Blank Canvas: Letting Go of the Past This next chapter of my life marks not the continuation of one story but the beginning of the next. I close the book on my life up until now. I say goodbye to the child who abandoned her dreams and ambitions, the child who became numb in order to survive. Chapter Zero, a traumatic yet uninteresting origin story, has come to an end. As lengthy as it was, I must close the cover and leave it behind. Now, a blank canvas, this is Chapter One. I used to be brimming with hopes and dreams, overflowing with passions and interests. I struggle to remember what they were. I still talk about them once in a while, almost nostalgically, as if I enjoy the idea of them, numb to the joy of the action. My childhood was marred by abuse and neglect, leading me to a point where life felt devoid of meaning. My life was not my own. I became a vessel for absorbing my father's aggression; my existence was reduced to sustaining his power. The trauma greatly impacted my health, eventually manifesting into chronic fatigue. The exhaustion was overwhelming. I was forced to use the little energy I had left to focus on schoolwork. I was stripped of all my free time, eventually forgetting the things that once made me happy. As a result, I lost my sense of self, forgetting what it means to be alive. To write a new story, I must let go of the past. I am a blank canvas, empty and devoid of life. College presents an opportunity to explore what truly brings me happiness and purpose. This journey will be the tale of how I paint this blank canvas, shedding the numbness of the past behind me. Chapter one is always the beginning.

In contemporary society, a pervasive stigma surrounds the discussion of mental health, particularly among older generations; this perpetuates cycles of ignorance and harm within families. This reluctance to acknowledge the importance of mental wellness underscores the need for greater awareness and understanding. However, beneath this societal veil lies a crucial truth: mental health and physical health are undeniably linked. The dismissive notion that "It's all in your head" is a statement born of ignorance of the human body. Mental and physical well-being are inseparable. All pain, whether physical or emotional, is ultimately processed and interpreted by the brain, highlighting the profound influence of mental state on one’s overall health. At a young age, my mental health began to deteriorate. My abusive father and the turmoil within my household led to my downward spiral into severe anxiety and depression. The transition from elementary to middle school was a challenge on its own. The drastic change in environment coupled with my home life was more than I could bear; just the thought of waking up early to take the bus, hearing the bells ring, and finding my way to class through those crowds caused immense panic. Insomnia and fatigue soon set in. I constantly fell asleep in class with a perpetual sense of exhaustion. Academic tasks became Herculean feats as my energy waned. I felt trapped in a cycle that compromised my well-being. Home provided little respite from the chaos. I lacked a safe space in my life. I often found myself pleading with my mother to let me stay home, hoping to seek refuge from the overwhelming burden of school. Yet even the sanctuary of home offered little reprieve; one wrong breath and I would find myself the target of my father's unpredictable wrath. I resented my parents for bringing me into this world without taking any responsibility. I let go of hope and wanted nothing more but to never wake up again. It took four years for my mother to take me to a doctor to address my pain and fatigue. Finally, a psychologist identified a potential culprit for my mounting health issues. The chronic fatigue I experienced likely stemmed from the stress that permeated my daily life, each symptom exacerbating the next. My original fatigue worsened as my stress increased until I developed intense body pains; with these symptoms, I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia. I spent years without any answers; no one believed that my pain was genuine. Unfortunately, my diagnosis brought little relief as it pointed fingers at the subject of my trauma: my family. I have come to recognize the profound significance of mental health in both my journey and within the broader societal context. Despite prevailing misconceptions, my experiences with fibromyalgia have illuminated the intricate connections between physical and cognitive well-being. As I navigated the hurdles of accessing appropriate care and support, it became increasingly evident that prioritizing mental health was not only a matter of personal resilience but also a call to challenge societal norms and foster a more empathetic understanding of individual experiences. I still struggle to maintain my mental health. One can be a slave to their environment. Taking a break from the stressors of work or school can have dire consequences. One must work to afford rent, water, electricity, food, etc. Taking a break from school when you are behind can lead to failing classes and needing to repeat the year. Self-care is a luxury that many cannot afford. Without the extra time or energy to find balance, I have no choice but to continue on at the expense of my well-being.

Growing up, my family could barely afford to pay the bills, let alone a gaming console. I longed for a DS the moment my best friend in first grade brought hers to school. She let me play Crafting Mama on her DS Lite, and I fell in love. I had watched others play console games, but the novelty and fun of this device were like nothing I had ever experienced before. I would ask for a DS every Christmas despite our trying financial situation. Newer models hit the shelves over the years, and six years passed before I accepted that such a gift was too much to ask for. I realized that wishing for a miracle was not enough. I decided I needed to save money from Christmas and birthdays to buy a 3DS for myself. Two years before the discontinuation of the newest model of DS consoles, the 3DS, I finally had saved enough to purchase a used console on eBay. It was not the light pink DS Lite my friend had or the next generation of models, the pink pearl 3DS. It was not the Galaxy New 3DS XL, the last model of 3DS to be released before they were discontinued. It was a used red and black 3DS XL covered in scratches, yet it became my most prized possession. My first game was Animal Crossing: New Leaf. My life consisted of watching others play video games on YouTube. My favorite YouTuber influenced my decision to make Animal Crossing my first Nintendo title. I had more fun than I can begin to explain. This game was all I ever talked about. My little sister was the first victim of my overflowing excitement over the game. I told her all about the different features and how much fun I was having. She was initially indifferent about the game but eventually, my excitement piqued her curiosity, and she saved up some money to buy a 3DS for herself. I showed her that Animal Crossing could be multiplayer; we played together every day. I will never forget the fun that we had while we hunted for beetles on Kapp'n's island, helping each other save up bells to pay off our debts to Tom Nook. Despite our financial struggles, the joy of playing Animal Crossing together brought us closer than ever. We would spend hours exploring the virtual world, customizing our homes, and interacting with the quirky villagers. These multiplayer sessions were not just about gaming; they were moments of laughter, bonding, and shared excitement. Looking back, I cannot help but feel a sense of saudade for those carefree days spent gaming with my sister. Life may have become busier, and our opportunities for multiplayer gaming may have dwindled, but the memories we created together remain a cherished part of my past. As time passes, I am reminded of the simple joys we shared, leaving me with a tinge of nostalgia for those moments that have now become distant echoes of the past. Time continues to move on, and it often feels cruel. The 3DS has been discontinued for a while, and people have moved on, but I have yet to see a console that can compare. The memories I made with that device cannot be replicated. I long for just one more break where I can come together with those whom I love and share a peaceful experience like the ones from my childhood.

Life is not fair for anyone. Everyone struggles; what makes me special? There will always be someone who has it worse. Why do I deserve assistance more than others? The answer to these deprecating ideas is simple. I do not deserve anything more or less than others. It is typical to hear one’s struggles dismissed because “others have it worse”; however, that does not diminish the experience of suffering the individual encountered. Every person is unique and that includes their experiences. Some are less fortunate than I am, but I will not dismiss and ignore the process I went through to survive. I spent much of my childhood neglected and abused. Despite losing motivation for the future, something kept driving me forward. Every painful experience sprouted thoughts like "You just wait, I'll show you that you are wrong" in my mind. I was always stubborn, not allowing others to tell me otherwise. The constant abuse was demoralizing, leading to chronic pain and mental illness at a young age. I never had time to rest after each challenge, yet I made it out alive. It was difficult to be optimistic, but something saved me after every attempt to give up. I used to dream big. I thought there was no reason why one had to be “realistic” if someone else had already proved it possible. Recently, I reminisced about my past self. I realized that I was not dreaming anymore. Although I am alive, I was surviving with no particular goal. What was the point of existing? Why is it taboo to want to give up when I no longer have the energy to continue suffering? I cannot answer every question I may have, but I believe that the meaning of life is hidden in plain sight. The uncertainty of life makes it precious. People say that life is nothing but waiting for an inevitable death, but death is what gives life meaning. Every book has an ending, and we write our autobiographies as the main characters. The creativity and passion that each person possesses is fascinating. I struggled with chronic pain as early as eight. My cries for help were always ignored. I was ambitious and perfectionistic. My Feeling like an actress playing the part of a human, I returned home as my true self. Only recently diagnosed with ADHD, I realized "normal" is a made-up concept different for everyone. All I wanted was to be liked, but society's narrative needs to change collectively. My struggles were debilitating but led to revelations that changed my worldview. I was right to dream big, and even though I once gave up on goals, life's unfairness motivates me to achieve more. I'll use my trauma for character-building and writing my narrative. My parents embraced toxic ideas, but change starts with self-awareness. I want to be a living example of what a person can be, breaking free from societal limits. Fear of being othered drives people from their individuality, and expectations limit potential. I dream of pursuing my interests without obstacles. It sounds cliché, but this is the conclusion that I have come to. I limited myself by drowning in pessimism and depression. I became who I am today because of my past. I cannot change the past, but I can work toward my future, so I might as well do it my way. I deserve a chance at life, and so does every student. Learning is the only way to grow.

I always felt like I was different from other children when I was younger. My interest in psychology started with me trying to understand why that was. I was curious about what made up a person’s behavior and personality. “What do you want to be when you grow up?” was a common question with a complex answer. As I approached high, I tried to reflect on what I wanted out of life. My best friend helped me reach a decision and supported me to challenge the opposition of my abusive father. My experience with trauma was a direct influence on my decision to go into psychology. Mental health is just as important as physical health and as someone who suffers from both, I have felt the weight that neglect of care can have. My health issues were often left ignored, especially my mental health. The attitude of my parents and doctors left me feeling isolated and helpless. It was as if I was a "thing" whose feelings were not real. It took a huge toll on my motivation in life. Having no support made me a danger to myself. Growing up in an abusive family only amplified my challenges and I developed self-harming tendencies as a misguided coping mechanism. Only in April of this year was I diagnosed with ADHD, and even my anxiety and depression were initially dismissed by my doctor until 2018 when I reached a severe point. These experiences ignited a passion to help prevent others from living a life like mine. Advocacy for those who have been silenced and marginalized is a major key in supporting others. Everyone, including unrepresented minorities, deserves a voice. I aim to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to help people like me to overcome the challenges they may face in a society that often ignores them and become the type of person that I needed in my childhood. I have struggled with my mental and physical health for years, but my experiences allowed me to truly empathize with others as a result. Support should be available to everyone in any situation, and it is imperative that proper care for both mental and physical health is accessible. I realize that to change the system, we must inspect the systemic barriers that prevent people from accessing quality care. The root of the cause needs to be addressed to repair the system and provide communities with equitable resources. We as the next generation, must challenge the stigmas that surround mental health and ensure that everyone has access to equal opportunities to receive the support they deserve. I aim to advocate for improved mental health services and raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by marginalized communities. I must also reflect on myself. My healing and well-being are also fundamental for me to support others effectively. My journey of helping others starts with my own healing. Learning more about myself and where my trauma derives from will help me understand others better as well. My goal is to live a life of happiness and enrichment, learning everything I can, and I want to help create a world where mental health is prioritized and nurtured, so others have the foundation to live happily as well. I am determined to overcome the many challenges that l will face in my life to become someone who can give the support that everyone deserves. I will never give up on my goal to become a happy person that helps others heal and find their happiness as well.

Living with fibromyalgia, ADHD, sensory processing issues, and a potential autism spectrum disorder; my educational journey has been marked by resilience, determination, and a desire to overcome the obstacles that stand in my path. From a young age, I experienced extreme sensory processing issues that made everyday tasks overwhelming. The texture of certain fabrics, the sound of loud environments, and the brightness of fluorescent lights triggered sensory overload, leaving me feeling anxious and disoriented. These challenges along with the physical pain and fatigue caused by fibromyalgia and ADHD, added an extra layer of difficulty in my academic journey. As I progressed through my academic journey, I began to recognize that my experiences went beyond the typical struggles faced by others. Although I excelled in some areas, my ability to take care of myself properly became increasingly challenging. I struggled to eat regularly and as a person of color, I had very thick and curly hair that was difficult to wash. Taking proper care of my health and hygiene was a daunting task. Interoception, the awareness of my body's internal signals proved elusive, and I often required assistance to navigate basic self-care routines. This realization along with my sensory issues and childhood background, led me to explore the possibility of having autism spectrum disorder, as many of my sensory and interoceptive difficulties aligned with the traits associated with this condition. While the chances of facing additional challenges in my adult life can be intimidating, I refuse to let them define me or limit my aspirations. Instead, I view these experiences as catalysts for personal growth and a driving force behind my determination to advocate for accessibility and support for people like me that have had their health affect their quality of life in drastic ways. In addition to these experiences, I have also navigated the challenges posed by asthma and cholinergic urticaria. Living with asthma meant dealing with episodes of shortness of breath and limitations on physical activities. Participating in outdoor exercises or even enjoying recess became arduous tasks as I often found myself seeking shade to avoid triggering a rash caused by cholinergic urticaria. I was often sitting alone due to my inability to exert myself in the heat of my hometown. Applying for this scholarship represents my commitment to higher education and also my desire to be a catalyst for change. The provided financial support could opportunity to further my education and gain the knowledge and skills necessary to advocate for inclusive environments that accommodate the diverse needs of individuals with chronic illnesses, sensory processing issues, and invisible disabilities. It could also support my health through the means of paying for evaluations and medication. My dream is to live in a world where independence is attainable for anyone who seeks it, regardless of the challenges they face. I will become someone who can follow her dreams despite discouraging comments from others. I will find a career that suits my interests i9in art, music, languages, and psychology and I will also advocate for the accommodation and support of people like me. By pursuing higher education and dedicating myself, I aim to empower others and pave the way for a more inclusive and accepting future. My journey with fibromyalgia, ADHD, and the potential presence of autism spectrum disorder has shaped my perspective and ignited a passion to advocate for accessibility and support. With this scholarship, I hope to continue my educational pursuits, gain the necessary tools to make a meaningful impact, and work towards creating a world where everyone can thrive and achieve their full potential, regardless of their challenges.

My dream version of my future self is a resilient, empowered individual who breaks free from the constraints of abuse to pursue passions, overcome multiple disabilities, and advocate for the rights and well-being of others like me while nurturing personal growth, creativity, and a positive impact on the world.

My name is Julia Huebert, and I am applying for this scholarship to share my experience with ADHD and its profound impact on my learning journey. Although not classified as a specific learning disability, ADHD has shaped my academic path significantly. By sharing my story, I hope to highlight the importance of understanding and supporting individuals with ADHD in their pursuit of higher education. Discovering that I had ADHD came during my junior year of high school when I noticed a strong resonance with girls who displayed inattentive ADHD traits. My mind was always racing, constantly searching for dopamine, and making it challenging to concentrate in classes that failed to captivate my interest. Simple tasks that should have taken minutes ended up consuming hours. Conversely, subjects like art and foreign languages, which I was passionate about, became areas where I excelled. However, navigating the world with ADHD proved difficult without a support network. Unfortunately, my father dismissed ADHD as a personal flaw, undermining the diagnoses of my mother and sister. To him, ADHD was something that must be fixed rather than understood and supported. High school introduced new hurdles as ADHD began to significantly affect my learning. The persistent brain fog caused by the lack of dopamine became debilitating, compounded by the challenges posed by my fibromyalgia. Once manageable school tasks became arduous struggles. As a perfectionist and an all-or-nothing individual, realizing that I couldn't consistently produce the desired results dampened my motivation. Fatigue worsened the situation, turning in-person classes into nightmares. To address these challenges, I made the difficult decision to transfer to an online school, where I had to summon the willpower to work diligently every day despite the overwhelming obstacles. Determined to find an answer, I sought an evaluation. Unfortunately, the results were less than favorable. With ADHD and ASD as my focus, I showed the evaluator evidence and research that pointed to both diagnoses being more than likely. Instead, I was told that “although you show autistic and ADHD symptoms, they are not severe enough to warrant a diagnosis”. These words were a blow to my spirit and although my motivation faltered for a second, I got back up in pursuit of the answers I needed. The turning point in my journey arrived in late April of this year when I received my official ADHD diagnosis. The revelation occurred unexpectedly during my fibromyalgia treatment, shedding light on the amplified brain fog hampering my academic performance. Though the diagnosis came later than desired, it provided a renewed sense of understanding and validation. Equipped with this newfound awareness, I began seeking appropriate support and strategies to manage the unique challenges posed by ADHD. This journey sparked a passionate curiosity within me to explore the intricacies of neurodiversity and its implications for education. It solidified my determination to pursue higher education and contribute to the understanding and support of individuals with ADHD. My experience with ADHD has been a transformative journey filled with obstacles and personal growth. While not categorized as a specific learning disability, its impact on my educational endeavors cannot be overlooked. My perseverance in the face of adversity, determination to understand and overcome the challenges posed by ADHD, and unwavering commitment to higher education make me a strong candidate for this scholarship. I aspire to use this opportunity to pursue my educational goals and advocate for greater awareness, support, and inclusivity for individuals with ADHD and other invisible disabilities. Together, we can create a world where neurodiversity is embraced, and every individual has the chance to thrive academically and personally.

In the enchanting realm of Disney, there is an undeniable charm that captures our hearts and sparks our imagination. As a high school senior, I've had the incredible opportunity to personally experience the magic of Disney, and it was during this enchanting journey that the movie Tangled resonated deeply with me. Among the mesmerizing stories and beloved characters, it was Rapunzel's tale that touched my soul and left an everlasting imprint. What drew me to Rapunzel's story was her unwavering spirit and the relatability of her journey. Although I may not possess magical hair or a trusty chameleon companion, I have often felt confined by my circumstances, yearning to break free and discover my own path to independence. Like Rapunzel, I have encountered obstacles and naysayers along the way, including a parent who attempted to shatter my dreams. Yet, witnessing Rapunzel's determination and unyielding hope ignited a fire within me, reminding me that I, too, possess the strength to persevere and pursue my aspirations. As a child, Disney movies became a refuge for me, transporting me to a world where dreams come true and happy endings abound. Tangled, in particular, not only transported me into a world of magic and adventure but also imparted valuable life lessons. Through Rapunzel's journey, I learned the importance of defying limitations, embracing one's true self, and embracing the courage to stand up against adversity. These empowering messages have shaped my perspective and fortified my resolve to overcome challenges and embrace my own potential. Disney's ability to inspire and empower extends far beyond its captivating storytelling. It has provided me solace during trying times, offering a temporary escape from the difficulties of reality. The enchantment of Disney has nurtured my imagination, reminding me of the boundless possibilities that await beyond my current circumstances. It has been a source of comfort and inspiration, motivating me to persist and pursue my dreams even when faced with obstacles. As I embark on my journey toward higher education, Rapunzel's story continues to guide me. I am determined to break free from the confinements that have hindered my growth, just as Rapunzel yearned to escape her tower. Like her, I am committed to charting my own path, one that is characterized by resilience, determination, and a refusal to be held back by societal expectations. One of the things I admire most about Disney is its commitment to diversity and representation, particularly through its portrayal of princesses. Disney has shattered the traditional mold of princesses by presenting a range of strong and inspiring female characters. From Mulan's bravery to Moana's determination, these princesses have taught me valuable life lessons and empowered me to embrace my own strengths. In pursuing higher education, I aspire to embody the values instilled by Disney. I aim to foster creativity, challenge preconceived notions, and advocate for inclusivity and diversity. By immersing myself in the pursuit of knowledge, I hope to develop the skills and insights needed to make a positive impact in the world. Through my academic endeavors, I seek to empower others, just as Disney has empowered me. Disney has been a guiding light in my life, and Rapunzel's journey has become a beacon of inspiration. The magic of Disney extends beyond the screen, encouraging me to conquer obstacles, embrace my dreams, and strive for personal and academic excellence. With the values instilled by Disney as my compass, I am confident that my educational journey will be transformative, enabling me to make a difference and leave a positive imprint on the world, much like the characters who have touched my heart.

My name is Julia Huebert. I am a senior in high school and a young woman with disabilities who has overcome numerous challenges on my path to higher education. I wholeheartedly believe that people of all abilities should have the opportunity to attend college or pursue other forms of higher education. However, support for students with disabilities is often lacking and hinders their access to higher education which prevents them from reaching their full potential. The Will Johnson Scholarship is a beacon of hope for students like me and I am grateful for this opportunity. Throughout my academic journey, I have faced various obstacles due to my disabilities. Living with fibromyalgia, ADHD, Irlen syndrome, and potentially autism spectrum disorder, each day presents unique challenges that test my resilience and determination. Navigating life with pain, fatigue, and sensory and regulation issues has made the idea of independence seem out of reach. However, I refuse to let these challenges define my future or limit my aspirations. I have experienced firsthand the impact that disabilities can have on academic success. In my junior year, my health took a severe toll, causing me to miss many school days and jeopardizing my academic standing. Despite these setbacks, I held on and worked hard to overcome the obstacles I faced. Through sheer determination and unwavering perseverance, I managed to not only pass my classes but also achieve almost straight A's. It was during this challenging period that I realized the importance of fighting for diagnoses and advocating for the necessary school accommodations to support my educational journey. Last year, in September, I received my fibromyalgia diagnosis. This information brought to light an invaluable understanding of the chronic pain and fatigue that had plagued me for so long. Then, in late April of this year, I received my ADHD diagnosis, which came as an accidental discovery during a search for treatment options to alleviate my brain fog and fatigue. Despite facing skepticism and a lack of support, particularly from my father, who does not believe in disabilities like ADHD and autism, I remained determined to find answers and solutions to support my well-being and academic success. While I have official diagnoses for fibromyalgia and ADHD, I am still seeking an official diagnosis for autism spectrum disorder. Though a past therapist indicated it was likely, I have encountered challenges in obtaining a comprehensive evaluation that could provide me with the necessary support and accommodations in school. However, I will persevere. I am actively advocating for myself and pushing for a formal diagnosis that will enhance my chances of receiving the accommodations I need to thrive academically. The Will Johnson Scholarship represents an incredible opportunity to further my education and empower me on my journey toward a fulfilling career. This scholarship is more than just financial support but also a recognition of the obstacles I have overcome and the potential I possess. With this scholarship, I can gain can afford resources to help me integrate myself into society in a healthy way. This scholarship provides a transformative opportunity for students like myself to pursue higher education and take a step toward something greater. Although I am still undecided, I want to use my passion for art, foreign languages, and psychology to make a difference in the world. As a senior in high school, I am determined to overcome the obstacles I face and advocate for inclusivity and accessibility. With the support of this scholarship, I am confident that I can achieve academic excellence and strive to create a more inclusive and equitable world.

My name is Julia Huebert, and as a young disabled female, I have encountered numerous hurdles on my path to adulthood and further education. Living with fibromyalgia and ADHD has presented challenges that made the idea of adulthood and independence feel unattainable. However, I refuse to let these obstacles define my future. With unwavering determination and the support of this scholarship, I am eager to transcend these barriers and seize my future and education. Living with fibromyalgia, a chronic pain condition, has profoundly shaped my life. The daily battle against pain and fatigue has tested my resilience and forced me to develop unwavering perseverance. Despite the limitations imposed by my condition, I have pursued my academic aspirations with dedication. However, the financial burden associated with higher education exacerbates the barriers I already face. This scholarship would not only alleviate the financial strain but also provide me with the opportunity to focus on my studies and embrace all that college has to offer. In addition to fibromyalgia, my experience with ADHD has further influenced my journey. Seeking treatment for my fatigue and brain fog, I discovered that I had ADHD. Although I suspected this to be the case, my father disagreed. Unfortunately, my father was not supportive in this process, dismissing my symptoms and attributing them to mere complaints or lack of physical fitness. His lack of understanding hindered my progress and delayed necessary interventions. Nonetheless, I remained steadfast in advocating for my health and seeking proper diagnoses. The journey to receive validation for my invisible disabilities has been a lonely one, with minimal support. This scholarship would be a lifeline, providing me with the means to access the evaluations and diagnoses I still require. With proper diagnoses, I can better understand and address my neurodivergent needs, empowering myself with appropriate accommodations and support systems. As I walked toward adulthood, I can seek support without discouragement from my father. While my journey with fibromyalgia and ADHD has been arduous, I recognize that these obstacles have also shaped my character and instilled in me an unwavering determination to succeed. With the support of this scholarship, I envision a future where I can contribute to society, breaking down barriers and empowering others with disabilities to pursue their dreams. This scholarship represents more than just financial assistance; it signifies an opportunity for personal growth, academic achievement, and social impact. With the financial burden lifted, I can fully immerse myself in my studies, engaging in rigorous coursework and participating in extracurricular activities that align with my passion for advocacy and social justice. Beyond my journey, I am committed to making a lasting impact on underrepresented communities and promoting inclusivity in higher education. Armed with the knowledge and experience gained through my studies, I aspire to advocate for accessibility and equal opportunities for students with disabilities. By leveraging my journey, I aim to dismantle systemic barriers and inspire future generations to pursue their educational aspirations without fear or limitations. As a female with invisible disabilities, I am aware of the barriers that can hinder access to higher education. However, I refuse to let these challenges define me. With this scholarship, I can transcend the limitations imposed by my disabilities and embark on a transformative journey toward a college education. The financial support provided will not only alleviate the burden of costs but also empower me to embrace my true potential. I am committed to using this opportunity to not only achieve personal success but also to advocate for inclusivity and accessibility, creating a more equitable and inclusive educational landscape for all.

I am Julia Huebert, a 17-year-old senior in high school and a woman of mixed-race heritage living in New Mexico. As a survivor of ongoing abuse, this scholarship represents more than just a financial opportunity—it is a lifeline of hope for a better life. I am eager to share my story and explain how the scholarship would create a transformative impact on my life. Within the confines of my home, I witnessed firsthand the destructive power abuse held over my family. My father, a police officer who should have been a symbol of protection, instead used his position as a tool of control. His racist and misogynistic beliefs targeted not only my black mother but also my sister and me. We were subjected to his relentless cruelty, living in a constant state of fear and despair. The physical abuse inflicted upon me and my sister was a nightmare that played out daily. His primary weapon was a ping-pong paddle, which left me with flashbacks of their presence. My father justified these acts of violence as disciplinary measures, disregarding the illegality of his actions. Yet, it was the emotional abuse that inflicted the deepest wounds. My father distorted our Christian faith, perverting its teachings to justify his mistreatment of us. He manipulated scripture to brand us as sinners, using his "faith" as a weapon of control. His psychological torment stripped us of our self-worth. We lived in a warped reality where his authority and distorted faith suffocated any hope for escape. He guilt-tripped my for bringing up divorce, calling her an ungodly woman. Each word backed us into an inescapable corner. An encounter with Child Protective Services became a turning point in my life. It was an opportunity to expose the truth. Unfortunately, his manipulative tactics deceived the social worker who showed up at our door, leaving my family trapped in a cycle of torment. Witnessing my mother's fear of divorce, rooted in the uncertainty of supporting my sister and me alone, fueled my determination. I realized that breaking free from this toxic environment was necessary for my survival and also the well-being of my family. This scholarship would be a lifeline for us, an opportunity for us to truly live. It would provide the means to sever the chains of abuse and embark on a journey toward healing and growth. With this financial stability, my mother, my sister, and I could escape the clutches of our abuser and pursue higher education at NMSU. The burden of educational and living expenses would no longer be a barrier to our dreams, allowing us to reclaim our lives. However, the impact of this scholarship extends far beyond academics. It would grant us access to the necessary therapy and counseling services we need to address our deep-rooted wounds of abuse. Healing is essential for escaping the cycle of violence and building a better future. By prioritizing our well-being and mental health, we can regain control over our lives. I am committed to using my experiences to empower others who have walked this path. Education will equip me with the tools to dismantle the oppressive systems that perpetuate abuse and inequality. I will raise my voice to amplify the stories of survivors. Through education, I aspire to create change within my community, offering support to those who need it most. I express my gratitude for the opportunity to apply for this scholarship. It would not only alleviate the financial burdens that hinder my educational progress but also provide me with the necessary resources to heal, grow, and create a better future.

I am Julia Huebert, a senior in high school and a passionate art lover of many forms. My love of art was woven into my soul. I can not remember a time when I did not have a pencil in my hand or a melody in my head. I would write stories and make books that I would give to my parents as a child. My parents showed me videos of me singing and writing songs. I taught myself how to play the piano on a little tablet. Neither of my parents were artists nor did they particularly support my interests but I believe that my love for art came from my grandparents. My grandfather plays the guitar and creates abstract art. He helped me and my sister make our own art and inspired us to always be creative. My grandmother always had crayons and watercolors out for us to play with and she saved every painting. My favorite artist is Qing Han also known as Qinni. Qinni was primarily a watercolor artist. I first came into contact with her art when I purchased a book from a YouTuber I used to watch. The book was called Princess in Practice by Connie Glynn. The cover was the most beautiful image and I was immediately captivated. I went on to follow this artist and practiced every day to become as good as her. I used some of her techniques in my own art although I primarily drew in pencil. Qing Han suffered from a heart condition and art was her escape. She, unfortunately, passed away on February 8, 2020. This news brought about profound sadness. Although I had never met her, I could not stop myself from crying. Qing Han's art will live on. I aim to improve my artistic abilities and I am determined to continue her legacy. The passion she left behind will fuel me to do my best. Art has always been an important part of my life even before I had a favorite artist. I struggle with fibromyalgia and as a female, it was a difficult process of getting diagnosed. Even now, I am fighting a battle for diagnoses and accommodations. Art was a way for me to express myself, to release the frustration of being unheard and helpless. I am determined to never give up despite my health struggles and my parents' complaints. I am an artist through and through no matter what setbacks come my way, I must continue to carry that pencil.

I am Julia Huebert, a high school senior who was born in California but raised with the spirit of a true New Mexican. Throughout my academic journey, I have strived for excellence, overcoming challenges and seizing opportunities in my pursuit of knowledge. As I approach my final year of high school, I am filled with hope and gratitude, recognizing that the 831 Legacy Scholarship can provide the crucial financial support I need to continue my educational and personal growth. From a young age, I have pursued excellence with tenacity, striving to do my best. Overcoming the challenges associated with my disabilities has been a battle. It is disheartening that many women with invisible disabilities often go undiagnosed, struggling to receive the necessary support. Despite the long and expensive fight to get diagnosed with fibromyalgia and ADHD, these challenges have fueled my determination to succeed. Even during moments of being bedridden, I persevered by utilizing every available tool to secure the accommodations necessary for my academic journey. The 831 Legacy Scholarship would not only provide invaluable financial support but also empower me to make the most of my educational journey and transition into adulthood as a disabled individual. Moreover, the scholarship will play a vital role in helping me pursue higher education. As a passionate language enthusiast, I have a profound desire to connect with diverse communities. My Brazilian mother, fluent in Portuguese, English, and French, instilled in me a love for romance languages. I am determined to reconnect with my roots by teaching myself Portuguese. Through my secondary education, I have had the opportunity to explore various languages, embracing different cultures and engaging in meaningful cross-cultural exchanges. By becoming a polyglot, I aspire to foster understanding and unity among individuals from all walks of life. With the support of the 831 Legacy Scholarship, I can deepen my language studies and enhance my cultural knowledge in an increasingly globalized world. In addition, art has always been a powerful outlet for self-expression in my life. Whether through drawing, painting, cooking, writing, or music, I have been captivated by the process of creation. Despite temporary setbacks during my junior year when art was forced out of my life due to health challenges, I managed to find small moments to immerse myself in the art I loved. With diagnoses that have opened doors to treatments, I now can dedicate more of myself to my passions. As I embark on my educational journey and newfound opportunities, I aim to integrate my love for art with my academic pursuits, exploring the intersection of art and psychology to positively impact others. The 831 Legacy Scholarship would provide the means to further explore various art forms and enhance my artistic abilities. In conclusion, the 831 Legacy Scholarship represents an invaluable opportunity for me to continue my journey of education, language acquisition, and artistic exploration into adulthood. With the scholarship's financial support, I will overcome barriers and enter this new phase of life with peace of mind and unwavering determination. This scholarship will not only help me pursue higher education but also enable me to pursue my academic and personal passions, bridge the gap between languages, cultures, and art forms, and unlock my full potential as a student and individual. I am deeply grateful for this opportunity this scholarship presents and I am committed to making the most of it. With the financial support of the 831 Legacy Scholarship, I am confident that I can continue to strive for excellence, create meaningful connections, and positively impact the world around me. Thank you for considering my application.