![user profile avatar](https://static.bold.org/profilePictures/img20240124175458821e9cb76f377364f67876e08908fc00bfd.webp)
Age
18
Gender
Female
Religion
Christian
Church
Nondenominational
Hobbies and interests
Writing
Photography and Photo Editing
Volunteering
Singing
Ballroom Dancing
Bible Study
Exercise And Fitness
National Honor Society (NHS)
Piano
Yoga
Walking
Spirituality
Reading
Christianity
Romance
I read books multiple times per month
LOW INCOME STUDENT
Yes
FIRST GENERATION STUDENT
Yes
Kaylee Guyotte
5,795
Bold Points2x
Nominee1x
Finalist![user profile avatar](https://static.bold.org/profilePictures/img20240124175458821e9cb76f377364f67876e08908fc00bfd.webp)
Kaylee Guyotte
5,795
Bold Points2x
Nominee1x
FinalistBio
I am a 17-year-old Woman of God who has the God-given drive to become just like Jesus. I love to write, sing, photograph, study, and more. Gordon College is the college that I am going to and I am majoring in Biblical Studies and planning to double minor in Theology and Education. I am a first generation, low-income student who wants to change the world and the people around me by showing God's light and love.
As a Christian from Massachusetts, I am very determined to thrive out of my parent's expectations for my success and let God lead me to where I am meant to go. I go to Athol High School, a senior who does internships, works hard, and tries my best in every class I am a part of. I am the kind of student that helps my classmates. The kind of student who respects my teachers and puts effort and heart into my work. I am the kind of person who wants to work on my struggles.
After my education, I want to go into a career of freelance writing while photographing and traveling around the world for other people to see the beautiful things they can't see in person.. While also exploring and trying new hobbies, like volunteering.
Thank you for reading, and I hope you got to know about the person I am and the person I want to be.
Education
Mount Wachusett Community College
High SchoolAthol High School
High SchoolGPA:
3.8
Miscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Bachelor's degree program
Majors of interest:
- Bible/Biblical Studies
- Education, General
Career
Dream career field:
Writing and Editing
Dream career goals:
Group Leader
Y-ACES2024 – Present8 months
Research
Journalism
Athol High School — Student2023 – 2023Psychology, General
MWCC — Student2023 – 2023Sociology
MWCC — Student - Dual Enrollment - Right Now In High School2022 – 2022
Arts
Athol High School
Design2023 – 2024Yearbook
Computer Art2023 – 2024
Public services
Volunteering
ACES — Helping the little ones to have fun, play games, and feel welcomed2023 – 2023Volunteering
Athol High School (Consession Stand) — To greet people and sell then snacks and drinks to enjoy at high school basketball game2023 – 2024Advocacy
Athol High School U.S History (We The People) — Student presenting the concern of hunger in our world and to suggest solutions.2022 – 2023Volunteering
Athol High School — Window Greeter2023 – 2023
Future Interests
Volunteering
Philanthropy
Janie Mae "Loving You to Wholeness" Scholarship
Hello, my name is Kaylee Guyotte and I am an 18-year-old woman who is a Christian. I am kind, compassionate, forgiving, and loving. I love to help out others. This scholarship will help support my educational goal of achieving college with as little debt as possible. I come from a low-income family that survives off of social security and food stamps; with parents who did not go to college or even finish high school. I have 14 values that I try to live by every single day of my life. 1. Faith in God 2. Kindness to everyone and everything 3. Worship 4. Prayer 5. Growth (personally, mentally, physically, and spiritually) 6. Pure Heart 7. Pure Soul 8. Pure Mind and Thoughts 9. Pure Body 10. Forgiveness 11. Truth 12. Honesty 13. Volunteering (helping the less fortunate) 14. Donations to charities/churches. These values are very important to who I am and who I want to become; I want to become like Jesus Christ who saved me from my sins. I also have a job, which is a job where I work with amazing kids. I am a group leader and I can positively tell you that this job comes with a lot of patience and kindness; while also building bonds with the kids so they can feel safe and feel like they have someone to go to. I have known this before but after getting this job has really started to make me realize that I want to become a mom someday. Having kids to look after can be difficult but it is so rewarding at the same time because you seriously do get attached to the kids and all you want to do is let them know that you are here for them, whatever they need. Nevertheless, I love to volunteer. I have helped out at the elementary school in my town for their SEPAC family night. I have also helped out in my school's food pantry, helped one of my teacher's nieces with their school project in France, and I have done concession stands for my school's sports games. Every single one of these experiences have been a joy and also a pain (money and math, sad face) but I got through it and I really, really enjoyed it. My time was well spent with a smile on my face and watching a smile on their faces made me feel like I did a good job at serving them and that is all I want to do in my life. But don't just listen to me. These are some things that teachers and other people have said to me. "I see such a beautiful light in you" "Kaylee has always been helpful to her classmates and always participating in discussion and always does her work efficiently" "You know wherever you end up in college, not only will you do well but they will be lucky to have you" and "Thanks for all that you do."
August Engler Memorial Scholarship
Hello, my name is Kaylee Guyotte and I am an 18-year-old woman who is a Christian. I am kind, compassionate, forgiving, and loving. I love to help out others. This scholarship will help support my educational goal of achieving college with as little debt as possible. I come from a low-income family that survives off of social security and food stamps; with parents who did not go to college or even finish high school. I have 14 values that I try to live by every single day of my life. 1. Faith in God 2. Kindness to everyone and everything 3. Worship 4. Prayer 5. Growth (personally, mentally, physically, and spiritually) 6. Pure Heart 7. Pure Soul 8. Pure Mind and Thoughts 9. Pure Body 10. Forgiveness 11. Truth 12. Honesty 13. Volunteering (helping the less fortunate) 14. Donations to charities/churches. These values are very important to who I am and who I want to become; I want to become like Jesus Christ who saved me from my sins. I also have a job, which is a job where I work with amazing kids. I am a group leader and I can positively tell you that this job comes with a lot of patience and kindness; while also building bonds with the kids so they can feel safe and feel like they have someone to go to. I have known this before but after getting this job has really started to make me realize that I want to become a mom someday. Having kids to look after can be difficult but it is so rewarding at the same time because you seriously do get attached to the kids and all you want to do is let them know that you are here for them, whatever they need. Nevertheless, I love to volunteer. I have helped out at the elementary school in my town for their SEPAC family night. I have also helped out in my school's food pantry, helped one of my teacher's nieces with their school project in France, and I have done concession stands for my school's sports games. Every single one of these experiences have been a joy and also a pain (money and math, sad face) but I got through it and I really, really enjoyed it. My time was well spent with a smile on my face and watching a smile on their faces made me feel like I did a good job at serving them and that is all I want to do in my life. But don't just listen to me. These are some things that teachers and other people have said to me. "I see such a beautiful light in you" "Kaylee has always been helpful to her classmates and always participating in discussion and always does her work efficiently" "You know wherever you end up in college, not only will you do well but they will be lucky to have you" and "Thanks for all that you do."
John F. Puffer, Sr. Smile Scholarship
Hello, my name is Kaylee Guyotte and I am an 18-year-old woman who is a Christian. I am kind, compassionate, forgiving, and loving. I love to help out others. This scholarship will help support my educational goal of achieving college with as little debt as possible. I come from a low-income family that survives off of social security and food stamps; with parents who did not go to college or even finish high school. I have 14 values that I try to live by every single day of my life. 1. Faith in God 2. Kindness to everyone and everything 3. Worship 4. Prayer 5. Growth (personally, mentally, physically, and spiritually) 6. Pure Heart 7. Pure Soul 8. Pure Mind and Thoughts 9. Pure Body 10. Forgiveness 11. Truth 12. Honesty 13. Volunteering (helping the less fortunate) 14. Donations to charities/churches. These values are very important to who I am and who I want to become; I want to become like Jesus Christ who saved me from my sins. I also have a job, which is a job where I work with amazing kids. I am a group leader and I can positively tell you that this job comes with a lot of patience and kindness; while also building bonds with the kids so they can feel safe and feel like they have someone to go to. I have known this before but after getting this job has really started to make me realize that I want to become a mom someday. Having kids to look after can be difficult but it is so rewarding at the same time because you seriously do get attached to the kids and all you want to do is let them know that you are here for them, whatever they need. Nevertheless, I love to volunteer. I have helped out at the elementary school in my town for their SEPAC family night. I have also helped out in my school's food pantry, helped one of my teacher's nieces with their school project in France, and I have done concession stands for my school's sports games. Every single one of these experiences have been a joy and also a pain (money and math, sad face) but I got through it and I really, really enjoyed it. My time was well spent with a smile on my face and watching a smile on their faces made me feel like I did a good job at serving them and that is all I want to do in my life. But don't just listen to me. These are some things that teachers and other people have said to me. "I see such a beautiful light in you" "Kaylee has always been helpful to her classmates and always participating in discussion and always does her work efficiently" "You know wherever you end up in college, not only will you do well but they will be lucky to have you" and "Thanks for all that you do."
Rev. Ethel K. Grinkley Memorial Scholarship
Hello, my name is Kaylee Guyotte and I am an 18-year-old woman who is a Christian. I am kind, compassionate, forgiving, and loving. I love to help out others. This scholarship will help support my educational goal of achieving college with as little debt as possible. I come from a low-income family that survives off of social security and food stamps; with parents who did not go to college or even finish high school. I have 14 values that I try to live by every single day of my life. 1. Faith in God 2. Kindness to everyone and everything 3. Worship 4. Prayer 5. Growth (personally, mentally, physically, and spiritually) 6. Pure Heart 7. Pure Soul 8. Pure Mind and Thoughts 9. Pure Body 10. Forgiveness 11. Truth 12. Honesty 13. Volunteering (helping the less fortunate) 14. Donations to charities/churches. These values are very important to who I am and who I want to become; I want to become like Jesus Christ who saved me from my sins. I also have a job, which is a job where I work with amazing kids. I am a group leader and I can positively tell you that this job comes with a lot of patience and kindness; while also building bonds with the kids so they can feel safe and feel like they have someone to go to. I have known this before but after getting this job has really started to make me realize that I want to become a mom someday. Having kids to look after can be difficult but it is so rewarding at the same time because you seriously do get attached to the kids and all you want to do is let them know that you are here for them, whatever they need. Nevertheless, I love to volunteer. I have helped out at the elementary school in my town for their SEPAC family night. I have also helped out in my school's food pantry, helped one of my teacher's nieces with their school project in France, and I have done concession stands for my school's sports games. Every single one of these experiences have been a joy and also a pain (money and math, sad face) but I got through it and I really, really enjoyed it. My time was well spent with a smile on my face and watching a smile on their faces made me feel like I did a good job at serving them and that is all I want to do in my life. But don't just listen to me. These are some things that teachers and other people have said to me. "I see such a beautiful light in you" "Kaylee has always been helpful to her classmates and always participating in discussion and always does her work efficiently" "You know wherever you end up in college, not only will you do well but they will be lucky to have you" and "Thanks for all that you do."
Carla M. Champagne Memorial Scholarship
Hello, my name is Kaylee Guyotte and I am an 18-year-old woman who is a Christian. I am kind, compassionate, forgiving, and loving. I love to help out others. This scholarship will help support my educational goal of achieving college with as little debt as possible. I come from a low-income family that survives off of social security and food stamps; with parents who did not go to college or even finish high school. I have 14 values that I try to live by every single day of my life. 1. Faith in God 2. Kindness to everyone and everything 3. Worship 4. Prayer 5. Growth (personally, mentally, physically, and spiritually) 6. Pure Heart 7. Pure Soul 8. Pure Mind and Thoughts 9. Pure Body 10. Forgiveness 11. Truth 12. Honesty 13. Volunteering (helping the less fortunate) 14. Donations to charities/churches. These values are very important to who I am and who I want to become; I want to become like Jesus Christ who saved me from my sins. I also have a job, which is a job where I work with amazing kids. I am a group leader and I can positively tell you that this job comes with a lot of patience and kindness; while also building bonds with the kids so they can feel safe and feel like they have someone to go to. I have known this before but after getting this job has really started to make me realize that I want to become a mom someday. Having kids to look after can be difficult but it is so rewarding at the same time because you seriously do get attached to the kids and all you want to do is let them know that you are here for them, whatever they need. Nevertheless, I love to volunteer. I have helped out at the elementary school in my town for their SEPAC family night. On this night I learned that all kids have different backgrounds and sometimes all you need to do is let them look at a box, look for the things they want to find, and let that smile run on their face to consider yourself truly happy in that moment. I have also helped out in my school's food pantry which I learned that my school holds workshops for parents, so I told my mom and she might go to one next year. I helped one of my teacher's nieces with their school project in France which I learned that every place has it's own significance of spreading the word but also some similarities. And, I have done concession stands for my school's sports games. Every single one of these experiences have been a joy and also a pain (money and math, sad face) but I got through it and I really, really enjoyed it. My time was well spent with a smile on my face and watching a smile on their faces made me feel like I did a good job at serving them and that is all I want to do in my life. But don't just listen to me. These are some things that teachers and other people have said to me. "I see such a beautiful light in you" "Kaylee has always been helpful to her classmates and always participating in discussion and always does her work efficiently" "Thanks for all that you do." I plan to help others by just being there for them and helping out whenever I can.
Schmid Memorial Scholarship
Hello, my name is Kaylee Guyotte and I am an 18-year-old woman who is a Christian. I am kind, compassionate, forgiving, and loving. I love to help out others. This scholarship will help support my educational goal of achieving college with as little debt as possible. I come from a low-income family that survives off of social security and food stamps; with parents who did not go to college or even finish high school.
I have 14 values that I try to live by every single day of my life. 1. Faith in God 2. Kindness to everyone and everything 3. Worship 4. Prayer 5. Growth (personally, mentally, physically, and spiritually) 6. Pure Heart 7. Pure Soul 8. Pure Mind and Thoughts 9. Pure Body 10. Forgiveness 11. Truth 12. Honesty 13. Volunteering (helping the less fortunate) 14. Donations to charities/churches. These values are very important to who I am and who I want to become; I want to become like Jesus Christ who saved me from my sins.
I also have a job, which is a job where I work with amazing kids. I am a group leader and I can positively tell you that this job comes with a lot of patience and kindness; while also building bonds with the kids so they can feel safe and feel like they have someone to go to. I have known this before but after getting this job has really started to make me realize that I want to become a mom someday. Having kids to look after can be difficult but it is so rewarding at the same time because you seriously do get attached to the kids and all you want to do is let them know that you are here for them, whatever they need.
Nevertheless, I love to volunteer. I have helped out at the elementary school in my town for their SEPAC family night. I have also helped out in my school's food pantry, helped one of my teacher's nieces with their school project in France, and I have done concession stands for my school's sports games. Every single one of these experiences have been a joy and also a pain (money and math, sad face) but I got through it and I really, really enjoyed it. My time was well spent with a smile on my face and watching a smile on their faces made me feel like I did a good job at serving them and that is all I want to do in my life.
But don't just listen to me. These are some things that teachers and other people have said to me.
"I see such a beautiful light in you" "Kaylee has always been helpful to her classmates and always participating in discussion and always does her work efficiently" "You know wherever you end up in college, not only will you do well but they will be lucky to have you" and "Thanks for all that you do."
Student Life Photography Scholarship
Arthur and Elana Panos Scholarship
A story of the timid, short-tempered, and lost girl who was finally found and was shown her worth by her God. The girl in that story was me. Hello, my name is Kaylee Guyotte and I have been a God-loving, growing into Christ woman since 2020. When I was a young girl I was often ignored b by my parents and I did not have anyone around me to keep a close watch on me most of the time. So, as you would imagine, my little self got into some very evil stuff like stealing, watching pornography, and just becoming someone who (I) now can't even believe my younger self did all that stuff to herself and the people around her. Nevertheless, when freshman year came around, I was remote due to Covid-19 and that is when I began my journey through Christ. Ever since then, I have grown into a kind and gentle young woman who grew compassion and love for those around her and began to treat everyone like Jesus treated his people. I have become more like Jesus every day God blesses me with a day of breath. I have started to volunteer for community service around my school. I started to go back to church, to pray, and to have faith that everything would be okay because God has my life in his hands and I trust in him. I am 18 now, an adult; and my life hasn't gotten easier but it has gotten more peaceful because I know that God is always with me, the Savior is with me, and my God's Holy Spirit is with me as well. God has helped and blessed me with his love and his grace ever since the minute I was born but it took me 14 years to see that, to believe that; and now that I do, I know that he will help me wherever I go. Including my career.
My career is my purpose; and whatever my purpose is will come at the right time, at the perfect time, in God's timing. Right now, I am thinking about a career as a writing teacher or someone who leads Bible Study in her community and spreads the gospel to make more disciples. Or, I can do both. God put me on this earth, at this time, and in these places for a reason; I may not know for what yet, but I will. My faith has already helped me personally, and I know that my faith will also help me in whatever career I was created to go into because God made me for it. It will help me with skills like communication with people, community service with volunteering, and being kind and compassionate to help people become the best version of themselves. Overall, my faith will help me with my long-term career goal of helping people.
#AuthenticallyYOU Scholarship
AuthenticallyYOU means to be who you are and think about who you want to grow to become in the future. It also means to not change who you are, to only change when there is a growth opportunity and whenever you discover who you are is when you discover that as you change you start to become the person you want to be.
I am a person who loves God. My name is Kaylee Guyotte and I do not know my purpose yet but I know that I will in God's perfect timing; and whatever it may be it will be amazing, I can feel it. Nevertheless, I do know that I love to write, I love to volunteer for concession stands for my school, I love my job as a Y-Program group leader, I love to research and explore new interests, and I love my family.
I am a Woman of God who strives to grow to become strong and courageous in Christ and learn how to effectively spread the gospel, gain disciples, obey my Father God, carry my cross day by day, and be loving, forgiving, and compassionate.
Operating to my purpose will be a process and will change over time, but change in a good, productive, and growthful way. After high school, I plan on getting my Bachelor's degree in Creative Writing at Bowdoin College or Biblical Studies at Gordon College. Either direction I am blessed to go, my career will have five qualities in it. 1: Serving God. 2: Writing. 3: Teaching. 4: Traveling. 5: Volunteering/helping people in need. As well as, having time for my future God-given husband and kids, and most importantly the Holy Trinity (God, Jesus, The Holy Spirit).
-Here are words from me a couple of months ago .......
" My plans are not yet specifically known, but I know an idea of what I want to do. I want to help people; in whatever career I am in. I want to write for people to get inspired by, for them to produce a positive feeling of home, a feeling of comfort. I am a first-generation low-income student -I am a Christian who is a Daughter of God -My passions are writing, traveling, and exploring/trying new things -I have two cats named Sabrina and Angel, as well as a dog named Sugar -I can be very shy and be antisocial at some times, nevertheless I am very kind and I am working on becoming a more social woman who welcomes everyone into a positive, Non-Judgemental environment. -I also have a passion for volunteering and helping whenever I can -I want to be the kind of person where people can feel like they are safe and where they don't feel like they are being judged or left out -I am a very hardworking student who leads to sometimes being disappointed in myself for knowing I could have done better on a test or some class work grades, and - I have the need and want to become a better person physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. I want to go to college because I believe it will build up my education not to put it on paper and show it off as shiny, but to gain more knowledge and understanding of being led to my purpose. After college, I tend to be going into a career that makes me happy. I don't care if I don't become rich because being who God calls me to be and doing whatever I can to help people is more important than having money. Nevertheless, if I do get blessed with that kind of money I plan to save some of it, spend some to get the necessities, and give the rest to charity organizations as well as donations to natural disasters like tornados and hurricanes. To conclude, I have the God-given drive to help others and that is what will make me happy, not how much money I get, but how I can impact someone's life with positivity and love. "
The end of my words from months ago.
Thank you for taking the time to read this! - Kaylee Guyotte
Aserina Hill Memorial Scholarship
Hi, my name is Kaylee Guyotte, and I am a Christian woman in Massachusetts who wants to bring a positive impact on this world through my kindness, my writings, and my giving back to the community by being a pre-k teacher. I am a senior at AHS, and I am a part of many school activities that help better my school community. I have many interests that I want to explore throughout my life, like coloring, Bible study, freelance writing, photography, volunteering, giving important speeches, singing, reading pure Christian books, college, teaching, planning events, EMT, painting, volleyball, yoga, and many more that I have yet to discover that I want to try. The reason I have interests in all of these things is because they all have two things in common, helping people and helping myself get closer to who I am meant to be. In school, I am a part of the kindness team where we help spread kindness throughout our school and our community by little notes, gifts, and support. I am also involved in the National Honor Society as the extra help chairperson, student council as the Class of 2024 Secretary, and being an intern for the library, college/career help program, and the yearbook. I have not been involved in my community as much as I wish I was, but this new year I want to change that. To start, I have a meeting with the school district's superintendent, hoping to give some great ideas to improve the schools and give some suggestions for his AOTV show. Then, I will most likely be fingerprinted and working with our town's children at the YMCA, helping them to feel safe and to make sure they have a fun time. After high school, I plan on going to college to major in Creative Writing or Biblical studies at Bowdoin College, Wheaton College, or Gordon College. I got accepted into Wheaton and Gordon already, and now I am waiting on the decision for Bowdoin. I really want to get into Bowdoin because of the unlimited opportunities there and the fact that their financial aid is very generous. Maine is closer than Illinois, this matters because my mom depends on me and I do not want to leave her. If I could start my own charity, it would be for fundraising money to help homeless children and families get off the street and at least into shelters, if not an actual home. My mission would be to use the money to buy more shelters, as well as give some money to shelters already open. I would be serving the homeless in making sure that they are well-fed, have water, have resources like showering, clothing, books, education, comfort (blankets and mattresses), and more. I would recruit volunteers to help with the kitchen, provide a teacher, a counselor, a priest, police officer (for protection), to help with kids, to help the parents, and entertainment (singing, painting, coloring, and more). Overall, I want to be the kind of woman who doesn't care how hard something may be, but how she will get it done because of how much she cares for her community and everyone in it.
Book Lovers Scholarship
Have you ever wondered what an actual good Christian book that is beneficial for everyone, even non-Christians, looks like? ´You Can Begin Again ´ by Joyce Meyer is that book.
Joyce brings meaningful messages in every page that you read. Those messages bring love and comfort that fill your heart with joy and heal your soul with peace. She also brings true stories of people and uses words that spark more emotion in your reaction to that story, so much that you remember what you read, and you never get bored with reading it. This book represents everyone who feels unloved, who feels unnoticed, and those who feel like they can't get anything right. That they are a big failure that have no purpose in being here. You do have a purpose. You are loved, you are noticed, and you can't get everything right but take that first step and maybe, just maybe you will surprise yourself. This book is not forcing you into a religion at all, it is giving you the free will of choice, and how to make a choice that benefits you, your family, and your whole life. At any age and at anytime in your life, you can come to Him. You Can Begin Again. You can begin again at a new home, new career, new lifestyle, new relationship, and new school. This book shows that everyone is loved, no matter how much you don't want to be loved by God, you are. He loves you whether you like it or not, and that is what is so comforting. How He is so patient and so loving that he blesses us with His love. Have you ever wanted someone to wait for you, to just be patient with you, to just love you? That is who God is. This book brings to light all the things we face day-to-day and how we can overcome it and survive it. Therefore, (the one reading this and all the people you share this with) please read this book not because it tells you about God, but because it shows you how you can survive the storms in your life that seems to never go away. Remember, You Can Begin Again.
Bright Lights Scholarship
My future plans are not yet specifically known yet, but I know an idea of what I want to do. I want to help people; in whatever career I am in. I will be helping people and glorifying God. My name is Kaylee Guyotte and I want to be a writer, photographer, preschool teacher, and a person who plans events.
I want to write for people to get inspired by, for them to produce a positive feeling of home, the feeling of comfort. In my junior year, my dual enrollment course College Writing 101 was my favorite class because the professor never judged, he wrote positive notes on the back of them and helped me to feel safe in my writing, revising, and editing.
I want to photograph beautiful people and things to write about them. To photograph happy memories, to write messages that will last in someone's memory.
Also in my junior year, I discovered my love for kids when I volunteered for my high school's food pantry parent workshop by watching the kids and helping them have fun with the games we set up in the room and the hallway. The love grew when I went to my town's elementary school for their SEPAC family night, when I also helped the kids have fun while playing games, especially the popular eye spy game. I have not been in a teaching setting with kids yet, but I applied for a YMCA job as an assistant teacher, so that is where I would get the experience and figure out if that job was meant for me, or if I should move on.
I want to be the person who plans events to help people less stressed and more happy to celebrate their moment or to help fundraise for charities around the world. Celebration moments like weddings, anniversaries, school events, ball dances, and more. Charities like Churches, salvation army, make-a-wish, hospitals, food pantry, American red cross, and more.
These are my plans for the future and this scholarship will help me build up money for college and school supplies, and maybe even a camera to start photographing, and a computer to practice my blogging skills for photographing, writing, teaching, and planning purposes. This scholarship will be a big help in collecting enough money for college to help me with my career in education and exploring different classes, clubs, and experiences to produce the skills that will help me in any career choice that I find and that is meant for me to do (my God-given purpose).
Big Picture Scholarship
In the movie ¨ Wonder, ¨ by Stephan Chbosky Auggie's character was born with Treacher Collins Syndrome; meaning he had to go through many surgeries when he was firstborn. His undevelopment of the bones in his eyes, ears, cheeks, and jaw structure produced his ´mark´ in the book. He has been marked with, what people see as an ugly face condition, but what should be seen is the lesson that Wonder gives us through that mark. People should not be judged on their appearances, but by the content of their character. Auggie is seen as this hideous monster to other kids in the school, while the real monster was Julian; the bully.
At the beginning, Auggie character was introduced as the poor little boy who was forced to have this heavy weight of shame for what he appears to be seen as. A monster. Somebody to fear and run away from. Therefore, when his mom wants him to start public school, his nerves from 0% stress-free homeschooled boy; quickly forms into 100% stress and fear filled public school boy. Nevertheless, he goes, and his first day is not good, but it wasn't horrible. This shows that Auggie was petrified to welcome in change, but this scene shows that whatever fear you have; when you overcome that fear by just doing it; you may look to see that there are some good things that come along with the bad.
In the middle of the movie, Auggie character becomes really happy with his friends Jack Will, Summer, and Charlotte begin to share a bond that seem to be too strong to be broken. Until Jack Will chooses popularity with Julian over his friend Auggie, this point is where Auggie becomes very self-conscious and begins to change into a shy, embarrass, and sad boy who just wants to be left alone by everybody; even his own family. This shows that Auggie has become a more confident boy; but unfortunate events destroyed that; which tells us that words hurt. The lesson is that you should never go against who you are because of peer pressure and popularity. If you are hanging out with the wrong people, then you should get yourself out of that group, or they will drag you down with them.
Toward the end of the book is when Auggie finally becomes okay with what he is living with. He now knows that living with his condition isn't a weakness, it makes him a strong boy who shouldn't care what other people think. Jack Will learns about not destroying himself to make other people satisfied, and Julian's character is also learning what he did and said was wrong and apologized to Auggie; and Auggie forgave him. The movie ended on a sweet scene where Auggie won the Henry Ward Beecher award, where everyone; including Julian, was cheering for him. This shows that people can change and learn from their mistakes; but also reminds that words stick and actions are remembered, forgiveness is never guaranteed but when granted one; don't waste the opportunity for growth.
This movie made me realize about how strong you can be and how kindness is so important and will make this world great; as well as influence the people around you, even a bully, to change and make themselves better people.
Strong Leaders of Tomorrow Scholarship
In the world's view being a leader is the feeling and action of greed and power that makes people do what they want them to do. Or the most obvious view, money. To me, being a leader is to lead by example. Not just an ordinary example, but the most extraordinary example. The extraordinary example is leading others through the love and forgiveness of Jesus Christ.
Therefore, I do want to be a leader but not for people to be inspired by me but to be inspired to be like Jesus. The Lord who suffered, the Protector who died to save us from our sins. He is the one who I strive to be like. Being a leader has many skills involved that you have to have like communication, problem-solving, listening, and time management. Nevertheless, skills aren't the only quality of being a leader, it is also how they act. Like being humble, kind, faithful, empathetic, motivational, positive, and non-judgemental. The most important quality (I believe) is love. The reason is love is the most important feeling and action you could ever experience and give in this world. When you love God's light shines on you. When you love you learn that loving is more important than holding a grudge and hating somebody who just wants to feel love as well.
During my years of high school, I have grown more into the person that I was meant to be (even though I still have way more growing to do). My freshman year was very tough because of COVID-19 so remote classes were hard to concentrate in and I didn't have any motivation to get involved in anything or do anything at all. Sophomore year was a big eye-opener for me. I stepped up my grades and started to get involved in things but not tackling any leadership roles. Junior year was very tiring and painful, if it wasn't for God blessing me with the motivation to get through it, I don't know if I would have made it through. I learned many leadership skills by taking some initiative in classroom discussions and sometimes the role of the group leader. This year, my senior year, I am going full out. I am taking those leadership skills and digging deeper into putting those skills into my daily life. I am the Extra Help Chairperson of the National Honor Society, as well as the Secretary for the class of 2024. I plan to do many things this year that involve building my leadership skills and showing God's love through that.
To conclude, my future is in God's hands and I fully trust that my leadership skills through Him will bring me to the purpose He has for me, which will then lead me to help and care for my brothers and sisters in Christ, as well as all the people in the world. Therefore, thank you for taking the time to read this and I hope you got to know a little more about the kind of person, the kind of leader, I want to become.
Maida Brkanovic Memorial Scholarship
Being a first-generation student is harder than people think. I know because I didn't even know what first generation meant before my junior year of high school. Now I know it is being a student whos' parents didn't have any higher education than high school, meaning they didn't go to college. This can be a struggle because you have no one to help you or give you advice. Nevertheless, I have gotten a lot of my information from Bold.org, as well as many other helpful college websites like niche, encourage, and specific college instagram pages.
The school that I go to helps with getting to know about colleges, the college academic experience, and the money situation. But they don't really give any tips on being both a first generation and a low income student. Therefore, it can be really hard but I usually look up questions about being first generation low income student and go to my guidance counselor after to see if she has any advice. That process has been beneficial but also not in many cases because she wasn't a first generation student.
I have learned a lot about who I am as a person, as well as a student. I can confidently say as a person, I am a Daughter of God who loves, forgives, volunteers, and has Faith that The Holy Trinity (God, Jesus, The Holy Spirit) have got my back and love me. I can also confidetly say as a student, I am a hard worker, cam be distracted an unmotivated very easily, but I tend to always get assignments done on time. I work way better at school or in the library rather than at home or in my room. I try my very hardest and do my best on everything I do.
Therefore, as a person and a student, I put God First in everything I do, and He blesses me what he blesses me with in His Perfect Timing.
My definition of being a first generation student has altered to being a strong person who doesn't let anyone tell them they can't make it just because of a disadvantage. That disadvantage only makes them stronger and give them more drive and motivation to succeed. Being a Daughter of God and having my life in God's hands He gives me that strength, and He tells me I am good enough for anything as long as I have God, nothing is impossible.
To conclude, being a first generation student doesn't make you different then anyone else, or any other disadvantages. Being your true God-given amd God-driven self will get you to where you are meant to be.
Thank you for taking the time out of your day to read this and I hope you have a blessed day full of love and forgiveness. He loves you and so do I.
Windward Spirit Scholarship
In my experience I have had some adults in my life tell me and my younger cousins that the olden days was the right way to go about life. Not in the wars and choosing sides your on but the little stuff like no phones and dressing appropriately. I agree with the dressing appropriately because as a Daughter of God it is in God's belief and my own that we should dress appropriately. No, I am not talking about always wearing pants, dresses, a parka, 'showing the shoulders' tank top, or a turtle neck. I am talking about having the decency of respect to both genders. What I mean is the boys wearing their clothes right, and not drooping. As well as the girls dressing in clothes that don't reveal their private body parts. Now I am not saying these things to be judgemental this is just how I think should be the right way to be respectful and honorable.
I also agree with the limiting of cellphones because, as a Gen-Z, I have the tendency to be on my phone almost all the time. I hate it. The reason why is because my grandma always tells me how in the past my mom and my aunts and uncles always used to hang out with friends around the neighborhood. Also told me how they would be outside starting at 8 in the morning and not be back until dinner time. Now I am not saying that phones haven't brought technology that is useful, but I wish that technology stayed on computers. For phones, I believe that a phone that can call, text, and have an app where you can listen to music, is all people really need. Like a flip phone!
The statement about this generation facing a different kind of war is sadly true. The rise of pollution, th le cost of basic nessecities like a roof over your head and actual healthy food, and many other dangers that we are simply just ignoring. It is sad to hear but to be truthful the world is coming to an end someday, when Jesus returns (the resurrection), but until that day comes we should be taking care of the things that God created like the trees, ocean, people, and animals. Not try to destroy them, weaken them, or hurt them.
To make a difference we all have to work together into making a world we can live in and breathe in until Jesus comes back. Now I am not forcing anything on anyone I am just telling you that Jesus is coming back and you should all repent and become like Jesus because in the end, He is the only one who can save you. God Loves every single one of us so much that he brought down his son, Jesus Christ, to die for our sins so we could be forgiven. Go to Him, believe in Him, have faith in Him. Jesus Loves You, carry that with you along thos life and cherish the time God blesses you with because eventually the time will come to decide if you suffer eternally or be with Jesus and be happy for eternity.
Thank you for taking the time to read this and remeber that God Loves you and I love you too.
Barbara J. DeVaney Memorial Scholarship Fund
Hello, my name is Kaylee Guyotte and I am a senior at Athol High School. I am a 17-year-old God-Driven women who has the desire to find her God-given purpose.
Here is a little more about me.
-I am a first generation low income student
-I am a Christian who is a Daughter of God
-My passions are writing,Photography,Traveling, and exploring/trying new things
-I have 2 cats named Sabrina and Angel, as well as a dog named sugar
-I can be very shy and be antisocial at some times, nevertheless I am very kind and I am working on becoming a more social woman who welcomes everyone into a positive, Non-Judgemental environment.
-I also have a passion for volunteering and helping whenever I can
-I want to be the kind of person where people can feel like they are safe and where they don't feel like they are being judged or feeling left out
-I am a very hardworking student that leads to sometimes being disappointed in myself for knowing I could of done better on a test or some class work grades
-Lastly but certainly not least, I have the need and want to become a better person physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually
Therefore, that was a little about me, my beliefs, and my values.
This money would help me build a very bright future that I can't see what's in it, but I know that it will be amazing for me and the people around me. I am looking at a college in New York City named Columbia University and this money would really help me with the fees like room+board, as well as some needed supplies. When I get into Columbia University I want to major in Creative Writing as well as join many clubs and organization to help create a life for me that is 100% in Christ.
I want to go to college because I believe it will build up my education not to put on paper and show it off as shiny, but to gain more knowledge and understanding of being led to my purpose. After college I tend to be going into a career that makes me happy. I don't really care if I don't become rich because being who God calls me to be and doing whatever I can to help people is more important than having money. Nevertheless if I do get blesses with that kind of money I plan to save some of it, spend some to get the nessesities, and give the rest to charity organizations as well as donations to nature disasters like tornados and hurricanes.
To conclude, I have the God-given drive to help others and that is what will make me happy, not how much money I get, but how I can impact someone's life with positivity and love.
Thank you for taking the time to read this and I hope and pray that you that you have a blessed day full of love and forgiveness. Thank you
-Kaylee Guyotte
Our Destiny Our Future Scholarship
God is light, with him there is no darkness (1 John 1:5)
My name is Kaylee and I am a 17-year-old God-driven rising senior who wants to make a major change in the dark and cruel world. Bringing positivity is bringing people together in peace, not in war. Bringing positivity means being kind to people who may not be kind to you. Bringing positivity is showing people the Love and Light of God and making sure they know that He loves all, no matter who or what you are.
My past:
My past was full of dark and evil ways. I was in a hole, and I couldn't climb out. Then, Jesus came to me and told me that I was worthy and to go out in the world to be like Him. Ever since March 2020, I have been living in Christ, becoming like Jesus, growing in Christ, and Loving like Jesus. I have been bullied. I have been in a relationship where I have never loved the other person. I have lied, stolen, and done more horrific things. I was an insecure lonely child who needed, wanted, and sought attention. Now I have found my Savior. Jesus saved me, even when I didn't deserve it, He saved me because that is who he is. Now I live my life in Jesus' image. Now I live my life on faith, hope, kindness, love, peace, and positivity.
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1)
At Athol High School I am a NHS Extra Help Chairperson. I am the Class of 2024 Secretary. With these positions, I will make positivity by providing extra help to the other chairs in NHS, and officers. As well as, helping the Class of 2024 officers with taking notes and keeping track of meetings. I also plan on doing as much community service as possible, not just my requirements, but whenever I can help.
After graduation, I will (faithfully and hopefully) be going to college at Columbia University in
New York, NY and will strive to volunteer, become a leader, show God's Love and Light, and become more involved with clubs and organizations. At these clubs and organizations, I will strive to help, to lead, and to grow and prosper into something full of positivity.
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13)
After my college graduation from Columbia University, I will be with Christ, with God, and become a woman who has found her God-given purpose and continues to grow in Him every day of her life.
God Is Within Her, She Will Not Fail (Psalm 46:5)
Disney Super Fan Scholarship
Disney is the best organization for tv shows and movies for kids. I have watched many and could easily tell you that in each movie I have learned a thing or two about struggles and how they can teach you to grow. Therefore, I don't have a favorite thing about Disney, I love all the aspects of each show teaching us something that we need for real-life situations.
Ever since I was little, I have always been a Disney kid. From Hannah Montana to Girl Meets World. From Tangled and The Lion King to Lemonade Mouth and Big Hero 6 and many more. Nevertheless, I do have my favorites about Disney.
Favorite Disney Character: Rapunzel
Favorite Disney Princess: Rapunzel
Favorite Disney Prince: Flynn Rider
Favorite Disney Love Movie: Tangled
Favorite Disney Movie: Big Hero 6 and Lemonade Mouth (can't choose)
Favorite Disney Tv Show: Girl Meets World
Favorite Disney Quote: I can't choose, I have so many favorites!
Growing up watching Disney was a very fun journey. In all the movies that I used to watch, I never understood the message, but looking back at each of them, their messages are quite clear and powerful. In Lemonade Mouth the message is to challenge the norms and not fear the social backlash of standing up for what you know is right. In Big Hero 6 the movie teaches us to value family, friendships, and hard work. As well as, telling us that revenge is not the solution to solve personal pain and injury. In The Lion King, Simba shows us throughout the movie that you have to move on from the past and focus on the present. As well as reassuring us that we all have a purpose and we are going to make mistakes that will build up our future, we just have to learn from them. In The Greatest Showman it tells us we should never give up and embrace who we are and who we are meant to be, this message could also be seen in Zootopia and Mulan. In Avatar: The Way of The Water the message is clear that the movie the movie tells us to love. To love your family, your life, your purpose, your faith, anything you want to love, love it, no matter what the cost is. And there are many more movie messages and tv show messages that create growth, and that is what makes Disney special. Disney doesn't only give us entertainment but also teaches us valuable life lessons to carry with us for the rest of our lives.
Therefore, I can't choose what I love about Disney, because there are many things that I love. Disney got me through a lot, and had a part in my growth throughout the years of puberty.
Phoenix Opportunity Award
'You become something when you feel like you're nothing,'
This is what comes to mind when I think about being a first-generation student. I used to think that I didn't have anything and felt like I wasn't meant to be here. I now understand that I have to be here, I deserve to be here, and I need to be here.
When you come from parents who couldn't go to college because they both have a disability and didn't even want to go, you get pretty self-conscious about seeing yourself succeed at something your parents didn't even try. When you also come from a low-income family, it seems impossible to have a chance to go to college.
Nevertheless, these are all the factors that drive me to want to do it more. Being a first-generation student is difficult since your parents can't help you or give you any advice. But, when you look deeper into the idea, you can see that it is hard, but it is worth it; to get up, preserve, thrive, grow, and show your parents that you made it, and that they helped you make it.
I want my career to be something that changes people's lives for the good. I want to write, photograph, travel, volunteer, help, give to charity, show smiles, show light, show love, and way more. To have faith, to believe, to prosper, and to grow into Christ becoming a Child of God.
Therefore, being a first-generation student fits into my career goals by letting me know that just because I don't represent anything, I can help and love everything and everyone, and cherish the moments that I make, that make memories to keep that turn my life from nothing into something.
Elevate Mental Health Awareness Scholarship
I just remember thinking, 'I want to die, I wnat to just give up."
My experience with mental health has been a journey of ups, downs, beginnings, and recoveries.
When I was in my first home, when I was little (prek-mid 5th), my mom was the only parent I had that interacted with me and did everything for me. My dad and I talked, but we didn't have any connections, even when he was living with us. My grandma and Pepe were also a big part of my development as well, my Pepe was the father figure that my dad couldn't provide.
My Pepe died in December 2016, which changed my life. I lost my father figure, I lost the only man in my life who seemed to care about me. My mental health was then starting to feel abandoned, lonely, depressed, and acting out (anger and frustration). When I moved to Belchertown, Ma, my mental health was over the top and I had no choice but to go to therapy. My mentor was Suzanne and she was such a sweet lady, I miss her. She helped me so much. When I was living there I experienced bullying, it made me not want to go to school or talk to anybody. I felt insecure, I felt left out, unwanted, unloved, everything. I wanted to die.
We moved to Athol in 2018, and that was where my life changed from negative to positive. Well, I was in middle school, 7th grade, so it did take time. I found friends that I felt cared about me, but also made me feel left out all the time. Toxic! I do not blame them or regret being their friend because I know that when we were growing and changing into the people we are now, that takes mistakes and heartbreak. I was seeing another therapist, 2, Amanda and Colleen. I had significant amounts of change and attitude between both of them, but I am grateful I went to them because they helped (a little) to the person I am today.
I am not getting into Covid(8th/Freshman), all I am saying is that my mental health went back down at first, but then came back up significantly, so significantly I didn't need therapy anymore, I still don't! My sophomore year of high school was a good growth year for me. God found me. Christ found me and has proven to me that He loves me and that changed my life, growth, and look on life forever. He Saved Me. I know where I would be if He didn't find me, I would have been drowning in regret and depression and probably wouldn't be here right now.
Therefore, I know about mental health, I have had mental health, I know people who have mental health, and I know how dangerous it could be, and how dangerous it can make you. Mental health is not to be taken lightly, this health crisis is very serious, so much so that it doesn't only affect you, but affects everyone around you. Reach out, Get help, Seek help, Ask for help, and always know that you are loved and wanted. Be seen. Be heard. Speak up. Speak out. Thrive. Survive. Grow.
Bright Lights Scholarship
'The best way to predict the future is to have the faith to follow it.'
I have many plans for my future. From who I want to become, to where I want to go, to what I want to change or make better.
I also am a person who believes that God has written the story that I am meant to follow, to not only meet my needs, but the needs of other people as well.
I want to become a 100% fully in Christ woman who has faith, love, forgiveness, and compassion for those around me. I want to grow, I want to live, and I want to show the love and light of God through my kindness and through the donations I make.
I want to go to New York City, I want to go to Paris, London, Moscow, North Carolina, and more. I want to travel, to volunteer, to sing, to read, to be a writer, to be a photographer, and to be an achiever.
I want to have a family. My future God-given husband, my future God-given kids. I want to be a mom, the kind of mom that makes sure that her kids grow up to be the person they were created to be.
Columbia University and Yale University. These are the two colleges I want to get into, and I have faith that I will get into. They each have their own stories and growth, and I want to be a part of that growth and share my stories with my kids one day. College is an important factor in who I want to become, where I want to go, and what I want to do. Columbia has a beautiful campus with a #1 writing program and #1 dining halls. Yale also has a beautiful campus with beautiful dorms and a chapel.
Falling in love. I have never felt a good experience with love before. I have never been in a serious relationship, I have been in 3 that I have never stuck because I was too young and too stupid to know what I was doing. I want to fall in love with someone who loves me and loves my God more. I want to fall in love with someone who God created me to be with, to marry, to have kids, and to contribute to the love, light, and blessings of Christ. I want to fall in love when I am not even trying, when I am not trying to make it happen when there is no force and just a constant peaceful flow of destiny and faith. I want to fall in love with someone who I love, who I truly love, at the right time (God's Time), and at the right place.
Overall, this scholarship will help me get to the future that is waiting for me by giving me the financial aid to get to college. I know I can succeed in college, I have taken three dual-enrollment college classes and have felt the pressure of being a college student. I believe that I will get into college, I just need help financially getting there. My future will be amazing, but I will never fully get to my full potential if I can't financially get through that stage of college growth.
(Thank you for taking the time to read this!)
Book Lovers Scholarship
'The Bible is God's books of promises, and unlike the book of humans, it does not change of get out of date,' by Billy Graham
I would choose the Bible as the one book I would pick everyone to read. Not to force anything on them, but for them to just try and read it, understand it, and then make there free decision to whatever they want to believe.
The Bible is a very important book for the growth and faith of the people who God has called and the people who want to be saved. God Loves everyone, no matter what, but people need to understand what a life without God actually means. As well as how dangerous it means, how dangerous it can be, and how dangerous it can make you.
At first, people will procrastinate and get mad and uncomfortable because the things that they do are all being called out. I know I felt like this at first, and I still do sometimes, but to overcome that, is to read, understand, and grow into a better person. Reading the Bible will seems like a chore, but realize that it's not, realize that it us a book full of love and promises to those who pick up their cross and follows to be like Christ.
Fighting the temptations off is very hard as well, therefore; reading the Bible can help you take the focus off of that temptation, and put it on God's word, God's promise, and God's voice.
To conclude, I would recommend The Bible for everyone to read to learn, understand, and grow into following Christ or making their own decisions of their freedom.
Charles Pulling Sr. Memorial Scholarship
I want to leave my mark on this world!
I am a first generation student who comes from a low income family who survives off of my social security (until I am 18) and disability (both my parents). My dad barely finished high school with his fighting and anger issues reputation. My mom went to a disability school where she learned the basics of life, like cooking, cleaning, etc. Although, I am proud of the for completing their high school experience, I want more. I deserve more.
I am a very independent, God-driven student who wants to make a difference. I want to become more than what my parents could be, I want to show my mom that she did a good job at raising me. I have had many struggles and unmotivational moments, but I have always overcame with the help of God.
I went from a 2.8 GPA in freshman year, to a 3.9 in sophomore year, and this year is pending, as well as next year's. But I know that I will do great because I have the drive to do well.
A lot of things drive me. Going to college and living on my own. Finding my way through life and finding my purpose along the way. Growing and Prospering into the woman God called me to be.
John F. Puffer, Sr. Smile Scholarship
'The student of the month for March 2023 is Kaylee Guyotte'
Hi, my name is Kaylee and I have had a very challenging but successful growth in my education. To start, I am a Child of God woman who has faced many education challenges, as well as financial challenges as well.
I am the kind of student who is hard-working, and very studious when it comes to my work, especially my writing. I have struggled with being overly independent, but I want to work towards building meaningful relationships with the people around me. Therefore, I have many flaws, but those flaws make me beautiful and those flaws make me want to thrive even more.
Nevertheless, I am a student who lives in a low-income family, so college is two options for me, scholarship/find financial aid gifts or not going to college. I want to go to college. I want to excel in my studies and I want to be successful in building my education for my future.
I want to become a student who doesn't fear about getting social or fear what other people think. I want to become a student who thrives, who grows, and who changes the world and the people around he by being kind, by being helpful, and by being compassionate. I can do anything I put my mind to, that is something that I have figured out by becoming a Daughter of God.
My actions deeply impact my future, and I do the best I can to make every decision count and to be smart and mature while making choices that may affect who I am or who I can grow into. My actions from my freshman and sophomore year have grown me into the student I am today. This year, junior year, I have been growing and prospering with Dual Enrollment and trying to get more involved, and get my voice out and heard.
Next year, my final year, I want to become more and thrive more. I am doing this by taking AP Lit, Honors Pre-Calculus (p.s. not a fan of math), and other courses and internships that will make me explore my interests and grow into the person God has called me to be, the person I want to become. I also want to work on my leadership skills and volunteering skills. To help more, to do community service, to join the student council as a Class of 2024 historian. I want to do more. I want to become more.
Going into college, I will also be a first-generation student, and one of the few people from Athol who (hopefully) goes to college outside of Massachusetts. The students who have gone above and beyond for their education to stay in Massachusetts (they are soaring now and so happy for them), I want to also soar and thrive, but not in Massachusetts.
I am hoping that I leave my legacy on my family to let them know that I made it and that they helped me become the student to soar. As well as leaving a legacy behind for the Athol community of students that they can do anything they put their minds to and soar.
Taylor Swift ‘1989’ Fan Scholarship
"Take a bite in the Big Apple"
'Welcome to New York, ' by Taylor Swifts is my favorite song from her album '1989.' I have always been the girl who has wanted more. I have grown up in many different towns in Massachusetts and I want more, I deserve more. I am a woman who wants to fight for her community, fight for what she believes in. I want to be a woman who shines, and who loves and appreciates those around her.
Ever since I was little I have always wanted to go to New York City. The city is full of education, beauty, love, lights, parks, and many more places. I am going to apply to Columbia University.
When you are always in my room, bored out of your mind, you would also want to get out and do stuff. Not for money, not for fame, but for the love you have for doing it. I want to make my dreams come alive, I want to challenge myself every day.
This song by Taylor also gives off good vibes, with a beautiful melody as well. When I hear the song I feel empowered. I feel like everything that I do is for a reason, all leading up to the purpose that God has for me. These lyrics are one of the reasons this song tends to be replayed over and over again, because it makes you feel like you are home, and that you are going to do great things.
I look at all the things I have done before and I realize that I can do more, that I should do more. I don't want to become famous or rich, or even have people remember me, I just want to help change the world. I want to be a leader, I want to succeed, I want to be educated. These things are all very hard, but all very worth it. My family is a low-income family, therefore, finding the money to go to college is very difficult. I know that many people deserve this scholarship, and it will be a hard choice, but if I get the chance to spend this money on my education, I will take it, and use it for good things.
I want to be the Daughter of God, who changes the things and the people around her. I want to be the woman who loves, who forgives, and who fights for her voice and the voices of other people who go underprivileged. I want more, and this essay is the first step into my bright journey to help people, as well as find myself and find what God put me on this earth for. The song, 'Welcome to New York,' by Taylor Swift is one of the songs that have told me that I am worthy and I am enough for having big dreams and big hopes for myself and the people in this world someday.
(P.S. Thank you for spending your time reading this)
I Can Do Anything Scholarship
A kind and loving Christian woman who doesn't let fear control her and follows what and who she believes in and puts her faith in what she knows instead of what she feels or sees; as well as a woman who stands up and speaks up for what is right, even when the whole world is against her.
Ethel Hayes Destigmatization of Mental Health Scholarship
My experience with mental health has been a journey of ups, downs, beginnings, and recoveries.
When I was in my first home, when I was little (prek-mid 5th), my mom was the only parent I had that interacted with me and did everything for me. My dad and I talked, but we didn't have any connections, even when he was living with us. My grandma and Pepe were also a big part of my development as well, my Pepe was the father figure that my dad couldn't provide.
My Pepe died in December 2016, which changed my life. I lost my father figure, I lost the only man in my life who seemed to care about me. My mental health was then starting to feel abandoned, lonely, depressed, and acting out (anger and frustration). When I moved to Belchertown, Ma my mental health was over the top and I had no choice but to go to therapy. My mentor was Suzanne and she was such a sweet lady, I miss her. She helped me so much. When I was living there I experienced bullying, it made me not want to go to school or talk to anybody. I felt insecure, I felt left out, unwanted, unloved, everything. I wanted to die.
We moved to Athol in 2018, and that was where my life changed from negative to positive. Well, I was in middle school, 7th grade, so it did take time. I found friends that I felt cared about me, but also made me feel left out all the time. Toxic! I do not blame them or regret being their friend because I know that when we were growing and changing into the people we are now, that takes mistakes and heartbreak. I was seeing another therapist, 2, Amanda and Colleen. I had significant amounts of change and attitude between both of them, but I am grateful I went to them because they helped (a little) to the person I am today.
I am not getting into Covid(8th/Freshman), all I am saying is that my mental health went back down at first, but then came back up significantly, so significantly I didn't need therapy anymore, I still don't! My sophomore year of high school was a good growth year for me. God found me. Christ found me and has proven to me that He loves me and that changed my life, growth, and look on life forever. He Saved Me. I know where I would be if He didn't find me, I would have been drowning in regret and depression and probably wouldn't be here right now.
Therefore, I know about mental health, I have had mental health, I know people who have mental health, and I know how dangerous it could be, and how dangerous it can make you. Mental health is not to be taken lightly, this health crisis is very serious, so much so that it doesn't only affect you, but affects everyone around you. Reach out, Get help, Seek help, Ask for help, and always know that you are loved and wanted, and that you always have someone to go to.
Harry D Thomson Memorial Scholarship
Hello, my name is Kaylee and I am a junior-year student at Athol High School in Massachusetts. Before we get onto the topic of myself, I moved to Athol in 2018 to join ARMS in 7th grade.
To start, I am a 16-year-old woman who is growing through life just as everyone else. The daughter of our Lord, God. I love to think that people are good, they just don´t or haven´t experienced love. Wanting to be that person who people can talk to and maybe lift their day with a compliment or a smile, being kind, considerate, loving, forgiving, and compassionate. It is not a problem for me to be nice and forgiving, but I may have social anxiety and can get very emotional, very quickly. I love Jesus, my family/pets, writing, community service, and having something to do or get done.
The skills I have are limited but important, I still have skills that I have yet to unlock. I can work well with teammates, but I do get very nervous about interaction. Writing is my best hard skill, and I would argue that I have some design skills. Some other soft skills I have is being friendly and can be organized if very important. These skills are all skills I have learned through life experiences but mostly understood more of them in high school.
I plan to use these skills throughout my college and career lifetimes. In college, these skills are very important and needed, I need to work on presentation skills and communication skills. In my career, there are many skills that I have yet to pick up, but I believe I will get there. I have the key to success, and at the right time, I will learn everything I need to know.
“I Matter” Scholarship
¨Thank you so much, I was really hungry.¨
Last year, in 2021, my sophomore year, I was in the Best Buddies group and we went on a field trip to the Holyoke Mall for Christmas shopping. My best buddy and I were walking around and shopping until it was time for lunch in the dining area of the 1st floor in the Holyoke mall.
There were so many options to pick from, the area had smells from fresh chicken nuggets to deep-fried tenders. We both went to Mcdonald's.
I was in line and there was a group of friends in front of me two of the friends had money to get something, but the girl did not have any money to get anything. She turned around to me and asked me if she could have cash and I responded that I only had a card. Her face dropped and I could tell that she was really hungry so I said to get anything she wants and I will pay.
¨I am sorry I only have a gift card," ¨Get what you want, and I will pay.¨ She got what she wanted and then I ordered and paid. She offered to pay me back but I said that it was okay, and just enjoy. She gratefully smiled and nodded her head giving thanks, I smiled back.
After that moment I didn´t tell anyone what I did because I did it for her and her need, not for myself or to say anything for praise or anything. Inside I did feel good because I helped someone hungry and she didn´t have any money, so I paid for her. I would do it again, I will do it again.
This act of kindness was the first time that I have done something significant for someone else. I want to do it again, not because I want to feel the goodness in my heart that I felt, but to help anyone who needs the help. Kindness and Giving are very important keys to the person I want to become, as well as lining up to my faith and beliefs in having a pure and good heart.
Szilak Family Honorary Scholarship
I miss the person in my life who was one of the best father figures to me.
I have never experienced cancer myself, but I have dealt with major grief of my Pepe's death due to cancer. He was diagnosed with lung cancer sometime in September and he died on the 12th of December.
I was 7 years old. A child. I remember thinking about how I will never see him again and how I can no longer go to him for advice or a hug. I couldn't count on him anymore to be a father figure to me. This was the point in my life where things changed juristically. I am not going to get fully into it but let's just say I went through a lot. I started and ended a youtube channel (videos are still up, feel free to laugh at them), I was getting bullied, I was in therapy and family therapy, and more stuff that I do not want to get into. Long story short I moved to Athol in 2018 and it was a tough start but today I feel a lot better. God found me.
This tragedy also affected the rest of my family, my mom being the one to go through it the hardest (in my opinion). She still cries and thinks of him to this day, I mean that is her dad, I understand. But no one tells you how much it hurts to see your mom hurting. When I see my mom hurt or sad or blame herself for everything makes me feel very worried and hurt. She is the best mom in the world and was the person who raised me right.
My Pepe was also in the military, so he didn't get to go to college. I want to go to college not only for myself but to let my Pepe see how fun and studious college is and also be the first generation in my family to show them as well.
Back then when my Pepe was still around I remember I wanted to be a singer and an actress, and a little part of me still does, but a bigger part of me wants to focus on writing and volunteering.
My relationships have been a bit tricky though. I have always been shy and reserved, but now I feel like I ruin every relationship and feel like they are going to leave. I am very nice and kind to everyone, but I tend to stay away from any kind of friend or love interest relationships, even some family relationships as well. Maybe going to college and getting more involved with academics, events, and volunteering will help me connect more with people and try to form a bond on relationships that I feel comfortable with.
@normandiealise #GenWealth Scholarship
To start off, my name is Kaylee and I am a 16-year-old, high school junior.
Generation wealth is a helping hand. From generation to generation you help other students that need help with their college loans.
The future is something that I have thought about. I know that the future is never certain, and time is never certain as well. Therefore, if I have that time, I would like to spend it on my education in English/Writing. Why?
I have always loved writing, not always reading, but writing has been my passion. In my first semester of this school year in 2022, I had my first college writing class and it was amazing. It was the class that I enjoyed going to school for. Anyway, I have felt like I was given the gift to write and I want to use that gift for good.
Money. Money is a pretty significant figure in my college transformation and my future. Nevertheless, I don't think money is the most important value in my life. The most important thing to me is my faith and my belief. This includes the need and wants to give back.
Now, what will I do if I win this scholarship money? I will save it for college finances. This money will be used to make a difference in how much my family has to pitch in. I don't want to give a sob story, therefore I am just going to say that my family has a low income and my family gets checks off of disability and social security. I am also the first generation in my family to go to college, and being the only child of two parents who barely finished high school is very difficult.
What will happen when I get out of college and (hopefully) am debt-free and paid off all my student loans? I plan to open my own small cafe business, while also continuing my writing, maybe even publishing a book. As well as also making money by completing some of my other interests as well.
With all the money I could get from the interests I have, half of it will be in my savings, some for me and my bills, and then the rest go to different charities, shelters, and scholarship funds for low-income and first-generation students.
In conclusion, the money that I could win would be going for the right reasons, to college finances. As well as continue the act of kindness through generations to help students in need of their college finances.
Thank you for taking the time to read this and whoever does get this scholarship, congratulations!