From the time I became a teenager, my parents, and extended family would call on me to assist them with their technology questions and problems. They knew I tinkered with old electronics and always like to learn how things work, and collected old technology and am a problem solver. I guess I was the authority in the family. It all began with simple requests for advice like Hey Jovin my iPod won’t turn can you help, or Jovin, I wrote a letter to Aunt Helen and I can’t get it to print, Can you help me out? I was always glad to lend a hand, and working with technology seemed to come naturally to me. perhaps because I was born into the tech age. It made me feel useful and good that as a young person, I could be helpful to adults in some way. I’m not sure it was the satisfaction I felt for doing a good deed or the gratitude from those I helped, but it sparked me to take technology-related courses in school. I decided I could learn more in school than I could teach myself on my own so I took advantage of the learning opportunities available to me. I took my first computer science course in my freshman year of high school. The instructor was very professional and patient and taught me the basics of computing. The instructor inspired me to take technology-related electives every semester. I enrolled in Digital Technology, Web Design & Microsoft suite courses. I signed up as a member of the robotics club and then became a mentor to students interested in the subject. As a Robotics mentor, I spearheaded a Robot- build, using coding methods to create a robot that could respond to commands. As I learned more, I was able to help my relatives and friends with more complex problems with their laptops, phones, internet service and however else technology touched their lives and provided challenges. They would ask me for solutions before considering calling a help desk. Well, they had me around! I kept building on my knowledge of the subject and I reached the Advanced level as a rising senior at my high school. The instructor for the advanced computer courses was the same instructor that introduced me to the subject as a freshman. I was back learning from the instructor who I started with and who would become my mentor. We talked about possible careers in technology. He explained that with my interest in technology, and strong academic record across the board in technology-related courses I should pursue a career associated with computer technology. It was at that point that I decided I wanted to pursue a major in information technology and coding at the University level. With my interest in robotics and learning advanced coding and upon aquiring the right tools, I would like to help others on a much broader scale. I earned the rank Eagle Scout and have been a scout for almost 12 years. My Eagle Scout service project was a Turtle habitat- relocation project in which I used computer models to create the right habitat for a displaced red-eared slider turtle as well as a learning center to promote education about turtles. I am committed to service. I am a junior assistant leader in my troop and continue to serve the greater community by providing service in the form of service projects such as the beautification of religious institutions, schools, parks, community clean-ups, food drives, and soup kitchens. Thank you for your consideration.

' Hard work pays off!' This is what I was always told by my grandparents who emigrated to the US from Cuba and Italy in the 1950s. I applied this philosophy to my golf game. Here is my story. In 2019 I joined the junior varsity golf team as a freshman in High school. There were many sports offered but golf seemed to suit me best. I was not very good at first, slicing and hooking the ball and needing numerous attempts to get out of sand traps. Public High school offers the opportunity to play but does not offer much opportunity in the way of lessons as resources are limited with only one golf coach assigned to many players. Golf lessons tend to be costly, so I took it upon myself to improve my game. I began reading magazines and watching videos online to find the best tips and techniques to lower my score. After school, I went out to my High school soccer field with my 'starter clubs" to practice the techniques tips, & illustrations I had researched. I kept up this routine for months until I was hitting the ball straight with my drivers and irons. When the 2020 season came there were rumors that the season would be canceled due to two key issues. One issue was recent budget cuts by the state of New Jersey that could affect the future of the golf program and secondly, due to the Covid pandemic, the Board of Education enacted social distancing rules for Highschool sports. I was distressed to hear this but I continued to practice; Even during bad weather I would practice putting golf balls into a paper cup in the living room of my family home. In early April 2020 an announcement was made that since golf was a noncontact sport, the team would be allowed to play with some restrictions. Masks had to be worn on our faces, and keep six feet away from other players. I was fine with the restrictions and relieved that the program would resume. But then there would be a third mandate that could jeopardize my chances of playing on the team. Due to social distancing rules, there would be limited seating on the school bus which transports the team to tournaments & golf ranges, so some players would be subject to furlough. I was very concerned as I was not I did not have varsity or senior priority status. The coach needed to decide which players could play so he set up a course on the HS soccer field where players would show their skills and prove worthiness. I was nervous as there were players on the team with more experience and who had access to pro lessons. Well, I played the course and when I completed it, the coach told me I would be on 2020 roster. Hard work does pay off and I am so glad I put the effort in. My grandparents' philosophy is true when applied to all topics in life. The lesson learned is to do my best. Patience, Practice, Persistence and preparedness have made me a better player, student and human being. I continue to play the game of golf as a form of leisure and exercise. Playing golf allows me to be out in the fresh air and bond with family and friends. I hope to earn scholarship funds to help achieve my educational goals. Thank you for your consideration of my application.

' Hard work pays off!' This is what I was always told by my grandparents who emigrated to the US from Cuba and Italy in the 1950's. I applied this philosophy to my golf game. Here is my story. In 2019 I joined the junior varsity golf team as a freshman in High school. There were many sports offered but golf seemed to suit me best. I was not very good at first ,slicing and hooking the ball and needing numerous attempts to get out of sand traps. Public High school offers the opportunity to play but does not offer much opportunity in the way of lessons as resources are limited with only one golf coach assigned to many players .Golf lessons tend to be costly, so I took it upon myself to improve my game. I began reading magazines watching videos on line to find the best tips and techniques to lower my score. After school I went out to my High school soccer field with my 'starter clubs" to practice the techniques tips, & illustrations I had researched. I kept up this routine for months until I was hitting the ball straight with my drivers and irons. When the 2020 season came there were rumors that the season would be cancelled due to two key issues. One issue was recent budget cuts by the state of New Jersey that could effect the future of the golf program and secondly due to the Covid pandemic, the board of Education enacted social distancing rules for Highschool sports. I was distressed to hear this but I continued to practice ; Even during bad weather I would practice putting golf balls into a paper cup in living room of my family home. In early April 2020 an announcement was made that since golf was a non contact sport, the team would be allowed to play with some restrictions. Masks had to be worn on our faces ,and keep six feet away from other players. I was fine with the restrictions and relieved that the program would resume .But then there would be a third mandate that could jeopardize my chances of playing on the team. Due to social distancing rules there would be limited seating on the school bus which transports the team to tournaments & golf range, so some players would be subject to furlough. I was very concerned as I was not I did not have varsity or senior priority status. The coach needed to decide which players could play so he set up a course on the HS soccer field where players would show their skills and prove worthiness. I was nervous as there were players on the team with more experience and had access to pro lessons. Well, I played the course and when I completed it, the coach told me I would be on the 2020 roster. Hard work does pay off and I am so glad I put the effort in. My grandparents' philosophy is true when applied to all topics in life. The lesson learned is do my best. Patience, Practice, Persistence and preparedness has made me a better player, student and human being . I continue to play the game golf as a form of leisure and excercise. Playing golf gives me the opportunity to be out in the fresh air and bond with family and friends. I hope to earn scholarship funds to help achieve educational goals. Thank you for your consideration of my application.

From the time I became a teenager, maybe about 14 years age ,my parents, and extended family would call on me to assist them with their technology questions and problems. They knew I tinkered with old electronics and always like to learn how things work ,and collected old technology and am a problem solver. I guess I was the authority in the family. It all began with simple requests for advice like, Hey Jovin my iPod won’t turn can you help, or Jovin, I wrote a letter to Aunt Helen and I can’t get it to print, Can you help me out? I was always glad to lend a hand; and working with technology seemed to come natural to me. perhaps because I was born into the tech age. It made me feel useful and good that as a young person I could be helpful to adults in some way. I’m not sure it was the satisfaction I felt for doing a good deed or the gratitude from those I helped ,but it sparked me to take technology related courses in school. I decided I could learn more in school than I could teach myself on my own so-I took advantage of learning opportunities available to me .I took my first computer science course in my freshman year of high school .The instructor was very professional and patient and taught me the basics of computing. The instructor inspired me to take technology related electives every semester. I enrolled in Digital technology, Web Design & Microsoft suite courses. I was member of the robotics club and then became a mentor to students interested in the subject. As I learned more, I was able to help my relatives and friends with more complex problems with their laptops , I phones ,internet service and however else technology touched their lives and provided challenges .They would ask me for solutions before considering calling a help desk .Well, they had me around! I kept building on to my knowledge of the subject and I reached the Advanced level as a rising senior at my high school The instructor for the advanced computers course was the same instructor that introduced me to the subject as a freshman. I was back learning from the instructor who I started with and who would become my mentor. We had a talk about possible careers in technology. He explained that with my interest in technology ,strong academic record across the board in technology related courses that I should pursue a career associated with computer technology. It was at that point that I decided I wanted to pursue a major in information technology at the University level. Once I acquire the tools required ,I would like to use them to help others on a much broader scale. I earned the rank Eagle Scout and have been a scout for almost 12 years. I am committed to service. I am a junior assistant leader in my troop and continue to serve the greater community by providing service in the form of service projects such as beautification of religious institutions, schools, parks ,community clean ups, food drives, soup kitchens. Like Mr. Costonis, I believe in paying my own way . I learned this value comming from Immigrant parents and grandparents . The cost of attending college is so high now that even my two jobs are not enough to cover the costs even with some family assistance. Your scholarship opportunity would be very helpful to me in accomplishing my goals. I hope you feel I am worthy. Thank you for your consideration.

Both structure and mentorship are vital growing up in any type of family. Growing up in a military family is much about living ones life for God and country and service to the community. My grandfathers and uncles taught me about how to live my life using this motto and with their teachings and stories of life in the US Army and Navy .I was taught to keep myself physically fit and mentally strong by having a daily physical routine as well as learning and understanding our nations history. Not just understanding US and world wars, but our constitution and nations' laws, and why our family serves in the military and goes war to fight for social justice. From the time I became a teenager, maybe about 14 years age ,my parents, and extended family would call on me to assist them with their technology questions and problems. They knew I tinkered with old electronics and liked to learn how things work . I guess I was the authority in the family. It all began with simple requests for advice like, Hey Jovin my iPod won’t turn can you help, or Jovin, I wrote a letter to Aunt Helen and I can’t get it to print, Can you help me? I was always glad to lend a hand; and working with technology came natural to me, perhaps because I was born into the tech age. It made me feel useful and good that as a young person I could be helpful to adults in some way .This sparked me to take technology courses in school. I took advantage of learning opportunities at my High School .I took my first computer science course in my freshman year of high school .The instructor was very professional and patient and taught me the basics of computing. I enjoyed the class. The instructor inspired me to take additional technology related electives. I enrolled in Digital technology, Web Design, coding and Microsoft suite courses. I joined the robotics club and became a Robotics club mentor . As I learned more, I was able to help my relatives and friends with more complex problems however technology provided challenges .They would ask me for solutions before considering calling a help desk . I kept building on to my knowledge of the subject and I reached the Advanced level as a rising senior at my high school . The instructor for the advanced computers course was the same instructor that introduced me to the subject as a freshman. I was back learning from the instructor who I started with and who would become my mentor. He explained that with my interest in technology and strong academic record in technology related courses that I should pursue a career in computer technology. It was at that point that the decision to pursue a major in Information Technology and set a goal of becoming a project manager. I would like to make a positive impact within this field . I truly enjoy computer technology and strive to be a good person. The pride of being a citizen in the greatest country in the world , the structure, the discipline, and life lessons learned have made the the young man I have become. I feel I am a strong candidate for this scholarship as I am focused on a career goal, serve the greater community through service projects, and am an Eagle scout. I live by the strong philosophy of the scout law. I work as a lifeguard at the community pool and have earned BSA National Aquatics and mile swim awards.

I have always liked to tinker with old electronics and household machines to find how they work, find out why they did not work and seek out solutions to make them function once again .I have also always been an advocate for displaced animals and enjoyed being problem solver . This is both a story and an account of a project that I worked on and how I was able to help a living thing. When I was in ninth grade my neighbor found a turtle in his driveway and asked me if I wanted a pet. The turtle had likely lost his habitat due to new homes being built in the area. Always having had a passion for turtles I told him I would take care of the turtle. After taking in the turtle, I took to the internet and did some research on the matter. It turned out to be an Eastern Box Turtle which are a territorial species and would require lots of space. Wild turtles also cannot be kept as pets because they are used to a completely different lifestyle. I then talked with the naturalist at Cheesequake State Park and was informed that there was a small stream in the park to release the turtle to. One day I was informed through my Boy Scout troop that the secretary of my high school had a turtle in the office that was living in a small fish tank. I then decided to use this as my Eagle Scout Project. My plan was to create a larger habitat for the turtle and one that could be in a central location of the school for students to see. Many of the leaders in the troop said that it couldn’t be done and that a project that included a living thing may not be sustainable over time. I went on with my planning and research. Then I decided I would get a much larger aquarium for the turtle, build a large cabinet to put it on and store supplies in, as well as paint a large mural to go with it. In order to accomplish this, I would need some help. I recruited a friend who knew a lot about carpentry and another friend who was very artistically inclined. I explained to them what was needed and they were onboard. We pooled our ideas together formulated a perfect plan for the project. After having a plan, I submitted my proposal to the school principal and the BSA Council where I received approval for the project. We went in one day and painted the mural which included a picture of the turtle and other marine life which turned out perfect. We then built the cabinet out of lumber that was generously donated by a local lumberyard which also turned out great. On May 4, 2019, we went in and set up the aquarium along with its filtration, heating, and lighting system. Then the turtle went in and has been much happier in her new home. The turtle’s name is Tania, and she is a Red Eared Slider turtle. Almost two and a half years later the turtle and the project is still standing and I am now an Eagle Scout and am still involved with Troop 129. Now I look back and I am very pleased with how the project turned out . I will use scholarship proceeds towards my computer science education at Marist College. I will be studying Information Technology and Cybersecurity, I was a Robotics mentor in my school and know coding languages. Thank you.

From the time I became a teenager, maybe about 14 years age ,my parents, and extended family would call on me to assist them with their technology questions and problems. They knew I tinkered with old electronics and always like to learn how things work ,and collected old technology and am a problem solver. I guess I was the authority in the family. It all began with simple requests for advice like, Hey Jovin my iPod won’t turn can you help, or Jovin, I wrote a letter to Aunt Helen and I can’t get it to print, Can you help me out? I was always glad to lend a hand; and working with technology seemed to come natural to me. perhaps because I was born into the tech age. It made me feel useful and good that as a young person I could be helpful to adults in some way. I’m not sure it was the satisfaction I felt for doing a good deed or the gratitude from those I helped ,but it sparked me to take technology related courses in school. I decided I could learn more in school than I could teach myself on my own so-I took advantage of learning opportunities available to me .I took my first computer science course in my freshman year of high school .The instructor was very professional and patient and taught me the basics of computing. The instructor inspired me to take technology related electives every semester. I enrolled in Digital technology, Web Design & Microsoft suite courses. I was member of the robotics club and then became a mentor to students interested in the subject. As I learned more, I was able to help my relatives and friends with more complex problems with their laptops , I phones ,internet service and however else technology touched their lives and provided challenges .They would ask me for solutions before considering calling a help desk .Well, they had me around! I kept building on to my knowledge of the subject and I reached the Advanced level as a rising senior at my high school The instructor for the advanced computers course was the same instructor that introduced me to the subject as a freshman. I was back learning from the instructor who I started with and who would become my mentor. We had a talk about possible careers in technology. He explained that with my interest in technology ,strong academic record across the board in technology courses, that I should pursue a career associated with computer technology. It was at that point that I decided I wanted to pursue a major in information technology at the University level. I have been accepted to a four year University where I hope to acheive my goal of Project Manager. Once I acquire the tools required ,I would like to use them to help others on a much broader scale. Scholarship funds will be used for my education and lower my debt. I earned the rank Eagle Scout and have been a scout for almost 12 years. I am committed to service. I am a junior assistant leader in my troop and continue to serve the greater community by providing service in the form of service projects such as beautification of religious institutions, schools, parks ,community clean ups, food drives, soup kitchens. . I hope you feel I am worthy. Thank you for your consideration. Jovin.

I am most interested in the cybersecurity field. I would like to share my story of how and why I have chosen this career path. From the time I became a teenager, maybe about 14 years age ,my parents, and extended family would call on me to assist them with their technology questions and problems. They knew I tinkered with old electronics and liked to learn how things work ,and collected old technology and problem solving. I guess I was the authority in the family. It all began with simple requests for advice like, Hey Jovin my iPod won’t turn can you help, or Jovin, I wrote a letter to Aunt Helen and I can’t get it to print, Can you help me? I was always glad to lend a hand; and working with technology came natural to me, perhaps because I was born into the tech age. It made me feel useful and good that as a young person I could be helpful to adults in some way. I’m not sure if it was the satisfaction I felt for doing a good deed or the gratitude from those I helped ,but it sparked me to take technology related courses in school. I took advantage of learning opportunities at my High School available to me .I took my first computer science course in my freshman year of high school .The instructor was very professional and patient and taught me the basics of computing. I enjoyed the class and earned an A! The instructor inspired me to take additional technology related electives every semester. I enrolled in Digital technology, Web Design, coding and Microsoft suite courses. I joined the robotics club and then became a Robotics club mentor . As I learned more, I was able to help my relatives and friends with more complex problems, however technology touched their lives and provided challenges .They would ask me for solutions before considering calling a help desk . Well, they had me around! I kept building on to my knowledge of the subject and I reached the Advanced level as a rising senior at my high school . The instructor for the advanced computers course was the same instructor that introduced me to the subject as a freshman. I was back learning from the instructor who I started with and who would become my mentor. He explained that with my interest in technology and strong academic record in technology, that I should pursue a career associated with computer technology. I was very fortunate to gain exposure computer software and hardware exposure. It was at that point I set goals to pursue majors in Information Technology and Cybersecurity . I would like to make a positive impact within these fields .I am happy to know that my interests can lead to a career where I can continue to help others. I feel I am the strongest candidate for this scholarship, I truly enjoy computer technology and strive to be a good person. As an Eagle scout I live by the scout motto and law, which is in line with my personal philosophy. I have been a scout for almost 12 years. I am committed to service and have proven I can handle tough programs. I am comfortable accepting leadership positions. I am a junior assistant leader in my troop and lifeguard in my community and continue to serve the greater community by providing service in the form of service projects such as beautification of religious institutions, schools, parks ,community clean ups, food drives, soup kitchens.. Thank you for your consideration of my application.

From the time I became a teenager, maybe ,my parents, and extended family would call on me to assist them with their technology challenges. They knew I tinkered with old electronics , collected technology and enjoyed problem solving . I guess I was the authority in the family. It all began with simple requests for advice like, Hey Jovin my iPod won’t turn can you help or I wrote a letter to Aunt Helen and can’t get it to print ,please help! I was always glad to lend a hand; and working with technology seemed to come natural to me. It made me feel useful to be helpful to adults. I’m not sure it was the satisfaction I felt from gratitude by those I helped ,but it sparked me study technology related courses in school .l took advantage of learning opportunities available .I took my first computer science course in HS freshman year. The instructor was very professional and patient and taught me the basics of computing. He inspired me to take technology related electives. I enrolled in Digital technology, Web Design & Microsoft suite courses. I joined the robotics club and became a mentor . As I learned more, I was able to help others with complex problems with their laptops , I phones ,internet service & however else technology provided challenges .I would be asked for solutions before they considered a help desk .Well, they had me around! . I reached the Advanced level as a rising senior at my high school and the instructor for advanced computers courses was the same instructor that introduced me to the subject as a freshman. He became my mentor and inspired me to consider a career associated with technology. It was at that point that I made the decision to study technology at the University level. Technology is the way of the world an effects every our everyday lives. Technology has positively affected the health care ecosystem for sometime know. This is evident in the production of prosthetic limbs, health fitness watches, just to name a couple technologies This is an incredibly fortunate thing for the human race. As our society ages, we will need to take advantage of the opportunities offered by the current boom age of technology to our healthcare systems. Monitoring systems of the health of our citizens will certainly be an invaluable proactive measure ensuring that disease is detected at the most early stages saving lives and resources. This benefit is already apparent by technology in some 'Smart watches" on the market today. Robotic and software technology is alive in prosthetic limbs. Citizens who have suffered the loss of a leg for example can walk run and even dance due to the mating of wonderful technologies. Medication ,used both for proactive and healing measures is a modern miracle. Many drugs in use for oncology related treatments, organ replacements, pre and post operative surgeries for example could not be possible without helping technologies' helping hand. As these technologies are refined by both bio -medical and software professionals , the quality of life for countless many will be dramatically improved. Once I acquire the tools right tools ,I would like to use them to help others on a much broader scale. With my interests, combined in collaboration with my sister who studies Biomedical Engineering , we will create ways to enhance the lives of those affected by illness and disability. I am committed to service and have proven I can handle challenging programs . I am an Eagle Scout, lifeguard and involved in my community through service projects.

Technology is the way of the world an effects every facet of our everyday lives. This is an incredibly fortunate thing for the human race. Technology has positively affected the health care ecosystem for sometime know. This is evident in the production of prosthetic limbs, health fitness watches, just to name a couple technologies . From the time I became a teenager, maybe about 14 years age ,my parents, and extended family would call on me to assist them with their technology questions and problems. They knew I tinkered with old electronics and always like to learn how things work ,and collected old technology and am a problem solver. I guess I was the authority in the family. It all began with simple requests for advice like, Hey Jovin my iPod won’t turn can you help, or Jovin, I wrote a letter to Aunt Helen and I can’t get it to print, Can you help me out? I was always glad to lend a hand; and working with technology seemed to come natural to me. perhaps because I was born into the tech age. It made me feel useful and good that as a young person I could be helpful to adults in some way. I’m not sure it was the satisfaction I felt for doing a good deed or the gratitude from those I helped ,but it sparked me to take technology related courses in school. I decided I could learn more in school than I could teach myself on my own so-I took advantage of learning opportunities available to me .I took my first computer science course in my freshman year of high school .The instructor was very professional and patient and taught me the basics of computing. The instructor inspired me to take technology related electives every semester. I enrolled in Digital technology, Web Design & Microsoft suite courses. I was member of the robotics club and then became a mentor to students interested in the subject. As I learned more, I was able to help my relatives and friends with more complex problems with their laptops , I phones ,internet service and however else technology touched their lives and provided challenges .They would ask me for solutions before considering calling a help desk .Well, they had me around! I kept building on to my knowledge of the subject and I reached the Advanced level as a rising senior at my high school The instructor for the advanced computers course was the same instructor that introduced me to the subject as a freshman. I was back learning from the instructor who I started with and who would become my mentor. We had a talk about possible careers in technology. He explained that with my interest in technology ,strong academic record across the board in technology related courses that I should pursue a career associated with technology. It was at that point that I decided I wanted to pursue a major in technology at the University level. As our society ages, we will need to take advantage of the opportunities offered by the current boom age of technology to our healthcare systems. Monitoring systems of the health of our citizens will certainly be an invaluable proactive measure ensuring that disease is detected at the most early stages saving lives and resources. This benefit is already apparent by technology in some 'Smart watches" on the market today. Robotic and software technology is alive in prosthetic limbs. Citizens who have suffered the loss of a leg for example can walk run and even dance due to the mating of wonderful technologies. Medication ,used both for proactive and healing measures is a modern miracle. Through use of modern technological processes, the human race has benefited greatly . Many drugs in use for oncology related treatments, organ replacements, pre and post operative surgeries for example could not be possible without the helping hand of technology. As these technologies are refined by both bio -medical and software professionals , the quality of life for countless many will be dramatically improved. Once I acquire the tools required ,I would like to use them to help others on a much broader scale. With my interest in robotics ,software/programming, combined in collaboration with my sister who studies Biomedical Engineering , we will in a joint effort create ways to enhance the lives of those affected by illness and disability. I earned the rank Eagle Scout and have been a scout for almost 12 years. I am committed to service and have proven I can handle touch programs and am comfortable accepting leadership positions. I am a junior assistant leader in my troop and continue to serve the greater community by providing service in the form of service projects such as beautification of religious institutions, schools, parks ,community clean ups, food drives, soup kitchens.. Thank you for your consideration of my application.

I have always been concerned with the displacement of animals due to human sprawl. I have two stories of how I was able to help a couple of four legged creatures .When I was in ninth grade my neighbor found a turtle in his driveway and asked me if I wanted a pet. The turtle had likely lost his habitat due to new homes being built in the area. Always having had a passion for turtles I told him I would take care of the turtle. After taking in the turtle, I took to the internet and did some research on the matter. It turned out to be an Eastern Box Turtle which are a territorial species and would require lots of space. Wild turtles also cannot be kept as pets because they are used to a completely different lifestyle. I then talked with the naturalist at Cheesequake State Park and was informed that there was a small stream in the park to release the turtle to. One day I was informed through my Boy Scout troop that the secretary of my high school had a turtle in the office that was living in a small fish tank. I then decided to use this as my Eagle Scout Project. My plan was to create a larger habitat for the turtle and one that could be in a central location of the school for students to see. Many of the leaders in the troop said that it couldn’t be done and that a project that included a living thing may not be sustainable over time. I went on with my planning and research. Then I decided I would get a much larger aquarium for the turtle, build a large cabinet to put it on and store supplies in, as well as paint a large mural to go with it. In order to accomplish this, I would need some help. I recruited a friend who knew a lot about carpentry and another friend who was very artistically inclined. I explained to them what was needed and they were onboard. We pooled our ideas together formulated a perfect plan for the project. After having a plan, I submitted my proposal to the school principal and the BSA Council where I received approval for the project. We went in one day and painted the mural which included a picture of the turtle and other marine life which turned out perfect. We then built the cabinet out of lumber that was generously donated by a local lumberyard which also turned out great. On May 4, 2019, we went in and set up the aquarium along with its filtration, heating, and lighting system. Then the turtle went in and has been much happier in her new home. The turtle’s name is Tania, and she is a Red Eared Slider turtle. Almost two and a half years later the turtle and the project is still standing and I am now an Eagle Scout and am still involved with Troop 129. I'm very pleased with how the project turned out and proud that I was able to advocate for this turtle,

While I like to use the latest phones, computers, and other innovations as much as possible I am very interested in the evolution of technology. Like most people my age, my first introduction was the Nintendo DS that I got for Christmas 2012. However, one day my mother showed me her Nintendo Gameboy from 1989, and since it still worked, I even got to play with it and experienced a primitive version of Mario, before he looked Super. My father, not wanting to be topped when it came to old electronic games, gave me his Mattel electronic hand-held football game from the 1970s. It had lights and sounds, which was considered cutting edge at the time. It also worked. I benefitted from parents that not only saved their toys, but also preserved them. I inherited the collector’s gene from my father. But instead of collecting coins and baseball cards, I began collecting technology. It started by searching out classic Atari console and hand-held games at flea markets and on E-Bay, but soon evolved into other forms of technology. When my mom gave me the radio she had listened to every day as a teenager while she did her homework, I became interested in radios. I liked the look of the very old radios with boxes made of wood and tubes in the back. On a family trip to Pennsylvania, I found a Philco radio from the 1930s in an antique shop. It no longer worked and must have belonged to a farmer because I found some seeds inside the case, which may have had something to do with it. I had to figure out how to repair it. I searched the internet and found a local collector of radios who diagnosed the problem. He also told me about an antique radio club that offered clinics in radio repair and parts. I went to the clinic and learned how to solder capacitors and replace the tubes from members who were repairing radios they had owned all their lives. I was happy to be learning from their years of experience and they were glad to see someone from my generation who was interested in the past. My grandfather passed away when I was only five, so I didn’t really get to know him, but when my grandmother passed away in early 2020, we found his old cameras and projectors in her house. He liked being an amateur photographer and I liked figuring out how to set up his old projector and being able to watch home movies of my grandparents with my parents and my sister. My experiences with the old devices has taught me that while it is necessary to constantly improve technology for a better way of life, it’s important to preserve and learn from the technology of the past. I would like to live my life as both an innovator for the future and a preserver of the past. Collecting and and restoring technology is a hobby which I have always been passionate about and one which has inspired me study information technology at the University level. I am very fortunate that my passion for technology has led me down a path of enjoyment and towards a viable profession where I will be part of the evolution of technology.

Don Henley of the Eagles sings a line in the song called The Last Resort, that makes the hair on the back of neck rise - 'Cause there is no more new frontier -We have got to make it here!' This was a song I would hear sitting in the back seat of my parents car .The Eagles were right. I asked myself ,what can I as young person do to help our planet? At first, I reserved myself to making sure I conserved energy by turning off lights and the tv when not in use and my family recycled and reused household items to save resources so not ad to landfills. Doing these things made me feel good ,at least for a while. Then I thought of a more effective way to make positive changes in my community . I joined the Boy Scouts of America .The BSA has been known for good deeds. As scout I had the opportunity to join in community projects that improved my local and greater community. I took action by planning and executing projects such Community clean ups where I removed trash and hazardous materials from roadways ,beach cleanups where I removed items which could pollute our seas and harm marine life . I cleaned up local parks so that citizens could enjoy them trash free. Citizens in our town were positively affected by these 'good turns '. I was also given the opportunity to assist local citizens on a more personal level such as by participating in food drives and soup kitchens . As an older scout, I spearheaded a community service project to rescue a turtle by building a turtle habitat in my Highschool to promote learning and protection of turtles .Yes, we are going to make it here!

My most favorite public figure in modern history is Mother Teresa. She selflessly helped people who were most in need and is a role model for humanity. I strive to mirror her compassionate ways. I have always been an advocate for displaced animals and I would like to share instances where I was able to demonstrate my passion and solve problems for others with a need. When I was about fifteen years old, my neighbor found a turtle in his driveway and asked me if I could help it. The turtle had likely lost his habitat due to new construction in the area. Always having had a passion for turtles. I agreed I would take care of the turtle. After taking in the turtle, I researched on the matter. It was an Eastern Box Turtle, a territorial species and would require lots of space. Wild box turtles also cannot be kept as pets. I consulted with the naturalist at Cheesequake State Park and was informed that there was a small stream in the park where the turtle could be released. I was relieved that I was able to understand the turtles need and be of help. One day about a year later I was informed through my Boy Scout troop that the secretary of my high school had a donated turtle in the office that was living in a small fish tank. I decided to help by making this situation my Eagle Scout Project service project. My plan was to create a larger habitat for the turtle in a central location in school where we could promote education about turtles. Many of the leaders in the troop said that a project that included a living thing may not be sustainable over time. So I decided I would get a much larger aquarium for the turtle, build a large cabinet to put it on and store supplies in, as well as paint a large mural to go with it. In order to accomplish this, I would need some help. I recruited friends who knew a lot about carpentry and others who were artistically inclined. I explained to them what was needed and they were onboard. We pooled our ideas together and refined the plan. I also received a promise from faculty that the turtle would be cared for. I submitted my proposal to the school principal and the BSA Council and received approval for the project. We painted the aquatic mural which included a picture of the turtle. We then built the cabinet out of lumber that was generously donated by a local lumberyard . On May 4, 2019, we went in and set up the aquarium along with its filtration, heating, and lighting system. The turtle went in and both the turtle and the habitat are holding strong. The turtle’s name is Tania, and she is a Red Eared Slider turtle. Tania has become a school mascot. I look back and I am very pleased with how the project turned out and that I advocated for this project. I am grateful to those that made time and material donations which helped my idea become reality. I continue to participate in the BSA program as a junior assistant scout leader .It allows me to stay part of an organization which promotes kind deeds. I participate in food drives ,soup kitchens, repair and beautification of religious institutions ,community/environmental cleanups and wherever there is a need. Having a scholarship in Michaels' name is kind way to honor his legacy for helping his community and making the world a better place.

Both structure and mentorship are vital growing up in any type of family. Growing up in a military family is much about living ones life for God and country. My grandfather taught me about how to live my life with these principles with his teachings and stories of his life in the US Army .I was taught to keep myself physically fit and mentally strong by having a daily physical routine and learning and understanding our nations history. Not just understanding US and world wars, but our constitution and nations' laws, and why our family serves in the military and goes war to fight for justice. This mentorship is unlike any other which one would obtain in school or at a job. It is in the very fabric of the way we live our lives. My great grandfathers experience in the US Navy is immortalized through the many photos and citations on the walls of my grandparents home. It is a constant reminder of the sacrifice of the generations of our family who have served. This, however has been but one aspect of growing up in a Military family. The pride, the discipline, the life lessons learned which have made the the young man I have become; serving the greater community in my own way through community service projects by having been an active scout with the Boy Scouts of America for more than half my own life. The structure and patrol method of scouting is a continuation of my education in a military minded family which continues to be living for god and country. There is another aspect which is an unspoken and difficult to speak about, which is the reality of waiting many months and sometimes years to see our loved ones who have been away on assignment in other parts of the world defending our freedoms. Waiting for phone calls and letters is a way of life in military families. We patiently await these for these communications while quietly hoping and praying that our loves ones serving will come home safe. In a Military family we have learned to be strong for one-another and to support each other while we ourselves are quietly in pain inside. In movies we see parades and medals being pinned which is a truth but not the whole story. In conclusion, Military families provide a structure and mentoring atmosphere that keeps its members prideful, strong- willed and protective of one-another. I hope the grantors find me worthy of this scholarship award. God bless our Military and the United States of America.

One very effective way to make positive changes in ones community is to join a local organization. Joining a local community organization is one of the best vehicles for citizens to get involved in their own community and contribute to the quality of life on a local level. One path I chose to positively affect my local community was to join a troop sponsored by the Boy Scouts of America .The Boy Scouts of America has been known for doing good deeds for over one hundred years. As a member and scout at my local Boy scout troop I was given the opportunity to join in many community projects that improved my local as well as the greater community. Our Troop looked for where there was need in our community and we took action by planning and executing community projects such as repairs and beautification of our religious institutions, schools, and parks. These projects known a 'good turns' were completed free of charge through fundraisers held by the Boy scout troop. All citizens in our town were positively affected by these 'good turns '. Through this organization, I was also given the opportunity to assist local citizens on a more personal level such as by participating in food drives and soup kitchens at our local religious institutions and community organizations. As an older scout, I became a junior assistant leader in my troop and am able to help new scouts earn their merit badges and help them learn how to improve our community. In conclusion, Joining local organizations in an easy and very effective way for a citizen to have a positive affect on ones community.

With all the financial uncertainty due to the current state of the world economy be it from the ramifications of the world pandemic, war in western Europe, shortages of resources and rising inflation etc., I am genuinely concerned for my fiscal health. One lesson which I feel is most important is having a personal financial plan vs not having a plan at all. My belief is that having a financial plan and financial goals is a fundamental one, an absolute must . Alarmed by the number of Americans that have not adopted this belief, I am concerned for such citizens. I have travelled to major cities in the US to visit relatives over the years and while enjoying such beautiful structures such as the Goldengate Bridge , The Empire State building, and the Sears tower , I have seen firsthand what happens to the lives of those who have not (or could not) put together a financial plan. I witnessed first- hand the tent towns in California, where families reside who could not afford to rent apartments, homeless sleeping in alleys in Chicago and sleeping on steam grates and on subway platforms in New York City. As a child , I wondered to myself what could have caused the circumstances that citizens in the U.S. should live such undesirable situations in the county where my grandparents came to escape poverty? As a young adult I am not so naïve as I was as a child and learned that such life circumstances occur. Though I am most saddened by the result of not having a personal financial plan. I am grateful for the life lesson learned of the importance of having one. I started my own plan by getting a part time job, and opening checking, savings, and trading accounts.

From the time I became a teenager, maybe about 14 years age ,my parents, and extended family would call on me to assist them with their technology questions and problems. They knew I tinkered with old electronics and liked to learn how things work ,and collected old technology and problem solving. I guess I was the authority in the family. It all began with simple requests for advice like, Hey Jovin my iPod won’t turn can you help, or Jovin, I wrote a letter to Aunt Helen and I can’t get it to print, Can you help me? I was always glad to lend a hand; and working with technology came natural to me, perhaps because I was born into the tech age. It made me feel useful and good that as a young person I could be helpful to adults in some way. I’m not sure if it was the satisfaction I felt for doing a good deed or the gratitude from those I helped ,but it sparked me to take technology related courses in school. I took advantage of learning opportunities at my High School available to me .I took my first computer science course in my freshman year of high school .The instructor was very professional and patient and taught me the basics of computing. I enjoyed the class and earned an A! The instructor inspired me to take additional technology related electives every semester. I enrolled in Digital technology, Web Design, coding and Microsoft suite courses. I joined the robotics club and then became a Robotics club mentor . As I learned more, I was able to help my relatives and friends with more complex problems however technology touched their lives and provided challenges .They would ask me for solutions before considering calling a help desk . Well, they had me around! I kept building on to my knowledge of the subject and I reached the Advanced level as a rising senior at my high school . The instructor for the advanced computers course was the same instructor that introduced me to the subject as a freshman. I was back learning from the instructor who I started with and who would become my mentor. He explained that with my interest in technology and strong academic record in technology related courses that I should pursue a career associated with computer technology. It was at that point early that semester that I decided I wanted to pursue a major in Information Technology and set my goal of becoming a project manager. I would like to make a positive impact within this field .I am happy to know that my interests can lead to a career where I can continue to help others. I feel I am the strongest candidate for this scholarship. Just like Mr. Jackson, I truly enjoy computer technology and strive to be a good person. As an Eagle scout I live by the scout law, which mirrors his philosophy.

I have always liked to tinker with old electronics and household machines to find how they work, find out why they did not work and seek out solutions to to make them function once again. I have always enjoyed being problem solver . This is both a story and an account of an instance of how I solved a problem for someone else .When I was in ninth grade my neighbor found a turtle in his driveway and asked me if I wanted a pet. The turtle had likely lost his habitat due to new homes being built in the area. Always having had a passion for turtles I told him I would take care of the turtle. After taking in the turtle, I took to the internet and did some research on the matter. It turned out to be an Eastern Box Turtle which are a territorial species and would require lots of space. Wild turtles also cannot be kept as pets because they are used to a completely different lifestyle. I then talked with the naturalist at Cheesequake State Park and was informed that there was a small stream in the park to release the turtle to. One day I was informed through my Boy Scout troop that the secretary of my high school had a turtle in the office that was living in a small fish tank. I then decided to use this as my Eagle Scout Project. My plan was to create a larger habitat for the turtle and one that could be in a central location of the school for students to see. Many of the leaders in the troop said that it couldn’t be done and that a project that included a living thing may not be sustainable over time. I went on with my planning and research. Then I decided I would get a much larger aquarium for the turtle, build a large cabinet to put it on and store supplies in, as well as paint a large mural to go with it. In order to accomplish this, I would need some help. I recruited a friend who knew a lot about carpentry and another friend who was very artistically inclined. I explained to them what was needed and they were onboard. We pooled our ideas together formulated a perfect plan for the project. After having a plan, I submitted my proposal to the school principal and the BSA Council where I received approval for the project. We went in one day and painted the mural which included a picture of the turtle and other marine life which turned out perfect. We then built the cabinet out of lumber that was generously donated by a local lumberyard which also turned out great. On May 4, 2019, we went in and set up the aquarium along with its filtration, heating, and lighting system. Then the turtle went in and has been much happier in her new home. The turtle’s name is Tania, and she is a Red Eared Slider turtle. Almost two and a half years later the turtle and the project is still standing and I am now an Eagle Scout and am still involved with Troop 129. Now I look back and I am very pleased with how the project turned out and that I proved all the people who doubted me. I am grateful to those that made donations which helped my idea become reality. I am hopeful that the grantors of this scholarship can help me fund my education. I have many ideas about how technology can help the humanity

When faced with a challenge one can be inclined to be true to himself. I have always been concerned with the displacement of animal due to human sprawl. When I was in ninth grade my neighbor found a turtle in his driveway and asked me if I wanted a pet. The turtle had likely lost his habitat due to new homes being built in the area. Always having had a passion for turtles I told him I would take care of the turtle. After taking in the turtle, I took to the internet and did some research on the matter. It turned out to be an Eastern Box Turtle which are a territorial species and would require lots of space. Wild turtles also cannot be kept as pets because they are used to a completely different lifestyle. I then talked with the naturalist at Cheesequake State Park and was informed that there was a small stream in the park to release the turtle to. One day I was informed through my Boy Scout troop that the secretary of my high school had a turtle in the office that was living in a small fish tank. I then decided to use this as my Eagle Scout Project. My plan was to create a larger habitat for the turtle and one that could be in a central location of the school for students to see. Many of the leaders in the troop said that it couldn’t be done and that a project that included a living thing may not be sustainable over time. I went on with my planning and research. Then I decided I would get a much larger aquarium for the turtle, build a large cabinet to put it on and store supplies in, as well as paint a large mural to go with it. In order to accomplish this, I would need some help. I recruited a friend who knew a lot about carpentry and another friend who was very artistically inclined. I explained to them what was needed and they were onboard. We pooled our ideas together formulated a perfect plan for the project. After having a plan, I submitted my proposal to the school principal and the BSA Council where I received approval for the project. We went in one day and painted the mural which included a picture of the turtle and other marine life which turned out perfect. We then built the cabinet out of lumber that was generously donated by a local lumberyard which also turned out great. On May 4, 2019, we went in and set up the aquarium along with its filtration, heating, and lighting system. Then the turtle went in and has been much happier in her new home. The turtle’s name is Tania, and she is a Red Eared Slider turtle. Almost two and a half years later the turtle and the project is still standing and I am now an Eagle Scout and am still involved with Troop 129. Now I look back and I am very pleased with how the project turned out and that I proved all the people who doubted me wrong.

While I like to use the latest phones, computers, and other innovations as much as possible I am very interested in the evolution of technology. Like most people my age, my first introduction was the Nintendo DS that I got for Christmas 2012. However, one day my mother showed me her Nintendo Gameboy from 1989, and since it still worked, I even got to play with it and experienced a primitive version of Mario, before he looked Super. My father, not wanting to be topped when it came to old electronic games, gave me his Mattel electronic hand-held football game from the 1970s. It had lights and sounds, which was considered cutting edge at the time. It also worked. I benefitted from parents that not only saved their toys, but also preserved them. I inherited the collector’s gene from my father. But instead of collecting coins and baseball cards, I began collecting technology. It started by searching out classic Atari console and hand-held games at flea markets and on E-Bay, but soon evolved into other forms of technology. When my mom gave me the radio she had listened to every day as a teenager while she did her homework, I became interested in radios. I liked the look of the very old radios with boxes made of wood and tubes in the back. On a family trip to Pennsylvania, I found a Philco radio from the 1930s in an antique shop. It no longer worked and must have belonged to a farmer because I found some seeds inside the case, which may have had something to do with it. I had to figure out how to repair it. I searched the internet and found a local collector of radios who diagnosed the problem. He also told me about an antique radio club that offered clinics in radio repair and parts. I went to the clinic and learned how to solder capacitors and replace the tubes from members who were repairing radios they had owned all their lives. I was happy to be learning from their years of experience and they were glad to see someone from my generation who was interested in the past. My grandfather passed away when I was only five, so I didn’t really get to know him, but when my grandmother passed away in early 2020, we found his old cameras and projectors in her house. He liked being an amateur photographer and I liked figuring out how to set up his old projector and being able to watch home movies of my grandparents with my parents and my sister. My experiences with the old devices has taught me that while it is necessary to constantly improve technology for a better way of life, it’s important to preserve and learn from the technology of the past. I would like to live my life as both an innovator for the future and a preserver of the past. Collecting and and restoring technology is my hobby.

From the time I became a teenager, maybe about 14 years age ,my parents, and extended family would call on me to assist them with their technology questions and problems. They knew I tinkered with old electronics and always like to learn how things work ,and collected old technology and am a problem solver. I guess I was the authority in the family. It all began with simple requests for advice like, Hey Jovin my iPod won’t turn can you help, or Jovin, I wrote a letter to Aunt Helen and I can’t get it to print, Can you help me out? I was always glad to lend a hand; and working with technology seemed to come natural to me. perhaps because I was born into the tech age. It made me feel useful and good that as a young person I could be helpful to adults in some way. I’m not sure it was the satisfaction I felt for doing a good deed or the gratitude from those I helped ,but it sparked me to take technology related courses in school. I decided I could learn more in school than I could teach myself on my own so-I took advantage of learning opportunities available to me .I took my first computer science course in my freshman year of high school .The instructor was very professional and patient and taught me the basics of computing. The instructor inspired me to take technology related electives every semester. I enrolled in Digital technology, Web Design & Microsoft suite courses. I was member of the robotics club and then became a mentor to students interested in the subject. As I learned more, I was able to help my relatives and friends with more complex problems with their laptops , I phones ,internet service and however else technology touched their lives and provided challenges .They would ask me for solutions before considering calling a help desk .Well, they had me around! I kept building on to my knowledge of the subject and I reached the Advanced level as a rising senior at my high school The instructor for the advanced computers course was the same instructor that introduced me to the subject as a freshman. I was back learning from the instructor who I started with and who would become my mentor. We had a talk about possible careers in technology. He explained that with my interest in technology ,strong academic record across the board in technology related courses that I should pursue a career associated with computer technology. It was at that point that I decided I wanted to pursue a major in information technology at the University level. Once I acquire the tools required ,I would like to use them to help others on a much broader scale. With my interest in robotics and learning advanced coding combined with collaboration with my sister who studies Biomedical Engineering , we will in a joint effort create ways to enhance the lives of those affected by illness and disability. I earned the rank Eagle Scout and have been a scout for almost 12 years. I am committed to service. I am a junior assistant leader in my troop and continue to serve the greater community by providing service in the form of service projects such as beautification of religious institutions, schools, parks ,community clean ups, food drives, soup kitchens. I share the same love of technology as Anthony. Your scholarship opportunity is a very nice way of honoring him. I hope you feel I am worthy. Thank you for your consideration. Jovin.

Hard work pays off! This is what I was always told by my grandparents who emigrated to the US from Cuba and Italy in the 1950's. I learned early on in life that doing ones homework helped to earn strong grades in school. In 2019 I joined the junior varsity golf team as a freshman in High school. There were many sports offered but golf seemed to suit me best. I was not very good at first ,slicing and hooking the ball and needing numerous attempts to get out of sand traps. Public High school offers the opportunity to play but does not offer much opportunity in the way of lessons as resources are limited with only one golf coach assigned to many players .Golf lessons tend to be costly, so I took it upon myself to improve my game. I began reading magazines watching videos on line to find the best tips and techniques to lower my score. After school I went out to my High school soccer field with my 'top flite" clubs to practice the techniques tips, & illustrations I had researched. I kept up this routine for months until I was hitting the ball straight with my drivers and irons. When the 2020 season came there were rumors that the season would be cancelled due to two key issues. One issue was recent budget cuts by the state of New Jersey that could effect the future of the golf program and secondly due to the Covid pandemic, the board of Education enacted social distancing rules for Highschool sports. I was distressed to hear this but I continued to practice ; Even during bad weather I would practice putting golf balls into a paper cup in living room of my family home. In early April 2020 an announcement was made that since golf was a non contact sport, the team would be allowed to play with some restrictions. Masks had to be worn on our faces ,and keep six feet away from other players. I was fine with the restrictions and relieved that the program would resume .But then there would be a third mandate that could jeopardize my chances of playing on the team. Due to social distancing rules there would be limited seating on the school bus which transports the team to tournaments & golf range, so some players would be subject to furlough. I was very concerned as I was not I did not have varsity or senior priority status. The coach needed to decide which players could play so he set up a course on the HS soccer field where players would show their skills and prove worthiness. I was nervous as there were players on the team with more experience and had access to pro lessons. Well, I played the course and when I completed it, the coach told me I would be on the 2020 roster. I thought to myself hard work does pay off and I am so glad I put the effort in. My grandparents' philosophy applied to all topics in life. The lesson learned is do my best. Patience, Practice, Persistence and preparedness has made me a better player, student and human being. This philosophy has helped me become an A student and be accepted into two universities. I will apply these disciplines I learned through golfing to all I do the rest of my life. My hope is to earn scholarship to afford my first choice school which gives me the best chance for success. Thank you for your consideration of my application. Jovin Percoco