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.

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.