As a young POC woman I aspire to earn my bachelor’s degree in marine sciences and dedicate my career to protecting marine ecosystems and educating others about the crucial role our oceans play in sustaining life on Earth. Through research, advocacy, and community outreach, I hope to inspire more people to adopt sustainable practices and join the effort to restore balance to our natural world—starting with the sea. Growing up as the first in my immediate family to pursue a four-year degree taught me perseverance, responsibility, and hope. My mother, a single parent, has been my greatest role model. She works tirelessly to provide for our family while raising children and grandchildren, showing me that no obstacle is too great when you fight for something meaningful. Her sacrifices inspire me to honor her through my education and career. I’ve also been shaped by mentors who encouraged me to keep chasing my dreams, even when I doubted myself. My high school ceramics teacher, for example, provided a safe space where students felt seen and valued. Her support helped me stay focused on my goal of becoming a marine scientist. These relationships have taught me that education is about more than academics—it’s about building community and lifting others up. Our oceans produce over half of the world’s oxygen and absorb massive amounts of carbon dioxide, making them critical in the fight against climate change. Yet they are under severe threat from pollution, overfishing, and rising temperatures. I want to be part of the solution by conducting research, restoring coastal ecosystems, and creating educational programs that empower others to take action. After graduation, I plan to work with conservation organizations like NOAA or local nonprofits, and eventually pursue graduate studies to expand my impact through policy and international collaboration. This scholarship would ease the financial burden of tuition and living expenses, allowing me to fully focus on my studies and research. It would also represent an investment in my potential and affirm that my journey and vision matter. My hope is to mentor students from underserved communities and show them that they, too, can belong in science and be part of creating a sustainable future. I believe I deserve this scholarship because I have faced challenges head-on and refused to give up. I have taken leadership roles, volunteered at youth sports camps, and supported my peers, because true success is measured not only by what you achieve but by how you help others. Finally, I would encourage my family and friends to join me in reducing their carbon footprint. Simple changes—reducing single-use plastics, eating more plant-based meals, conserving water, and supporting sustainable seafood—can have a powerful collective impact. Carpooling, biking, or using public transportation whenever possible also reduces emissions. Most importantly, I would urge them to stay informed, vote for policies that protect the environment, and share what they learn with others. Small actions, when multiplied across a community, create meaningful change. Winning this scholarship would allow me to pursue higher education with focus and determination, empowering me to protect our oceans and inspire others to do the same.

My father went to prison before I was two years old, and my mother raised me on her own. But instead of letting a rough start hold me back, I’ve learned to lead, to care, and to fight for my future.  Sports were my outlet growing up. I started playing club/travel basketball in third grade. I was on the varsity volleyball team all four years of high school, serving as team captain my senior year and earning awards every season. I had many opportunities to develop leadership skills.  In addition, I played on the varsity basketball team my freshman and sophomore years, helping my team place second in state the first year and win the state championship the next. I was named MVP in league playoffs and Second Team All League.  Those honors were incredible but came at a high cost. My coach’s pressure and lofty expectations pushed me to the point where I lost 26 pounds in just weeks. At 5’11,” I was left sick and exhausted and was constantly in doctors’ offices.  That summer I made the choice to walk away from basketball. It wasn’t easy, and some people in the community, a few of my teammates, and my coach criticized me. But I knew I had to put my mental and physical health first. Within two months after the season ended I was able to get my whole healthy self back. My decision to walk away taught me that success means nothing if you sacrifice all of yourself to get there. Compassion is another defining part of my life. At age 16 I rescued a 10-day-old kitten, our sweet little Mango, and raised him until he was strong. More recently I cared for our two-year-old cat Bageera, who developed feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), a terrible fast-acting disease that does not yet have FDA-approved medications for veterinarians to prescribe for treatment. I provided him round-the-clock care to give him comfort. Even though he did not survive, those weeks showed me how much love and dedication I have to give. That same compassion fuels my dream of becoming a marine biologist. The ocean is the heart of our planet, and without it life as we know it cannot exist. The ocean covers over 70% of the Earth’s surface and produces more than half of the world’s oxygen, yet it faces devastating threats from pollution, overfishing, and climate change. Every year, around 8 million metric tons of plastic enter our oceans, harming marine species and disrupting delicate ecosystems. I believe that the survival of life on land is intricately tied to the health of our oceans. Without urgent change, we risk irreversible damage—not just to marine life, but to our future. I want to study and protect marine ecosystems and wildlife, working toward solutions that will help preserve our planet for future generations. This fall I began my studies at Oregon State University. I have been awarded a merit scholarship, the Oregon Opportunity Grant, and work-study, and I also work part time; but as the daughter of a recently unemployed single mother I will be responsible for financing the rest of my education on my own. My journey has been shaped by leadership, compassion and resilience. The Sola Family Scholarship would help me carry those lessons into my education and future career, proving that no matter where you start, you can create something meaningful.

I aspire to earn my bachelor’s degree in marine biology and dedicate my career to protecting marine ecosystems and educating others about the crucial role our oceans play in sustaining life on Earth. Through research, advocacy, and community outreach, I hope to inspire more people to adopt sustainable practices and join the effort to restore balance to our natural world—starting with the sea. Growing up as the first in my immediate family to pursue a four-year degree taught me perseverance, responsibility, and hope. My mother, a single parent, has been my greatest role model. She worked tirelessly to provide for our family while raising children and grandchildren, showing me that no obstacle is too great when you fight for something meaningful. Her sacrifices inspire me to honor her through my education and career. I’ve also been shaped by mentors who encouraged me to keep chasing my dreams, even when I doubted myself. My high school ceramics teacher, for example, provided a safe space where students felt seen and valued. Her support helped me stay focused on my goal of becoming a marine scientist. These relationships have taught me that education is about more than academics—it’s about building community and lifting others up. Our oceans produce over half of the world’s oxygen and absorb massive amounts of carbon dioxide, making them critical in the fight against climate change. Yet they are under severe threat from pollution, overfishing, and rising temperatures. I want to be part of the solution by conducting research, restoring coastal ecosystems, and creating educational programs that empower others to take action. After graduation, I plan to work with conservation organizations like NOAA or local nonprofits, and eventually pursue graduate studies to expand my impact through policy and international collaboration. This scholarship would ease the financial burden of tuition and living expenses, allowing me to fully focus on my studies and research. It would also represent an investment in my potential and affirm that my journey and vision matter. My hope is to mentor students from underserved communities and show them that they, too, can belong in science and be part of creating a sustainable future. I believe I deserve this scholarship because I have faced challenges head-on and refused to give up. I have taken leadership roles, volunteered at youth sports camps, and supported my peers, because true success is measured not only by what you achieve but by how you help others. Finally, I would encourage my family and friends to join me in reducing their carbon footprint. Simple changes—reducing single-use plastics, eating more plant-based meals, conserving water, and supporting sustainable seafood—can have a powerful collective impact. Carpooling, biking, or using public transportation whenever possible also reduces emissions. Most importantly, I would urge them to stay informed, vote for policies that protect the environment, and share what they learn with others. Small actions, when multiplied across a community, create meaningful change. Winning the Environmental Kindness Scholarship would allow me to pursue higher education with focus and determination, empowering me to protect our oceans and inspire others to do the same.

My father went to prison before I was two years old, and my mother raised me on her own. But instead of letting a rough start hold me back, I’ve learned to lead, to care, and to fight for my future.  Sports were my outlet growing up. I started playing club/travel basketball in third grade. I was on the varsity volleyball team all four years of high school, serving as team captain my senior year and earning awards every season. I had many opportunities to develop leadership skills.  In addition, I played on the varsity basketball team my freshman and sophomore years, helping my team place second in state the first year and win the state championship the next. I was named MVP in league playoffs and Second Team All League.  Those honors were incredible but came at a high cost. My coach’s pressure and lofty expectations pushed me to the point where I lost 26 pounds in just weeks. At 5’11,” I was left sick and exhausted and was constantly in doctors’ offices.  That summer I made the choice to walk away from basketball. It wasn’t easy, and some people in the community, a few of my teammates, and my coach criticized me. But I knew I had to put my mental and physical health first. Within two months after the season ended I was able to get my whole healthy self back. My decision to walk away taught me that success means nothing if you sacrifice all of yourself to get there. Compassion is another defining part of my life. At age 16 I rescued a 10-day-old kitten, our sweet little Mango, and raised him until he was strong. More recently I cared for our two-year-old cat Bageera, who developed feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), a terrible fast-acting disease that does not yet have FDA-approved medications for veterinarians to prescribe for treatment. I provided him round-the-clock care to give him comfort. Even though he did not survive, those weeks showed me how much love and dedication I have to give. That same compassion fuels my dream of becoming a marine biologist. The ocean is the heart of our planet, and without it life as we know it cannot exist. The ocean covers over 70% of the Earth’s surface and produces more than half of the world’s oxygen, yet it faces devastating threats from pollution, overfishing, and climate change. Every year, around 8 million metric tons of plastic enter our oceans, harming marine species and disrupting delicate ecosystems. I believe that the survival of life on land is intricately tied to the health of our oceans. Without urgent change, we risk irreversible damage—not just to marine life, but to our future. I want to study and protect marine ecosystems and wildlife, working toward solutions that will help preserve our planet for future generations. This fall I will begin my studies at Oregon State University. I have been awarded a merit scholarship and work-study, and I also work part time; but as the daughter of a recently unemployed single mother I will be responsible for financing the rest of my education. My journey has been shaped by leadership, compassion and resilience. The Kalia D. Davis Memorial Scholarship would help me carry those lessons into my education and future career, proving that no matter where you start, you can create something meaningful.

I’m not the kind of person who has had an easy story. My father went to prison before I was two years old, and my mother raised me on her own. But instead of letting that hold me back, I’ve learned to lead, to care, and to fight for my future. Sports were my outlet growing up. I started playing club/travel basketball in third grade. I was on the varsity volleyball team for four years of high school, serving as team captain my senior year and earning awards every season. I was also on the varsity basketball team my freshman and sophomore years, helping my team place second in state one year and win the state championship the next. Earning me awards like MVP in league playoffs and Second Team All League. Those moments were incredible, but they came at a cost. My coach’s pressure and expectations pushed me to the point where I lost twenty-six pounds in just weeks. At 5’11”, that left me sick, exhausted, and constantly in doctors’ offices. That summer, I made the choice to walk away from basketball. It wasn’t easy, and some people in the community, a few of my teammates, and my coach criticized me. But I knew I had to put my mental and physical health first. Within a couple months after that season ended I was able to get my whole healthy self back. That decision taught me that success means nothing if you sacrifice all of yourself to get there. Compassion has always been another defining part of my life. At sixteen, I rescued a ten day old kitten, our sweet little Mango, and raised him until he was strong. More recently, I cared for our other two year old cat, Bageera who developed FIP. A terrible fast-acting disease that does not yet have FDA approved medications for veterinarians to prescribe for treatment. I provided him round-the-clock care to give him comfort. Even though he did not survive, those weeks showed me how much love and dedication I have to give. That same compassion fuels my dream of becoming a marine biologist. The ocean is the heart of our planet, and without it, life as we know it cannot exist. I want to study and protect marine ecosystems and wildlife, working toward solutions that will help preserve our planet for future generations. This fall, I will begin my studies at Oregon State University. I’ve been awarded a merit scholarship and work-study, and I also work part-time, but as the daughter of recently unemployed single mother, I will be responsible for covering the rest of my education. My journey has been shaped by resilience, leadership, and compassion. The Sloan Stephens Doc & Glow Scholarship would help me carry those lessons into my education and future career, proving that no matter where you start, you can create something meaningful.

Throughout my high school journey, sports were more than just a passion—they became a powerful tool that shaped me into a confident, resilient, and determined young woman. As a student-athlete at Springfield High School, I played varsity volleyball and basketball all 4 years, served as team captain of the volleyball team my senior year, and earned multiple accolades including Player of the Year, Most Valuable Player, Offensive and Defensive Player of the Year, and Most Improved Player. Each honor reflects more than performance—it symbolizes the strength I developed as a female athlete in a world that still favors male dominance in sports and leadership. Being a female athlete comes with constant pressure to prove yourself. While the boys’ teams often received louder applause and greater attention, we poured just as much, if not more, heart and effort into every practice and every game. Instead of being discouraged by the disparity, I used it as fuel. I embraced every challenge and turned it into motivation. I rallied for student body support to attend our games, at home and away. My achievements weren’t handed to me—they were earned through early morning workouts, late-night homework, and sacrificing weekends for tournaments. I learned the value of discipline, consistency, and mental toughness, qualities that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. Balancing academics, sports, and personal responsibilities was a daily challenge. There were moments of doubt and exhaustion, but those moments made me stronger. I became highly organized, focused, and determined to succeed in every area of my life. Whether I was preparing for a big game or a major exam, I developed the ability to perform under pressure and push through obstacles with a mindset grounded in perseverance and purpose. As team captain, I also discovered the power of leadership. I learned that true leadership means showing up for others, leading by example, and being a source of strength and encouragement, even during tough times. I worked hard to uplift my teammates and foster unity, and in doing so, I found my voice—not just as an athlete, but as a young woman with something meaningful to say. In today’s society, young women still face barriers and limitations rooted in outdated norms and expectations. My experiences in sports helped me break through those limits and redefine what it means to be strong. Strength is not just about physical ability—it’s about resilience, compassion, courage, and the will to keep going when the odds are stacked against you. Receiving the UGIG You Got It Girl Scholarship will help me continue this journey—not just in college, but as a lifelong advocate for gender equality, empowerment, and representation. I want to be an example to young girls who are told they’re “too emotional,” “too quiet,” or “not strong enough.” I want them to know that we belong in every arena—on the court, in the classroom, and in leadership—and we are here to lead, inspire, and change the game and our world.

Playing varsity basketball during my freshman and sophomore years of high school was one of the most challenging experiences of my life—mentally, emotionally, and physically. While I loved the game and the competition, the pressure placed on me by my coach, who prioritized winning above all else, became overwhelming. Practices were intense, expectations were constant, and there was little room for rest or recovery. I pushed myself to the limit, but by my sophomore year, the stress caught up with me. I began having serious stomach issues, lost 25 pounds, and was in and out of the doctor’s office almost weekly. The anxiety and physical toll of the sport began to affect every area of my life. Despite the success—finishing second in state my freshman year and winning the state championship my sophomore year—I found myself at a breaking point. I was injured, mentally drained, and no longer recognized the joyful, motivated version of myself I once was. That summer, I made one of the hardest decisions of my life: I chose not to return to basketball for my junior and senior years. Although I had accomplished what many athletes only dream of—a state championship—I knew I needed to prioritize my health. It was not an easy choice. Many adults in my community, including coaches and mentors, shunned me and questioned my commitment. But I knew in my heart it was the right decision. I slowly began to heal, both physically and emotionally, and started to rediscover the version of myself that wasn’t defined by wins or losses. This experience taught me one of the most valuable lessons of my life: it’s okay to walk away from something, even if others don’t understand, if it means protecting your well-being. It showed me the importance of listening to my body and my mind and that self-worth should never be tied to external expectations. Now, as I prepare for my future—pursuing a degree in marine biology at Oregon State University—I carry this lesson with me. I understand the importance of balance, of advocating for myself, and of setting boundaries. I know that to succeed academically, personally, and professionally, I must take care of my whole self as I continue to still keep physically active and enjoy life in nature with family and friends, and meeting new people in college with recreational activities. This mindset will not only help me navigate the challenges of college but will shape the way I lead, support others, and build a healthy life grounded in purpose and self-respect.

I’ve always felt a deep connection to the ocean. It’s where I feel most at peace, and it’s also where I feel most inspired. The sea, with all its power and beauty, represents both the fragility and the resilience of life on Earth. From a young age, I knew I wanted to dedicate my life to protecting it. But growing up, I also knew that dream would come with challenges. I come from a hardworking family, and I’ll be the first in my immediate family to attend and graduate from a four-year university. That alone is a huge milestone, but it’s just the beginning. My journey has been shaped by the love and support of those closest to me. My mother, who has sacrificed so much to keep our family moving forward, is my biggest role model. Her strength and determination taught me to never give up, even when the odds felt stacked against me. She’s shown me what it means to work for something greater than yourself, and that’s the spirit I bring to my dream of becoming a marine biologist. I’ve also been fortunate to have teachers and mentors who encouraged my curiosity and passion for science, even when I wasn’t always sure of myself. Their guidance helped me see that my voice matters and that my desire to make a difference in the world is not only valid but necessary. Our oceans are in crisis. Plastic pollution, climate change, overfishing, and habitat destruction threaten not only marine species but the entire global ecosystem. The ocean produces over half the world’s oxygen and absorbs large amounts of carbon dioxide, playing a critical role in combating climate change. If we don’t protect it, we risk losing not just biodiversity, but the balance of life on Earth. This scholarship would give me the chance to focus on my studies without the constant stress of financial pressure. It would allow me to fully engage in learning opportunities, internships, and fieldwork that are essential for a future career in marine science. Most importantly, it would move me one step closer to being able to contribute real solutions to the environmental issues we face today. I hope to give back by mentoring young people like me—first-generation college students with big dreams and limited resources—because I know how much a little support and belief can change the course of someone’s life. This scholarship won’t just help me; it will help me help others, and that’s the greatest gift I could ever receive.

Julissa Henderson – Future Women in STEM Scholarship Essay Springfield High School | Incoming Marine Biology Major at Oregon State University As a young woman preparing to enter the field of marine biology—a science historically dominated by men—I carry with me the strength, discipline, and confidence built from years as a student-athlete. My experiences playing varsity volleyball and basketball at Springfield High School, where I served as volleyball team captain my senior year, have shaped me into a resilient, focused, and driven individual ready to make waves in the world of STEM. Throughout high school, I maintained a 3.8 GPA while balancing the intense demands of competitive sports, academics, and personal responsibilities. I earned recognition as Player of the Year, Most Valuable Player, Offensive and Defensive Player of the Year, and Most Improved Player. These awards were not just about performance—they reflected my work ethic, my commitment to growth, and my ability to push through both physical and mental challenges. These same qualities—perseverance, focus, time management, and resilience—will serve me well as I take on the academic and research challenges of a STEM degree. As a female athlete, I’ve witnessed firsthand how girls often have to fight for recognition, resources, and respect. These inequities mirror the broader gender disparities in STEM fields. But instead of being discouraged, I found purpose in the challenge. As team captain, I worked to build not just a strong team, but an inclusive and empowering environment. I led by example, showing that strength can be rooted in empathy, and that leadership means lifting others up while never backing down from a goal. I plan to bring that same approach to STEM—where collaborative problem-solving and unwavering dedication are essential. My passion for marine biology comes from a deep love for the ocean and a strong sense of environmental responsibility. I believe protecting marine ecosystems is critical to the health of our planet, and I want to be part of that mission. At Oregon State University, I will pursue a bachelor’s degree in marine biology, with plans to go on to graduate studies in marine science and environmental policy. As a future scientist, I want to not only conduct research and contribute to ocean conservation, but also to mentor and encourage other young women to pursue STEM careers. Receiving the Future Women in STEM Scholarship would not only support my educational journey—it would affirm that who I am and what I stand for matters. My path, from varsity athlete and team leader to aspiring scientist, is driven by the belief that women belong in every arena, from the volleyball court to the research lab. I’m not just stepping into the world of science—I’m stepping into it with the strength and voice to help reshape it for the better.

Julissa Henderson – FemaleAthletisism Scholarship Essay Springfield High School Throughout my high school journey, sports were more than just a passion—they became a powerful tool that shaped me into a confident, resilient, and determined young woman. As a student-athlete at Springfield High School, I played varsity volleyball and basketball, served as team captain of the volleyball team my senior year, and earned multiple accolades including Player of the Year, Most Valuable Player, Offensive and Defensive Player of the Year, and Most Improved Player. Each honor reflects more than performance—it symbolizes the strength I developed as a female athlete in a world that still favors male dominance in sports and leadership. Being a female athlete comes with constant pressure to prove yourself. While the boys’ teams often received louder applause and greater attention, we poured just as much, if not more, heart and effort into every practice and every game. Instead of being discouraged by the disparity, I used it as fuel. I embraced every challenge and turned it into motivation. My achievements weren’t handed to me—they were earned through early morning workouts, late-night homework, and sacrificing weekends for tournaments. I learned the value of discipline, consistency, and mental toughness, qualities that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. Balancing academics, sports, and personal responsibilities was a daily challenge. There were moments of doubt and exhaustion, but those moments made me stronger. I became highly organized, focused, and determined to succeed in every area of my life. Whether I was preparing for a big game or a major exam, I developed the ability to perform under pressure and push through obstacles with a mindset grounded in perseverance and purpose. As team captain, I also discovered the power of leadership. I learned that true leadership means showing up for others, leading by example, and being a source of strength and encouragement, even during tough times. I worked hard to uplift my teammates and foster unity, and in doing so, I found my voice—not just as an athlete, but as a young woman with something meaningful to say. In today’s society, young women still face barriers and limitations rooted in outdated norms and expectations. My experiences in sports helped me break through those limits and redefine what it means to be strong. Strength is not just about physical ability—it’s about resilience, compassion, courage, and the will to keep going when the odds are stacked against you. Receiving the FemaleAthletisism Scholarship will help me continue this journey—not just in college, but as a lifelong advocate for gender equality, empowerment, and representation. I plan to attend Oregon State University this fall to pursue my bachelor’s degree in marine biology. My goal is to continue using my voice and strength to make an impact—on land, in the ocean, and in every space where women deserve to be seen, heard, and respected.

I’ve always felt a deep connection to the ocean. It’s where I feel most at peace, and it’s also where I feel most inspired. The sea, with all its power and beauty, represents both the fragility and the resilience of life on Earth. From a young age, I knew I wanted to dedicate my life to protecting it. But growing up, I also knew that dream would come with challenges. I come from a hardworking family, and I’ll be the first in my immediate family to attend and graduate from a four-year university. That alone is a huge milestone, but it’s just the beginning. My journey has been shaped by the love and support of those closest to me. My mother, who has sacrificed so much to keep our family moving forward, is my biggest role model. Her strength and determination taught me to never give up, even when the odds felt stacked against me. She’s shown me what it means to work for something greater than yourself, and that’s the spirit I bring to my dream of becoming a marine biologist. I’ve also been fortunate to have teachers and mentors who encouraged my curiosity and passion for science, even when I wasn’t always sure of myself. Their guidance helped me see that my voice matters and that my desire to make a difference in the world is not only valid but necessary. Our oceans are in crisis. Plastic pollution, climate change, overfishing, and habitat destruction threaten not only marine species but the entire global ecosystem. The ocean produces over half the world’s oxygen and absorbs large amounts of carbon dioxide, playing a critical role in combating climate change. If we don’t protect it, we risk losing not just biodiversity, but the balance of life on Earth. This scholarship would give me the chance to focus on my studies without the constant stress of financial pressure. It would allow me to fully engage in learning opportunities, internships, and fieldwork that are essential for a future career in marine science. Most importantly, it would move me one step closer to being able to contribute real solutions to the environmental issues we face today. I hope to give back by mentoring young people like me—first-generation college students with big dreams and limited resources—because I know how much a little support and belief can change the course of someone’s life. This scholarship won’t just help me; it will help me help others, and that’s the greatest gift I could ever receive.

I’ve always felt a deep connection to the ocean. It’s where I feel most at peace, and it’s also where I feel most inspired. The sea, with all its power and beauty, represents both the fragility and the resilience of life on Earth. From a young age, I knew I wanted to dedicate my life to protecting it. But growing up, I also knew that dream would come with challenges. I come from a hardworking family, and I’ll be the first in my immediate family to attend and graduate from a four-year university. That alone is a huge milestone, but it’s just the beginning. My journey has been shaped by the love and support of those closest to me. My mother, who has sacrificed so much to keep our family moving forward, is my biggest role model. Her strength and determination taught me to never give up, even when the odds felt stacked against me. She’s shown me what it means to work for something greater than yourself, and that’s the spirit I bring to my dream of becoming a marine biologist. I’ve also been fortunate to have teachers and mentors who encouraged my curiosity and passion for science, even when I wasn’t always sure of myself. Their guidance helped me see that my voice matters and that my desire to make a difference in the world is not only valid but necessary. Our oceans are in crisis. Plastic pollution, climate change, overfishing, and habitat destruction threaten not only marine species but the entire global ecosystem. The ocean produces over half the world’s oxygen and absorbs large amounts of carbon dioxide, playing a critical role in combating climate change. If we don’t protect it, we risk losing not just biodiversity, but the balance of life on Earth. This scholarship would give me the chance to focus on my studies without the constant stress of financial pressure. It would allow me to fully engage in learning opportunities, internships, and fieldwork that are essential for a future career in marine science. Most importantly, it would move me one step closer to being able to contribute real solutions to the environmental issues we face today. I hope to give back by mentoring young people like me—first-generation college students with big dreams and limited resources—because I know how much a little support and belief can change the course of someone’s life. This scholarship won’t just help me; it will help me help others, and that’s the greatest gift I could ever receive.