Higher education is more than just earning a degree; it is an opportunity to gain knowledge, build connections, and prepare for the future. As a high school senior, I have worked hard to set myself up for success, but financial barriers make the path forward uncertain. College is my next step toward achieving my career goals, growing as a person, and making a difference in my community. However, the rising costs of tuition and living expenses make it difficult for many students, including myself, to afford higher education. This scholarship would help make my dreams a reality, allowing me to focus on my education and future career without the burden of financial stress. Since childhood, I have been fascinated by the power of storytelling, whether through literature, photography, or history. As I grew older, my passion for communication, leadership, and creativity led me to explore fields that align with these interests. I have found immense fulfillment in my role as a sports and events photographer at South Lakes High School, capturing moments that tell a story beyond words. Through this experience, I have developed strong observational and technical skills, as well as an appreciation for how media can bring people together. In addition to photography, my academic journey has reinforced my interest in history and education. History was my strongest subject during my junior year, and I enjoyed the process of taking detailed notes and analyzing historical events. I believe that understanding the past is crucial for shaping the future, and I want to apply this knowledge in a meaningful way. Combining my love for storytelling with my academic strengths, I aspire to pursue a degree in either communications, media studies, or education, with a goal of working in journalism, media production, or as an educator. These fields allow me to blend creativity, research, and leadership in ways that can positively impact others. Beyond my career goals, I also want to advocate for students who, like me, have faced challenges with communication. Being diagnosed with selective mutism at a young age shaped much of my early life, making it difficult to express myself in social and academic settings. However, through perseverance and support, I learned to navigate these challenges, gaining confidence in my ability to communicate and participate in class discussions. My experiences have given me a deep understanding of the struggles that students with anxiety or speech-related challenges face, and I hope to use my platform—whether in media or education—to advocate for greater awareness and support systems for these individuals. Financial challenges should not determine whether someone can pursue higher education. Unfortunately, for many families, including mine, the increasing costs of tuition and living expenses make college difficult to afford. My parents, Sarah and Steve, have always encouraged my academic ambitions, but paying for college without financial aid presents a significant challenge. This scholarship would help relieve some of the financial stress, allowing me to focus on my studies and career development instead of worrying about how to pay for school. Beyond tuition, this scholarship would allow me to take advantage of opportunities that will shape my future. College is more than just attending classes—it’s about gaining real-world experience, networking, and developing skills that will help me in my career. Without financial stress holding me back, I could fully participate in internships, student organizations, and leadership programs that will prepare me for my chosen field. Additionally, this scholarship would help me continue growing as a leader. Throughout high school, I have taken on responsibilities that require initiative and teamwork, such as assisting with school events and group projects. These experiences have helped me develop confidence and leadership skills. With this scholarship, I could carry that leadership into college by joining student-led organizations, mentorship programs, or advocacy groups focused on education and mental health awareness. In the long run, I want to build a career that blends my passion for storytelling, education, and advocacy. If I pursue journalism or media production, I hope to highlight underrepresented voices and cover stories that bring awareness to important social issues, such as mental health in education. If I become a teacher, I want to create an inclusive classroom where all students feel heard and encouraged, especially those struggling with communication challenges like I once did. This scholarship is not just financial support—it is an investment in my future and the impact I hope to make. A college degree will equip me with the skills, experiences, and connections necessary to turn my ambitions into reality. By achieving my academic and professional goals, I hope to give back to my community and support future students who face challenges similar to mine. Graduating from college is not the end of my journey—it is the foundation for everything I hope to accomplish. Earning a degree will give me the skills, experiences, and confidence needed to pursue a career where I can make a lasting impact. Whether through journalism, media production, or education, I want to use my voice to uplift others, share meaningful stories, and advocate for important causes. If I enter the world of media, I hope to create content that sheds light on underrepresented voices and social issues, particularly in education and mental health. I want to highlight the challenges students face, especially those who struggle with communication, just as I once did. Through writing, photography, or broadcasting, I can bring awareness to these issues, inspire change, and give a platform to those who feel unheard. If I pursue a career in education, I want to foster a classroom environment where all students feel seen, supported, and empowered. Having experienced selective mutism, I understand how difficult it can be for students to find their voice. As a teacher, I would work to create an inclusive space where students feel comfortable expressing themselves and reaching their full potential. This scholarship is not just about funding my education—it is about making my goals possible. With financial support, I can focus on my studies, gain real-world experience, and take advantage of opportunities that will prepare me for my future. More importantly, it will allow me to give back to my community and create a meaningful impact. With this scholarship, I will be one step closer to achieving my dreams and using my education to make a difference in the world through storytelling, education, and advocacy.

My experience with mental health has been the most defining influence on my life's path. Navigating my mental health journey has deeply influenced my beliefs, relationships, and career goals. Diagnosed with selective mutism at the age of four, I’ve faced unique challenges with communication. These experiences taught me resilience, and now, as a high school senior in Reston, Virginia, I see how my mental health journey has shaped who I am and the connections I hold close. One of the biggest struggles I’ve faced was my experience with high school softball. Initially, I loved the sport, and it was a significant part of my life. But over time, the intense environment and high expectations began to weigh on me. Balancing school, social life, and softball was overwhelming, and the pressure to perform added immense stress. Rather than a source of relief or joy, the sport became a trigger for anxiety. During practices and games, I often felt disconnected from myself, worried more about letting others down than playing the sport I once enjoyed. This period, coupled with my struggles with selective mutism, felt isolating, as I didn’t know how to express my challenges or ask for help. This led to a difficult mental health stretch from May 2022 to December 2022, where I wrestled with feelings of inadequacy, stress, and self-doubt. The experience, though painful, taught me important lessons about boundaries and self-care. I realized the importance of stepping away from situations that negatively impact my mental health, even if it’s hard. My friendships became a lifeline during this time, helping me see the value of open, honest connections. My close friends and family became the support I needed, and these relationships have since become deeper and more intentional. I’ve learned to prioritize connections that are understanding and compassionate, recognizing how essential it is to be around people who truly care. Being adopted from Guatemala City adds another layer to my identity and journey with mental health. There’s always been a search for belonging, especially when dealing with selective mutism and other challenges. This has given me a strong sense of empathy and a drive to ensure that others don’t feel alone in their struggles. I’ve come to believe in the importance of creating inclusive, safe spaces for people to express themselves. I value openness, understanding, and acceptance, all of which stem from my journey through mental health and the insights I’ve gained along the way. These experiences have also influenced my career aspirations. I’m drawn toward psychology, inspired by my own journey and the people who supported me when I felt lost. I want to be that support for others, helping them navigate their own challenges with compassion and care. I hope to work in mental health, focusing on areas like anxiety and identity, to make a difference for those facing similar struggles. In the end, my experiences with selective mutism, high school sports, and the difficult mental health period I went through have all taught me resilience, empathy, and the importance of meaningful connections. These lessons shape my outlook and drive my desire to create a positive impact in the lives of others, helping them find acceptance and support.

I've been a Chappell Roan superfan since way before she hit the mainstream. I discovered her music while she was just a small indie artist, performing small shows outdoors and releasing songs that didn't get nearly enough recognition they deserved at the time. Being able to watch the artist you supported when not many other people did has been incredible and I hope I one day get to tell her how proud I am of all she has accomplished in such a small amount of time. Knowing I was there for her early work when only a handful of people were turned into her music makes me feel as If I have a more valuable connection as I wasn't one to jump on the bandwagon. I admire her unapologetic approach to themes like queer identity and the overall umbrella of love. Critics have tried to call her out for being "too much" or "provocative," but for me, it all is honestly a huge part of why I love her character. Her lyrics have such rawness and vulnerability that resonate deeply with me as I feel like we share so many emotions/experiences towards the topics she sings about: Her songs about love, self-discovery, and resilience hit home, giving me a voice for things I feel but could never articulate, as I have never been one for vulnerable vocal expression. Being able to follow Chappell's journey feels personal, like cheering for a friend who is finally getting the spotlight they deserve and it truly makes me emotional when I see her success on social media. I hope to one day be able to take pictures at one of her concert, as I am currently a small independent photographer aspiring to shoot for concerts.