Casino Night. As I represent the State of Alabama for the upcoming National Beta Convention, I certainly hope to place at the national event, earning a recognition that not only I can be proud of, but my state can be proud of. Still, I always look forward to helping others, so I look forward to working in group mission projects throughout this summer. In short, my motivation is derived from the ability to achieve, regardless of the type of achievement that I may obtain.

To make my friends, family, and other people in my life feel loved, I consider them before myself. With conversations, I anticipate listening to their feelings and thoughts before I share my own. Also, I study them to determine if they are not feeling well or need something, and I serve them upon determining how I may help better their day. Regardless of how my day is going, I smile whenever I see anyone. Above all, I am sure to respect those in authority and those who are my elders, which is why I still use my manners by opening doors for them or getting behind them in line. With my parents and brother, I consider them before all others. I am sure to express my love for them in words at the beginning and end of each day. With my mom being a sickly person, I think of her before I think of myself every day, cooking dinner when she is too tired or giving her the medications that she needs. In addition, my dad works relentlessly for our family, so every day I thank him for his hard work and complete chores that he expects me to finish before he gets home. Most certainly, it is a blessing to express love to those I love the most!

According to William Shakespeare, an English playwright and poet, "The fool doth think he is wise, but the wise man knows himself to be a fool." How true it is that some people are certainly fools! They trust that they have acquired all worldly wisdom. Regardless of a fool's misconceptions or apparent downfalls to those around them, they do not accept the need to personally develop any further. Instead, a fool chooses to mock or argue with anyone around them, making a display of ignorance in most conversations. However, it is the wise man who recognizes that they must continue to grow. They recognize that no one is knowledgeable of all topics or capable of solving all problems. Although someone may have achieved many successes, the wise man knows that there will be unexpected struggles to overcome. Thus, it is the wise man who accepts to further develop themselves to prepare for the future. Indeed, it is the wise man who has not acquired all understandings necessary to live in this world, humbling himself to be the fool.

The song that most inspires me is Bon Jovi's "Livin' on a Prayer." I realize that this song is about an undying love, which I have understood every time my parents sing this song to one another any time it is played on the radio. However, I mostly consider the inspirational part to be the chorus, which can easily be applied to living out a productive life. First, the chorus says, "We've got to hold on to what we've got," which I consider to be my accomplishments achieved and struggles that I have overcome. The next line states, "It doesn't make a difference if we make it or not," and this is certainly true because life will continue, even if an achievement is not accomplished or a struggle overcomes me. The following line declares, "We've got each other and that's a lot for love," which is absolutely a truth since who we have in our lives is all that is certain. Finally, the last line commands, "We'll give it a shot," proclaiming a persistence to overcome the next trial, advance to the following level, or face the inevitable struggle without fear.

Although there are many books that I have read in recent years, none has inspired me like A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. First, Ebenezer Scrooge is faced with The Ghost of Christmas Past, who is the ghost of Scrooge's previous business partner, Jacob Marley. Although Scrooge is thrilled to see Marley, Ebenezer Scrooge becomes disgruntled when Jacob Marley reminds him of the joys that he has lost due to his greed for money. Also, Marley wears a heavy chain that represents the depth of his greed; the greater the greed, the heavier the chain. In fact, Jacob Marley warns Ebenezer Scrooge to change his ways before his chain becomes even heavier than Marley's chain. Then, two more ghosts visit Scrooge: The Ghost of Christmas Present and The Ghost of Christmas Future. Representing generosity and good will, The Ghost of Christmas Present reveals to Ebenezer Scrooge how his assistant, Bob Cratchit, and his wife finds joy in their lives, regardless of the poverty of which they live with their crippled son, Tiny Tim, and his siblings. Reminding Scrooge of the fear of death, The Ghost of Christmas Future predicts that Ebenezer Scrooge will suffer the same fate as Marley if he does not change his ways. But The Ghost of Christmas Future also offers Scrooge a reflection of the Cratchits' inevitable loss of Tiny Tim if his needs are not cared for. Without delay, Ebenezer Scrooge changes his ways, fulfilling the needs of all those he has wronged the following day, which is Christmas Day. Doubtlessly, The Christmas Carol offers me opportunities to reflect on my current life. I am urged to live as a generous person. Without question, I am summoned to search for those who live in despair and grant them the support that they so desperately need.

My parents have the most excellent credit history. With their money talks for the last several years, I have been well informed of how to best invest my money as a teenager. After they explained the list of investment options, I chose to invest my money in a high yield savings account. Since the company that my dad works for offers a credit union for employees and their family members, I took advantage of this credit union's high yield savings account. A high yield savings account offers benefits that even a teenager can benefit from. For example, the yield of my savings account is higher than that of a regular savings account. Also, unlike a CD, I am not penalized for an early withdrawal, meaning that I can withdrawal my money as I deem necessary from my savings account without an additional fee. Finally, as I deposit additional money, the interest rates increase at particular increments, which produces an even greater return on my investment.

An American author, Stephen Covey, once stated, "The biggest communication problem is we do not listen to understand. We listen to reply." This statement truly defines today's society, especially those of my generation. To remain a selfless person, I choose to actively listen to those around me because that is the way I desire for others to listen to me. First and foremost, when conversing with others, I choose to put away my smartphone, which indicates to the speaker that I am only interested in the words that they long to share with me. Also, while the speaker is sharing their thoughts with me, my eyes indicate that I am honestly interested in their words. In turn, my active listening allows me to retain the information that was spoken, enabling me to refer to the speaker's thoughts in a future conversation with them. Listening is often confused with hearing. However, listening requires complete attention, including facing the speaker to show respect. With active listening, the listener eliminates all distractions of their mind, making room for the speaker's thoughts or feelings. Furthermore, the listener should be prepared to offer a reflection or related thought when the speaker expects such a response. After all, with genuine conversation, everyone receives an invitation to speak and to be heard.

An American naturalist, Henry David Thoreau, once stated, "That man is rich whose pleasures are the cheapest." How true it is that the most common treasures are overlooked! With absolute confession, I anticipate the moments that I spend on my porch swing, feeling the warmth of the sun and the breeze on my face, which offers me opportunity to reflect on my pastimes and blessings in nature. Also, I enjoy reading classic novels because reading stimulates my mind. Playing piano strengthens my ability to concentrate and offers me a feeling of overwhelming joy! In addition, I greatly anticipate the conversations and new work skills that I acquire when I work outside with my dad. Whenever school is not in session, I enjoy making homemade candy and cookies with my mom, which creates memories as we share conversations and moments of laughter together. Moreover, serving others, even if it is only bringing my mother a glass of ice water, gives me personal fulfillment as I care for her need. After suffering from insomnia for three months, I appreciate a night of sound sleep because it eliminates my stress, bringing me relief from the previous day's stressors. Indeed, Oscar Fingal O'Flahertie Wills Wilde, an Irish poet and playwright, was most sincere when he stated, "Simple pleasures are the last healthy refuge in a complex world," because these pleasures offer opportunities that are certain to satisfy.

My future seems to increasingly grow in complexity as each day approaches. Undoubtedly, this summer will be the most committed summer that I have ever anticipated. Academically, I will self-teach myself my fourth math, statistics, before I officially take Elementary Statistics at Wallace State Community College (Hanceville, AL) this upcoming fall semester. In addition, I am one of three National Beta Club members who will represent the State of Alabama in the competition titled Math 11 at July's National Beta Convention. Also, throughout this summer, I will work in group mission projects in my local community and abroad. Above all, I look forward to being a Giving is Good Teen Volunteer for United Ability's Hand in Hand Early Learning Center (Birmingham, AL), which will allow me to care for and work with young children who live with special needs. Once the fall semester begins, I will begin pursuing my A.A.S. as an Occupational Therapy Assistant. As an accelerated student at Wallace State Community College, I look forward to taking courses that will apply to my A.A.S. as an Occupational Therapy Assistant and for Belmont University's Weekend Master's Program in Occupational Therapy. Furthermore, I will be acquiring my observation hours for Wallace State's OTA program during the spring semester. However, for my senior year in high school, I greatly anticipate continuing my school clubs at Hope Christian School: Christian Honor Society, National Beta Club, Key Club, Engineering Club, and STEM Club. What is more, I look forward to the volunteer hours at my selected nonprofits, United Ability (Birmingham, AL) and the ARC of Walker County (Jasper, AL), as well as the Burkett Center for Jefferson County Schools (Kimberly, AL), that will surely reward me beyond my expectations.

Knowing the story of my great-great-grandmother, a single mother of four children during the Great Depression who lived 103 years, I believe I know some ways to live a long, healthy life. For example, I know for a fact that my grandmother kept her body pure, so she never smoked cigarettes, practiced illicit drugs, or drank alcoholic beverages of any kind. She also chose to primarily drink water and sweet tea, but my grandmother very rarely drank a soda, so she clearly valued drinking more natural drinks. In addition, she tended a seasonal garden of which she canned, dried, and froze vegetables, so she ate the purest forms of natural goods. Furthermore, my grandmother was proud that she never drove a vehicle, as well as never used an elevator or escalator; instead, she walked everywhere she went, so exercise was important to her as well. Also, she did not take prescription drugs until her last twenty years of life, and she did her best to not be evaluated by doctors, obviously trusting that her garden and exercise offered more than traditional medicine. Finally, my grandmother was known to never sleep in, waking before the sun rose each day, so she knew the importance of sound sleep, but she knew another priority for a long life: physical work.

When I was eleven years old, my optometrist determined that I had too much vision loss in just one year. To prevent more vision loss, my doctor prescribed me atropine sulfate eye drops to slow the progression of my vision loss. However, after six months of using these drops, my vision loss had continued to progress, so my optometrist increased my prescription strength. Unfortunately, using this stronger prescription for six months did not slow down the progression of my vision loss either. Thus, at twelve years old, my optometrist predicted that I would likely have retinal detachment in both eyes within a couple of years, if I did not begin an aggressive treatment with hard contact lenses known as orthokeratology. Although I was concerned when I heard this possible diagnosis, I was thankful that my parents were willing to purchase the $1,200 contact lenses, which are designed to push back my retinas while reshaping my corneas as I slept in the lenses. In just three days of treatment, I gained six points of vision in each eye! After wearing these contacts each night for about five years, my optometrist says that my eyes are still positively responding to the orthokeratology treatment. Recently, I have been informed that I may potentially cease the orthokeratology treatment and resume using the atropine sulfate eye drops, which I will use each night until the age of 21. Having stable eye health and vision is a gift that many take for granted. However, I will never forget the day when I learned that I could lose my sight. I am thankful for the technology of orthokeratology and that it restored much of my vision. I will forever be grateful to my parents for their commitment to restore my vision.

To live to my best ability, I practice self-care. Perhaps the greatest way I practice taking care of myself is by choosing to primarily drink water and never sodas; eat a variety of healthy foods without high sugar or high salt content; and not eating foods high in carbs and unhealthy fats. However, I also engage in daily exercise, which includes walking daily, riding my stationary bicycle with resistance levels each day, and playing a team sport once weekly. In addition, I choose not to take unnecessary prescription drugs, opting to replace suggested drugs with antioxidants, vitamins, and whole food sources. Still, after suffering three months without sleep, I am confident that nightly sound sleep is most likely the best way that I practice self-care. By carefully choosing these daily habits to take care of myself, I have been blessed with feeling not only well but complete. For example, drinking water is not only refreshing, but it also eliminates acne, gastrointestinal upset, and increase in glucose that sodas inflict. Eating a variety of healthy foods, instead of foods high in salt and sugar, decreases the likelihood of me acquiring high blood pressure or diabetes. Also, not eating foods high in carbs and unhealthy fats maintains a healthy cardiovascular system and cholesterol levels. Furthermore, engaging in daily exercise builds my muscles and endurance, as well as increases my energy level. Certainly, with my independent research and guidance from a pharmacist, replacing prescription drugs with natural options eliminates the typically long list of dangerous or longstanding effects from drugs. But above all, nightly sound sleep boosts my immune system and eliminates stress, which is necessary to overcome the inconveniences and struggles of today's world.

An Irish proverb states, "A good friend is like a four-leaf clover: hard to find and lucky to have." I completely agree that it is difficult to find a true friend. Personally, I expect a friend to have integrity, which is a character quality that is becoming increasingly less important, especially to members of my generation. However, two friends who have integrity would certainly have a lasting bond intertwined with commitment, brotherly love, and forgiveness. With such a friendship, my friend and I would climb any mountain, swim any ocean, and tread any path to help or save the other. Since before I was even born, I have been one of these lucky people. How thankful I am to have my twin brother, Luke, for all of my days! He knows me better than my parents know me. When I am concerned, Luke is the first, and sometimes the only, person I express my thoughts to. If I am sick, he already knows before I say a single word. This friendship means so much to me that I could not imagine living without it.

To keep a growth mindset, I always remember that I can strive to accomplish more. This may not always be true with academics or immediate career opportunities, but I do believe that it is true with other growth opportunities. For example, to strengthen my character, I can determine and apply ways to overcome difficult situations. In addition, a greater independence can be acquired by making decisions independent of others' opinions. Also, social and communication skills can be further developed by placing myself in out-of-the-box opportunities where I am required to be introduced to and work alongside new people. Even with life skills, I can grow in many areas. For instance, as a licensed driver, I can choose to drive on roads of which I have never before driven. To develop my credit score, I may begin to use a credit card, which will require me to be self-disciplined and accountable with my purchases. If I am unfamiliar with a subject, even one spoken in a common conversation, I can independently study the subject on my own. Indeed, a person must always recognize that they should continue to grow. No one is knowledgeable of all topics or capable of solving all problems. Although someone may have achieved many successes, there will be unexpected struggles to overcome. Thus, maintaining a growth mindset prepares an individual to anticipate the next opportunity to further develop themselves.

Staying true to myself is the foundation of how I begin every day. From a young age, my parents taught me that my best efforts were enough. If struggles come along, I remind myself of strategies used to resolve these struggles. Also, I always remain true to my character because even when I am not successful, I want to have my character to uphold my reputation. My mother has always reminded me to remember where I came from. Indeed, I do remember each house that I have called my home. Also, I recall my dad once shoveling coal to provide for his family, and now he works alongside bosses to solve company problems. In other words, our family's success and blessings are the fruits of my dad's labor. But above all else I remember that I represent Christ who will never mislead me, if I am close enough to hear Him speak. With all of these reflections and reminders, I am confident that I will remain true to myself, regardless of the unexpected struggles of my daily life.

If I were a highly influential figure, I would choose to stand for character. According to Oxford Languages, the word character is defined as the mental and moral qualities distinctive to an individual. Character has been a lost, or at least fading, trait for the last several years. But an American inventor, John Hays Hammond, once stated, "Character is the real foundation of worthwhile success." Thus, a person does not have to boast in their ability, intelligence, or wealth. After all, a person's character will foster a lasting reputation compared to celebrated success that is sure to fade. If a person has a foundation of true character, it will last through the most trying times and for years to come. For example, I have witnessed my dad overcome adversity in the workplace through his character. Also, my mother has always been sick, but she has never complained, which exemplifies her character. It is through my parents that I can identify character and the importance of character in society. Therefore, it is my choice to maintain my character, even if I do not become a highly influential figure.

To have a positive impact on the world, I choose to live in humility. With my ACT and SAT test scores as well as my GPA, my family often expresses how proud they are of my achievements. But, instead of boasting in my academic abilities, I desire to humbly live amongst those who are not as likely to achieve. By choosing this untrodden path, I am reminded that those who live with mental and developmental disabilities do not need others to boast of their abilities. In contrast, those that need the most support need humble friends to help them with everyday tasks that most take for granted. It is my personal belief that the last, like disabled or elderly members of society, should be served first, and the first, like the most intelligent or prominent members of society, should be served last. For me, this is a lasting solution that could certainly leave a positive impact on the world.

To manage stress, strengthen my immune system, and increase my energy, I care for my mental health in a variety of ways. For example, I choose to read my own book choice and play my piano each evening. ln addition, playing Xbox One with my dad relaxes me as I game with him, but our conversations also offer me opportunities to speak my concerns and share moments of laughter with him. Whenever school is not in session, I enjoy making homemade candy and cookies with my mom, which relaxes me with our conversations and moments of laughter shared together. Furthermore, although many consider community service to be a type of work, I find personal fulfillment, which strengthens my mental health, as I serve and speak with others. Also, I maintain a regular sleep pattern, going to sleep each night and waking each morning at about the same time. Finally, I relax when I talk with my twin brother each evening, which is always my most important conversation of the day.

My list of hobbies is quite varied. For example, I enjoy reading a variety of books, especially classic novels, whenever I have an opportunity to do so. I also look forward to playing piano at home each evening as well as at local venues upon request. Perhaps one of my most cherished hobbies is playing Xbox One with my dad because my dad's secular job is inordinately demanding, keeping him from home more than any dad that I know; if my dad is with me, that is when I feel most blessed. In addition, I appreciate engaging in opportunities to serve my community, like with an upcoming T-shirt drive for United Ability (Birmingham, AL), the Annual Fundraiser titled Casino Night for the ARC of Walker County (Jasper, AL), and the Annual Egg Hunt at the Burkett Center for Jefferson County Schools (Kimberly, AL). Whenever school is not in session, I enjoy making homemade candy and cookies with my mom, but even more so, I greatly anticipate delivering these edible treats to homebound neighbors and independent business owners who appreciate these care packages more than words can express.

Most consider me to be an advanced learner because my high school transcript will list six mathematics courses and the four most difficult science courses that I can take at my high school. However, I attribute much of my academic success to my regular study strategies. For example, I choose to study every day, which includes challenging myself with independent studies. In addition, I do not study in one area of my home; instead, I choose to study in my bedroom or in my living room, at my kitchen table, or outside on my porch swing. Also, I recognize the importance of eating when I am hungry and maintaining regular sleep patterns, which are scientifically proven to fuel the brain. Finally, I do not stress myself to achieve the highest grades or test scores possible, but I do aim to study misunderstood concepts after each test, which has proven to enhance my background knowledge of various academic disciplines.

Helping others was instilled in me as a child. My favorite way to help others is through community service. From nine to twelve years old, I served our local community at a food pantry and clothes closet, The Mission of Hope (Dora, AL), which required me to bag soda cans, sort nonperishable goods, purchase select gifts for the clients’ children, and donate seasonal items for clients and their families. At twelve years old, I began serving our local community through group mission projects, such as home projects for elderly members, donations of needed items for local nonprofits, manual labor at local schools and nonprofits, and tutoring opportunities for elementary and intermediate students. Currently, I am a volunteer for two nonprofits, the ARC of Walker County (Jasper, AL) and United Ability (Birmingham, AL), but I also volunteer at the Burkett Center of Jefferson County Schools (Kimberly, AL) with special events. These opportunities have all offered me countless ways to help others, consistently blessing me with a rewarding experience each and every time.

A community is not only a group of people living in a common area, but it is a fellowship with those who share the same welfare and purpose. However, this type of connection only develops when members of a community regularly group together to support one another, implementing solutions that benefit potentially all members of a community. As a few members group together for a common purpose, the need for unity is often fostered, resulting in more members to work together for the same purpose: to better their community. In addition, as members regularly work together through communal projects, new friendships are often fostered and a system of encouragement is established. Through my personal experience, community service has offered me opportunities to improve my work skills, such as communication skills, teamwork, and task management. What is more, as I regularly serve my community, I am blessed with personal fulfillment as I continually find joy in serving with each opportunity. Community service was instilled in me as a child. From nine to twelve years old, I served our local community at a food pantry and clothes closet, The Mission of Hope (Dora, AL), which required me to bag soda cans, sort nonperishable goods, purchase select gifts for the clients’ children, and donate seasonal items for clients and their families. At twelve years old, I began serving our local community through group mission projects, such as home projects for elderly members, donations of needed items for local nonprofits, manual labor at local schools and nonprofits, and tutoring opportunities for elementary and intermediate students. Currently, I am a volunteer for two nonprofits, the ARC of Walker County (Jasper, AL) and United Ability (Birmingham, AL), but I also volunteer at the Burkett Center of Jefferson County Schools (Kimberly, AL) with special events.

Community service was instilled in me as a child. From nine to twelve years old, I served our local community at a food pantry and clothes closet, The Mission of Hope (Dora, AL), which required me to bag soda cans, sort nonperishable goods, purchase select gifts for the clients’ children, and donate seasonal items for clients and their families. At twelve years old, I began serving our local community through group mission projects, such as home projects for elderly members, donations of needed items for local nonprofits, manual labor at local schools and nonprofits, and tutoring opportunities for elementary and intermediate students. Currently, my concentration with community service is to serve members of the special needs community. In August of 2021, I determined that my career calling was to become an occupational therapist for children who live with special needs. To affirm my calling, I began serving in the Wonderfully Made Ministry, a ministry for children who live with special needs. Being blessed as I worked with and cared for these children fostered the importance of regularly volunteering with those of the special needs community. Now I am a volunteer for two nonprofits, the ARC of Walker County (Jasper, AL) and United Ability (Birmingham, AL), but I also volunteer at the Burkett Center of Jefferson County Schools (Kimberly, AL) with special events and by fulfilling requested donations. As I continue to serve those who are in need of the most support, I unconditionally testify that I sincerely cherish my community service opportunities with these nonprofits.

My current passion is finding opportunities to serve members of the special needs community. In August of 2021, I determined that my career calling was to become an occupational therapist for children who live with special needs. To affirm my calling, I began serving in the Wonderfully Made Ministry, a ministry for children who live with special needs. Being blessed as I worked with and cared for these children fostered the importance of regularly volunteering with those of the special needs community. Now I am a volunteer for two nonprofits, the ARC of Walker County (Jasper, AL) and United Ability (Birmingham, AL), but I also volunteer at the Burkett Center of Jefferson County Schools (Kimberly, AL) with special events and by fulfilling requested donations. As I continue to serve those who are in need of the most support, I unconditionally testify that I sincerely cherish my community service opportunities with these nonprofits. Furthermore, I am so passionate about working with children who have special needs that I am pursuing my degree, an A.A.S. as an Occupational Therapy Assistant, as a senior in high school. After working as an OTA for a year, I can apply to Belmont University's (Nashville, TN) Weekend Master’s Degree Program, which would enable me to become a certified occupational therapist in only 22 months. Once I acquire my Master’s in Occupational Therapy, I will have the daily joy of giving back to others as I provide occupational therapy to children who live with special needs. Lastly, I anticipate researching and applying best exercises for each child, which will enable me to be a professional who helps each child obtain new skills that most take for granted.