My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death, or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me, or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possessed by a demon Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in high school. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me over time and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I've recently had a drop in GPA over medical and mental health issues. Because of this, I will lose previous scholarships and my college career is at risk. I need this scholarship to continue my education. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child who needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death, or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me, or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possessed by a demon Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in high school. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me over time and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I've recently had a drop in GPA over medical and mental health issues. Because of this, I will lose previous scholarships and my college career is at risk. I need this scholarship to continue my education. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child who needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death, or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me, or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possessed by a demon Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in high school. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me over time and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I've recently had a drop in GPA over medical and mental health issues. Because of this, I will lose previous scholarships and my college career is at risk. I need this scholarship to continue my education. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child who needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death, or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me, or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possessed by a demon Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in high school. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me over time and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I've recently had a drop in GPA over medical and mental health issues. Because of this, I will lose previous scholarships and my college career is at risk. I need this scholarship to continue my education. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child who needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death, or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me, or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possessed by a demon. Outside of my church, I did not have the same support or opportunities as I had before in high school. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me over time and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child who needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me; or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possed by a demon Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in highschool. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me overtime and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community, and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child that needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I really hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me; or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possed by a demon Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in highschool. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me overtime and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community, and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child that needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I really hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me; or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possed by a demon Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in highschool. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me overtime and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community, and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child that needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I really hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me; or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possed by a demon Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in highschool. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me overtime and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community, and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child that needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I really hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me; or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possed by a demon Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in highschool. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me overtime and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community, and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child that needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I really hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me; or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possed by a demon Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in highschool. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me overtime and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community, and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child that needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I really hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me; or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possed by a demon Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in highschool. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me overtime and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community, and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child that needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I really hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me; or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possed by a demon Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in highschool. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me overtime and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community, and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child that needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I really hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me; or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possessed by a demon. Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in highschool. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me overtime and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community, and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I have struggled with mental health through most of my life. Recently I have fallen into an episode of depression that has greatly impacted my college career. My GPA has dropped and I have lost previous scholarships. I don't want a single month of depression to ruin the rest of my life. I'm currently working to apply to scholarships and talk to my advisor. I hope to improve my current situation and get back on the track I need to be on. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child that needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I really hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me; or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possed by a demon Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in highschool. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me overtime and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community, and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I've recently had a drop in GPA over medical and mental health issues. Because of this, I will lose previous scholarships and my college career is at risk. I need this scholarship to continue my education. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child that needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I really hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me; or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possed by a demon Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in highschool. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me overtime and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community, and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child that needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I really hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me; or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possed by a demon Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in highschool. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me overtime and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community, and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child that needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I really hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me; or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possed by a demon Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in highschool. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me overtime and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community, and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I've recently fallen back into a depressive episode. My GPA has fallen and I've lost scholarships. I'm terrified of the possibilty of not being able to complete college. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child that needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I really hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me; or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possed by a demon Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in highschool. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me overtime and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community, and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child that needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I really hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me; or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possed by a demon Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in highschool. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me overtime and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community, and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child that needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I really hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me; or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possed by a demon Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in highschool. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me overtime and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community, and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child that needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I really hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me; or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possed by a demon Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in highschool. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me overtime and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community, and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child that needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I really hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

I'm an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I'm determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I'm transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me; or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I'd been possessed by a demon. Outside of my church I didn't have the same support or opportunities that I had before in highschool. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me overtime and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community, and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child that needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I'd know I am doing the right thing. I hope to make a difference for those around me.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me; or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possed by a demon Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in highschool. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me overtime and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community, and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child that needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I really hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me; or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possed by a demon Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in highschool. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me overtime and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community, and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child that needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I really hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me; or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possed by a demon Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in highschool. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me overtime and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community, and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child that needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I really hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me; or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possed by a demon Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in highschool. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me overtime and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community, and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child that needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I really hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me; or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possed by a demon Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in highschool. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me overtime and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community, and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child that needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I really hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me; or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possed by a demon Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in highschool. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me overtime and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community, and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child that needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I really hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me; or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possed by a demon Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in highschool. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me overtime and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community, and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child that needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I really hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me; or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possed by a demon Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in highschool. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me overtime and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community, and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child that needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I really hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me; or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possed by a demon Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in highschool. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me overtime and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community, and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child that needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I really hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me; or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possed by a demon Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in highschool. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me overtime and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community, and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child that needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I really hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me; or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possed by a demon Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in highschool. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me overtime and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community, and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child that needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I really hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me; or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possed by a demon Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in highschool. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me overtime and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community, and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child that needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I really hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me; or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possed by a demon Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in highschool. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me overtime and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community, and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child that needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I really hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

My name is Kaleb Ballard. I am an LGBT student from the small town of Oil City, Louisiana. I went to high school in Vivian, Louisiana, another small town about 10 minutes away. Growing up I didn’t have much. My family has always had struggles. Whether it be money, drugs, alcohol, death or religion we didn’t have it easy. I grew up poor in a home riddled with drugs and alcohol. My family members passed away and fell apart around me. I am determined to finish college and make a better life for myself away from the chaos that surrounds me. I am transgender female-to-male and I was raised apostolic. Growing up LGBT in a conservative environment added extra challenges and was often even a little scary. After coming out as transgender, I was ostracized from my religious community. Many people doubted me; or even thought I was crazy. Some people suggested I had been possed by a demon Outside of my church I did not have the same support or opportunities that I had before in highschool. This shouldn’t be the case for any student, and so I plan to help change this for future students of ALL situations. In my hometown, I was fortunate enough to be able to shift the opinions of some people around me overtime and contribute to a more accepting environment. I want to continue to prove to the world and to other LGBT people that we can be successful despite the initial doubt placed on us. My primary goal is to be an inspiration to people like me. I hope to be there for my community, and to be someone a younger me could have looked up to. I have ambitious plans for my future. I plan to go into the field of pediatric dental hygiene. I want to help young people to have clean and confident smiles. I will be there for any child that needs help but does not know how to ask. Pediatric dental hygienists have an opportunity to interact with kids and instill confidence in them. They even have the chance to notice when they may need serious help. They can spot if a child is being abused or neglected. I could help kids just like me. If I could positively impact just one kid or help even one kid be in a better situation, I would know I am doing the right thing. I really hope to make a difference for those around me, no matter their age or identity.

During the summer of 2014, my family had a reunion. I was nine years old. I'd never seen so much of my family in one place at one time, and I'd never see it again. I remember eating pizza and playing video games on the Ipad with my cousins. After dinner, my cousins went exploring in the woods. I wasn't allowed to go with them. Everyone was looking for My little cousin, Kasen. I heard his name being called over and over and over again. I didn't pay any mind to this. I was bored without my cousins, so I wanted to swim in the pool. I changed into my swim shorts and walked up the stairs to the deck of the small pool. I looked down at my feet and saw a small pair of shoes sitting neatly on the wood by the pool. I looked into the water, and I saw him. I screamed out, hoping someone would help. With no response, I yelled his name. Everyone ran immediately. He went to the hospital, but it was too late. Over seven years, the effects on my family have been apparent. My family has fallen apart in many ways. Despite the hardships, I've learned to focus on who I have and make the moments together notable. I take time to appreciate the important people in my life. I will make the most of my life.

I grew up in a tight-knit pentecostal community. I'm also transgender. For many years, I hid this vital part of my identity out of fear. I was afraid I would lose so many things in my life, such as my relationships, my support, my community, and my stability. I knew I wouldn't be accepted for who I was. I'd seen and heard the horrible things that had happened to people like me, and I didn't want to experience any of it. So many of the trans community have been kicked from their homes, ostracized, and even killed. Yet, even in hiding, I still felt out of place and excluded by those around me. They'd talk to me only when they had to. They'd avoid me. They'd never make an effort to include me in groups. I wondered what I could have done so wrong to receive that kind of treatment from my peers. Was my skirt too short? Was my hair too messy? Were my heels too high? These were the people I grew up with; they were supposed to be like family. I did everything I could think of to fit in. I went to church every time I could. I asked questions about what I should and shouldn't do. I went to all the youth events, even though they made me feel terrible. I did so much, but none of it ever worked. I still felt alone. So I gave up. I quit trying to be who everyone else wanted me to be because I knew it would never be enough anyways. I started being myself. I stopped wearing clothes they thought I should and wore what felt good. I cut off all my two-and-a-half feet of hair. I finally stood up for myself and my needs rather than anyone else's wants. At school, I got all of my teachers to call me by my new name. I made new friends who supported and loved me unconditionally. The best part was that I showed others like me that they would be safe, so they didn't have to be as afraid as I was. Making these decisions was the best thing I've ever done. They were hard to adjust to but so worth it in the end. I can see a bright future for myself. I'm better at making friends. I'm better at standing up for myself altogether. I'm so much happier now than I was then.