I’ve always believed that the most powerful artists are the ones who grow alongside their fans, and Sabrina Carpenter is the perfect example of that. From the moment she stepped onto the Disney Channel screen as Maya Hart in Girl Meets World, I was drawn to her humor, confidence, and vulnerability. Maya wasn’t the perfect student or the model child, but she was real. She taught me that strength doesn’t mean having it all together; sometimes it means owning your imperfections and still showing up. That message stayed with me then, and it still resonates today. As I’ve grown older, so has Sabrina, not just in age, but in artistry. Her transition from Disney star to chart-topping musician has been nothing short of inspiring. Songs like Please, Please, Please and Espresso showcase her ability to blend playful wit with emotional honesty. She doesn’t shy away from telling her truth, even if it’s messy or bold. And that kind of fearless storytelling has helped me find confidence in my own voice. I’m a college student now, studying Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology at Colorado State University. On the surface, it may not seem like there’s a connection between conservation science and pop music, but the truth is, I find so much motivation and creativity in the music I listen to. Sabrina’s lyrics have soundtracked long study nights, early-morning hikes, and moments when I’ve doubted myself. Her music reminds me to keep pushing forward, especially when I feel overwhelmed by school, work, or life in general. One of the things I admire most about Sabrina is her authenticity. Whether she’s performing in front of thousands or speaking out on social media, she stays true to herself. In a world that often pressures young women to conform, Sabrina carves out space for individuality. That’s had a huge impact on me. She’s helped me become more confident in who I am not just as a student, but as a woman navigating a complicated world. Her journey also shows the power of reinvention. Sabrina didn’t let her early roles define her she grew beyond them. That encourages me to believe that I can evolve, too. I can be more than one thing. I can be a scientist and a creative. I can love field research and still dance around my room to pop songs. I can be passionate, driven, and full of joy, all at the same time. This scholarship is more than just a financial opportunity; it's a celebration of how art can influence lives in unexpected ways. Sabrina Carpenter may never know the specific ways she’s impacted me, but through this application, I hope to honor her journey and share a small piece of my own. Her music and her example have helped shape the person I’m becoming someone who leads with authenticity, dreams without apology, and never stops evolving. Thank you for considering my application. And thank you, Sabrina, for being the kind of artist who makes space for fans like me to grow.

Calculus has a reputation for being one of the most challenging areas of mathematics, but it is also one of the most valuable, especially for students pursuing careers in the STEM field. While it may not always seem obvious at first, calculus provides the foundation for understanding patterns, rates of change, and systems in motion, concepts that are essential in fields ranging from engineering and computer science to environmental science and conservation. My name is Keara, and I’m a student at Colorado State University studying Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology. I’ve always been fascinated by the way ecosystems work, how they thrive, how they collapse, and what we can do to protect them. Originally from Rochester, NY, and now living in Virginia, I grew up surrounded by nature and history, which sparked my passion for environmental conservation. My dream is to pursue a career that helps preserve our planet’s biodiversity and protect vulnerable species and habitats. In my field, calculus plays a crucial role in modeling population dynamics, predicting the spread of invasive species, analyzing climate change trends, and understanding ecological relationships. Whether it’s determining the rate at which a species’ population is declining or calculating the growth curve of a forest after reforestation efforts, calculus allows scientists to make data-driven decisions that can have real, tangible impacts on the environment. Beyond its practical application, I believe calculus teaches us how to think critically and problem-solve creatively. It challenges us to break down complex systems into smaller, more manageable parts and to look at the world through a more analytical lens. These are skills that are not just important in the classroom, they’re essential in the field, the lab, and any STEM career. As someone who has worked multiple jobs, ranging from student aid to shift leader at Domino’s Pizza, to help fund my education, receiving this scholarship would mean more than just financial support. It would affirm the hard work I’ve put into mastering challenging subjects like calculus and pursuing a career that matters to me. It would also help ease the financial burden of tuition, allowing me to focus more on fieldwork, internships, and research opportunities that will shape my future in conservation biology. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, skiing, and camping, activities that remind me of why I chose this path. I want future generations to experience the natural world as I have, and that means doing the hard work now, including learning the complex math that helps us better understand and protect it. Calculus may be difficult, but it’s also incredibly powerful. And for students like me, who are passionate about using STEM to make a difference, it’s not just a requirement, it’s a tool for change.

When I think about what it means to be a “You Got It Girl,” I think of resilience. I think of showing up, even when it’s hard. I think of pushing through barriers with a quiet kind of strength. That’s exactly the kind of girl I’ve worked hard to become. My name is Keara, and I’m a student at Colorado State University studying Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology. I’m originally from Rochester, NY, but I’ve called Virginia home for the past six years. I come from a close-knit family, I’m a twin and one of three siblings and we’ve always supported one another through life’s ups and downs. I’ve had a wide range of interests growing up, from baking and golf to history and environmental conservation, and I’ve worked hard to support myself, including summers as a student aid, being a shift leader at Domino’s Pizza, volunteering at a food pantry, and fostering dogs. My sport is golf. I played all through middle and high school, and it became more than just a game to me, it was a place where I could find peace, confidence, and strength. I now play club golf at CSU and enjoy getting out on the course with friends whenever I can. Golf has taught me patience, mental focus, and how to stay grounded when things don’t go my way, both on the course and in life. Golf isn't always seen as the most accessible or inclusive sport, especially for young girls. Growing up as a female golfer, I often felt like I had to prove myself, not just with my skills, but with my right to take up space on the course. I faced self-doubt, a lack of representation, and moments where it felt easier to quit than to keep pushing forward. But I didn’t. I kept showing up, working on my game, and reminding myself that I belonged there. That’s what makes me a “You Got It Girl.” One of the biggest challenges I faced came during my transition to college. Like many students, I struggled with anxiety and homesickness. Suddenly, I was far from the support system I had relied on, and I felt the pressure of academics, finances, and making a new life for myself. But instead of giving in, I leaned into the things that grounded me: hiking, golf, volunteering, and surrounding myself with communities that aligned with my passions. That experience taught me how to take care of myself and how to find power in vulnerability. It was a turning point in learning to trust my own resilience. Someone I deeply admire is my mother. She has always led by example, working hard, supporting our family, and encouraging me to chase dreams that didn’t always seem realistic. Watching her persevere through her own challenges has shown me what strength, sacrifice, and quiet leadership really look like. She inspires me to stay grounded and never lose sight of the bigger picture. This scholarship would be an incredible support system for me. As a low-income student, every bit helps, whether it’s covering tuition, buying gear, paying for club dues, or even helping with travel expenses to pursue fieldwork in conservation. Being a student-athlete means balancing it all: studies, passion, fitness, and goals, and doing it with love and grit. This scholarship would help me continue pursuing both my academic and athletic journeys without the constant stress of financial strain. While I’m no longer on a varsity golf team, I still play club golf and will continue to represent women in sports however I can. I may not have a scholarship for golf, but that hasn’t stopped me from continuing to play and grow as an athlete. Being a student-athlete, for me, is about discipline, showing up for yourself, and always pushing to be better than the day before. So yes, I believe I am a You Got It Girl. Not because everything has come easy, but because I’ve worked for it, grown through it, and I’m not done yet.

Some people find peace in silence. I find mine in the rustle of leaves, the call of a distant bird, or the rhythm of water flowing through a stream. Nature has always been more than just a backdrop in my life; it’s been my refuge, my inspiration, and in many ways, my healing ground. My name is Keara, and I’m a student at Colorado State University, studying Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology. Originally from Rochester, NY, and now living in Virginia, I’ve built my identity around a deep love for the natural world and a commitment to protecting it. As a twin and one of three siblings, I come from a tight-knit family that has always valued connection, a value I now extend to my relationship with the environment and the communities I serve. What draws me most to this scholarship, created in memory of Jay Curry, is that it honors not only the work of caring for nature but also the courage of personal growth and recovery. Like Jay, I believe that our greatest contributions often come from overcoming adversity. During my first year of college, I struggled with mental health challenges that left me feeling unmoored. I was overwhelmed, anxious, and unsure of my path. But slowly, through hikes in the woods, volunteering at conservation sites, and reconnecting with the wild spaces I love, I began to heal. Nature reminded me that life is cyclical that winter always turns to spring. I’ve also witnessed the toll of alcoholism within my extended family. It’s a heavy burden, often carried in silence. But I’ve seen how recovery transforms lives, how choosing to show up each day to grow, to heal, is a victory. This experience has shaped my empathy, resilience, and my belief in second chances. I see this scholarship not just as financial support, but as a recognition of the strength it takes to walk the harder path a path Jay knew well. My career goals center on conservation and environmental stewardship. Whether through wildlife protection, ecosystem restoration, or community education, I want to be a part of preserving the beauty and balance of our planet. From volunteering at a local food pantry and fostering dogs, to working summers as a student aid and leading shifts at Domino’s, my background reflects a willingness to work hard, care deeply, and contribute meaningfully qualities I believe would make Jay proud. I’m not pursuing this field for prestige or recognition. I’m pursuing it because it feels like purpose. I want to help create a world where natural spaces are cherished, not exploited, and where young people struggling with their own challenges can look to nature and see hope. Thank you for considering my application and for honoring the legacy of someone who understood that beauty, growth, and healing often go hand in hand.

My name is Keara, and I am honored to apply for the PrimePutt Scholarship for Women Golfers. As a dedicated female golfer, I have faced numerous challenges throughout my journey. However, these obstacles have only fueled my passion for the sport and strengthened my character. My golf journey began in middle school when I joined a local golf club. At the time, I was the only female player, which made me feel isolated and out of place. There were moments when I questioned whether I truly belonged in that environment. But instead of letting those doubts hold me back, they fueled my determination. Being the only girl on the course lit a fire within me to prove that women not only belong in golf but can excel and lead in the sport. I committed myself to countless hours of practice, focusing on refining my swing, perfecting my technique, and building mental toughness. Every early morning practice, every frustrating missed shot, and every small victory pushed me forward. Over time, I began to see improvement—not just in my game, but in my confidence. Golf became more than just a sport for me; it became a way to challenge stereotypes, test my resilience, and grow both as an athlete and a person. In high school, I joined the golf team, excited to be part of a group of female golfers who shared my enthusiasm for the sport. Unfortunately, our coach resigned unexpectedly during my sophomore year, leaving us without guidance or leadership. This setback threatened to derail our team, but instead, it brought us closer together. We supported one another and pooled our knowledge of the game, demonstrating the importance of teamwork and camaraderie. From there I moved to playing recreationally with my father and brother. Although I found joy in playing golf recreationally with my father and brother, the months passed by, and I began to miss my teammates and the adrenaline-pumping thrill of competition. This longing only served to reinforce my passion for the sport and my desire to continue improving my skills. I believe that the challenges I faced as a female golfer have made me a stronger person, both on and off the course. They have taught me resilience, determination, and the importance of teamwork. If I am awarded the PrimePutt Scholarship, I will use the funds to further my education and continue to advocate for female golfers everywhere. I am committed to being a part of the next generation of women who break barriers and excel in this sport. In conclusion, I am grateful for the opportunity to apply for the PrimePutt Putting Mat Scholarship for Women Golfers. This scholarship represents more than just financial support; it is a symbol of empowerment and recognition for female golfers like me who have faced challenges and obstacles in pursuing our passion. Thank you for considering my application. Now if you'll excuse me, I'm off to hit the range.

My experiences in wildlife biology have taken me on a remarkable journey of exploration, growth, and passion. As an active volunteer with the Wildlife Society and a contributor to raptor monitoring efforts, I've gained invaluable hands-on experience working with birds of prey and understanding their crucial role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. These experiences have fueled my desire to contribute to the conservation and protection of wildlife species, particularly those that face the most significant threats. In addition to my work with raptors, I've also had the privilege of volunteering with the Carnivore Conservation Coexistence nonprofit organization. This opportunity has deepened my understanding of the complex relationship between humans and large predators, highlighting the importance of finding innovative solutions that promote coexistence between these species and local communities. My involvement with this organization has also strengthened my appreciation for the interdisciplinary nature of wildlife conservation, which requires collaboration and communication among diverse stakeholders. My journey in STEM, particularly wildlife biology, has been nothing short of transformative. Through hands-on experiences in the field and engaging coursework, I've discovered a passion for using data analysis and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to better understand our natural world. As I've immersed myself in this challenging field, I've encountered various obstacles as a young woman in a male-dominated discipline, but I've learned to embrace my unique perspective and use it to fuel my determination. As I continue my educational journey, I'm eager to confront new challenges and push the boundaries of what's possible in wildlife conservation. My ultimate goal is to use my unique skill set to protect our natural heritage and inspire other young women to pursue careers in STEM, proving that our differences can become our greatest strengths. I'm grateful for the opportunities I've had to volunteer with organizations like the Wildlife Society and the Carnivore Conservation Coexistence nonprofit, which have broadened my knowledge and deepened my passion for wildlife conservation. These experiences, combined with my dedication to mastering skills in GIS, coding, and data analysis, will empower me to drive positive change and inspire others to join the movement towards a more sustainable and biodiverse future. Thank you for considering my application for this scholarship opportunity. Your support will enable me to continue pursuing my dreams and contribute to groundbreaking advancements in wildlife conservation, serving as a beacon of inspiration for other young women who aspire to make a difference in STEM.

My journey has been marked by personal challenges, with mental health struggles standing out as one of the most significant hurdles I have faced. Balancing academic responsibilities and personal life became increasingly difficult as I experienced anxiety and depression, which often left me feeling overwhelmed and questioning my abilities. Recognizing the importance of seeking help, I reached out to mental health professionals who provided me with invaluable guidance and support. Through therapy and self-care practices, I learned to manage my mental health, emerging stronger and more resilient as a result. Receiving this scholarship would enable me to pursue a career in conservation biology, a field that allows me to combine my passion for wildlife with my commitment to environmental stewardship. By dedicating my professional life to preserving Earth's biodiversity and promoting harmony between humans and nature, I will be actively contributing to the well-being of local and global communities. Additionally, I aim to mentor and inspire young individuals, particularly those facing similar challenges, to pursue their dreams and recognize their potential as agents of positive change. To encourage young people to explore the world of philately, I would emphasize the educational and creative aspects of stamp collecting. By highlighting the diverse range of topics featured on stamps, such as flora, fauna, and cultural elements, I would showcase how this hobby can spark curiosity and inspire learning about various subjects. Collaborating with schools and youth organizations, I would develop engaging workshops and programs that introduce young individuals to philately, fostering an appreciation for the art, history, and culture represented on these miniature masterpieces. The Federal Duck Stamp program is an excellent example of how hobbyists and conservationists can come together to make a meaningful impact on wildlife preservation. Established in 1934 with the Migratory Bird Hunting Stamp Act, the program has served as a crucial source of funding for wetland conservation efforts, with 98% of the proceeds from each stamp sale being directed towards the Migratory Bird Conservation Fund. These stamps, required for migratory waterfowl hunting and granting access to National Wildlife Refuges, are not just limited to hunters. Birders, nature photographers, and other outdoor enthusiasts can also contribute to conservation efforts by purchasing Duck Stamps, ensuring the preservation of habitats for birds and other wildlife. This collaboration between hobbyists and conservationists serves as a powerful tool for protecting our nation's natural resources, benefiting both humans and wildlife alike. In conclusion, my desire to pursue a career in conservation biology is fueled by a deep-rooted passion for wildlife preservation, a commitment to environmental stewardship, and a personal understanding of the importance of overcoming challenges. The opportunity to receive this scholarship would not only provide financial support for my academic journey, but also allow me to give back to the community by fostering a new generation of environmental advocates and encouraging young individuals to engage with nature through hobbies like philately and initiatives such as the Federal Duck Stamp program. I am immensely grateful for your consideration and the potential to make a positive impact on our planet's precious biodiversity. Thank you.