Divorce is like a woven rope bridge. At each end of the bridge, one parent stands, and their child or children stand in between them. The child watches as the suspender ropes slowly wear away, unraveling with each quarrel until one day, they finally snap. Left falling into the abyss beneath them, the child is unaware if they will ever hit the ground. When I was seven, my parents began their divorce process, but that was only the beginning of my rope bridge unraveling. I sat on the living room couch with my two siblings as they made their bleak announcement. In my opinion, there was never a need for one—we already knew it was coming. The years leading up to that moment were filled with solitude. My father had been absent for nearly a year, and when he returned, my parents had lost their spark. For the most part, it felt like watching two strangers putting up a front for the sake of their children. So, it made sense that my siblings and I weren’t surprised. Still, I cried that night. Something so obvious was finally happening, yet I could feel the last suspender ropes twisting apart beneath my feet—so, I cried. The following year, I lived under the same roof as both of my parents as they navigated the divorce process. I don’t think a seven-year-old should have to be financially aware. Yet, at that age, money was all I thought about. My bedroom was directly above the kitchen—where my parents would meet to discuss the financial aspects of their divorce. “Meet” is a kind word. These weren’t discussions; they were battlegrounds. My mother wept, and my father slammed tables, his voice rising like a lion’s roar. Comparing them to animals is the most honest way to describe it because that’s exactly what they were—two creatures in constant combat, unaware that their audience sat just above them, listening. That is when my bridge finally collapsed. After enduring countless arguments, a child can only handle so much—everything has its breaking point. One particular outburst was the final blow. I heard a crash in the kitchen, followed by silence. Then, my mother’s voice, sharp and strained: “Go look at your daughter right now.” That was the moment I realized they had always known. They knew I could hear everything. Eventually, my parents moved into separate homes, still within the same area. The divorce resulted in a 50/50 custody split, which they believed would be best for my siblings and me. They couldn’t have been more wrong. My sister had just left for college, so only my brother and I remained. He was a teenager, always out of the house, leaving me alone in the constant back-and-forth. I never felt grounded in one place. Instead of falling into the abyss when my bridge collapsed, I clung to both ropes, pulled in opposite directions. My mental health spiraled. When my brother left for college, I finally cracked. I couldn’t understand the emotions I was drowning in, so I took them out on myself. Therapy and medication followed, but nothing seemed to truly mend the damage. I don’t hold resentment toward my parents, nor do I blame them for their choices. But I do believe they played a role in the collapse of the bridge that once held me up. Now, after eight years of enduring and learning how to navigate the storms in my mind, I am healthier. Stronger. Parents should pay more attention to how their children react to events like these. Divorce has the power to break a child—to strip them of their innocence, just as I lost mine. No child should have to feel the ground vanish beneath them, uncertain of whether they will ever land on solid ground again.

The chromatic scale consists of all twelve musical keys. A guitarist who masters this scale can play freely, exploring new patterns without fear of hitting a wrong note. The scale unlocks creativity, allowing the artist to glide across the neck of the guitar, effortlessly crafting melodies beyond the ordinary. At 13, I received my first guitar: a crimson Maestro by Gibson, SG Style Electric. It felt like just another object, something I hadn’t expected. For eight months, it sat neglected in my closet, buried beneath piles of forgotten things, collecting dust, just like my self-worth at the time—unseen, unwanted. When summer ended and school began, I anticipated the familiar routines as a form of relief. The hum of the PA system and the rhythmic scratching of pencils offered temporary solace from the turmoil at home. That comfort vanished as soon as the bell rang, leaving me in crowded hallways that felt like a battleground. Whispers swirled around me, growing louder, but I willed myself to believe they weren’t about me—until I couldn’t deny it. A boy confronted me with a sneer. “So, what are you now… like a faggot?” His words, cruel and cutting, twisted in my stomach like a knife. I denied it, but by lunchtime, my secret was public knowledge. To this day, I don’t know how it spread so quickly. I was exposed, vulnerable, and surrounded by classmates who now seemed more like sharks, circling, waiting for a chance to attack. The days that followed blurred into a haze, each more distorted than the last. Mornings began with melancholy melodies and, by night, a mixture of clashing, coarse chords. Then, one evening, I opened my closet to find the guitar I had abandoned. I didn’t know what I was searching for, but I picked it up and plucked a few uncertain notes. For the first time in months, something made sense, even if just a little. Soon, I devoted hours to learning—searching everywhere for instruction and immersing myself in music that provided comfort amidst the unfamiliar. That’s when I discovered the chromatic scale. In that scale, I found clarity I didn’t know I needed. The cacophony in my life—the fear, confusion, and hurt—suddenly had a purpose. Each note, even the ones that seemed out of place, contributed to something larger, something I could call my own. For the first time, I felt like I was composing my own song, one that no one else could dictate. Since then, every experience has added a note to my song. Being outed taught me to embrace my differences instead of hiding them. The custody battles I endured as a child showed me how to stand firm in the face of uncertainty. Suffering a herniated disc that took me away from sports junior year forced me to discover other strengths. Struggling through AP Calculus tests taught me resilience—facing obstacles, recovering, and moving forward. Most importantly, rediscovering that forgotten guitar taught me to recognize the beauty in something I had once overlooked—chromaticism. My life is composed of twelve keys. It consists of harmony and moments of discord, but I’ve learned that even the dissonant notes have a greater intent. Every unresolved chord eventually resolves with time and patience. As I prepare for the next chapter of my life, I know my song will continue to evolve. Higher education will bring its own set of challenges but also opportunities for polyphony. I don’t expect perfection. However, just like the chromatic scale, I will take it all one half-step at a time, knowing that every note adds to the melody that has shaped me.

A significant event I had the honor of organizing was a fundraiser concert at the Comus Inn through the Rock Music Club I established at my school. What began as a concept to generate funds for our club and local music groups evolved into something far more significant—a night that deepened friendships, linked musicians from different schools, and highlighted the remarkable abilities of students in our community. The concept for the concert originated from the wish to provide student musicians a platform they frequently didn’t have. I witnessed firsthand the immense talent of my classmates, but apart from school concerts or minor jam sessions, there were limited chances for them to showcase their skills before an audience. Music serves as a potent means of self-expression, and I aimed to organize an event that would not only bolster our club's finances but also provide students the opportunity to share their enthusiasm with peers. Planning the event proved to be a challenge, yet it was an exhilarating experience. I assumed the duty of ensuring the venue was booked, contacting student bands, organizing the performance schedule, managing promotions, and collaborating with sound engineers to ensure everything went off without a hitch. We didn’t only showcase bands from our school—we invited rock bands from other schools in the district to join in, fostering a collaborative environment that reached beyond our local community. The outcome was a thrilling evening of music, where students who may never have interacted otherwise united due to their mutual passion for performing. ​​The effect of the event exceeded my expectations. Families and friends crowded the venue, applauding the musicians, and for many, it was the first occasion witnessing their children or classmates perform on an actual stage. Even school board members were present, observing the enthusiasm and skills of students beyond the conventional educational environment. Watching my classmates take the stage—some conquering their jitters, others performing original pieces for the first time—was truly gratifying. Beyond being merely a fundraiser, the concert transformed into a celebration of music’s significance in students’ lives and the community spirit it fosters. This event emphasized an important concern: music programs and student-driven arts projects frequently receive insufficient funding and backing. Schools often emphasize sports and academic organizations over music, even though the arts offer students essential skills like discipline, creativity, collaboration, and confidence. A positive outcome I wish to witness in my community from this concert is increased funding for student music initiatives. Increased funding would enable improved equipment, more performance opportunities, and areas where students can work together and develop as musicians. I also wish that events like this motivate other students to take action and establish opportunities in areas they identify as lacking. Music goes beyond mere entertainment; it serves as a means to connect, to convey emotions, and to create something significant collaboratively. This concert demonstrated the potential of students when provided the opportunity, and I wish it ignited a lasting love for the arts within my school and community.

Empowerment is taking charge of my life with confidence and determination. It’s about recognizing my worth, trusting in my abilities, and pushing forward despite challenges. I’ve faced obstacles that could have held me back, but instead, I’ve used them as motivation to grow. Empowerment isn’t just about overcoming struggles—it’s about turning them into fuel for success. One of the most significant factors in shaping my sense of empowerment was my parents’ divorce. I was seven when they separated, and growing up in a split household made me more aware of financial struggles and instability. Rather than feeling limited by these circumstances, I became determined to create my success. I learned the value of financial independence early on and made it a priority to work hard, not just in school but every aspect of my life. Seeing the challenges around me didn’t discourage me—it pushed me to be more responsible, focused, and in control of my future. Another central turning point for me was coming to terms with my identity. When I came out as bisexual, I was met with reactions I hadn’t expected, especially from my father. It was a difficult moment, but I refused to let it shake my confidence in who I was. Instead of seeing it as a setback, I used it as an opportunity to stand firm in my identity. In this case, empowerment meant understanding that my self-worth wasn’t tied to others’ acceptance. It meant surrounding myself with people who supported me, like my mother, and confidently moving forward in who I am. That same drive to push past uncertainty has helped me in academics and athletics. I initially felt out of place when I started taking college courses at Montgomery College. I was younger than most classmates and questioned whether I could keep up. But instead of letting self-doubt take over, I reminded myself of all the times I had faced uncertainty before—and came out stronger. I committed to proving to myself that I belonged, and with time, I gained confidence in my ability to handle challenges outside my comfort zone. The same mindset applied to sports. As a field hockey and lacrosse player, I constantly faced physical and mental barriers, but I never let them define my limits. Whether it was a challenging game, a demanding practice, or balancing sports with schoolwork, I relied on the same sense of empowerment that had guided me through other aspects of my life. I knew that persistence and unwavering self-belief would always propel me further than fear ever could. Empowerment is about resilience, growth, and the refusal to be constrained by circumstances. It has not only shaped my confidence and ambitions but also my ability to progress regardless of the challenges that surface. Every experience, whether intricate or rewarding, has reinforced the belief that I can carve my own success—and that’s a lesson I carry with me every day.

I am a fan of Sabrina Carpenter because she has been a consistent source of inspiration and comfort throughout my life. Her career has deeply impacted me, evolving alongside my personal journey. I first discovered her through the Disney Channel series Girl Meets World, where she portrayed Maya Hart. I watched every episode religiously, often revisiting old ones to relive the cherished memories. Although the series eventually ended, Carpenter's career flourished. Her early albums like Eyes Wide Open and EVOLution filled my middle school days with upbeat pop anthems that brought me joy. Her growth as an artist became even more evident when she starred as Cady in the Broadway musical Mean Girls–a musical I have also performed–just before the COVID-19 pandemic forced its closure. During that time, she released emails i can’t send, an album that profoundly resonated with me. Her lyrics captured emotions and experiences that mirrored my own, making me feel seen and understood during some of my most challenging moments. Carpenter's music has not only been a personal refuge but has also strengthened my connections with others. Just this past year, I attended her Short n' Sweet tour in Baltimore with my sister and my brother's girlfriend. It was an unforgettable experience that underscored how her music brings people together. Growing up with Sabrina Carpenter’s evolving career has been like having a companion through the highs and lows of life. From childhood to adolescence and now into adulthood, her music has consistently offered comfort, joy, and a sense of belonging. This lasting influence is why I am such a devoted fan and why her career has had such a significant impact on me.

4x4 Grid of Words: Columbia Challenger Atlantis Discovery Sharp Flat Natural Major Clydesdale Percheron Shire Belgian Sun Rail Door (Easiest - Yellow): NASA Space Shuttles Columbia, Challenger, Atlantis, Discovery These are all NASA space shuttles—with Columbia and Challenger famously lost in disasters. Red herring: "Discovery" might make players think of TV channels or science terms. (Medium - Green): Musical Terms (Accidentals & Tonalities) Sharp, Flat, Natural, Major These are all musical terms: Sharp (♯), Flat (♭), and Natural (♮) are accidentals. Major refers to a musical key or chord quality. Red herring: "Major" could mislead players into thinking about military ranks. (Tricky - Blue): Draft Horse Breeds Clydesdale, Percheron, Shire, Belgian These are all large draft horse breeds known for their power in farming and industry. Red herring: "Belgian" could trick people into thinking of nationalities instead of horse breeds. (Hardest - Purple): Words That Share the Same Missing Ending: "-Way" Sun → Sunway Rail → Railway Door → Doorway Base → Baseway (less common, but still a valid term in certain contexts!) This category is particularly difficult because: The words seem entirely unrelated at first. The trick is recognizing that they all form compound words with "-way"! Red herring: These words could also belong to other categories, making the connection harder to spot.

I perceive myself as a positive force in society now and in the future by constantly striving to be true to myself while uplifting others. My experiences, particularly with overcoming personal struggles, have instilled empathy and a desire to create inclusive spaces for others. As a young woman navigating my identity and career aspirations, I recognize that my authenticity and ability to empathize with others’ struggles are key factors in how I can positively impact the world. Currently, I work to make a difference in small, everyday ways. Whether supporting friends through their challenges or advocating for diversity and acceptance, I aim to help foster a sense of belonging in whatever community I am a part of. I’m passionate about inclusivity and understanding, especially in the context of my own identity as a bisexual woman. Growing up with my parent's divorce and dealing with my mental health struggles has allowed me to understand the complexities of human experience. I strive to use this understanding to connect with others, create empathy, and promote respect for diversity in all its forms. Looking to the future, I hope to continue this journey by using my future career in business and accounting as a platform to create positive change. I believe that societal progress happens when people in positions of influence use their skills and resources to challenge the status quo, promote equity, and open doors for others. As I work towards becoming a CPA, I aim to bring these values into the professional world, whether through helping underrepresented communities access financial resources, creating transparent business practices, or supporting ethical companies that promote positive social change. The parameters of current social norms play a crucial role in shaping my perspective. As society becomes more aware of issues surrounding gender identity, sexuality, race, and mental health, I see a growing space for authenticity and openness. However, significant barriers remain to overcome, especially in professional settings. These norms, which often prioritize conformity and perpetuate stereotypes, can be stifling. But they also create an opportunity for individuals like myself to challenge these constraints and pave the way for a more inclusive, accepting future. My goal is to be part of that change by leading with compassion and integrity and encouraging others to live authentically and embrace their unique identities. In doing so, I believe I can contribute to breaking down harmful societal norms and help shape a future where diversity is celebrated, not just tolerated. In summary, I see myself as a positive force in society by living authentically, embracing my identity, and using my personal experiences to foster empathy and inclusivity. The current social landscape provides both challenges and opportunities, and I am determined to take advantage of the opportunities to make a meaningful impact on my community and the broader world.

The insurance crisis facing states like Florida, California, and Texas—driven by escalating natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods, and wildfires—has left many homeowners grappling with unaffordable premiums or the inability to secure coverage. This challenge requires a multi-faceted approach that balances the interests of homeowners, insurance companies, and broader societal resilience. We can effectively address this crisis by combining risk mitigation strategies, government intervention, and market innovations. First, government-backed reinsurance programs could play a pivotal role in stabilizing the market. These programs act as a safety net for private insurers by absorbing catastrophic losses, which reduces the financial risk for companies operating in disaster-prone areas. For instance, expanding initiatives similar to Florida’s Hurricane Catastrophe Fund could help insurers remain in the market while offering more competitive premiums to homeowners. Such programs bolster insurer confidence and ensure coverage remains accessible to at-risk populations. Second, incentivizing risk mitigation measures among homeowners can significantly reduce premiums and minimize overall damage during disasters. Insurance companies can encourage proactive behavior by offering discounts to those who invest in protective upgrades, such as hurricane-proof windows, fire-resistant materials, or flood barriers. This approach lowers policyholders' costs and reduces claims, benefiting insurers. Additionally, insurance agencies can assist by providing risk assessments and connecting homeowners with resources to implement these upgrades. Regional insurance pools offer another innovative solution. By spreading risk across multiple states or jurisdictions, these pools can dilute the financial impact of localized disasters, making it feasible for insurers to continue operations in high-risk areas. This collaborative model allows states to share the burden of catastrophic events, ensuring coverage remains available and affordable. Insurance agencies can play a critical role by educating clients about regional pool options and integrating them into their offerings. Moreover, integrating advanced risk assessment and pricing technology can enhance fairness and affordability. Leveraging data analytics and artificial intelligence enables insurers to predict risks more accurately, resulting in tailored premiums that reflect an individual property’s actual risk level. This data-driven approach benefits homeowners by ensuring they are not overcharged for risks they do not face while helping insurers maintain profitability. Agencies, in turn, can act as intermediaries, ensuring clients understand and trust the technology behind their policies. Publicly funded state-run insurance plans, like Florida’s Citizens Property Insurance Corporation, also serve as a vital safety net. These plans can provide coverage to those who cannot secure it in the private market, preventing vulnerable populations from being left unprotected. While these programs may require subsidies, they ensure that retirees, single parents, and others on fixed incomes can access necessary protection. Finally, long-term climate adaptation planning is essential for addressing the root causes of the crisis. Investments in large-scale infrastructure projects, such as seawalls, enhanced drainage systems, and forest management, can mitigate disaster risks at a community level. Insurance agencies can support these efforts by advocating for implementation and educating clients on how these measures impact premiums and coverage options. In conclusion, solving the insurance crisis requires collaboration among governments, insurers, and homeowners. We can create a sustainable system that benefits all stakeholders by adopting strategies such as government-backed reinsurance, risk mitigation incentives, regional insurance pools, advanced technology, and climate adaptation. As trusted advisors, insurance agencies have a critical role in bridging these efforts and ensuring homeowners remain protected while fostering market stability.

High school athletics offer distinct difficulties, from time management to mental and physical strain. These challenges were something I encountered as a multisport player at Clarksburg High School. Still, I also learned priceless lessons that helped mold me into who I am today. The physical demands of participating in several sports throughout the year present a significant obstacle. Different training techniques and skills are needed for each activity, which may be taxing and gratifying. For example, I hunched down for hours to control the ball on the ground when playing field hockey in the winter. Lacrosse in the spring, on the other hand, required a completely different physique and tactics because it concentrated on ball control in the air. Although switching between these sports wasn't simple, I learned how to be adaptable and adapt to new situations. These teachings go beyond sports; they have given me the confidence and adaptability to succeed in different circumstances. The psychological toll of being a student-athlete is sometimes overlooked, in addition to the physical difficulties, and one of the most trying times in my athletic career occurred during my junior year when I suffered a herniated disc that prevented me from playing field hockey as a field player. Seeing my teammates play a sport I loved from the sidelines was emotionally distressing. I felt discouraged and disengaged, wanting to help but being physically powerless to do anything. But I learned acceptance and resiliency from this experience. I came to see that even while we have no control over some circumstances, we still have the ability to choose how we react. Rather than giving up, I concentrated on figuring out how to continue to be involved. Being a student-athlete has taught me many more lessons besides these particular ones. One of the most beneficial is teamwork. Whether playing on the field or watching from the sidelines, I gained experience working with people to achieve a common objective. As a senior captain, I developed my leadership abilities by inspiring my teammates, making tough decisions, and creating a positive atmosphere. I'll use the lessons I learned from these experiences in every aspect of my life, including the value of empathy, communication, and setting an example. Lastly, tenacity is a common element throughout my student-athlete experience. Through extensive training and recovering from injuries, I've discovered how to overcome obstacles and welcome the process of personal development. I've learned from sports that while failures are unavoidable, how you respond to them defines your personality. The things I've learned from sports are a constant reminder never to give up, even when I lose a game or encounter a personal challenge. In conclusion, there is no denying the difficulties of participating in high school athletics, but they are greatly balanced by the knowledge and development they offer. I have developed resilience, leadership, and a strong sense of teamwork by overcoming mental and physical challenges. In addition to molding my athletic career, these experiences have equipped me for the chances and challenges that lie ahead.

I am incredibly passionate about extracurricular activities because they allow me to stay occupied and busy. Growing up, I have always been an extremely independent child. I received my first job at age 14 and loved to work as much as possible; I believe that's the same reason why I love to stay so involved in my school activities. I want to be involved and stay active as much as possible, and I hope to continue that within my college experience. I am involved in numerous extracurricular activities at Clarksburg High School. These activities include theatre, field hockey, lacrosse, Rock Music Club, Ambassadors, Acapella, SGA, AASA, NHS, NMHS, TNHS, and Tri-M Music Honor Society. Although it can be a lot to juggle sometimes, especially when working a job outside of school, it is entirely worth every minute I put into it. Each one of these activities benefits my school community for various reasons. For example, the Rock Music Club is a club that I created with one of my fellow students. We created this club to give students a space to bond with others over their similar musical interests. It benefits the students by creating a safe space for individuals outside of our high school community. We have held three fundraiser concerts to support music-related charities and used some of the funds to support the club so it can continue growing once we graduate. Another example of one of these clubs benefitting the community is my involvement in Clarksburg High School's Ambassadors. The Ambassadors is a club invited only by our sponsor, and its primary purpose is to support the school by whatever means are necessary. We have assisted with graduations, orientations, afterschool events/ceremonies, etc. We have also helped outside school, just like the Rock Music Club. This past Thanksgiving, the Ambassadors fundraised to support families in need and delivered sixty Thanksgiving dinners. This was an extraordinary occurrence, and working to give those in less fortunate circumstances than we are was a beautiful experience. My final example of why I believe being involved in extracurricular activities benefits the community is through the National Honor Society. While in the National Honor Society, I helped tutor various students at Clarksburg and our feeder middle schools. Academics have always been a heavy strength for me, and being able to use that ability to help others is something I hold very dear to myself. We have also organized events to clean up trash around our community and worked together to volunteer at soup kitchens within our county. During the winter, we also hold a toy drive to help families give holiday presents to their children. Overall, my involvement in extracurricular activities is significant to me. They benefit my mental health and personal growth and allow me to help others. I hope the next four years of my education also include such heavy involvement in my school community, no matter where that may be.

The works of Billie Eilish really speak volumes about her as an artist-emotional and experiential layers. Of these, "Watch," "Bored," and "I Didn't Change My Number" are outstandingly deep and relatable tracks. Each song touches on a different aspect of human nature and calls for empathy through Eilish's tender vulnerability and honesty. “watch” ‘Watch" is a haunting reflection of unrequited love and the helpless feeling in a relationship. The song boasts typical, minimalist production from Eilish, leaving her ghostly vocals to do the talking. The sense of longing is relayed through the lyrics as she speaks with frustration in desiring to be more than an observer in someone's life. Lines like "I can't watch you go" remind any person who has ever felt like a foreigner in a relationship, where the situation wouldn't let them express themselves. This song is about the very core of vulnerability-from desiring intimacy with another person to helpless executions of it. When emotional feelings overwhelm me, I take comfort in "Watch," which eloquently explains longings and complications of love. "Bored" “Bored" addresses stagnation and seeking meaning within an uneven relationship. The song was recorded specifically for the "13 Reasons Why" soundtrack and expresses frustration and confusion in a love relationship that has turned mundane. The melody is catchy in the chorus, while the deeper emotional message is ignored-much like most relationships where one feels he or she wants to fly away, yet still be bonded. That's so relatable, because really, we get in the middle of stuff where it doesn't seem to work anymore. In the way Eilish has shown ennui and just how one seeks to break the vicious circle of boredom, it's a common enough human experience to remind listeners it is alright to want more from life and relationships. This song brings on a moment of self-reflection as it questions our reevaluation of what truly makes us happy. “I Didn’t Change My Number” “I Didn't Change My Number" finds Eilish dealing with emotions attached to moving on from a past relationship. The track brings out the mood of trying to create distance while still being haunted by what has been. The simple lyrical deliverance gives room for defying vulnerability as one hears Eilish struggle to let go. Lines such as "I ain't changed my number" contribute to the difficulty in severing ties, even when they need to be. This is a line with which anyone looking to move on but being haunted by the past can relate. The song brings raw honesty and catchy production together into an instantly recognizable anthem for those navigating heartbreak's messy waters. It reminds you that healing does take time, and it's very normal to feel so conflicted. "Watch," "Bored," and "I Didn't Change My Number," hold depth in meanings of love, longing, and growing up. Each song invites listeners to relate experiences, and that is the beauty wherein vulnerability makes them connect. Eilish brings articulation of emotions with honesty and nuance to the forefront of a world that has often shamed us for having feelings. The songs remind us that our struggles are universal, adding even more poignancy to her being an artist in the first place.