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Kayden Stokes-Chism

1x

Finalist

Bio

I am a dedicated student athlete with a clear vision for the future on and off the football field. As a sophomore at St. Joe’s Prep, I am passionate about using discipline, hard work, and leadership to shape my path toward becoming a Division I athlete and, ultimately, a successful professional in sports or business. My long-term goals include earning a full scholarship, competing at the highest collegiate level, and using my platform to inspire others. I am driven by a deep love for football and an even stronger commitment to personal growth. My coaches describe me as coachable, relentless, and mature beyond my years; qualities that make me a standout teammate and a natural leader. Off the field, I am equally dedicated, maintaining strong academic performance and showing responsibility, respect, and humility in everything, I pursue. What makes me an excellent candidate for scholarship support is my work ethic, character, and long-term vision. I am determined not only to succeed, but also to represent my school, family, and community with pride. I understand that opportunities are earned whether in the classroom, or on the field, I bring a level of focus and commitment that sets me apart. With strong values, competitive drive, and unwavering ambition, I embody the qualities of a scholar-athlete who will maximize every opportunity given to them. I am prepared, motivated, and ready to continue growing into the type of young man who makes a meaningful impact in every space he enters.

Education

ST JOSEPH'S PREPARATORY SCHOOL

High School
2024 - 2028

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    High School

  • Majors of interest:

    • Engineering, General
    • Engineering Science
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Sports

    • Dream career goals:

      Sports

      Swimming

      Club
      2013 – 202411 years

      Football

      Varsity
      2013 – Present13 years

      Research

      • Bible/Biblical Studies

        Student
        2024 – 2024

      Public services

      • Volunteering

        Boys and Girls Club of Syracuse — Mentor
        2025 – 2025

      Future Interests

      Entrepreneurship

      Our Destiny Our Future Scholarship
      My career goal is to pursue a career that allows me to combine my curiosity about the world with my desire to make a difference in the lives of others. I have always been drawn to subjects that involve research, problem solving, and understanding how things work which is why I am interested in pursuing studies that engineering and science. I want a career where I can analyze complex problems, ask important questions, and contribute to solutions that improve the lives of others. As I continue my education, my goal is to attend a college or university where I can further develop my knowledge, leadership abilities, and research skills. Higher education will allow me to explore different areas of study, gain hands-on experience, and learn from mentors who are experts in their fields. In addition to my academic goals, I want to grow as a leader and a role model in my community. I believe is not only about personal success, but also about using what you learn to help others. Education is the foundation that will allow me to reach that goal. Through continued learning, mentorship, and real-world experiences, I can only hope to develop the skills needed to think critically and contribute to advancements in my field. I am especially interested in opportunities that allow me to explore science, research, and innovation. Receiving this scholarship would play an important role in helping me move toward that goal. It would provide financial support that allows me to focus more on my education, academic growth, and extracurricular opportunities that build leadership and research experience. It would also give me the confidence and motivation to continue working hard knowing that others believe in my potential and are investing in my future. This scholarship would also serve as motivation to continue striving for excellence. Knowing that others believe in my potential and are willing to invest in my future would inspire me to work even harder and take full advantage of the opportunities before me. I would view this award not only as financial support, but also as a responsibility to use my education in a meaningful way. Ultimately, my goal is to build a career that allows me to contribute knowledge, innovation, and positive change to the world. I want to use my education to solve problems, support communities, and inspire others to pursue their own goals. This scholarship would help provide the foundation that allows me to take the next steps toward that future.
      Honorable Shawn Long Memorial Scholarship
      My career goal is to pursue a career that allows me to combine my curiosity about the world with my desire to make a difference in the lives of others. I have always been drawn to subjects that involve research, problem solving, and understanding how things work which is why I am interested in pursuing studies that engineering and science. I want a career where I can analyze complex problems, ask important questions, and contribute to solutions that improve the lives of others. As I continue my education, my goal is to attend a college or university where I can further develop my knowledge, leadership abilities, and research skills. Higher education will allow me to explore different areas of study, gain hands-on experience, and learn from mentors who are experts in their fields. In addition to my academic goals, I want to grow as a leader and a role model in my community. I believe is not only about personal success, but also about using what you learn to help others. Education is the foundation that will allow me to reach that goal. Through continued learning, mentorship, and real-world experiences, I can only hope to develop the skills needed to think critically and contribute to advancements in my field. I am especially interested in opportunities that allow me to explore science, research, and innovation. Receiving this scholarship would play an important role in helping me move toward that goal. It would provide financial support that allows me to focus more on my education, academic growth, and extracurricular opportunities that build leadership and research experience. It would also give me the confidence and motivation to continue working hard knowing that others believe in my potential and are investing in my future. This scholarship would also serve as motivation to continue striving for excellence. Knowing that others believe in my potential and are willing to invest in my future would inspire me to work even harder and take full advantage of the opportunities before me. I would view this award not only as financial support, but also as a responsibility to use my education in a meaningful way. Ultimately, my goal is to build a career that allows me to contribute knowledge, innovation, and positive change to the world. I want to use my education to solve problems, support communities, and inspire others to pursue their own goals. This scholarship would help provide the foundation that allows me to take the next steps toward that future.
      Learner Math Lover Scholarship
      I love math because I get a fulfilling feeling after I solve a problem. It's like finding the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow when you solve a complicated problem. Math is linked to other subjects like science which makes learning fun. I get excited when something clicks together, I like figuring things out making numbers work together. Also, math is fair, clear and makes sense which eliminates confusion, guessing and numbers do not lie. I like comparisons, trends, probabilities and optimalization. Math gives me control. It lets you predict outcomes, calculate risk, beat odds, make smart moves with money and solve real life problems. Math isn't matter of fact; it's exact. I am a strategic intuitive thinker meaning I do not just do math, I use it. It's beyond formulas. I also like math because it gives me power and control. I love the clarity math gives, it allows me to outthink systems, understand what others miss, make smarter decisions, and beat randomness. It makes me feel capable, in control and ahead of the curve. When math makes sense, my brain is at ease. Math makes me aware. I can see when things do not look right. Lastly math is part of my decision making in everyday life.
      Hines Scholarship
      Pursuing higher education has never been a simple or straightforward path for me. My journey has been shaped by obstacles that might have discouraged another person, but instead have strengthened my character, deepened my resilience, and pushed me to define a purpose far greater than myself. Through every challenge, I have remained determined to build a future where my education becomes a tool not only for my own success, but for the empowerment of the community that helped raise me. One of the most defining obstacles I have faced has been navigating academic and athletic expectations while managing real-world family responsibilities. Growing up, I saw firsthand the financial pressures that come with striving for opportunity. Tuition costs, access to resources, and the ongoing need to balance schoolwork with athletics demanded maturity far beyond my age. Rather than allowing these challenges to limit me, I learned discipline, time management, and the importance of asking for support when I needed it. Those lessons became the foundation of my work ethic. My experience as a student-athlete, especially in football, also presented obstacles that shaped my perseverance. Training before sunrise, traveling to games, maintaining grades, and recovering from tough losses required me to stay focused even when motivation was hard to find. I faced moments of self-doubt, injuries, and the pressure to perform at a high level. But football taught me how to push through adversity, lead with humility, and show up consistently for my teammates and community. These values mirror what it takes to excel in higher education, and they continue to drive my long-term goals. Despite these challenges, I have not lost sight of my future. I view education as the gateway to becoming the best version of myself; someone who can break generational barriers, build financial stability, and open doors for others. My dream is not only to succeed personally, but to come back to the neighborhoods and schools that shaped me and make a meaningful impact. My plan is to use my degree to mentor younger students, offer workshops on academic preparation and sports training, and create pathways that help young athletes balance athletics, mental health, and academics. In the future, I hope to establish community programs that provide free tutoring, athletic development, and career exploration for children who don’t always see their full potential reflected around them. I want to show them that obstacles are not roadblocks but steppingstones, the same way they have been for me. I understand that earning a college degree is bigger than a diploma. It represents the opportunity to uplift others, build a legacy of perseverance, and give back to the community that shaped my strength. My obstacles may have challenged me, but they also prepared me to become a leader who measures success not just by what I achieve, but by what I give back.
      Bright Lights Scholarship
      Pursuing higher education has never been a simple or straightforward path for me. My journey has been shaped by obstacles that might have discouraged another person, but instead have strengthened my character, deepened my resilience, and pushed me to define a purpose far greater than myself. Through every challenge, I have remained determined to build a future where my education becomes a tool not only for my own success, but for the empowerment of the community that helped raise me. One of the most defining obstacles I have faced has been navigating academic and athletic expectations while managing real-world family responsibilities. Growing up, I saw firsthand the financial pressures that come with striving for opportunity. Tuition costs, access to resources, and the ongoing need to balance schoolwork with athletics demanded maturity far beyond my age. Rather than allowing these challenges to limit me, I learned discipline, time management, and the importance of asking for support when I needed it. Those lessons became the foundation of my work ethic. My experience as a student-athlete, especially in football, also presented obstacles that shaped my perseverance. Training before sunrise, traveling to games, maintaining grades, and recovering from tough losses required me to stay focused even when motivation was hard to find. I faced moments of self-doubt, injuries, and the pressure to perform at a high level. But football taught me how to push through adversity, lead with humility, and show up consistently for my teammates and community. These values mirror what it takes to excel in higher education, and they continue to drive my long-term goals. Despite these challenges, I have not lost sight of my future. I view education as the gateway to becoming the best version of myself; someone who can break generational barriers, build financial stability, and open doors for others. My dream is not only to succeed personally, but to come back to the neighborhoods and schools that shaped me and make a meaningful impact. My plan is to use my degree to mentor younger students, offer workshops on academic preparation and sports training, and create pathways that help young athletes balance athletics, mental health, and academics. In the future, I hope to establish community programs that provide free tutoring, athletic development, and career exploration for children who don’t always see their full potential reflected around them. I want to show them that obstacles are not roadblocks but steppingstones, the same way they have been for me. I understand that earning a college degree is bigger than a diploma. It represents the opportunity to uplift others, build a legacy of perseverance, and give back to the community that shaped my strength. My obstacles may have challenged me, but they also prepared me to become a leader who measures success not just by what I achieve, but by what I give back.
      Rev. and Mrs. E B Dunbar Scholarship
      Pursuing higher education has never been a simple or straightforward path for me. My journey has been shaped by obstacles that might have discouraged another person, but instead have strengthened my character, deepened my resilience, and pushed me to define a purpose far greater than myself. Through every challenge, I have remained determined to build a future where my education becomes a tool not only for my own success, but for the empowerment of the community that helped raise me. One of the most defining obstacles I have faced has been navigating academic and athletic expectations while managing real-world family responsibilities. Growing up, I saw firsthand the financial pressures that come with striving for opportunity. Tuition costs, access to resources, and the ongoing need to balance schoolwork with athletics demanded maturity far beyond my age. Rather than allowing these challenges to limit me, I learned discipline, time management, and the importance of asking for support when I needed it. Those lessons became the foundation of my work ethic. My experience as a student-athlete, especially in football, also presented obstacles that shaped my perseverance. Training before sunrise, traveling to games, maintaining grades, and recovering from tough losses required me to stay focused even when motivation was hard to find. I faced moments of self-doubt, injuries, and the pressure to perform at a high level. But football taught me how to push through adversity, lead with humility, and show up consistently for my teammates and community. These values mirror what it takes to excel in higher education, and they continue to drive my long-term goals. Despite these challenges, I have not lost sight of my future. I view education as the gateway to becoming the best version of myself; someone who can break generational barriers, build financial stability, and open doors for others. My dream is not only to succeed personally, but to come back to the neighborhoods and schools that shaped me and make a meaningful impact. My plan is to use my degree to mentor younger students, offer workshops on academic preparation and sports training, and create pathways that help young athletes balance athletics, mental health, and academics. In the future, I hope to establish community programs that provide free tutoring, athletic development, and career exploration for children who don’t always see their full potential reflected around them. I want to show them that obstacles are not roadblocks but steppingstones, the same way they have been for me. I understand that earning a college degree is bigger than a diploma. It represents the opportunity to uplift others, build a legacy of perseverance, and give back to the community that shaped my strength. My obstacles may have challenged me, but they also prepared me to become a leader who measures success not just by what I achieve, but by what I give back.
      William "Bill" Scotti Memorial Football Scholarship
      I am a motivated, disciplined, and goal-driven student-athlete whose experiences on the football field have shaped me into a young man of strong character, resilience, and purpose. A sophomore Defensive End at St. Joseph’s Preparatory School, I have a clear ambition for my future: I am determined to earn a Division I football scholarship, excel academically, and grow into a leader who inspires others through my work ethic and integrity. My long-term vision includes using football as a foundation for personal development, education, and greater opportunities, while also giving back to my community and younger athletes who look up to me. I am passionate about football not only because I love the game, but because of what it has taught me about myself. Playing a demanding position like Defensive End has pushed me to develop discipline, mental toughness, and the ability to stay focused under pressure. The sport requires constant improvement, faster hands, better footwork, sharper reads, and stronger conditioning; and I meet those challenges with determination. I approach training, film study, and practices with maturity, always seeking ways to elevate my performance and help my team succeed. My experience as a football player has played a major role in shaping my character. Through the demands of my position as a Defensive End, Ive learned discipline, resilience, and accountability. The sport has taught me how to push through adversity, handle pressure with maturity, and remain focused even when faced with setbacks. Football has also strengthened my leadership skills. I understand that my effort affects the entire team, so I show up prepared, encouraging my teammates, and lead by example. The structure of the sport has helped me develop time-management skills, respect for coaching, and a strong sense of responsibility. Most importantly, football has instilled in me the belief that success is earned through consistency, hard work, and character, on and off the field. Through football, I learned how to handle adversity with patience and grit. Tough losses, high-stakes moments, and physically demanding practices have taught me resilience and the importance of bouncing back stronger. I understand that setbacks do not define me it’s how I respond to them does. This mindset has carried over into my academic life, where I work diligently, manage my responsibilities, and strives to maintain high standards in the classroom. I stand out as a scholarship candidate because of my drive, character, and willingness to work for everything I wants. I have big dreams, but more importantly, I have the discipline, humility, and perseverance to achieve them. Whether on the field, in the classroom, or in my community, I am committed to becoming the best version of myself and using every opportunity to build a meaningful, impactful future.
      Kayden Stokes-Chism Student Profile | Bold.org