Pursuing higher education while managing a chronic medical condition has been both challenging and transformative. Living with a long-term illness has shaped my outlook, built my resilience, and inspired my desire to help others. While I would not have chosen this journey, it has taught me strength, patience, and how to keep moving forward even when the path is difficult. Some days, my condition limits what I can do physically, and I’ve had to learn to adapt, advocate for myself, and push through setbacks. What has truly carried me through is my faith and the deep connection I share with my family. Their support and constant encouragement have been the foundation of my success. Prayer and love have helped me stay grounded during moments of doubt or pain, reminding me that I’m not alone and Jesus cares. Like Ms. Johnna Hampton, I enjoy music. I play the drums, piano, and guitar. Music is cathartic. On days when I’m in too much pain to move my whole body, listening to, playing, and writing music brings me peace and joy. It allows me to express emotions I can’t always put into words and offers healing in ways that medicine can’t. Animals have also been a source of great comfort in my life. Their quiet presence has helped me feel calm and less alone in moments of pain or uncertainty. That deep connection inspired my decision to become a veterinarian. I want to care for animals, but also to support the people who depend on them, especially those going through physical or emotional hardships. I am particularly interested in animal-assisted therapy and the ways animals can help people heal. My academic and musical goals motivate me to work hard, not only for myself, but for others facing similar challenges. I know how it feels to have your body not cooperate with your dreams. I also know how powerful it is to keep going anyway. I want to show others that a meaningful, purpose-driven life is possible, even with limitations. In my career, I hope to advocate for compassionate, accessible care and to serve as an example of what perseverance can look like. I want to encourage others not to give up on their dreams, no matter the obstacles. Whether through mentoring, service, or simply being present, I want to use my experiences to uplift others. To the family of Ms. Hampton: condolences, prayers lifted, and heartfelt gratitude. Her legacy lives on through this beautiful gift that helps students like me move forward in faith and purpose. Thank you for your consideration! Kayla Rucker

With a MOO, YANK and PULL, never would I think my life would change in such the way it has the past year. I am a rising junior and Dairy Science Pre-veterinary major studying to become a livestock veterinarian. I have always had a special place in my heart for animals, no matter the size, breed, or vertebrates. If it moves, I'm interested. However, I have a specific interest in Livestock, especially cows. How one cow can provide so many resources for us, like milk, fertilizer, and meat, is incredible and fascinating to me. At the end of my first year, I was informed about an opportunity to train a calf for two weeks and prepare them for a dairy cattle show. I would go to Virginia Tech's Etgen barn every morning at 6 am and evening at 6 pm to take care of my calf. Throughout the weeks, workshops were held to train us on caring for our calf. On one of the days, I took my cow to the field to practice haltering my calf to prepare her for the show. I wasn't instructed how to properly halter, which led to me getting injured. My calf took off running away while I held onto her halter, and I pulled my back and damaged nerves. At the time, I could feel a pull but no pain. Throughout the next few months, I periodically felt pain but thought it would soon disappear. It did not. In my second year, I had my first 8 am, and I was super excited for my anatomy class, to dissect and to learn all about the different systems. A few weeks into the year, my back pain would get worse, and it would be very difficult for me to get up in the mornings. Eventually, that back pain and nerve damage affected my ankle, and I developed arthritis. The pain would be so unbearable that I would have to join the class on Zoom and sometimes skip. I went from being a student on the Dean's List who was active on campus and always attending courses to dropping grades and participating less on campus. This was very discouraging, and I felt terrible about missing out on so much. The countless physical therapy sessions, doctor visits, medications, and prayers have sustained and strengthened me. The financial burden on my family has been significant. Through this traumatic experience, I have made sure to keep my hopes up and try my best to stay motivated. Some days are harder than others physically, mentally, and emotionally, but I try to utilize resources to support that will allow me to be successful. This experience has made me want to continue working towards my goal of becoming a livestock veterinarian. It has inspired me to seek understanding of safety measures in every situation even if professors or instructors do not clearly explain it first. This experience has also inspired me to continue pursuing scholarships to support my education, in light of the tremendous amount of medical bills. Finally, this experience has propelled me to encourage other students studying animal science to be clear on safety when working with animals and to not be afraid to ask for help.

“Baby” and “Butter” are two fortunate cats because they had the love and care that Ms. Beveridge provided. I was excited to learn about her through this scholarship. Being a fellow animal lover, I know first-hand it requires a generous and kind heart. My love for creatures large and small, since a tiny tot, led me to pursue a veterinary medicine degree. My compassion for animals and curiosity about how they live their best lives has often guided my volunteer and advocacy experiences. While in high school, I volunteered to groom and feed rescue horses. The two horses that I cared for relied on volunteers as their owners could no longer care for them. I also worked as a kennel attendant at an animal hospital. While maintaining a sanitary kennel, I also gave medicine to sick dogs and cats and engaged in fun playtime. These different experiences allowed me to see some of the needs that large and small animals may experience. As a Dairy Science Pre Vet major, I have a keen desire to learn more about animal care, treatment, and nutrition. I chose the veterinary field because there is a need for qualified and caring professionals to serve through an equity eye to support animals and their owners. One of my philanthropic goals is to own a mobile veterinary business where my services can be accessible to and affordable for those with low income, limited transportation, or who may even be homeless but need information and animal care. There have been times that I have ridden past people experiencing homelessness on a street corner with a sign and their pet. I usually roll down my window to offer a water bottle and a dollar. This is always so heartbreaking to me because I wonder if that dog is being fed, given cool, fresh water often, and is up to date on her or his shots. I'm not aware of services to support these situations, so I hope that my mobile service will one day be a helpful community resource. While I have a sincere passion for domestic animals, I also love farm animals. Pigs are my favorite type of farm animal, but I chose Dairy Science as my major so that I could learn about the larger farm animals down to the smaller ones. The dairy industry is fascinating as well as cows, in general. I recently read an article about the critical concern that over the next five years, animal agriculture in Virginia (where I live) will face a shortage of veterinarians treating livestock. This is likely true for other states, as well. This is predicted to be an even greater challenge in rural areas, especially considering travel times and pay. A shortage of providers is expected, largely due to large animal veterinarians retiring and younger generations not being as interested in this group of animals. Finally, the demographics for providers are changing. In what was once a male-dominated field, more women are veterinarians (60%) and do not often choose to treat larger animals. Hopefully, recruitment and training efforts will address this challenge. I am excited to learn and grow in the veterinary medicine field. I have a heart for helping, serving, supporting, and advocating so I know that my voice and actions will make a difference. Thank you for your consideration.

Welcome to Taffy’s Pet Palace. This beautiful pink and turquoise brick mansion is named after Barbie’s beloved pooch, Taffy. It is located on a 200-acre fenced estate in Maui, Hawaii. This pet dream house design is inspired by my love of all animals. There you will find domestic, exotic, and even farm animals. When you enter through the bright, green ivy gates, a purple chameleon greets you with a warm and ecstatic welcome. Walking, driving, or biking up the driveway guests are surrounded by a variety of colorful flowers and trees giving the jungle aesthetic. Afrobeat music is played through the inground speakers which quickly will have you dancing and bopping to the beats. Our palace is 5 stories and coated in many shades of green to blend with the Upon reaching the front entrance you may see Taffy and friends playing with toys in an adjacent fenced, outdoor doggie playground off to the right wing. There are white, rustic wishing wells located on both sides of the sidewalk so that you can make wishes as you throw coins into it and watch the splashing. Some of the fascinating features inside include the monkey spa, parrot yoga, spider rock climb, and the very popular tree frog dance club. The gourmet food is served at any time and provides you with any dish you desire. Each of the floors has a different vibe and theme. The first floor is the main entrance and includes spots for taking pictures and learning all about the palace from zookeepers and other animal attendants. The second floor is the kiddie play floor. If parents need a break you can drop your kid off and they can play with the baby chimps and koalas. The third floor is the party floor which features the tree frog dance club. It includes many disco balls, colorful LEDs, and music of different genres and eras. Tropical food and drinks are served. The menu includes coconut shrimp, smoothies, fruit salad, and more. The fourth floor is the relaxation floor. If you want to chill and lay back we have turtles that carry sparkling cider on their shells and serve it to you with calming music included. Lastly, on the fifth floor, we have a barbie themed movie theater that plays all of the Barbie movies, cartoons, and more, 24/7. Outside, about 2 miles behind the mansion, are the fenced farms where you can ride in a Barbie Corvette or Barbie Jeep to see or feed the farm animals such as cows, horses, sheep, and pigs. The unforgettable experience will leave guests of all ages feeling refreshed and wanting to come back.

"Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path." ~Psalms 119. This is one of my favorite scriptures because whenever I feel lost or need a sense of direction, I am reminded that I can count on God for guidance. I believe that following God helps to alleviate worry and foster a solid relationship with God. Growing up as a Christian provided me with a strong spiritual foundation. As an active member of my home church, I enjoyed participating in praise dance, singing in the choir, and ushering. Strengthening my relationship with God and learning Bible stories have been important. God's goodness has been constantly evident in my life, and I am so thankful. Waking me up, providing my basic needs, and even allowing me to have working limbs to type right now are blessings that I don't take for granted. Getting accepted into a college, which was my first choice, was a dream come true. Staff at my high school doubted that I was capable of achieving acceptance. God's grace and mercy propelled me forward. I am a second year student at Virginia Tech, majoring in Dairy Science Pre-Vet. This past year was filled with many challenges and growing pains. While I learned a lot and increased my exposure, I found tests nerve-racking and causing anxiety. Most of the stress throughout the year was when it was close to testing and exams. Meditating and praying helped me relax and be more confident. Although I am away from home and my home church, I was excited to find a local church. When I first attended, I enjoyed the worship experience and found the members extremely friendly and welcoming. I quickly noticed that they needed a drummer. It just so happened that I play drums and have played for two churches previously. Soon, I joined their music ministry and made good connections with the members. My career goal is to be a livestock veterinarian. This journey is very scientific, intricate, and all-around hard. I already anticipate obstacles, academic challenges, and time management difficulties, but keeping grounded in my faith, maintaining a positive outlook, and being open to support is very necessary and will make a difference. God and my faith have helped me navigate my college experience. In the future, it will continue to provide me with strength and reminders. While I know that my faith will assist me as I move forward, I plan to continue spreading the "Good News" about Jesus so that others can also be encouraged.

My love for creatures large and small, since a tiny tot, led me to pursue a veterinary medicine degree. Having compassion for animals and curiosity about how they live their best lives has often guided my volunteer and advocacy experiences. While in high school, I volunteered to groom and feed rescue horses. The two horses that I cared for relied on volunteers as their owners could no longer care for them. I also worked as a kennel attendant at an animal hospital. While maintaining a sanitary kennel, I also gave medicine to sick dogs and cats and engaged in fun playtime. These different experiences allowed me to see some of the needs that large and small animals may experience. As a Dairy Science Pre Vet major, I have a keen desire to learn more about animal care, treatment, and nutrition. I chose the veterinary field because there is a need for qualified and caring professionals to serve through an equity eye to support animals and their owners. One of my philanthropic goals is to own a mobile veterinary business where my services can be accessible to and affordable for those with low income, limited transportation, or who may even be homeless but need information and animal care. There have been times that I've ridden past people experiencing homelessness on a street corner with a sign and their pet. I usually roll down my window to offer a water bottle and a dollar. This is always so heartbreaking to me because I wonder if that dog is being fed, given cool, fresh water often, and is up to date on her or his shots. I'm not aware of services to support these situations, so I hope that my mobile service will one day be a helpful community resource. Animals can provide so much emotional support so it's important that they remain with their owners rather than be taken and given to Animal Control, for example, but have their needs met. While I have a sincere passion for domestic animals I also love farm animals. Pigs are my favorite type of farm animals but I chose Dairy Science as my major so that I could learn about the larger farm animals down to the smaller ones. The dairy industry is fascinating as well as cows, in general. I recently read an article about the critical concern that over the next five years, animal agriculture in Virginia (where I live) will face a shortage of veterinarians treating livestock. This is likely true for other states, as well. This is predicted to be an even greater challenge in rural areas, especially considering travel times and pay. A shortage in providers is expected, largely due to large animal veterinarians retiring and younger generations not being as interested in this group of animals. Finally, the demographics for providers are changing. In what was once a male-dominated field, more women are veterinarians (60%) and do not often choose to treat larger animals. Hopefully, recruitment and training efforts will address this challenge. I am excited to learn and grow in the veterinary medicine field. I have a heart for helping, serving, supporting, and advocating so I know that my voice and actions will make a difference. Thank you for your consideration.

One of my favorite hobbies is producing and writing music. Music is a creative and fun way for me to express myself, encourage others, and have fun! It is a distraction from stressors, at times. I’ve also just found that it bridges people across cultures, age groups, and more. Music is also a source of healthy living. I started expanding my musical abilities in 2019 using Garageband as my digital audio workstation. Writing poems since elementary school was the foundation of my musical career. When I was younger I wrote poems for church events and holidays. One summer, my mom enrolled me into a local music camp at an art studio. I learned how to make beats and flow with my words. One of the other participants was already a rapper and showed me how to create using my phone. I released my first song, under the artist name of “Qu33nK.” "Westside" debuted in 2019 and I received a lot of praise as people have listened on all digital platforms. Since then, I have released a few more singles and recorded a music video. Anyone can listen to my music because I don't use any profanity or talk about inappropriate topics. The good vibes in my songs are sure to lift spirits. Eventually, I purchased a fancy mic, a midi keyboard, and an interface to enhance my home studio and allow more professional practice. More recently I had the opportunity to record a song in a local studio. This amazing experience was sponsored by the program of that summer camp that I enrolled in a few years ago because they saw interest and dedication. Being in the studio, surrounded by so much talent and equipment, showed me first-hand a lot of what producers do and how artists make music. Music is a great passion and a big part of my life! I’ve been playing in the percussion section of my schools' bands for over five years. Also, I've enjoyed taking drumming lessons, playing drums at churches and special events. In addition, I taught myself how to play the guitar and ukulele. Whenever I get the chance to spread joy through performing, playing, or singing music, I try to do just that. As Ray Charles once shared, “Music is powerful. As people listen to it, they can be affected. They respond.” I’m grateful to not only impact others but also to be on the receiving end of inspiration from the talents of countless musicians who uplift and inspire me. Thank you for your consideration.

“A rose is still a rose," by Aretha Franklin, is very inspirational to me. I first heard this song after watching the "Respect" movie August 2021. When I got home from watching it, I immediately researched more about this song and Ms. Franklin. I also thought about roses and flowers, in general. They are beautiful and a popular way to express love and appreciation. Roses are expensive and highly regarded. The song is about a person who no longer felt valued by what she experienced in a relationship. She felt insecure, broken, and lonely. However, the lyrics remind her she is a “rose” despite what she went through. There is still power and purpose on the other side of the negativity and life goes on. Everyone has challenges, with some being more difficult than others. While people may have tough seasons, it is important for them to remember that they are still awesome, capable, and loved. “A rose is still a rose” offers such encouragement. I also love this song because it is upbeat and of course sung by the talented Queen of Soul!

I adore SIMBA, my Mini-Golden Doodle! Attached are two pictures of me with him. One picture is on his 1st birthday, 12/13/2021, where he was enjoying a doggie cupcake cookie. The other picture is of me holding him outside of our local SPCA in my kennel attendant uniform. I love donating items to the SPCA and I am a kennel attendant at a local animal hospital. I aspire to major in Animal Science, in college, and work towards my goal of becoming a veterinarian. Thank you for your consideration! Kayla Rucker IG: @kaylarucker_

"Every child deserves a champion..." - Rita Pierson It's so rewarding to be a peer mentor in my school. As a student ambassador, I have the opportunity to introduce new students to our school, give a tour, and ease anxieties related to the transition. In some cases, I listen to family or behavior problems that resulted in a school change. In others, I share resources that may support needs and follow up to make sure things are going smoothly. Either way, I try to be a champion, similar to what Ms. Pierson described! The impact that I strive for is for my peers to be their authentic, best selves. We all carry baggage but how and what we unpack can influence school success. I celebrate the uniqueness and help peers feel like our school is a welcoming environment that offers many opportunities to flourish. They may not fully know their potential until this information is shared and they know that someone else there cares. Through my mentoring, I spread joy and hope.

VOLUNTEERING is the best way to foster a growth mindset! Dr. King said that “Everybody can be great...because anybody can serve. You don't have to have a college degree to serve. You don't have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.” Serving and supporting from the heart allows me opportunities to grow and expand my thinking. Throughout high school, I have had the opportunity to spend hundreds of hours serving various communities. Volunteering allows me to step outside of my concerns and focus on how I can help people and animals. It’s a learning process as I get to explore, meet new people, be creative and problem solve. After each volunteer experience, my mindset is different. My worldview is broadened; with increased motivation to be a stronger student and continue making a difference.

I have only just a minute, Only sixty seconds in it. Forced upon me, can’t refuse it. Didn’t seek it, didn’t choose it. But it’s up to me to use it. I must suffer if I lose it. Give account if I abuse it. Just a tiny little minute, but eternity is in it. --- Dr. Benjamin E. Mays I love this quote from the late great Dr. Mays because it reminds us about the importance of time and how we use our time. I look forward to majoring in Animal Science in college to prepare for a rewarding career as a veterinarian. I’ve always had a passion for interacting with animals. While I’ve spent hundreds of hours volunteering in many capacities over the years, working with animals has always felt the most fulfilling. My goal in life is to become a farm animal vet and also care for companion animals. There is a need for trained professionals in this area of agriculture to provide caring support and intervention. Animals make a huge impact on society and especially on those with pets. From emotional support animals to K-9 dogs, I have seen first-hand and learned about their significance. Like people, these animals must have well-check appointments and at times be treated for the unexpected. That’s where I want to come in, as a veterinarian. Finally, I am compassionate about the homeless. A philanthropic goal of mine is to own a mobile vet service to provide care for animals with owners who are experiencing homelessness I have had the cool idea that I could transform an RV into an animal hospital. I plan to travel to locations where people are in need of medical attention provided to their animals. Animals can be very pricey and with my service, I can offer cheaper prices to people experiencing tough times. This is critical because animals can sometimes help people maintain hope and being a resource during that time can make a difference for the owner and animal. Thank you for your consideration.

“Good things come to those who wait.” “Patience is a virtue.” “Haste makes waste.” “They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength.” All of these are quotes that I grew up hearing, reading, and using as reminders. Practicing patience is so precious. It can preserve great opportunities, demonstrate self-control, and be a healthy and safer choice throughout life. Being patient is important to me because it reduces stress and forces me to relax more. These result in a more positive outcome than if I rushed into a situation. Test-taking is a HUGE area where I’ve found patience to be powerful. I typically struggle with passing tests. Even with using various study strategies such as making flashcards, re-writing notes, and chunking the information I historically have failed or come near it when taking tests. Over time I’ve taken the advice of my mother and teachers to be patient by slowing down and to not rush. Being patient has helped me process details and make them make sense before selecting an answer. Patience also reduces stress which is a healthier way to live. Prolonged and continual stress can lead to medical issues and make thought processes cloudy. As a new driver, I’ve seen the impact when people do not demonstrate patience. Sadly, impatience can be a life-or-death situation resulting in accidents, road rage, failure and even getting speeding tickets. Even when it’s hard to demonstrate, “patience is a virtue” that I will continue to practice and encourage others to do so, as well.

Bill Nye is such a cool and creative scientist and definitely my favorite! His videos are educational and fun to watch. My love for science was sparked by him in elementary school and I was fascinated. My passion for Science grew in middle school, as teachers continued to supplement lessons with his videos.

Having an emergency savings fund is a personal finance lesson that is so important. A powerful lesson from the shutdowns during COVID-19 has been the importance of having funds available to sustain living and functioning from day to day especially in the event that income is affected. Being able to cover food, gas, housing, internet, clothes, and bills can not be taken for granted. If something occurs and our stream of income is impacted we need to still live and stay afloat. Oftentimes, students will count on family members to cover their needs if there is an emergency. However, as we have recently seen, some family members have also endured hardship related to unemployment, increased, prices and more. This limits ability to provide additional support. Therefore, liquid savings that will cover at least 3-month expenses will provide a cushion that relieves stress. Even if one can not save for 3 months of living expenses, having some funds available will make a difference should there be an unexpected expense such as a car or home repair. Thank you for your consideration.

Maya Angelou once said, "...people will forget what you said and did but will never forget how you made them feel." This quote is so powerful and true. I recall many times saying that I was fond of a particular teacher or friend. When asked, why I found it hard to put anything into words beyond “ she was nice.” I would not always be able to recall specific scenarios where kind acts were demonstrated or specific conversations were shared. However, I could recall that there was a pleasant exchange that left a positive impression. That feeling resonates long after the interaction or even the memory of that moment. So this quote is a reminder to be kind and make others feel good. Whether it’s being an upstander in a bullying situation or simply sharing a compliment, someone's day may be brighter from that interaction. People will not easily forget those warm, supportive, and heart-warming touches. Finally, I will add that animals, similar to people, also will remember good vibes. As an animal lover, I always love to pet and play with animals. It’s important to make them feel safe, loved, and important. Their connections to your scent and the kindness reminds them of happy moments and they will long to be around that person again. I am grateful to the late great Maya Angelou for this powerful and meaningful quote. Our world would be a better place if people considered this quote in their daily walk. Thank you!

“LOUISE” means famous warrior! It sounds like Ms. Cooper was an amazing warrior in her home and rural community. I enjoyed reading about how she inspired her daughter to reach goals and opportunities that were beyond her reach at the time. I have visited rural North Carolina areas as my grandfather is from Hertford, NC just about 35 minutes from where Ms. Cooper lived. While the town is peaceful and close-knit, you do have to reach outside the area to access opportunities. As I reflected on my visits there and information about Ms. Cooper it reminded me of the close relationship with my mother and her inspiration for me to attend college. During my first two years of high school, I earned average grades but excelled in participating in school and community activities. I have always wanted to attend college and become a veterinarian but we knew I would need to pull my GPA up and excel. I struggled with performing well on tests and navigating racial issues throughout my school years. My mother encouraged me each day to try harder, study more, and never give up. She would make flashcards, call me questions, practice problems, take me to the library, and exposed me to museums and trips that would broaden my worldview. Last school year, I earned all A’s and my confidence soared. I know that I would not have improved significantly without my mother’s support and guidance. She was patient, understanding and never allowed me to fall and stay there. She helped me to always rise up and press on. My dear mother has also inspired me to advocate for myself and speak up on issues of concern. Throughout my education, I’ve dealt with racist comments and subtle racial actions around me. My high school was named Lee-Davis, after confederate leaders Robert E. Lee and Jefferson Davis. The mascot was “the confederates” or “C-Feds”. I have always felt uncomfortable attending the school with that name and mascot. I avoided using those names and words. I was excited when my mother encouraged me to participate in protests related to the name and macot changes. I was invited to be a part of the name and mascot change committee and I served proudly. Some family members thought I should be quiet and not get involved as they feared my safety but my mother assessed the situation ahead of time and confirmed it was safe to participate. While the people and mindset are the same, I’m more comfortable attending school and learning in the environment. The inspiration from both instances has propelled me forward! I am excited about attending college and also advocating when necessary. My mother has motivated me beyond measure and I am driven to pursue my passions and make a difference in the world. This scholarship will support my dream and the dream of my mother and mothers before me! Thank you for the opportunity to learn about Ms. Louise Cooper; a warrior who valued education!

My name, Kayla Joi, means pure joy. People say be careful about what you name your child because they will live up to it. In my case, I’m proud to say this is true. My positive impact is through SPREADING JOY!! Pure joy! Through work, play, and music helping others to smile and encouraging them to not lose hope. My infectious spirit of kindness, support, and altruism extends to people and animals. Throughout my life, I’ve spent countless hours on various community service projects and initiatives. One of my most positive impacts has been through my passion for helping homeless populations; including people and animals. “Purse-onal Joi” is an organization that I created to provide purses full of snacks and personal items to women experiencing homelessness. In addition, I’ve provided snack bags randomly to those on the streets who have signs asking for help. It’s so heartwarming and fulfilling to help those in need. I get joy but also spread those positive vibes. That energy is shared through my passion for animals, as well. I have loved animals since I can remember and care about their well-being and health. While volunteering at the US Equine Rescue League, I groomed and fed rescue horses. You can see a quick video clip from a couple of years ago of me in action at: ww.tinyurl.com/kruckerhorses It was such a rewarding experience to make sure their basic needs were being met. Currently, I am a kennel attendant at an animal hospital. There, I care for dogs and cats. Walking the dogs, giving medicine when applicable, feeding the animals, and keeping the kennel and exam rooms clean are duties and responsibilities that are fun and meaningful. Spreading joy to people and animals who are homeless is truly impactful!