I am currently a student at Bishop Fenwick High School in Franklin, OH and plan to attend Xavier University in Cincinnati, OH in Fall 2025 to pursue my degree in Middle Childhood Education. While in high school I have been an honor roll student every semester, maintaining a 3.35 GPA on average, been involved in many extracurricular activities, worked part-time all 4 years of school, and volunteered in my community. My sense of volunteerism is something that has been instilled in me from my family, in particular my father who is an US Navy veteran. My Father, Steven West, visited Norfolk, VA at age 12 and that was his first time seeing the US Navy ships. That was a defining moment for him as it started his dream of becoming a sailor. He had intended to make the military his career but suffered a service-related injury and was medically (honorably) discharged from the Navy in 2004. He went on to achieve his bachelor’s degree, when I was 2 years old. His perseverance despite his injury and completing school while sick inspires me to push through what seem like trivial challenges that I face today. Through my community service, I have primarily worked with children. I have volunteered all 4 years of high school, coaching elementary and middle school children to play the sport I love, volleyball. Through this coaching, I have seen children gain confidence and become stronger people. It has brought joy to their lives but also mine. I have gained a passion for helping others and that has influenced my dream to become a teacher. I see education as an opportunity to positively impact young people’s lives, just as I have seen through coaching. I want to help students not only achieve academic success but also develop the skills and confidence they need to become leaders and responsible citizens. I would like to instill in them the same sense of community and volunteerism that my father has instilled in me. My father has taught me so many lessons in life that have influenced me and will continue to influence me. Although he had intended to make the military his career, it was cut short by his diagnosis and injury. He battled his disease for several years and when I was 5 years old, he was hospitalized for 6 months. He almost lost his life several times while battling his illness. My dad taught me you are responsible for you own success and you must be open to learn from others and from your mistakes. You must work toward your goals; despite any obstacles you may face. I will soon be starting a new chapter in my life, bringing with me the lessons I have learned in my seventeen years. These lessons will drive me as I start my journey to become a teacher. I am eager to continue mentoring, coaching, and working with children, shaping the next generation of students the way my teachers and mentors shaped me.

I am currently a student at Bishop Fenwick High School in Franklin, OH and plan to attend Xavier University in Cincinnati, OH in Fall 2025 to pursue my degree in Middle Childhood Education. While in high school I have been an honor roll student every semester, maintaining a 3.35 GPA on average, been involved in many extracurricular activities, worked part-time all 4 years of school, and volunteered in my community. My sense of community and volunteerism is something that has been instilled in me from my family, in particular my father who is an US Navy veteran. My Father, Steven West, visited Norfolk, VA at age 12 and that was his first time seeing the US Navy ships. That was a defining moment for him as it started his dream of becoming a sailor. At age 17, he entered the Navy in their Delayed Entry Program. He had intended to make the military his career but suffered a service-related injury and was medically (honorably) discharged from the Navy in 2004. He went on to achieve his bachelor’s degree and graduated for Miami University in 2009, when I was 2 years old. After serving in the military, he now serves as Vice Major of our city, runs a non-profit organization and sits on the board of another non-profit organization. Although a different type of service than what he did in the military, it still demonstrates his commitment to our country and community. Through my community service, I have primarily worked with children. I have volunteered all 4 years of high school, coaching elementary and middle school children to play the sport I love, volleyball. Through my volunteer work, I have gained a passion for helping others and that has influenced my dream to become a teacher. I see education as an opportunity to positively impact young people’s lives, just as I have seen through coaching. As human beings, we are meant to leave our mark on the world and improve it, and teaching is one of the most meaningful ways I can do that. I want to help students not only achieve academic success but also develop the skills and confidence they need to become leaders and responsible citizens. I would like to instill in them the same sense of community and volunteerism that my father has instilled in me. In addition to my community service coaching children, I take the opportunity to work with other populations. Each holiday season, my family and I honor veterans by working with the organization, Wreaths Across America. It’s a small act of placing holiday wreaths on graves of fallen veterans but it demonstrates the need to honor their sacrifice. I also have volunteered at local food pantries, Matthew 25 ministries, supporting our local Lenten Fish Frys with the Knights of Columbus and other organizations. I will soon be starting a new chapter in my life, bringing with me the lessons I have learned in my seventeen years. These lessons will drive me as I start my journey to become a teacher. The lessons of resilience, preservation and the need to pass a legacy onto the next generation. I am eager to continue mentoring, coaching, and working with children, shaping the next generation of students the way my teachers and mentors shaped me. I also hope to gain internships that will help me grow as an educator and leader in my community and pass along this sense of community service to the next generation.

I am currently a student at Bishop Fenwick High School in Franklin, OH and plan to attend Xavier University in Cincinnati, OH in Fall 2025 to pursue my degree in Middle Childhood Education. While in high school I have been an honor roll student every semester, maintaining a 3.35 GPA on average, been involved in many extracurricular activities, worked part-time all 4 years of school, and volunteered in my community. My sense of community and volunteerism is something that has been instilled in me from my family, in particular my father who is an US Navy veteran. My Father, Steven West, visited Norfolk, VA at age 12 and that was his first time seeing the US Navy ships. That was a defining moment for him as it started his dream of becoming a sailor. At age 17, he entered the Navy in their Delayed Entry Program. He had not yet graduated high school but had made the commitment that upon graduation, he would become a Surface Sonar Technician (STG). He had intended to make the military his career but suffered a service-related injury and was medically (honorably) discharged from the Navy in 2004. He went on to achieve his bachelor’s degree and graduated for Miami University in 2009, when I was 2 years old. His perseverance despite his injury and completing school while sick inspires me to push through what seem like trivial challenges that I face today. Through my community service, I have primarily worked with children. During this time, I have learned to work with children who have differing physical abilities and differing learning styles. I have coached children who are new to the sport and taught them the fundamentals. I have coached more advanced athletes and taught them techniques to make them more competitive. Through this coaching, I have seen children gain confidence and become stronger people. It has brought joy to their lives but also mine. Through my volunteer work, I have gained a passion for helping others and that has influenced my dream to become a teacher. I see education as an opportunity to positively impact young people’s lives, just as I have seen through coaching. As human beings, we are meant to leave our mark on the world and improve it, and teaching is one of the most meaningful ways I can do that. I want to help students not only achieve academic success but also develop the skills and confidence they need to become leaders and responsible citizens. I would like to instill in them the same sense of community and volunteerism that my father has instilled in me. I will soon be starting a new chapter in my life, bringing with me the lessons I have learned in my seventeen years. These lessons will drive me as I start my journey to become a teacher. The lessons of resilience, preservation and the need to pass a legacy onto the next generation. I am eager to continue mentoring, coaching, and working with children, shaping the next generation of students the way my teachers and mentors shaped me. I also hope to gain internships that will help me grow as an educator and leader in my community.

I am currently a student at Bishop Fenwick High School in Franklin, OH and plan to attend Xavier University in Cincinnati, OH in Fall 2025 to pursue my degree in Middle Childhood Education. While in high school I have been an honor roll student every semester, maintaining a 3.35 GPA on average, been involved in many extracurricular activities, worked part-time all 4 years of school, and volunteered in my community. My sense of community and volunteerism is something that has been instilled in me from my family, in particular my father who is an US Navy veteran, but also through my faith as a Catholic. I have attended Catholic school since third grade. First at St. John XXIII Catholic school and now in High School at Bishop Fenwick. These schools have shown me that faith is demonstrated in what may seem like simple day to day interactions. It can be as simple as lending an ear to a friend in need, volunteering to help a grandparent or stopping to think before acting. I have learned that faith isn’t just about my personal belief and relationship with God, but also about serving others and demonstrating the act of giving. I recently attended my Senior retreat, Kairos, and through that experience I learned that acceptance, forgiveness and showing Jesus’ love to others can make a lasting impact on their lives. Through my community service, I have primarily worked with children from my home parish at St. John XIII Catholic School. I have volunteered all 4 years of high school, coaching elementary and middle school children to play the sport I love, volleyball. Through my volunteer work, I have gained a passion for helping others and that has influenced my dream to become a teacher. I see education as an opportunity to positively impact young people’s lives, just as I have seen through coaching. As human beings, we are meant to leave our mark on the world and improve it, and teaching is one of the most meaningful ways I can do that. I want to help students not only achieve academic success but also develop the skills and confidence they need to become leaders and responsible citizens. I would like to instill in them the same sense of community and volunteerism that my faith has instilled in me. I will soon be starting a new chapter in my life, bringing with me the lessons I have learned in my seventeen years. These experiences, combined with my faith, will drive me as I start my journey to become a teacher. The lessons of resilience, preservation and the need to pass a legacy onto the next generation. I am eager to continue mentoring, coaching, and working with children, shaping the next generation of students the way my faith, teachers and mentors shaped me. I also hope to gain internships that will help me grow as an educator and leader in my community. This scholarship will enable me to continue my education at a Catholic University, Xavier University. I am hopeful to continue my journey of education that incorporates both learning as well as enables me to continue my faith. True leadership is grounded in service and I truly believe that I have the ability to combine my faith, passion and abilities to grow our future leaders.

I am currently a student at Bishop Fenwick High School in Franklin, OH and plan to attend Xavier University in Cincinnati, OH in Fall 2025 to pursue my degree in Middle Childhood Education. While in high school I have been an honor roll student every semester, maintaining a 3.35 GPA on average, been involved in many extracurricular activities, worked part-time all 4 years of school, and volunteered in my community. In third grade, I moved from my neighborhood elementary school to a much more rigorous school. What was I doing here? I didn’t know basic math, was not reading at my grade level, and I felt as though my former classroom setting had better prepared me for a night alone in the jungle than that of the structured nature of my new school. I learned quickly that lack of tests isn’t the accepted norm when it comes to a child’s education. I remember asking every time I was handed a paper, “Is this for a grade?” and I was so terrified of not being smart enough, not having what it takes. I always needed help and was pulled to the side during every quiet work time so I could work with my teacher. I used hard work and perseverance to get through this new experience. I was under no delusion how fortunate I was to be given this opportunity. Since that time, I’ve achieved honor roll and proved to myself that I am smart enough, I do have what it takes, and I deserve to be here. My sense of community and volunteerism is something that has been instilled in me from my family, in particular my father who is an US Navy veteran. My Father, Steven West, visited Norfolk, VA at age 12 and that was his first time seeing the US Navy ships. That was a defining moment for him as it started his dream of becoming a sailor. He had intended to make the military his career but suffered a service-related injury and was medically (honorably) discharged from the Navy in 2004. He went on to achieve his bachelor’s degree and graduated for Miami University in 2009, when I was 2 years old. His perseverance despite his injury and completing school while sick inspires me to push through what seem like trivial challenges that I face today. Through my community service, I have primarily worked with children. During this time, I have learned to work with children who have differing physical abilities and differing learning styles. I have coached children who are new to the sport and taught them the fundamentals. I have coached more advanced athletes and taught them techniques to make them more competitive. Through this coaching, I have seen children gain confidence and become stronger people. It has brought joy to their lives but also mine. Through my volunteer work, I have gained a passion for helping others and that has influenced my dream to become a teacher. I see education as an opportunity to positively impact young people’s lives, just as I have seen through coaching. As human beings, we are meant to leave our mark on the world and improve it, and teaching is one of the most meaningful ways I can do that. I want to help students not only achieve academic success but also develop the skills and confidence they need to become leaders and responsible citizens. I would like to instill in them the same sense of community and volunteerism that my father has instilled in me.

I am currently a student at Bishop Fenwick High School in Franklin, OH and plan to attend Xavier University in Cincinnati, OH in Fall 2025 to pursue my degree in Middle Childhood Education. While in high school I have been an honor roll student every semester, maintaining a 3.35 GPA on average, been involved in many extracurricular activities, worked part-time all 4 years of school, and volunteered in my community. In third grade, I moved from my neighborhood elementary school to a much more rigorous school. What was I doing here? I didn’t know basic math, was not reading at my grade level, and I felt as though my former classroom setting had better prepared me for a night alone in the jungle than that of the structured nature of my new school. I learned quickly that lack of tests isn’t the accepted norm when it comes to a child’s education. I remember asking every time I was handed a paper, “Is this for a grade?” and I was so terrified of not being smart enough, not having what it takes. I always needed help and was pulled to the side during every quiet work time so I could work with my teacher. I used hard work and perseverance to get through this new experience. I was under no delusion how fortunate I was to be given this opportunity. Since that time, I’ve achieved honor roll and proved to myself that I am smart enough, I do have what it takes, and I deserve to be here. My sense of community and volunteerism is something that has been instilled in me from my family, in particular my father who is an US Navy veteran. My Father, Steven West, visited Norfolk, VA at age 12 and that was his first time seeing the US Navy ships. That was a defining moment for him as it started his dream of becoming a sailor. He had intended to make the military his career but suffered a service-related injury and was medically (honorably) discharged from the Navy in 2004. He went on to achieve his bachelor’s degree and graduated for Miami University in 2009, when I was 2 years old. His perseverance despite his injury and completing school while sick inspires me to push through what seem like trivial challenges that I face today. Through my community service, I have primarily worked with children. During this time, I have learned to work with children who have differing physical abilities and differing learning styles. I have coached children who are new to the sport and taught them the fundamentals. I have coached more advanced athletes and taught them techniques to make them more competitive. Through this coaching, I have seen children gain confidence and become stronger people. It has brought joy to their lives but also mine. Through my volunteer work, I have gained a passion for helping others and that has influenced my dream to become a teacher. I see education as an opportunity to positively impact young people’s lives, just as I have seen through coaching. As human beings, we are meant to leave our mark on the world and improve it, and teaching is one of the most meaningful ways I can do that. I want to help students not only achieve academic success but also develop the skills and confidence they need to become leaders and responsible citizens. I would like to instill in them the same sense of community and volunteerism that my father has instilled in me.

I am currently a student at Bishop Fenwick High School in Franklin, OH and plan to attend Xavier University in Cincinnati, OH in Fall 2025 to pursue my degree in Middle Childhood Education. While in high school I have been an honor roll student every semester, maintaining a 3.35 GPA on average, been involved in many extracurricular activities, worked part-time all 4 years of school, and volunteered in my community. My sense of community and volunteerism is something that has been instilled in me from my family, in particular my father who is an US Navy veteran. My Father, Steven West, visited Norfolk, VA at age 12 and that was his first time seeing the US Navy ships. That was a defining moment for him as it started his dream of becoming a sailor. At age 17, he entered the Navy in their Delayed Entry Program. He had not yet graduated high school but had made the commitment that upon graduation, he would become a Surface Sonar Technician (STG). He had intended to make the military his career but suffered a service-related injury and was medically (honorably) discharged from the Navy in 2004. He went on to achieve his bachelor’s degree and graduated for Miami University in 2009, when I was 2 years old. His perseverance despite his injury and completing school while sick inspires me to push through what seem like trivial challenges that I face today. Through my community service, I have primarily worked with children. During this time, I have learned to work with children who have differing physical abilities and differing learning styles. I have coached children who are new to the sport and taught them the fundamentals. I have coached more advanced athletes and taught them techniques to make them more competitive. Through this coaching, I have seen children gain confidence and become stronger people. It has brought joy to their lives but also mine. Through my volunteer work, I have gained a passion for helping others and that has influenced my dream to become a teacher. I see education as an opportunity to positively impact young people’s lives, just as I have seen through coaching. As human beings, we are meant to leave our mark on the world and improve it, and teaching is one of the most meaningful ways I can do that. I want to help students not only achieve academic success but also develop the skills and confidence they need to become leaders and responsible citizens. I would like to instill in them the same sense of community and volunteerism that my father has instilled in me. I will soon be starting a new chapter in my life, bringing with me the lessons I have learned in my seventeen years. These lessons will drive me as I start my journey to become a teacher. The lessons of resilience, preservation and the need to pass a legacy onto the next generation. I am eager to continue mentoring, coaching, and working with children, shaping the next generation of students the way my teachers and mentors shaped me. I also hope to gain internships that will help me grow as an educator and leader in my community.

I am currently a student at Bishop Fenwick High School in Franklin, OH and plan to attend Xavier University in Cincinnati, OH in Fall 2025 to pursue my degree in Middle Childhood Education. While in high school I have been an honor roll student every semester, maintaining a 3.35 GPA on average, been involved in many extracurricular activities, worked part-time all 4 years of school, and volunteered in my community. My sense of community and volunteerism is something that has been instilled in me from my family, in particular my father who is an US Navy veteran. My Father, Steven West, visited Norfolk, VA at age 12 and that was his first time seeing the US Navy ships. That was a defining moment for him as it started his dream of becoming a sailor. At age 17, he entered the Navy in their Delayed Entry Program. He had not yet graduated high school but had made the commitment that upon graduation, he would become a Surface Sonar Technician (STG). He had intended to make the military his career but suffered a service-related injury and was medically (honorably) discharged from the Navy in 2004. He went on to achieve his bachelor’s degree and graduated for Miami University in 2009, when I was 2 years old. His perseverance despite his injury and completing school while sick inspires me to push through what seem like trivial challenges that I face today. Through my community service, I have primarily worked with children. During this time, I have learned to work with children who have differing physical abilities and differing learning styles. I have coached children who are new to the sport and taught them the fundamentals. I have coached more advanced athletes and taught them techniques to make them more competitive. Through this coaching, I have seen children gain confidence and become stronger people. It has brought joy to their lives but also mine. Through my volunteer work, I have gained a passion for helping others and that has influenced my dream to become a teacher. I see education as an opportunity to positively impact young people’s lives, just as I have seen through coaching. As human beings, we are meant to leave our mark on the world and improve it, and teaching is one of the most meaningful ways I can do that. I want to help students not only achieve academic success but also develop the skills and confidence they need to become leaders and responsible citizens. I would like to instill in them the same sense of community and volunteerism that my father has instilled in me. I will soon be starting a new chapter in my life, bringing with me the lessons I have learned in my seventeen years. These lessons will drive me as I start my journey to become a teacher. The lessons of resilience, preservation and the need to pass a legacy onto the next generation. I am eager to continue mentoring, coaching, and working with children, shaping the next generation of students the way my teachers and mentors shaped me. I also hope to gain internships that will help me grow as an educator and leader in my community.

I opened my eyes; I hadn’t realized I fell asleep in that chair. I looked over to see my dad in a hospital bed and my mom in the other chair, eight months pregnant with my brother. I was only five and was scared. I was awoken by my mom looking alarmed, I didn’t know this night would change my life forever. “Dad has to go the hospital”. My young mind was spinning, what was happening to my dad? My dad had been getting sicker day by day. It got so bad he wasn’t eating, or sleeping, only seemingly a sickness that had no end. That night he didn’t come home, Crohn’s Disease had grabbed ahold of him and strapped him to the hospital bed. It was the beginning of a six-month hospital journey. Several procedures, tests, and surgeries. As I watched my dad go through his illness, it taught me about humanity at a young age. The challenges that find me today take me back to how strong my dad was. Not only was he strong that night as he stood facing a life full of the unknown, and medical challenges yet to be uncovered, there was a whole life behind him lurking under the surface. He grew up in an abusive and impoverished home, was a US Navy Petty Officer deployed during the long fought and often perilous Operation Iraqi Freedom war, he serves his city as a member of city council and is a successful business owner. As if all those things in and of themselves aren’t enough, the most important roles have yet to be mentioned. Without a hint of doubt or a moment of hesitation, it can be said that the greatest role of his life is that of a husband and a father. I use this as inspiration as I tackle what may seem like routine challenges of life. I will soon be starting a new chapter in my life, bringing with me the lessons I have learned in my seventeen years. My dad shared with me a story from when he was my age that will stick with me as I head out in my future endeavors. He was a new Navy recruit and was sitting on his rack, after getting hurt and sick during bootcamp. His chief sat down on the bed next to him and said, “West, I like you. You don’t let things get to you.” This sort of exchange isn’t common during bootcamp so it was very meaningful that someone he respected so much would take the time to acknowledge him. I imagine he said to himself, like I tell myself often, I am smart enough, I do have what it takes, and I deserve to be here.

I am currently a student at Bishop Fenwick High School in Franklin, OH and plan to attend Xavier University in Cincinnati, OH in Fall 2025 to pursue my degree in Middle Childhood Education. While in high school I have been an honor roll student every semester, maintaining a 3.35 GPA on average, been involved in many extracurricular activities, worked part-time all 4 years of school, and volunteered in my community. My sense of community and volunteerism is something that has been instilled in me from my family, in particular my father who is an US Navy veteran. My Father, Steven West, visited Norfolk, VA at age 12 and that was his first time seeing the US Navy ships. That was a defining moment for him as it started his dream of becoming a sailor. At age 17, he entered the Navy in their Delayed Entry Program. He had not yet graduated high school but had made the commitment that upon graduation, he would become a Surface Sonar Technician (STG). He had intended to make the military his career but suffered a service-related injury and was medically (honorably) discharged from the Navy in 2004. He went on to achieve his bachelor’s degree and graduated for Miami University in 2009, when I was 2 years old. He grew up in an abusive and impoverished home, was a US Navy Petty Officer deployed during the long fought and often perilous Operation Iraqi Freedom war, he serves his city as a member of city council and is a successful business owner. As if all those things in and of themselves aren’t enough, the most important roles have yet to be mentioned. Without a hint of doubt or a moment of hesitation, it can be said that the greatest role of his life is that of a husband and a father. I use this as inspiration as I tackle what may seem like routine challenges of life. His perseverance despite his injury and completing school while sick inspires me to push through what seem like trivial challenges that I face today. Through my community service, I have primarily worked with children. I have volunteered all 4 years of high school, coaching elementary and middle school children to play the sport I love, volleyball. Through my volunteer work, I have gained a passion for helping others and that has influenced my dream to become a teacher. I see education as an opportunity to positively impact young people’s lives, just as I have seen through coaching. As human beings, we are meant to leave our mark on the world and improve it, and teaching is one of the most meaningful ways I can do that. I want to help students not only achieve academic success but also develop the skills and confidence they need to become leaders and responsible citizens. I would like to instill in them the same sense of community and volunteerism that my father has instilled in me. I will soon be starting a new chapter in my life, bringing with me the lessons I have learned in my seventeen years. These lessons will drive me as I start my journey to become a teacher. The lessons of resilience, preservation and the need to pass a legacy onto the next generation. I am eager to continue mentoring, coaching, and working with children, shaping the next generation of students the way my teachers and mentors shaped me. I also hope to gain internships that will help me grow as an educator and leader in my community.

I am currently a student at Bishop Fenwick High School in Franklin, OH and plan to attend Xavier University in Cincinnati, OH in Fall 2025 to pursue my degree in Middle Childhood Education. While in high school I have been an honor roll student every semester, maintaining a 3.35 GPA on average, been involved in many extracurricular activities, worked part-time all 4 years of school, and volunteered in my community. My sense of community and volunteerism is something that has been instilled in me from my family, in particular my father who is an US Navy veteran. My Father, Steven West, visited Norfolk, VA at age 12 and that was his first time seeing the US Navy ships. That was a defining moment for him as it started his dream of becoming a sailor. At age 17, he entered the Navy in their Delayed Entry Program. He had not yet graduated high school but had made the commitment that upon graduation, he would become a Surface Sonar Technician (STG). He had intended to make the military his career but suffered a service-related injury and was medically (honorably) discharged from the Navy in 2004. He went on to achieve his bachelor’s degree and graduated for Miami University in 2009, when I was 2 years old. His perseverance despite his injury and completing school while sick inspires me to push through what seem like trivial challenges that I face today. Through my community service, I have primarily worked with children. I have volunteered all 4 years of high school, coaching elementary and middle school children to play the sport I love, volleyball. Through my volunteer work, I have gained a passion for helping others and that has influenced my dream to become a teacher. I see education as an opportunity to positively impact young people’s lives, just as I have seen through coaching. As human beings, we are meant to leave our mark on the world and improve it, and teaching is one of the most meaningful ways I can do that. I want to help students not only achieve academic success but also develop the skills and confidence they need to become leaders and responsible citizens. I would like to instill in them the same sense of community and volunteerism that my father has instilled in me. I will soon be starting a new chapter in my life, bringing with me the lessons I have learned in my seventeen years. These lessons will drive me as I start my journey to become a teacher. The lessons of resilience, preservation and the need to pass a legacy onto the next generation. I am eager to continue mentoring, coaching, and working with children, shaping the next generation of students the way my teachers and mentors shaped me. I also hope to gain internships that will help me grow as an educator and leader in my community.

I am currently a student at Bishop Fenwick High School in Franklin, OH and plan to attend Xavier University in Cincinnati, OH in Fall 2025 to pursue my degree in Middle Childhood Education. While in high school I have been an honor roll student every semester, maintaining a 3.35 GPA on average, been involved in many extracurricular activities, worked part-time all 4 years of school, and volunteered in my community. My sense of community and volunteerism is something that has been instilled in me from my family, in particular my father who is an US Navy veteran. My Father, Steven West, visited Norfolk, VA at age 12 and that was his first time seeing the US Navy ships. That was a defining moment for him as it started his dream of becoming a sailor. At age 17, he entered the Navy in their Delayed Entry Program. He had not yet graduated high school but had made the commitment that upon graduation, he would become a Surface Sonar Technician (STG). He had intended to make the military his career but suffered a service-related injury and was medically (honorably) discharged from the Navy in 2004. He went on to achieve his bachelor’s degree and graduated for Miami University in 2009, when I was 2 years old. His perseverance despite his injury and completing school while sick inspires me to push through what seem like trivial challenges that I face today. Through my community service, I have primarily worked with children. I have volunteered all 4 years of high school, coaching elementary and middle school children to play the sport I love, volleyball. Through my volunteer work, I have gained a passion for helping others and that has influenced my dream to become a teacher. I see education as an opportunity to positively impact young people’s lives, just as I have seen through coaching. As human beings, we are meant to leave our mark on the world and improve it, and teaching is one of the most meaningful ways I can do that. I want to help students not only achieve academic success but also develop the skills and confidence they need to become leaders and responsible citizens. I would like to instill in them the same sense of community and volunteerism that my father has instilled in me. I will soon be starting a new chapter in my life, bringing with me the lessons I have learned in my seventeen years. These lessons will drive me as I start my journey to become a teacher. The lessons of resilience, preservation and the need to pass a legacy onto the next generation. I am eager to continue mentoring, coaching, and working with children, shaping the next generation of students the way my teachers and mentors shaped me. I also hope to gain internships that will help me grow as an educator and leader in my community.

I am currently a student at Bishop Fenwick High School in Franklin, OH and plan to attend Xavier University in Cincinnati, OH in Fall 2025 to pursue my degree in Middle Childhood Education. While in high school I have been an honor roll student every semester, maintaining a 3.35 GPA on average, been involved in many extracurricular activities, worked part-time all 4 years of school, and volunteered in my community. My sense of community and volunteerism is something that has been instilled in me from my family, in particular my father who is an US Navy veteran. My Father, Steven West, visited Norfolk, VA at age 12 and that was his first time seeing the US Navy ships. That was a defining moment for him as it started his dream of becoming a sailor. At age 17, he entered the Navy in their Delayed Entry Program. He had not yet graduated high school but had made the commitment that upon graduation, he would become a Surface Sonar Technician (STG). He had intended to make the military his career but suffered a service-related injury and was medically (honorably) discharged from the Navy in 2004. He went on to achieve his bachelor’s degree and graduated for Miami University in 2009, when I was 2 years old. His perseverance despite his injury and completing school while sick inspires me to push through what seem like trivial challenges that I face today. Through my community service, I have primarily worked with children. I have volunteered all 4 years of high school, coaching elementary and middle school children to play the sport I love, volleyball. Through my volunteer work, I have gained a passion for helping others and that has influenced my dream to become a teacher. I see education as an opportunity to positively impact young people’s lives, just as I have seen through coaching. As human beings, we are meant to leave our mark on the world and improve it, and teaching is one of the most meaningful ways I can do that. I want to help students not only achieve academic success but also develop the skills and confidence they need to become leaders and responsible citizens. I would like to instill in them the same sense of community and volunteerism that my father has instilled in me. I will soon be starting a new chapter in my life, bringing with me the lessons I have learned in my seventeen years. These lessons will drive me as I start my journey to become a teacher. The lessons of resilience, preservation and the need to pass a legacy onto the next generation. I am eager to continue mentoring, coaching, and working with children, shaping the next generation of students the way my teachers and mentors shaped me. I also hope to gain internships that will help me grow as an educator and leader in my community.

I am currently a student at Bishop Fenwick High School in Franklin, OH and plan to attend Xavier University in Cincinnati, OH in Fall 2025 to pursue my degree in Middle Childhood Education. While in high school I have been an honor roll student every semester, maintaining a 3.35 GPA on average, been involved in many extracurricular activities, worked part-time all 4 years of school, and volunteered in my community. My sense of community and volunteerism is something that has been instilled in me from my family, in particular my father who is an US Navy veteran. My Father, Steven West, visited Norfolk, VA at age 12 and that was his first time seeing the US Navy ships. That was a defining moment for him as it started his dream of becoming a sailor. At age 17, he entered the Navy in their Delayed Entry Program. He had not yet graduated high school but had made the commitment that upon graduation, he would become a Surface Sonar Technician (STG). He had intended to make the military his career but suffered a service-related injury and was medically (honorably) discharged from the Navy in 2004. He went on to achieve his bachelor’s degree and graduated for Miami University in 2009, when I was 2 years old. His perseverance despite his injury and completing school while sick inspires me to push through what seem like trivial challenges that I face today. Through my community service, I have primarily worked with children. I have volunteered all 4 years of high school, coaching elementary and middle school children to play the sport I love, volleyball. Through my volunteer work, I have gained a passion for helping others and that has influenced my dream to become a teacher. I see education as an opportunity to positively impact young people’s lives, just as I have seen through coaching. As human beings, we are meant to leave our mark on the world and improve it, and teaching is one of the most meaningful ways I can do that. I want to help students not only achieve academic success but also develop the skills and confidence they need to become leaders and responsible citizens. I would like to instill in them the same sense of community and volunteerism that my father has instilled in me. I will soon be starting a new chapter in my life, bringing with me the lessons I have learned in my seventeen years. These lessons will drive me as I start my journey to become a teacher. The lessons of resilience, preservation and the need to pass a legacy onto the next generation. I am eager to continue mentoring, coaching, and working with children, shaping the next generation of students the way my teachers and mentors shaped me. I also hope to gain internships that will help me grow as an educator and leader in my community.

How Wonder Inspired Me as a Future Teacher The movie Wonder left a lasting impact on me and strengthened my desire to become a teacher. Its message of empathy and acceptance is something I want to carry into my own classroom one day. The story focuses on the challenges a young boy faces as he tries to fit in at school, but it also highlights the importance of kindness, understanding, and the role teachers play in shaping a positive learning environment. Watching the film made me reflect on the kind of teacher I want to be—one who supports and encourages every student, no matter their background or challenges. One of the biggest lessons I took from Wonder is how important it is to make people feel included. As a coach, I’ve worked with kids who all learn in different ways. Some pick things up quickly, while others need more time and patience. No matter their skill level, I always make sure they feel encouraged and supported. Seeing their confidence grow over time has been one of the most rewarding experiences for me. This is something I want to bring into my classroom—helping students believe in themselves, even when things feel difficult. The movie also made me think about the impact teachers have on their students beyond just academics. A good teacher doesn’t just teach lessons; they help students navigate challenges and build confidence. Many kids struggle with self-doubt, whether it’s in school, sports, or friendships. Having someone who believes in them can make all the difference. I want to be the kind of teacher who students know they can count on, just like I’ve had teachers and coaches who supported me. Another thing that stood out to me in Wonder was the idea that small acts of kindness can change someone’s life. A simple word of encouragement or a teacher taking the time to really listen can make students feel valued. This reminded me that as a future educator, I’ll have the chance to shape not only how my students learn but also how they see themselves and others. Watching Wonder reinforced why I want to be a teacher. It reminded me that the classroom should be a place where every student feels safe, included, and encouraged to grow. Through patience, empathy, and support, I hope to make a difference in my students’ lives, just like teachers have done for me.

I am currently a student at Bishop Fenwick High School in Franklin, OH and plan to attend Xavier University in Cincinnati, OH in Fall 2025 to pursue my degree in Middle Childhood Education. While in high school I have been an honor roll student every semester, maintaining a 3.35 GPA on average, been involved in many extracurricular activities, worked part-time all 4 years of school, and volunteered in my community. My sense of community and volunteerism is something that has been instilled in me from my family, in particular my father who is an US Navy veteran. My Father, Steven West, visited Norfolk, VA at age 12 and that was his first time seeing the US Navy ships. That was a defining moment for him as it started his dream of becoming a sailor. At age 17, he entered the Navy in their Delayed Entry Program. He had not yet graduated high school but had made the commitment that upon graduation, he would become a Surface Sonar Technician (STG). He had intended to make the military his career but suffered a service-related injury and was medically (honorably) discharged from the Navy in 2004. He went on to achieve his bachelor’s degree and graduated for Miami University in 2009, when I was 2 years old. His perseverance despite his injury and completing school while sick inspires me to push through what seem like trivial challenges that I face today. Through my community service, I have primarily worked with children. I have volunteered all 4 years of high school, coaching elementary and middle school children to play the sport I love, volleyball. Through my volunteer work, I have gained a passion for helping others and that has influenced my dream to become a teacher. I see education as an opportunity to positively impact young people’s lives, just as I have seen through coaching. As human beings, we are meant to leave our mark on the world and improve it, and teaching is one of the most meaningful ways I can do that. I want to help students not only achieve academic success but also develop the skills and confidence they need to become leaders and responsible citizens. I would like to instill in them the same sense of community and volunteerism that my father has instilled in me. I will soon be starting a new chapter in my life, bringing with me the lessons I have learned in my seventeen years. These lessons will drive me as I start my journey to become a teacher. The lessons of resilience, preservation and the need to pass a legacy onto the next generation. I am eager to continue mentoring, coaching, and working with children, shaping the next generation of students the way my teachers and mentors shaped me. I also hope to gain internships that will help me grow as an educator and leader in my community.

I am currently a student at Bishop Fenwick High School in Franklin, OH and plan to attend Xavier University in Cincinnati, OH in Fall 2025 to pursue my degree in Middle Childhood Education. While in high school I have been an honor roll student every semester, maintaining a 3.35 GPA on average, been involved in many extracurricular activities, worked part-time all 4 years of school, and volunteered in my community. My sense of community and volunteerism is something that has been instilled in me from my family, in particular my father who is an US Navy veteran. My Father, Steven West, visited Norfolk, VA at age 12 and that was his first time seeing the US Navy ships. That was a defining moment for him as it started his dream of becoming a sailor. At age 17, he entered the Navy in their Delayed Entry Program. He had not yet graduated high school but had made the commitment that upon graduation, he would become a Surface Sonar Technician (STG). He had intended to make the military his career but suffered a service-related injury and was medically (honorably) discharged from the Navy in 2004. He went on to achieve his bachelor’s degree and graduated for Miami University in 2009, when I was 2 years old. His perseverance despite his injury and completing school while sick inspires me to push through what seem like trivial challenges that I face today. Through my community service, I have primarily worked with children. I have volunteered all 4 years of high school, coaching elementary and middle school children to play the sport I love, volleyball. Through my volunteer work, I have gained a passion for helping others and that has influenced my dream to become a teacher. I see education as an opportunity to positively impact young people’s lives, just as I have seen through coaching. As human beings, we are meant to leave our mark on the world and improve it, and teaching is one of the most meaningful ways I can do that. I want to help students not only achieve academic success but also develop the skills and confidence they need to become leaders and responsible citizens. I would like to instill in them the same sense of community and volunteerism that my father has instilled in me. I will soon be starting a new chapter in my life, bringing with me the lessons I have learned in my seventeen years. These lessons will drive me as I start my journey to become a teacher. The lessons of resilience, preservation and the need to pass a legacy onto the next generation. I am eager to continue mentoring, coaching, and working with children, shaping the next generation of students the way my teachers and mentors shaped me. I also hope to gain internships that will help me grow as an educator and leader in my community.

I am currently a student at Bishop Fenwick High School in Franklin, OH and plan to attend Xavier University in Cincinnati, OH in Fall 2025 to pursue my degree in Middle Childhood Education. While in high school I have been an honor roll student every semester, maintaining a 3.35 GPA on average, been involved in many extracurricular activities, worked part-time all 4 years of school, and volunteered in my community. My sense of community and volunteerism is something that has been instilled in me from my family, in particular my father who is an US Navy veteran. My Father, Steven West, visited Norfolk, VA at age 12 and that was his first time seeing the US Navy ships. That was a defining moment for him as it started his dream of becoming a sailor. At age 17, he entered the Navy in their Delayed Entry Program. He had not yet graduated high school but had made the commitment that upon graduation, he would become a Surface Sonar Technician (STG). He had intended to make the military his career but suffered a service-related injury and was medically (honorably) discharged from the Navy in 2004. He went on to achieve his bachelor’s degree and graduated for Miami University in 2009, when I was 2 years old. His perseverance despite his injury and completing school while sick inspires me to push through what seem like trivial challenges that I face today. Through my community service, I have primarily worked with children. I have volunteered all 4 years of high school, coaching elementary and middle school children to play the sport I love, volleyball. Through my volunteer work, I have gained a passion for helping others and that has influenced my dream to become a teacher. I see education as an opportunity to positively impact young people’s lives, just as I have seen through coaching. As human beings, we are meant to leave our mark on the world and improve it, and teaching is one of the most meaningful ways I can do that. I want to help students not only achieve academic success but also develop the skills and confidence they need to become leaders and responsible citizens. I would like to instill in them the same sense of community and volunteerism that my father has instilled in me. I will soon be starting a new chapter in my life, bringing with me the lessons I have learned in my seventeen years. These lessons will drive me as I start my journey to become a teacher. The lessons of resilience, preservation and the need to pass a legacy onto the next generation. I am eager to continue mentoring, coaching, and working with children, shaping the next generation of students the way my teachers and mentors shaped me. I also hope to gain internships that will help me grow as an educator and leader in my community.