
Hobbies and interests
Athletic Training
Karma Jones
835
Bold Points1x
Finalist
Karma Jones
835
Bold Points1x
FinalistBio
I am a high school student who will become an athletic trainer in the NFL. I am one of 6 kids and I am not 100% set on where I want to purse my education but I know for a fact I will take all the help and love I can get.
Education
Dutchtown High
High SchoolMiscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Master's degree program
Majors of interest:
- Parks, Recreation, Leisure, Fitness, and Kinesiology, Other
Career
Dream career field:
sports medicine
Dream career goals:
Team member
Smoothie King2024 – 2024
Sports
Tennis
Varsity2014 – 20228 years
Sunshine Legall Scholarship
Throughout my academic journey, I have set ambitious goals that align with my passion for sports medicine and my aspiration to become a leader in the field. My primary objective is to obtain a master’s degree in athletic training, a path that requires six years of dedication and rigorous coursework. Beyond that, my ultimate dream is to secure a position in the NFL as a director of athletic training. This role would allow me to work with elite athletes, ensuring their health, recovery, and peak performance on the field. I am determined to achieve these milestones through hard work, perseverance, and continuous learning.
Currently, I am taking steps toward these goals by excelling in my academics, particularly in my college English course (ENG 1101), while still in high school. This experience is preparing me for the demands of higher education and helping me develop strong communication skills, which are essential in any professional setting. Additionally, I am balancing my studies with work experience at Smoothie King, where I have gained valuable customer service and teamwork skills. These experiences are shaping me into a well-rounded individual, ready to tackle the challenges of my future career.
Aside from my academic and professional aspirations, I believe in the importance of giving back to my community. One of the most fulfilling ways I have done this is through volunteering at Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary. This opportunity allowed me to contribute to the well-being of rescued animals while learning about responsibility and compassion. Additionally, I have spent years babysitting for family friends and relatives, providing a safe and nurturing environment for children. Through these experiences, I have developed patience, leadership, and a deep appreciation for helping others.
My work and volunteer experiences have inspired me to make a difference in the world by emphasizing the value of care—whether for athletes, animals, or young children. I have learned that small acts of kindness and service can have a significant impact on individuals and communities. This realization has fueled my desire to pursue a career in athletic training, where I can help athletes recover from injuries and achieve their full potential. Just as I have cared for animals and children, I want to extend that same dedication and support to athletes who rely on their physical health to succeed.
Looking ahead, I plan to continue my involvement in community service while advancing in my academic and professional pursuits. I hope to mentor aspiring athletic trainers and contribute to programs that promote health and injury prevention in sports. My journey is driven by a passion for helping others, and I am committed to using my skills and education to create a meaningful impact in the world of athletic training and beyond.
Achieve Potential Scholarship
Receiving this scholarship is profoundly important to me as a low-income student because it represents an essential opportunity to pursue my educational and career aspirations without the overwhelming burden of financial hardship. Coming from a low-income background has meant that my family and I have always needed to be resourceful and resilient, yet the weight of financial limitations has often placed barriers in my path. This scholarship would not only alleviate some of those barriers but also provide me with the chance to focus on my studies, prepare for a career in athletic training, and ultimately contribute meaningfully to my community and my family.
As a first-generation college student, my journey to higher education is both a personal goal and a testament to my family’s sacrifices. My parents have worked tirelessly to provide for us, but the cost of college education is beyond our financial reach. With this scholarship, I would be able to lessen the burden on my family and avoid taking on significant student loan debt. By reducing my need to work excessive hours outside of school, I could dedicate myself to my studies, volunteer experiences, and internships that will strengthen my skills in athletic training, a field that I am deeply passionate about. I am committed to making a career in athletic training and ultimately hope to work as a director of athletic training in the NFL, a dream that will require extensive education and experience. This scholarship would be a critical step in that journey.
Furthermore, this scholarship would allow me to continue giving back to my community. Throughout my life, I have been committed to helping others, whether through babysitting for family friends, volunteering at animal sanctuaries, or taking on part-time work to support my family. Being awarded this scholarship would not only support me academically but also enable me to continue contributing to my community. With the financial assistance, I would have the stability to pursue internships and service opportunities that would allow me to share my knowledge and give back to others, particularly those in communities like mine who may face similar financial challenges.
Finally, this scholarship would offer me the chance to set an example for others in my community. Coming from a background where access to higher education is limited, I hope to show others that with hard work, persistence, and the right support, it is possible to overcome economic barriers and pursue ambitious goals. This scholarship would be more than a financial aid award; it would be a testament to my dedication to education, my resilience in the face of challenges, and my commitment to achieving my dream of working in athletic training at the highest level. In a field where knowledge, precision, and skill make a difference in athletes' lives and health, I want to make a meaningful impact, and this scholarship would be an invaluable part of that journey.
In conclusion, this scholarship is more than financial support—it’s a foundation for my future. It would provide the necessary relief from financial stress, allowing me to excel academically, gain practical experience, and continue serving my community. This scholarship would help me turn my dreams into reality, and in the process, it would empower me to break the cycle of financial hardship and make a lasting impact both in my field and in my community.
Black Excellence Scholarship
### 1) Attribute I Embody: **Be a Continual Learner**
The attribute of being a continual learner resonates deeply with me. It means having a mindset that values learning as a lifelong journey rather than a finite destination. My commitment to continuous learning is evident in various aspects of my life, from my education to my personal pursuits and career aspirations. I have a clear vision for my future as an athletic trainer in the NFL, which demands a solid foundation of knowledge, adaptability, and a strong desire to stay current in the field. By pursuing a master's degree and staying involved in diverse experiences, I’m constantly broadening my understanding of what it takes to succeed in athletic training.
As a high school student at Dutchtown High School, I strive to excel in my academics and gain as much foundational knowledge as possible, recognizing that my current efforts will significantly impact my future studies and career. Outside the classroom, I work at Smoothie King and have held roles like babysitting and volunteering at Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary. These experiences allow me to learn hands-on skills, such as communication, responsibility, and multitasking. They provide insights into working with people and animals, helping me understand how to manage different situations, a critical skill for my goal of working with professional athletes one day.
To embody continual learning, I actively seek opportunities to expand my knowledge and skills beyond traditional academics. I am CPR certified, which not only equips me with essential lifesaving skills but also builds my competence in emergency response. As an aspiring athletic trainer, I recognize the importance of continuously updating my skills and knowledge to remain an effective professional. Whether it’s through formal education, certifications, or self-directed study, I am committed to this journey of growth.
In the future, I plan to attend conferences, engage in workshops, and obtain further certifications in athletic training. I believe that my dedication to continuous learning will not only benefit me personally but also enable me to serve others more effectively. Learning, to me, is an endless path of self-improvement, ensuring that I am prepared to handle challenges and provide value in my chosen career. By embracing a mindset of continual learning, I am building a strong foundation that will support me in achieving excellence and resilience in both my personal and professional life.
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### 2) Attribute for Improvement: **Dare to Take Calculated Risks**
While I feel confident in my abilities to learn continuously, an area I believe I can improve in is daring to take calculated risks. Often, I find myself hesitant when faced with unfamiliar situations that require stepping outside my comfort zone. Although I recognize the importance of calculated risks in achieving my goals, I sometimes hold back, preferring stability over uncertainty. Developing this attribute is essential for my journey, especially as I aim to work in a competitive, high-stakes field like the NFL, where taking smart, well-considered risks is crucial.
To improve in this area, I’ve created a plan that starts with gradually increasing my tolerance for risk. My first step is to reframe my mindset around risk, focusing on its potential benefits rather than the fear of failure. This means practicing mindfulness to manage any anxieties related to decision-making and reminding myself that growth often requires discomfort. I can start by taking smaller risks in my daily life, such as volunteering for new responsibilities at work or school. For instance, I could take on a leadership role in a school club or offer to handle challenging tasks at Smoothie King, which would push me out of my comfort zone but with manageable stakes.
Next, I plan to use a structured approach to assess risks more objectively. This involves analyzing potential outcomes, identifying the pros and cons, and evaluating the worst-case scenarios. By breaking down the risks, I can make more informed decisions and reduce any irrational fears. Additionally, I intend to seek guidance from mentors and role models who have successfully navigated calculated risks in their careers. Their insights and support could help me feel more confident in taking similar steps.
Finally, I will periodically review and reflect on the outcomes of the risks I take. Keeping a journal where I document my thoughts and experiences will allow me to track my progress and recognize areas for further improvement. By taking intentional, small steps towards daring to take calculated risks, I believe I can build resilience and adaptability, qualities that are vital for success in both my personal and professional life. Over time, I hope to strengthen my capacity to make bold, well-considered choices, bringing me closer to my dream of excelling as an athletic trainer in the NFL.
LeBron James Fan Scholarship
I’m a fan of LeBron James not just because of his incredible talent on the basketball court, but also because of his work ethic, leadership, and impact off the court. LeBron has consistently performed at an elite level throughout his career, which is remarkable given the high expectations placed on him from a young age. He entered the NBA straight out of high school, with many people already labeling him as "The Chosen One," and he’s managed to not only meet those expectations but exceed them.
LeBron’s versatility is one of the main reasons I admire him. He can play multiple positions, defend nearly anyone, and has an unmatched basketball IQ. He’s a pass-first player, yet he still manages to be one of the top scorers in NBA history. This combination of scoring, playmaking, and leadership is rare and makes him an extraordinary player. His longevity is another aspect that stands out—he’s maintained peak performance well into his 30s, and in a league filled with young, athletic stars, he continues to dominate.
Off the court, LeBron is equally impressive. He’s a powerful advocate for social justice, uses his platform to speak out on important issues, and invests heavily in his community, notably with initiatives like the I PROMISE School in Akron, Ohio. His commitment to giving back, especially in education, shows that he understands his influence goes beyond basketball. This balance of being an elite athlete and a role model is something I truly respect.
As for whether LeBron James is the greatest basketball player of all time, the debate is complex. In my opinion, **LeBron certainly has a strong case** for the GOAT title. His combination of individual achievements—four NBA championships, four MVP awards, and being on the verge of becoming the all-time leading scorer in NBA history—solidifies his place among the greatest. His ability to succeed with different teams, adapt to different playing styles, and elevate the performance of his teammates also strengthens his argument.
However, basketball’s GOAT conversation often includes Michael Jordan, and I understand why many consider Jordan the greatest. Jordan's six championships with the Chicago Bulls and his cultural impact during the 1990s are legendary. He dominated the league in an era known for its physicality, and his competitive drive is iconic. The debate between LeBron and Jordan often comes down to personal preferences—whether you value LeBron’s all-around game, longevity, and ability to succeed in different eras, or Jordan’s perfect Finals record and sheer dominance during his peak.
For me, while Michael Jordan may have set the standard, **LeBron’s ability to influence the game in so many ways**, his leadership on and off the court, and his sustained greatness over two decades make him worthy of being in that GOAT conversation. I wouldn’t definitively say LeBron is the greatest, but I do believe he is one of the greatest, and his impact on the game will be felt for generations to come.
Billie Eilish Fan Scholarship
Billie Eilish has a unique way of blending vulnerability, emotion, and raw storytelling in her music, and several of her songs resonate with me on a deep level. My top three are:
### 1. **“Everything I Wanted”**
This song stands out because of its themes of self-doubt, mental health, and the pressures of fame, but at its core, it's about the comfort and love Billie finds in her relationship with her brother, Finneas. The lyrics describe her darkest thoughts, but the emotional anchor is the reassurance that someone will always be there to support her. I connect with the song because it captures the universal experience of feeling overwhelmed or misunderstood, yet it offers a hopeful message of unconditional support. It reminds me that, even in moments of personal struggle, there’s always someone I can lean on, whether it's family or close friends.
### 2. **“When the Party’s Over”**
“When the Party’s Over” hits hard with its hauntingly beautiful melody and lyrics about heartbreak and emotional exhaustion. Billie’s voice is so delicate yet powerful, expressing the pain of letting go when you know something or someone isn’t good for you anymore. I resonate with the rawness of this song because it portrays the complicated emotions that come with ending a relationship, whether it's romantic or platonic. The line “I’ll call you when the party’s over” feels like a way of saying, “I need space, but I’m not ready to completely lose you.” It speaks to the emotional push and pull we sometimes experience when we’re trying to protect ourselves while still caring for others.
### 3. **“My Future”**
This song is all about self-growth, independence, and optimism for the future, which is why it resonates with me so much. “My Future” starts off with a dreamy, melancholic vibe but shifts into a more upbeat tone as Billie sings about falling in love with who she’s becoming. It reflects the journey of self-discovery and the importance of prioritizing personal growth before anything else. At this stage in my life, where I’m working toward my own future and career goals, this song feels empowering. It’s a reminder to focus on myself and embrace the process of becoming who I want to be, rather than worrying about external pressures or expectations.
These three songs resonate with me because they each reflect different emotional experiences—struggles with mental health, heartbreak, and self-discovery—all of which are part of growing up. Billie Eilish’s ability to express such complex emotions in such an authentic and relatable way is what makes her music so impactful to me.
CREATIVE. INSPIRED. HAPPY Mid-Career Writing Scholarship
Writing has always been a powerful way for me to express my thoughts, ideas, and creativity. It allows me to translate abstract concepts into words, creating connections with others while giving form to what’s inside my mind. What I love most about writing is its ability to communicate emotions, tell stories, and inspire change. Whether it's through storytelling, persuasive arguments, or simply organizing thoughts, writing offers endless opportunities to explore the world, my own experiences, and the perspectives of others.
For me, writing is not just a skill but a creative outlet. It gives me the freedom to explore different voices, styles, and topics, whether I'm writing a personal reflection or working on an academic paper. When I write, I feel like I'm able to slow down and dive deep into topics, which allows me to understand things better and see connections that I might have missed otherwise. I love the process of refining my work, playing with words, and trying to convey exactly what I mean. Writing is also a tool for self-discovery, helping me clarify my thoughts and reflect on my experiences. It’s a way to organize the chaos in my mind and produce something meaningful from it.
Beyond creativity, writing is also a valuable tool for learning and sharing knowledge. Whether I’m writing about a topic I’m passionate about or exploring a new subject, the process of researching and drafting allows me to engage deeply with information. It helps me absorb knowledge better and articulate it clearly for others to understand. Writing allows me to communicate ideas, advocate for causes I care about, and collaborate with others on projects. It’s also a skill that I can use in any field I pursue, making it an essential part of both my personal and professional growth.
On the other hand, my passion for kinesiology stems from my deep interest in the human body, movement, and how physical activity influences health. I’ve always been intrigued by sports, fitness, and the science behind athletic performance. Studying kinesiology gives me a chance to dive into this area, exploring how the body works, how injuries can be prevented, and how we can optimize performance. I want to further my education in kinesiology because it aligns perfectly with my goal of becoming a director of athletic training in the NFL. This field combines my love for sports with my desire to help athletes stay healthy and perform at their best.
Kinesiology is the study of movement, and it’s the foundation for understanding physical therapy, athletic training, and sports science. By furthering my education in this field, I’ll gain the knowledge and skills needed to assess, treat, and prevent injuries, which is critical in athletic environments. I’m particularly drawn to the idea of working with elite athletes, helping them recover from injuries and reach their full potential through proper training and rehabilitation techniques. Kinesiology also emphasizes the importance of exercise in promoting overall health and wellness, which is something I’m passionate about.
Additionally, the demand for professionals in sports medicine, rehabilitation, and athletic training is growing, and I see kinesiology as a pathway to a fulfilling and impactful career. The chance to work in a field where I can combine my love for sports, science, and helping others is incredibly appealing. I want to be part of a team that supports athletes’ physical and mental well-being, helping them stay in peak condition while preventing injuries that could jeopardize their careers.
KG Aviation UAS Scholarship
Choosing a career path in the drone industry is a decision rooted in my fascination with technology, innovation, and a desire to be part of an industry that's shaping the future. Drones, or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), have revolutionized multiple sectors, from entertainment and agriculture to defense and disaster management. My journey toward the drone industry has been fueled by my passion for exploring cutting-edge technology and its practical applications in solving real-world problems.
From a young age, I was captivated by the concept of flight. Watching airplanes, helicopters, and space shuttles inspired a deep curiosity about how humans could conquer the skies. However, it wasn’t until I was introduced to drones that I realized how accessible and versatile flight technology had become. Drones allowed individuals like me to experience flight from a new perspective, offering endless possibilities for creativity and utility. My fascination with drones began with recreational flying, but it quickly grew into a passion as I learned more about the incredible potential drones have in various industries.
One of the key factors that drew me to this field is the diversity of drone applications. Drones are no longer just tools for hobbyists; they are critical assets in industries like agriculture, where they assist farmers in monitoring crops, analyzing soil health, and improving yield predictions. In construction, drones are used to survey land, inspect structures, and monitor progress in real time. In media and entertainment, drones have transformed the way films, documentaries, and commercials are shot, providing breathtaking aerial views that were once only achievable with helicopters. I realized that by pursuing a career in the drone industry, I could be at the forefront of technological innovation, contributing to advancements in fields that directly impact society.
Moreover, the rapid evolution of drone technology has made this industry particularly exciting. The integration of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and autonomous systems in drones opens up new possibilities for automation, precision, and safety. As I began researching the industry, I was drawn to the prospect of working in an environment that blends creativity, problem-solving, and high-tech solutions. I am particularly interested in the role of drones in disaster relief and environmental conservation. The idea that drones can be used to deliver critical supplies during emergencies, assess damage in inaccessible areas, or even monitor endangered wildlife sparked my desire to make a difference in these fields.
My academic background in STEM, combined with my enthusiasm for drones, made this career choice a natural fit. Throughout my studies, I’ve enjoyed subjects like physics, engineering, and computer science, all of which play a critical role in drone design, operation, and data analysis. The opportunity to apply these skills in a hands-on, real-world environment was another driving force behind my decision. Additionally, the growing demand for drone pilots and technicians in both the public and private sectors presents a unique opportunity for job security and career growth.
In conclusion, my decision to pursue a career in the drone industry stems from my deep-rooted passion for technology, flight, and problem-solving. The limitless potential of drones to reshape industries and improve lives makes this field not only exciting but also incredibly rewarding. I am eager to contribute to the innovation and advancements that will continue to drive the drone industry forward.