I also faced a unique challenge: I have pica, a condition that compels me to eat non-food items. This struggle often led to feelings of isolation and confusion, but through community events, I found support and understanding. Engaging with others who have similar experiences helped me feel less alone. These gatherings offered a safe space for sharing stories and fostering a sense of belonging. One of the most impactful projects I undertook was creating a language learning program for Seminole speakers. This initiative aimed to preserve the Seminole language and promote cultural heritage. I researched statistics on language loss, discovering that over 90% of the world’s languages are at risk of disappearing. My program sought to address this by providing resources and lessons for those interested in learning or revitalizing the language. The experience not only connected me with my heritage but also significantly benefited my mental health. Engaging with language and culture provided a sense of purpose and accomplishment. It improved my self-esteem and allowed me to express myself creatively. Through this program, I fostered a community of learners who shared my passion, creating a supportive network that reinforced my belief in the power of communication. As I embark on my college journey, I intend to major in psychology. I want to advocate for mental health awareness, focusing on the unique challenges faced by marginalized communities. My experiences with mental health advocacy and language preservation have solidified my commitment to creating safe spaces where individuals feel comfortable discussing their struggles and seeking support. The skills I gained from my language program and community involvement will stay with me throughout my life. They have not only improved my relationships but also taught me the importance of self-awareness and emotional intelligence. I’ve learned to process difficult emotions and turn negative thoughts into actionable solutions. The scholarship I am applying for will significantly impact my ability to pursue my education and achieve my career goals. With this support, I can focus on my studies without the weight of financial stress, allowing me to devote myself fully to my aspirations. In conclusion, my journey has been marked by both challenges and growth. Through my experiences with mental health advocacy, language preservation, and personal struggles, I am determined to make a positive impact in the lives of others. I hope to inspire those around me to prioritize their mental well-being and seek help when needed. Thank you for considering my application.

From a young age, I faced significant mental health challenges that shaped my understanding of resilience and the importance of seeking help. As an eighth grader, I struggled with feelings of hopelessness that nearly led me to take my own life. This dark period was marked by a profound sense of isolation, intensified by societal stigmas surrounding mental illness. It felt as though I was trapped in a silent battle, grappling with depression and anxiety while fearing the judgment of others. The turning point in my journey came when I realized that I wasn’t alone. After talking one of my closest friends out of a suicide attempt, I found purpose in my pain. This experience illuminated the critical need for open conversations about mental health and the importance of supporting one another. I became determined not just to survive but to thrive, using my experiences to help others navigate their struggles. Through therapy, I learned effective coping mechanisms and developed a deeper understanding of mental health issues. My healing journey has allowed me to embrace my past while empowering me to advocate for change. I now recognize that overcoming mental health challenges is a continuous process—one that requires courage and self-compassion. As I pursue my education in psychology, my goal is to become a mental health professional who can provide support and advocacy for individuals facing similar battles. I plan to specialize in working with teenagers, a demographic often overlooked despite facing immense pressure and mental health challenges. I want to create a safe, non-judgmental space where young people can feel comfortable discussing their struggles and seeking help. In addition to my future career, I am committed to raising awareness about mental health issues. I aim to utilize social media platforms and community outreach programs to share my story and educate others about the importance of mental health care. By promoting initiatives that encourage mental wellness and destigmatize seeking help, I hope to foster a culture where individuals feel empowered to prioritize their mental health without fear of judgment. Moreover, I want to establish workshops in schools that provide resources and coping strategies for students facing mental health challenges. By connecting with young people and offering them tools to navigate their emotions, I aspire to create a ripple effect of support and understanding within my community. In conclusion, my journey through mental health struggles has transformed me into a passionate advocate for change. This scholarship would not only assist me in pursuing my degree but also enable me to further my mission of helping others. I am dedicated to raising awareness and fostering a supportive environment for those affected by mental health challenges. Together, we can break the silence and promote healing for individuals and communities alike. Thank you for considering my application.

My last name carries the weight of a remarkable lineage—one that traces back to Marrano Jews who were once favored by Spanish royalty. This rich history tells a story of resilience and courage, as my ancestors faced persecution for their Jewish heritage and were ultimately expelled to Jamaica. Their ability to adapt and persevere in the face of adversity has profoundly shaped my identity and aspirations. Growing up in a family that values our unique history instilled in me a strong sense of empathy and a commitment to community. The sacrifices made by my ancestors serve as a constant reminder of the importance of standing up for those who face similar struggles today. This awareness drives my desire to create positive change in the world. As I pursue my passion for biotechnology and engineering, I see tremendous potential to make a meaningful impact. I aspire to develop innovative solutions that improve healthcare accessibility for marginalized communities, particularly in relation to genetic disorders like Tay-Sachs disease, which disproportionately affects Ashkenazi Jews. My own life has been touched by this condition; I lost my twin brother to Tay-Sachs, a heart-wrenching experience that fuels my advocacy for awareness and research. This devastating loss not only deepens my resolve to help others but also highlights the need for open conversations about diseases that are often overlooked. Through my studies, I aim to combine my technical skills with a commitment to social justice. I envision a future where I can contribute to the development of affordable medical technologies and support initiatives that raise awareness about Tay-Sachs and other genetic disorders. By working collaboratively with diverse teams, I hope to create solutions that consider the needs of all individuals—values that resonate deeply with my Jewish heritage. In addition to my technical ambitions, I plan to engage in advocacy that emphasizes the importance of genetic testing and education within the Jewish community and beyond. Sharing my story, along with those of others affected by Tay-Sachs, is a way to inspire awareness and encourage proactive health measures. In conclusion, my lineage as a descendant of Marrano Jews, expelled for their beliefs, and my personal experience with Tay-Sachs instilled in me a profound sense of responsibility to make a positive impact. This scholarship would not only support my educational journey but also empower me to honor my ancestors' legacy of resilience and hope. I am committed to dedicating my career to innovation, advocacy, and the pursuit of justice in healthcare. Thank you for considering my application. Am Yisrael Chai!

Growing up in a single-parent household has profoundly shaped my identity and ambitions. My mother, a beacon of strength, juggled multiple jobs to provide for my siblings and me. Despite the financial struggles, she instilled in us the values of perseverance, empathy, and the importance of education. I vividly remember nights when she would stay up late helping me with my homework, even after long hours of work. Her unwavering support taught me the value of hard work and sacrifice. As a child, I often felt the weight of our circumstances. There were times when I wished for a more stable environment, free from financial stress. However, these challenges cultivated a deep sense of resilience within me. I learned to appreciate the little things—like the warmth of family dinners and the joy of shared laughter. This perspective has not only shaped my character but also influenced my aspirations for the future. I plan to pursue a degree in biomedical engineering, focusing on biotechnology. My passion for this field stems from a desire to create innovative solutions that can improve healthcare and enhance the quality of life for others. I am fascinated by how technology can be harnessed to solve pressing medical challenges, from developing new treatments to designing life-saving devices. My journey has also ignited a passion for advocacy. I hope to use my education to raise awareness about health disparities and to create technologies that are accessible to all. I envision a future where breakthroughs in biotechnology can reach underserved communities, ensuring that everyone has access to the best possible care. While I may not yet know the exact path my career will take, I am committed to making a difference in my community. Whether through research, product development, or outreach initiatives, I aspire to use my skills to uplift others. I believe that everyone deserves the chance to lead healthy lives and that innovation can be a powerful tool for change. In conclusion, being raised by a single parent has instilled in me a profound sense of empathy and ambition. My mother’s sacrifices motivate me to pursue my dreams relentlessly and to give back to my community. This scholarship represents an invaluable opportunity to further my education and, in turn, use my experiences to help others. I am eager to turn my challenges into tools for change, honoring my mother’s legacy of resilience and love. Thank you for considering my application.

In 2022, I found myself in a familiar yet foreign environment—a school that felt increasingly empty and isolating. The chairs that once held friends were now vacant, and the city I called home seemed unwelcoming. Far from my family, I felt like a stranger in my own life, grappling with profound grief and a struggle to find my voice, as if trapped in a dream where I longed to scream but no sound would escape. This isolation brought a series of trials that revealed unexpected lessons. Pain, though seemingly senseless, became my teacher, illuminating the strength within me and demonstrating how adversity can shape resilience and personal growth. Just as energy is required to break bonds, my experiences forged a new understanding of life’s complexities. I learned that the most beautiful blessings often arise from what initially feels like a curse. As a non-traditional, first-generation student, my educational journey has been unconventional. I did not take the typical path to college immediately after high school; instead, I faced life challenges that delayed my academic pursuits. These experiences, while difficult, deepened my appreciation for education and instilled in me a determination to help others facing similar struggles. I have actively engaged in supporting the mental health of those around me. I’ve volunteered at community centers, offering a listening ear and creating safe spaces for others to express their feelings. I’ve shared my own experiences to foster connection and understanding, emphasizing that it’s okay to seek help and that no one is truly alone. Looking forward, I plan to use my studies in psychology to provide emotional support to others. I aim to specialize in mental health counseling, focusing on marginalized communities who often lack access to vital resources. This scholarship represents more than financial support; it is a vital stepping stone toward turning my dreams into reality. It will enable me to focus on my education without the constant worry of financial strain, allowing me to gain the skills necessary to impact others positively. In conclusion, my journey as a non-traditional student, shaped by adversity and resilience, has prepared me to help those around me. I am committed to making the most of this opportunity and using my education to create a positive impact in the world. Thank you for considering my application.

The loss of my father has profoundly shaped who I am today, influencing my personal life, academic journey, and financial circumstances. My father was not just a parent; he was a guiding force who instilled in me a deep appreciation for our Seminole heritage. As one of the first men in my life to teach me the Seminole language, he ignited my passion for our culture and history. After his passing, I found myself navigating a landscape of grief that was both overwhelming and transformative. The absence of his voice during milestone moments—birthdays, graduations, and everyday conversations—has been a heavy burden. However, I have come to understand that grief is not merely sorrow; it is love persevering beyond physical presence. This realization has driven me to honor my father’s legacy in meaningful ways. In tribute to him, I created a language learning program aimed at preserving our Seminole language, a project that has flourished within my community. Through this initiative, I have not only become fluent myself but have also empowered numerous children to embrace their cultural identity. I envision this program as a bridge connecting the past to the future, embodying the seven generations principle: the belief that our actions today should consider the impact on the next seven generations. By promoting language and cultural education, I am striving to ensure that our heritage remains vibrant and relevant for those to come. Academically, my father's passing initially felt like an insurmountable obstacle. The grief affected my focus and motivation, challenging my ability to maintain the GPA I had worked so hard for. Yet, as I poured my emotions into my studies and my language program, I found resilience. I learned to channel my pain into purpose, using it to fuel my academic ambitions. I am proud to say that I have consistently maintained a GPA of 4.0, driven by the desire to make my father proud and to create a brighter future for myself and my community. Financially, the loss of my father has introduced challenges that are difficult to navigate. As a family, we have had to adjust to the absence of his support, which has put added pressure on my education expenses. Despite these difficulties, I remain determined to pursue my academic goals and make my father’s legacy a central part of my journey. I view every challenge as an opportunity to grow, and I am committed to using my education as a means to uplift not only myself but also my community. In conclusion, the loss of my father has been a catalyst for profound change in my life. It has shaped my values, motivated my academic pursuits, and inspired me to honor his legacy through community engagement and cultural preservation. This scholarship would not only support my educational aspirations but also enable me to continue carrying forward my father's teachings for future generations. Thank you for considering my application.

My name is Joan, and I am a Black and Seminole woman determined to create a meaningful future through education. I aspire to work in STEAM and use my background to contribute positively to my community. My goals are to continue my studies in engineering and health sciences while actively engaging in initiatives that uplift those around me. Growing up in a low-income community surrounded by high-income neighborhoods has profoundly shaped my worldview. It has taught me to appreciate the beauty in life beyond material possessions. Instead of focusing on what I lack, I find joy in experiences and relationships. This perspective drives my desire to serve others and make a difference. Despite facing financial challenges, I have pursued my education with relentless determination. I earned an associate's degree while still in high school, a milestone that reflects my commitment to learning. Additionally, I created a language learning program that helped me become fluent in my Seminole language while also empowering nearly half of my community’s elementary school students to do the same. This experience has underscored the importance of preserving cultural heritage and the power of education as a tool for community upliftment. The stories of individuals like John J. Costonis resonate deeply with me. His journey of hard work and perseverance without handouts is a testament to the power of grit. Just as he overcame obstacles to secure scholarships to prestigious law schools, I too strive to pave my path despite the barriers I face. I work part-time to support myself and my educational endeavors, understanding that every effort counts toward my future. The hardships I have encountered have taught me resilience. I have learned to navigate the complexities of being a first-generation college student, grappling with the pressure to succeed while managing limited resources. However, these challenges have also instilled in me a deep appreciation for the opportunities I have. I often reflect on the words from Lauren Olamina in *Parable of the Sower*: “God is Change.” I embrace change and challenges as essential parts of my journey, allowing them to fuel my ambition. Looking ahead, I am committed to using my education to create solutions for my community. I envision developing programs that promote health and wellness in underserved populations, drawing on my background in engineering and medical sciences. I aim to be a community figure who inspires others, echoing the values of service and perseverance that my family has instilled in me. My grandfather, a pioneer police officer in Jamaica, and my connection to Celia Cruz serve as reminders of the legacy I want to uphold. In summary, I am dedicated to my goals and driven by the experiences that have shaped me. Through the John J. Costonis Scholarship, I hope to continue my education and use it as a platform to inspire others. I am grateful for your consideration and excited about the opportunity to further my journey.

1) Attribute I Embody: Thrive with an Indomitable Will I firmly believe that I embody the attribute of thriving with an indomitable will. My journey has been shaped by the resilience and determination of my ancestors, including my grandfather, one of the first police officers in Jamaica. His courage and dedication to service inspire me daily. In addition, I am proud to be related to Celia Cruz, a beacon of perseverance in the face of adversity, reminding me that greatness can stem from humble beginnings. As a Black and Seminole woman, I understand the weight of my heritage. I have harnessed this strength to overcome challenges and pursue my goals relentlessly. I earned an associate's degree in a medical field while still in high school, a testament to my commitment to education and my determination to excel. I also created a language learning program that not only helped me become fluent in my Seminole language but also enabled nearly half of my community to improve their language skills. This initiative embodies my belief in empowering others, fostering a legacy that honors my roots. In the words of Lauren Olamina from Parable of the Sower, “God is Change.” This quote resonates deeply with me as I navigate my path, embracing the inevitable changes life brings. I thrive by adapting, learning, and pushing forward, driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact in my community. 2) Attribute for Improvement: Develop and Possess Grit While I have cultivated many strengths, I recognize that developing and possessing grit is an area for improvement. Grit involves resilience, perseverance, and the ability to push through challenges despite setbacks. Although I have demonstrated this trait in many ways, I sometimes find myself discouraged by obstacles that seem insurmountable. To improve in this area, I plan to implement a structured approach to face challenges head-on. First, I will set specific, measurable goals related to my academic and personal growth, breaking them down into smaller, manageable tasks. This will help me track my progress and maintain motivation. Additionally, I will seek mentorship from community leaders and educators who can provide guidance and support during difficult times. I will also actively participate in community service initiatives that challenge me to step out of my comfort zone, reinforcing my ability to face adversity. By immersing myself in environments where I must adapt and innovate, I will cultivate the resilience necessary to overcome future challenges. Moreover, I aim to apply the lessons from Parable of the Sower, particularly the idea that “Embrace diversity. Unite—or be divided.” This quote inspires me to not only seek support from others but also to contribute to the strength of my community. By collaborating with fellow students and community members, I can foster a collective spirit of perseverance and resilience. In conclusion, I strive to embody the attributes of Black Excellence in my daily life. My journey is a testament to my indomitable will, inspired by my heritage and the legacy of my family. As I work towards developing greater grit, I am committed to growing into a community figure who embodies both strength and compassion. Thank you for considering my application for the Black Excellence Scholarship.

Growing up, books were my refuge and my teachers. Each page turned was an invitation to explore worlds beyond my own, to experience the lives of characters who faced challenges, triumphs, and everything in between. The stories I absorbed shaped not only my understanding of diverse cultures and ideas but also my aspirations for the future. One book that profoundly impacted me was Parable of the Sower by Octavia Butler. This novel, with its exploration of resilience in the face of dystopia, taught me the importance of adaptability and empathy. Lauren Olamina’s journey ignited a passion in me for social justice and community leadership. Her mantra, “God is Change,” resonates deeply as I navigate my own path, reminding me that change, while daunting, can be a catalyst for growth and innovation. Additionally, my love for literature is rooted in the cultural stories of my Seminole heritage. Books have helped me connect with my identity and instilled a desire to preserve and promote my culture. Inspired by Barbara’s dedication to the library, I aim to become a librarian who not only fosters a love for reading but also serves as a bridge to diverse voices and stories. Libraries serve as vital third spaces—places that are neither home nor work but instead foster community engagement, connection, and learning. Coined by sociologist Ray Oldenburg, the concept of a third space emphasizes environments that encourage informal interaction and build social cohesion. Libraries fit this description perfectly; they are welcoming, inclusive spaces where people from diverse backgrounds come together to read, study, attend events, and participate in community programs. In a world where digital technology often isolates individuals, libraries provide a sanctuary for face-to-face interactions. They offer resources for lifelong learning, host discussions on current issues, and provide safe spaces for marginalized voices. This nurturing environment fosters a sense of belonging and community, allowing individuals to share their stories and experiences. The idea of seven generations—often attributed to Indigenous philosophies—invites us to consider the impact of our actions not just on the present, but also on future generations. This principle encourages decision-making that respects the needs of the seventh generation to come, promoting sustainability and responsibility in our choices today. Libraries are instrumental in preserving cultural heritage and wisdom for future generations, offering programs that educate about environmental stewardship and social justice, inspiring individuals to think critically about their legacy. In essence, libraries help cultivate a mindset that values long-term thinking, fostering a culture that honors the past while actively shaping a better future. They encourage us to ask how our actions today will influence those seven generations ahead—what stories we are leaving for them and how we can empower them to thrive. Through my experiences in community programs and as a volunteer, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of literacy. I envision a future where libraries are not just repositories of books but vibrant community hubs where knowledge is shared and lifelong learning is championed. This scholarship would honor Barbara’s legacy and empower me to pursue my dream of becoming a librarian who advocates for inclusivity and accessibility in literature. Books have shaped my goals by teaching me the value of perseverance, empathy, and community. I aspire to inspire others, just as I have been inspired, nurturing the next generation of readers who will continue to build a more compassionate and informed society. In applying for this scholarship, I seek not just financial assistance but a chance to further develop my passion for reading and education, ensuring that the love for books—like Barbara's—lives on.

As a Black and Seminole woman, I have often felt the weight of cultural expectations, especially regarding my ability to speak my native language. Growing up, this left me feeling ashamed and disconnected from my heritage. Instead of allowing this challenge to define me, I took it upon myself to create a language-learning program that not only helped me become fluent but also empowered nearly half of my community to learn as well. We increased the number of fluent speakers in our elementary schools from 301 to 910, fostering a renewed sense of pride and connection among my peers. Education is something that no one can take away from you; it serves as a foundation for growth and possibility. I often think of a fig tree, which has the potential to bear fruit regardless of its environment. Just as the fig tree’s roots anchor it, my education has become my grounding force, allowing me to thrive and create change within my community. This experience has shown me that knowledge is not only a personal asset but a communal one, enriching the lives of those around me. The video I recently watched highlighted the ongoing impact of historical injustices, particularly for BIPOC students. Affirmative action aims to address these inequalities and provide opportunities for those who have been marginalized. Yet, the conversation often overlooks the daily struggles low-income students face—balancing jobs, family responsibilities, and navigating underfunded schools. These challenges can make pursuing higher education feel daunting. This scholarship's mission resonates deeply with my aspirations. It provides an opportunity for women of color, particularly first-generation BIPOC students like myself, to break through barriers and reach our full potential. Inspired by individuals who have transformed their lives—like the woman who rose from teenage motherhood to earn an MBA—I strive to follow a similar path. Education is a powerful tool that can drive change, not just for myself, but for my community. Receiving this scholarship would significantly impact my career goals by providing the financial support I need to pursue higher education, allowing me to focus on my studies without the burden of tuition. It would enable me to participate in extracurricular activities that build my skills and network, essential components for success in my chosen field. I am passionate about making a difference and contributing to a more inclusive and prosperous world. With a commitment to my studies and a GPA of over 2.0, I am determined to leverage this opportunity to further my education and career. This scholarship is not just a financial resource; it represents hope and the possibility of a brighter future. In conclusion, I ask for your support in my journey to achieve my dreams and uplift others along the way. I am ready to share my story and use the power of education to create lasting change, not only for myself but for future generations of Black and Seminole women.

My name is Joan, or you can call me my Garifuna name, Areini, which means kindness and generosity. I am a senior attending Rutland High School. As a proud speaker of Garifuna, my first language, I have experienced both the joys and challenges of being multilingual. Unfortunately, Garifuna is a dying language, making it difficult to find people who can translate for me. This struggle has shaped my identity and motivated me to create a Garifuna language learning program that grew the number of speakers in my area from 200 to 901 in just two years. Growing up, I felt a strong connection to Garifuna, but I faced significant challenges because my parents do not speak Spanish. At home, we communicated in Garifuna, while at school, my peers mostly spoke English or Spanish. This language barrier often left me feeling isolated, especially when I struggled to make friends. My experience with ESOL classes didn’t fully meet my needs, as they focused primarily on Spanish and English. At times, I felt ashamed that I couldn’t communicate as easily as my classmates. However, I’ve learned to embrace my unique journey, and my struggles have fueled my determination to help others. They have become an integral part of my legacy. Being multilingual has opened many doors for me. I have been able to connect with a diverse range of people and advocate for those who feel overlooked. I remember translating for my parents during doctor visits and when handling paperwork. It was rewarding to bridge that gap for them, illustrating the value of language as a tool for support. My experiences have shown me the profound impact language can have on individuals and communities. In middle school, I took a multicultural class that introduced me to various languages and cultures, further igniting my interest. In high school, I chose to study Spanish, deepening my appreciation for how languages intertwine. While I faced challenges, such as mixing up words between languages, these experiences ultimately helped me adapt and grow. Now, as a senior, I am enrolled in Spanish 4 and remain committed to keeping my Garifuna skills alive. I frequently volunteer at community events, assisting both English-speaking and Spanish-speaking parents. These experiences have reinforced the importance of multilingual individuals in our communities. Creating the Garifuna language program has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It has allowed me to engage with younger generations, teaching them the basics of Garifuna and sharing its cultural significance. Witnessing the renewed interest in preserving our language has filled me with hope. Looking toward the future, I plan to attend university in Georgia, focusing on health sciences. My goal is to represent women in hospital settings, ensuring they receive the care and support they deserve. I believe my journey with language and culture has uniquely prepared me for this work, enabling me to connect with diverse communities and advocate for change. In conclusion, while being multilingual presents its challenges, the connections I’ve made and the skills I’ve developed have enriched my life. My experiences have taught me that language is not just about words; it’s about building bridges and creating understanding. I am excited about my future and committed to using my voice and skills to make a difference in the world.

Leadership and science are powerful forces that shape our future, weaving together innovation and resilience. Throughout history, women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) have demonstrated that these fields have always been inclusive of female voices, often in ways that go unrecognized. For instance, quilting can be seen as a form of mathematical artistry, where geometry meets creativity—a tradition that has historically involved women. This connection shows that women have long been contributors to fields requiring scientific thinking, even when their contributions were not acknowledged as formal STEM work. In the context of Mexico, the work of biologist María Elena Huitrón in the early 1960s serves as a beacon of hope and innovation. By successfully exhibiting and implementing disease-resistant garbanzo beans, she not only saved the government millions in insecticides and fungicides but also empowered farmers to cultivate crops more sustainably. Her bravery in pursuing this path in a predominantly male field showcases how leadership can drive significant change, benefiting both the economy and the environment. Huitrón's story reminds us that even small acts of courage can have far-reaching impacts. Similarly, in the United States during the 1930s, women like Ruth deForest Lamb and Rachel Palmer bravely took a stand against the social harms of insecticides. Their writings highlighted the dangers of chemical exposure, and Dr. Mary McNicholas’s dissertation on the effects of ingested arsenious oxide challenged prevailing assumptions about safety in agriculture. These women exhibited incredible leadership, using their voices to advocate for public health and environmental justice in a time when such topics were often overlooked. Their work not only informed policy but also instilled a sense of hope that science could be a tool for positive change. These historical examples illustrate how leadership in science is often about courage—courage to challenge norms, to innovate, and to speak out for what is right. Today, as we face unprecedented global challenges, the need for brave leaders in STEM fields is more critical than ever. The stories of women like Huitrón, Lamb, and Palmer inspire a new generation to take bold steps in science and leadership. As we look toward the future, I find hope in the potential for collaboration across diverse fields and backgrounds. Leadership doesn’t only mean holding positions of power; it’s also about advocating for change and uplifting others. By fostering inclusive environments where everyone feels empowered to contribute, we can create a future rich in innovation and equity. In conclusion, the intersection of leadership and science holds the promise of a brighter future, driven by the bravery of those who dare to challenge the status quo and the hope that together, we can address the pressing issues of our time. Let us honor the legacy of those who came before us and be inspired to continue their work in building a better world through science and leadership.

My experience with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has profoundly influenced my perspective and shaped my goals for the future. Growing up, I often felt that my autism was a blip in my painting, an element that made me different from those around me. However, over time, I’ve come to recognize that it is intrinsically what makes me who I am. Living with autism has granted me a heightened sense of awareness that many non-neurodivergent individuals may not experience. This unique lens allows me to perceive the world with a depth and sensitivity that fuels my passion for social justice. I’ve developed a keen understanding of the subtle injustices that often go unnoticed—whether they relate to marginalized communities or the ways people are treated differently based on their abilities. This perspective has inspired me to advocate for those who feel voiceless, as I understand the importance of representation and inclusion. I am grateful for my autism because it has pushed me to explore these themes more deeply. My journey has taught me that our differences can serve as powerful catalysts for empathy and understanding. Rather than viewing my neurodiversity as a limitation, I now see it as a source of strength that drives my commitment to fostering inclusivity and equity in my community. One of my primary goals is to create spaces where all voices are heard and valued. I aspire to work on initiatives that promote understanding and acceptance of neurodiversity, helping others to see the beauty in our differences. Through advocacy, education, and outreach, I hope to contribute to a world that recognizes and celebrates the diverse tapestry of human experience. In my daily life, I embody this mission by engaging with my community and volunteering for organizations that support individuals with disabilities. I’ve learned that meaningful change often starts at the grassroots level, and I am dedicated to being part of that movement. Each interaction, whether through shared stories or collaborative projects, reinforces my belief in the power of connection and understanding. With the opportunities your college provides, I can further my goals of advocacy and community building. I aspire to use my experiences, both as a person with autism and as a community member, to amplify the voices of those who face injustice. By embracing my identity, I can contribute to a future where every individual is valued for who they are, not in spite of their differences but because of them.

I’ve learned that there’s no such thing as a perfectly well-rounded applicant—at least not in the traditional sense. I’m not well-rounded, and I won’t pretend to be. My experiences are shaped by the community around me, and my journey is defined by the resources I’ve had access to. As a member of my community, I’ve often mirrored the strengths and efforts of those around me. Everything I do has roots in what I’ve observed, and I’ve built my path based on the examples set by others. This isn’t a limitation; it reflects the support system that has guided me. I believe that through your college, I can grow even more, not only for myself but also to uplift those around me. Selflessness is woven into my daily life. I embody it by starting each day with a prayer. I pray for my peers, those who need encouragement, and those who haven’t yet found their way. This practice grounds me and reminds me of my purpose: to push others toward their best selves. A significant way I’ve demonstrated this selflessness is through my work on a language learning program. My grandparents were victims of the Indian American adoption program, which caused them to lose touch with their native language, Mikasuki. Growing up without this connection left me feeling adrift, struggling to understand a vital part of my identity. Inspired by my grandparents' experience, I teamed up with my tribal council to create a program to preserve and teach our language. Through our collective efforts, we’ve grown our language learners from 301 to 910, fostering a renewed sense of identity and connection among participants. This initiative has taught me that the struggle I faced is not mine alone; it is intertwined with the experiences of the seven generations that came before me. The concept of the Seven Generations emphasizes the importance of considering the impact of our actions on future generations. This philosophy has reshaped my understanding of selflessness. It compels me to think beyond my immediate needs and desires, reminding me that my work is part of a larger legacy. Each language learner represents a step toward preserving our culture for those who will come after us. In my journal entries, I reflect on these experiences and the weight of this responsibility. I write about the prayers I offer each morning—prayers for those who need support, for those struggling with their identity, and for the future generations who will carry this legacy forward. Together, we cultivate a fig tree of possibilities, where each branch represents the potential we unlock by lifting each other up. With the opportunities your scholarship provides, I can further this mission. I aspire to amplify the voices of those who need it most, contributing to a cycle of growth that extends beyond myself and honors the generations that have shaped my path.

Which came first, the rich or the poor? I've walked through all kinds of neighborhoods pondering this question door to door: Some facial expressions range from confused to intrigued. One scholar answered his door and said: from my recollection the latter came first. But why would you mention this question? The contents could cause one to want vivisection. And then once I answered the man looked puzzled and answered why would you put someone through the trouble? Is it troubling to ask the questions you rarely think about? when you turn on fox news and they imply those without houses are addicts by the thousands. Instead of discussing what we can do to reduce, the majority would rather bring out a pitchfork or even a noose. But what would you do if you were cut with this contention? Me? I’d probably come to another point of view, what would you do if the only thing you owned were the clothes on your back and a dollar in your shoe?