Growing up as the daughter of a retired Army veteran has played an important role in shaping the person I am today and the career I want to pursue. Although I was young during my father's time in the Army and do not remember every detail, I still remember parts of the military lifestyle and the experiences that came with it. Looking back now, I realize that those experiences taught me about sacrifice, adaptability, and the importance of helping others. When I was younger, my father had to be away for a period of time because of his military responsibilities. At that age, I did not fully understand everything that came with serving in the military. However, I do remember the excitement of going to the airport to pick him up when he came home. I also remember him bringing me gifts from some of the different places he had traveled to. As a child, I was mostly excited to see my dad again and see what he had brought back for me. Now that I am older, those memories mean even more because I understand the sacrifices behind the time he spent away from our family. One of the positive experiences I remember from my childhood was living on a military base. Being surrounded by other military families gave me the opportunity to meet children who had experiences similar to mine. I formed friendships while living there that became an important part of my childhood. Even years later, I still communicate with some of the friends I made on the military base. Those friendships showed me how meaningful it is to build connections with people, even when life changes and everyone eventually goes in different directions. My experiences as a military child also taught me how to adjust to different situations and environments. Military families often experience change, whether it involves a parent being away, moving, or adjusting to a different routine. I believe this has helped me become more adaptable and open to new experiences. These qualities have influenced my decision to pursue a career in nursing. I am currently working toward earning my Bachelor of Science in Nursing, with the long-term goal of becoming a travel nurse. Nursing requires compassion, responsibility, teamwork, and the ability to remain flexible when situations change. Travel nursing especially requires someone who can enter new environments, meet different people, and adjust quickly while continuing to provide quality patient care.

Adversity is an unavoidable part of the human experience that touches everyone at some point. While facing challenges can be nerve wrecking, it is important to realize that each obstacle presents an opportunity for growth and personal development. Adversity serves as a powerful teacher, reminding us of our strength and capacity to conquer any difficulties that can come our way. In my own life, I encountered adversity early on when I began learning how to drive. This experience taught me the value of facing adversity and embracing the learning that comes with it. In fact, overcoming challenges like these not only strengthens us but also prepares us for future hurdles that life might present. When I was 15, I had my first ever initial experience behind the wheel. This experience occurred while I was accompanied by my mother, who was by my side during our ride back home after practicing driving earlier that day. The route consisted of a straight road, but there was a right turn that I had to eventually take. Feeling quite confident due to my previous driving encounters, I approached the turn with plenty of confidence. However, as I executed the turn, I made a critical error by failing to release my grip on the wheel, leading to an unintended collision with a curb. The impact was significant enough to cause a sudden loss of pressure in the front right tire, prompting my mother to inspect the situation. Having further examined the tire, she discovered a puncture in the tire. Fortunately, we were not a mile away from the car dealership. We were able to drive the car to the dealership for it to be fixed. Following this, my mother contacted my father, who thankfully came to our rescue. He picked us up and drove us back home. This turn of events enabled us to address the tire issue without causing too much disruption to our day. Having learned valuable lessons from that experience, I dedicated myself to practicing more diligently to boost my confidence and proficiency in driving. In 2022, I successfully passed my permit test, now at the age of 17, I possess a valid driver's license and make it a point to drive regularly. My daily routine involves commuting to and from work as well as to and from school, allowing me ample opportunity to strengthen my driving skills. I also regularly practice in our neighborhood to help strengthen my skills. While I have developed a strong sense of confidence in my overall driving abilities, I must admit that I still struggle a bit with making right turns due to my height, which affects my visibility. Driving is and will always still be a challenge. There are plenty of hardships I haven't faced yet like bad weather or bad traffic. Despite these challenges, I am determined to improve them with each day as I continue to drive more frequently. I believe I overcame adversity by taking an honest look at my own knowledge and skills, acknowledging my shortcomings, and working to improve them, every day. My mother continues to encourage me and push me to not give up trying but that constant practice will help improve my skills.

If I had to identify a title for the new chapter in my life after graduation, it would be "The Fear Factor". Though 'The Fear Factor' is a popular television show, I am now being challenged to perform the unknown, which is learning to be independent. For I am no longer a child, and I must now face life as an adult. I am now faced with a decision to make about my life and often times those decisions are met with challenges. I have been conditioned to being hand-guided through situations with the assistance of my parents to be present and dust the dirt off of me. I have had their support throughout my childhood. They have been there to give me subtle reminders and words of encouragement to help motivate me and keep me on task. Now it is my turn to learn to keep myself on task and take life more seriously. I am reminded that there are negative forces that tend to challenge my ability to excel in life. These forces, often desire to keep people like me, African American females oppressed. In today's age, as women we are losing our rights to have a say in our own health care, and our educational rights are constantly being challenged. We also find ourselves having to compete to show her ability to perform. If I turn a blind eye and allow these forces to dictate my future, I will not be an inspiration to other women who look just like me. I recognize the importance of having an education to excel, and though my title is 'The Fear Factor', it is filled with determination to face my fears of the unknown and to never give up! Therefore, I am embracing 'The Fear Factor' and I am prepared to show I am fearless.

I hope to help people with disabilities become more confident in themselves by assisting them in having and maintaining healthy white teeth. As a Dental Hygienist, I want to teach individuals with disabilities how to have a fresh and bright smile by teaching them how to properly care for their teeth and gums at home and how having a well-balanced diet is also an important key to helping someone with a disability. My goal is to meet the person where they are and discuss their fears and concerns they may have that result in challenges with oral hygiene. Having insight into their disabilities and offering suggestions for anxiety-free, pain-free dental treatment is important to all patients.

My name is Kelis Crocker and I am a current senior. After high school, I plan to pursue a trade as a dental hygienist. I am more interested in a hands on career. I desire to provide services to others to help them live a healthier life. After four years of high school I have discovered that I wanted a career that brings me joy. I wanted to pursue a career in the medical field but realistically I did not want to spend years in college. I wanted to receive a rewarding career but in less the time. So as I began researching careers, I found that the dental hygienist would be an excellent career opportunity to pursue. Initially I was fearful of going to the dentist, but over the years I have grown to recognize this is not so bad as I thought it to be. I faced my fears and began to explore dental hygienist as a profession. And I can see myself helping others and helping smaller kids who was once me to overcome their fears and hopefully help them to become interested in the profession too. As a dental hygienist, I would have the pleasure of meeting someone everyday and helping them to build or rebuild their self confidence by ensuring they have healthy teeth and beautiful smiles. This may not mean much to some, but to someone who is being bullied by others it means a lot. Or to someone who may not care for their teeth, teaching them how to properly care for their teeth to have beautiful smile and strong teeth means a-lot. As a hygienist I will have the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life. It is an opportunity to get to know people and learn about their diverse backgrounds as well as learning about their needs. Being able to spend time with patients and offer them support is absolutely fulfilling. It was encouraging to me when my dentist and dental hygienist would engage me. I would also like to assist lower income families with dental assistance during community fairs or back to school fairs. Providing families with dental products that many can not afford. For me to have a higher education is critical in today’s economy. And as a dental hygienist, i see myself changing lives, it is my sincere hope that I can change the world one smile at a time by giving someone hope and a great smile!

My name is Kelis Crocker and I am a current senior. After high school, I plan to pursue a trade as a dental hygienist. I am more interested in a hands on career. I desire to provide services to others to help them live a healthier life. After four years of high school I have discovered that I wanted a career that brings me joy. I wanted to pursue a career in the medical field but realistically I did not want to spend years in college. I wanted to receive a rewarding career but in less the time. So as I began researching careers, I found that the dental hygienist would be an excellent career opportunity to pursue. Initially I was fearful of going to the dentist, but over the years I have grown to recognize this is not so bad as I thought it to be. I faced my fears and began to explore dental hygienist as a profession. And I can see myself helping others and helping smaller kids who was once me to overcome their fears and hopefully help them to become interested in the profession too. As a dental hygienist, I would have the pleasure of meeting someone everyday and helping them to build or rebuild their self confidence by ensuring they have healthy teeth and beautiful smiles. This may not mean much to some, but to someone who is being bullied by others it means a lot. Or to someone who may not care for their teeth, teaching them how to properly care for their teeth to have beautiful smile and strong teeth means a-lot. As a hygienist I will have the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life. It is an opportunity to get to know people and learn about their diverse backgrounds as well as learning about their needs. Being able to spend time with patients and offer them support is absolutely fulfilling. It was encouraging to me when my dentist and dental hygienist would engage me. I would also like to assist lower income families with dental assistance during community fairs or back to school fairs. Providing families with dental products that many can not afford. For me to have a higher education is critical in today’s economy. And as a dental hygienist, i see myself changing lives, it is my sincere hope that I can change the world one smile at a time by giving someone hope and a great smile!

My name is Kelis Crocker and I am a current senior. After high school, I plan to pursue a trade as a dental hygienist. I am more interested in a hands on career. I desire to provide services to others to help them live a healthier life. After four years of high school I have discovered that I wanted a career that brings me joy. I wanted to pursue a career in the medical field but realistically I did not want to spend years in college. I wanted to receive a rewarding career but in less the time. So as I began researching careers, I found that the dental hygienist would be an excellent career opportunity to pursue. Initially I was fearful of going to the dentist, but over the years I have grown to recognize this is not so bad as I thought it to be. I faced my fears and began to explore dental hygienist as a profession. And I can see myself helping others and helping smaller kids who was once me to overcome their fears and hopefully help them to become interested in the profession too. As a dental hygienist, I would have the pleasure of meeting someone everyday and helping them to build or rebuild their self confidence by ensuring they have healthy teeth and beautiful smiles. This may not mean much to some, but to someone who is being bullied by others it means a lot. Or to someone who may not care for their teeth, teaching them how to properly care for their teeth to have beautiful smile and strong teeth means a-lot. As a hygienist I will have the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life. It is an opportunity to get to know people and learn about their diverse backgrounds as well as learning about their needs. Being able to spend time with patients and offer them support is absolutely fulfilling. It was encouraging to me when my dentist and dental hygienist would engage me. I would also like to assist lower income families with dental assistance during community fairs or back to school fairs. Providing families with dental products that many can not afford. For me to have a higher education is critical in today’s economy. And as a dental hygienist, i see myself changing lives, it is my sincere hope that I can change the world one smile at a time by giving someone hope and a great smile!

1) After high school, I will be pursuing a trade as a Dental Hygienist. I am interested in helping someone who is ashame of their smile to smile again because I care enough to help them by teaching them how to care for their dental health. 2) I am interested in this profession because it affords me the opportunity to meet and connect with people from all walks of life. I would have the pleasure of bringing someone hope where they may feel down or have low esteem regarding. As a dental hygienist, I would have the pleasure of bringing happiness to people one person at a time. I would also have the opportunity to motivate someone who may feel discouraged because of their disability. I have been diagnosed with a disability but i do not let it get me down. 3) As a Senior in high school, I am currently enrolled in a medical class that provides me with hands on experience where I have the please of assisting patients. I am learning bedside manners and also leaning to deal with disgruntled patients. I know that there will be times that I encounter difficult patients, therefore this class is helping me to learn effective ways to communicate with patients to resolve problems more effectively. 4) I have finally decided on an official college major. Now I am narrowing down four year schools to assist me in getting my degree. I am currently considering Clayton State College or Albany State College as my top two choices here in Georgia. I am applying to both and will see which I would prefer. I am currently torn in between a two year or a four year degree. As I would like to experience the college life. 5) Wow there are several adults who would attest that I am worthy of this scholarship. Several know that I have overcome my ADHD and I now have control and can manage it. I have various coping skills in place to prevent me from being distracted. Mostly all adults can tell you I am a A/B honor roll student, and that I put in the hard work needed. I am passionate about things that get me excited. And i have a huge network that supports me and encourages me to always give 100%. I do believe this scholarship will help me to cover additional things may not be covered with financial assistance.

I can not really pinpoint one person who inspired me to pursue the dental field as a career. I knew that I wanted to work in the medical field, but i decided I did not want to be in school for years. I wanted to receive a rewarding career but in less the time that it would take to be a doctor. As a result, i stated looking into rewarding careers that I could be more hands on with in the medical field. I desired to provide services to others to help them live a healthier life. So as I began researching careers, I found that the dental hygienist would be an excellent career opportunity to pursue. Initially I myself was fearful of going to the dentist, but over the years I have grown to recognize this is not so bad as I thought it to be. I faced my fears and began to explore dental hygienist as a profession. And I can see myself helping others and helping smaller kids who was once me to overcome their fears and hopefully help them to become interested in the profession too. As a dental hygienist, I would have the pleasure of meeting someone everyday and helping them to build or rebuild their self confidence by ensuring they have healthy teeth and beautiful smiles. This may not mean much to some, but to someone who is being bullied by others it means a lot. Or to someone who may not care for their teeth, teaching them how to properly care for their teeth to have beautiful smile and strong teeth means a-lot. As a hygienist I will have the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life. It is an opportunity to get to know people and learn about their diverse backgrounds. Being able to spend time with patients and offer them support is absolutely fulfilling. Especially someone who may have a disability. I have a diagnosis of ADHD this could be a motivation to someone to help them recognize they can do or be whatever they desire. For me, this scholarship will help with the cost of items such as books and material needed. I am excited to embark upon this journey with your help! And as a dental hygienist, i see myself changing lives, it is my sincere hope that I can change the world one smile at a time by giving someone hope and a great smile!

After high school, I plan to pursue a degree as a dental hygienist. I am more interested in a hands on career. I desire to provide services to others to help them live a healthier life. I would like to pursue this career helping our men and women in the arm forces to maintain healthy living. After four years of high school I have discovered that I wanted a career that brings me joy. I wanted to pursue a career in the medical field but realistically I did not want to spend years in college. I wanted to receive a rewarding career but in less the time. So as I began researching careers, I found that the dental hygienist would be an excellent career opportunity to pursue. Initially I was fearful of going to the dentist, but over the years I have grown to recognize this is not so bad as I thought it to be. I faced my fears and began to explore dental hygienist as a profession. And I can see myself helping others and helping smaller kids who was once me to overcome their fears and hopefully help them to become interested in the profession too. As a dental hygienist, I would have the pleasure of meeting someone everyday and helping them to build or rebuild their self confidence by ensuring they have healthy teeth and beautiful smiles. This may not mean much to some, but to someone who is being bullied by others it means a lot. Or to someone who may not care for their teeth, teaching them how to properly care for their teeth to have beautiful smile and strong teeth means a-lot. As a hygienist I will have the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life. It is an opportunity to get to know people and learn about their diverse backgrounds. Being able to spend time with patients and offer them support is absolutely fulfilling. Especially someone who may have a disability. I have a diagnosis of ADHD this could be a motivation to someone to help them recognize they can do or be whatever they desire. For me to have a higher education is critical in today’s economy. And as a dental hygienist, i see myself changing lives, it is my sincere hope that I can change the world one smile at a time by giving someone hope and a great smile!

After high school, I plan to pursue a degree as a dental hygienist. I am more interested in a hands on career. I desire to provide services to others to help them live a healthier life. I would like to pursue this career helping our men and women in the arm forces to maintain healthy living. After four years of high school I have discovered that I wanted a career that brings me joy. I wanted to pursue a career in the medical field but realistically I did not want to spend years in college. I wanted to receive a rewarding career but in less the time. So as I began researching careers, I found that the dental hygienist would be an excellent career opportunity to pursue. Initially I was fearful of going to the dentist, but over the years I have grown to recognize this is not so bad as I thought it to be. I faced my fears and began to explore dental hygienist as a profession. And I can see myself helping others and helping smaller kids who was once me to overcome their fears and hopefully help them to become interested in the profession too. As a dental hygienist, I would have the pleasure of meeting someone everyday and helping them to build or rebuild their self confidence by ensuring they have healthy teeth and beautiful smiles. This may not mean much to some, but to someone who is being bullied by others it means a lot. Or to someone who may not care for their teeth, teaching them how to properly care for their teeth to have beautiful smile and strong teeth means a-lot. As a hygienist I will have the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life. It is an opportunity to get to know people and learn about their diverse backgrounds. Being able to spend time with patients and offer them support is absolutely fulfilling. Especially someone who may have a disability. I have a diagnosis of ADHD this could be a motivation to someone to help them recognize they can do or be whatever they desire. For me to have a higher education is critical in today’s economy. And as a dental hygienist, i see myself changing lives, it is my sincere hope that I can change the world one smile at a time by giving someone hope and a great smile!

An ideal teacher is someone who views their profession as an opportunity to contribute to education rather than just a way to make a living. A great teacher behaves as a mentor, friend, and philosopher for his or her students. It is beneficial to have a good instructor who can establish a mutually beneficial connection with the students. Out of all my teachers, Mr. DarinEdgecomb has influenced me the most. Mr. Edgecomb was my 7th-grade Language Arts Teacher at Lewis Frasier Middle School. He was an extremely passionate and dedicated educator who inspired me. He has a special talent for making learning enjoyable and interesting and is always eager to go above and beyond to make sure his students are learning and developing. While not all students are eager to learn, Mr. Edgecomb was the kind of instructor that can make his lesson not only engaging but also unforgettable. He was respected by all of his students and he treated them as his children. He also was well-liked by all members of the school's staff. He encouraged his students to ask questions to clear up any doubts they have. He responded to them and took the time to help the student understand. He would always make an effort to make the class more like a conversation than a lecture by engaging students in discussion and listening to their viewpoints. His personality was very engaging. He was always optimistic. Mr. Edgecomb never failed to make a classroom laugh. His smile could instantly light up any room. In 2018, Mr. Edgecomb received the District Teacher of the Year Award. Mr. Edgecomb also received $1,000 for classroom supplies thanks to a Georgia Power New Teacher Assistance Grant. In addition to helping you in earning a decent grade, Mr. Edgecomb motivated you to perform better than you had previously believed. Whether he realizes it or not, Mr. Edgecomb has had a significant impact on me. How one person can have such an effect on students is astonishing. I feel privileged to have been a part of such a demanding and competitive class, and he just led me to success. Sadly, he only taught English to me for a single year. There is no instructor I could have asked for more honestly. He ultimately aided me in achieving success in life while also making me laugh and be happy. He left the Liberty County School systems and moved to the Atlanta area. His presence is greatly missed and it hurts when valuable teachers leave! I wish him the best and I know he is continuing to do great things in the Atlanta area.

A movie that I can relate to and identify that may have impacted me is Alice In Wonderland. I can relate to Alice as she was challenged to view the world from a child's perspective. Honestly, our world is scary and having to grow up in the unknown makes you unprepared for what you are about to face. Her challenges, I can relate to are the various challenges that we face today. For me, it will be the change from a child into adulthood. The challenges I have are am I fully prepared for the world after high school. Whether I want to attend college or technical school. What I really would like to be when I grow up and how to go about getting there. There are other challenges to include will I be fully prepared for my transition? To me, Alice represents a child who is struggling to survive in a world that is chaotic, confusing and even scary. Wonderland for Alice is different from the world that she is used to knowing, this is very similar to the world I know as a child. No bills, no concerns, just a few rules and expectations from my parents. Now as I enter the unknown, adulthood, I have to grow up which represents Alice as she grew taller and shorter. She also struggled with determining who she was. Therefore her encounters with the various creatures who were of different backgrounds challenged Alice to discover her identity. She also The ending brings me a sense of hope that as Alice adapted to Wonderland and grew up, she ascended into adulthood. This helps build my confidence that with encounters faced, I can allow it to help build me or break me. The movie also teaches me to be secure and sound in who I am and not allow others to influence or discourage me in any way. This movie helps me to understand how Alice came into her identity. She discovered who she was and her mission in life. I am certain that there is much more that can be learned and observed from this movie, there are many other metaphors and similes that can be seen when one watches this movie. Some are both good and bad. But when I view this movie I look at Alice's transformation from a child to an adult which leaves a positive impression on me and my life to not fear the unknown but instead recognize that I can manage any challenge that I face.

During my high school years, situations that have shaped me into the person that I am today is the need to develop a healthy support system. During middle school, I developed friendships that I grew to realize were unhealthy. I was attempting to try to fit in as well as determine where I fit in. It was almost like putting together a large puzzle and attempting to understand where each piece fit. As each day went by, I started to learn valuable lessons that have shaped and molded me into the person that I am today. I have always tried to make a good decision, but sometimes the judgment becomes cloudy and slightly distorted by things. Things to include are friends who lack the same vision as you do. Therefore I had to learn to separate myself from individuals and surround myself with peers who were focused on the same as me. Learning to better myself and how to excel in life. I have learned that I must be accountable for myself and my actions. I have learned the importance of communicating more with like-minded peers. I found myself becoming more organized. I learned how to focus more and I also began to gain leadership skills. As a result, I have been on the A/B honor roll throughout high school. From kindergarten up until the 4th grade I did very well in school. However, it appeared that from the 4th through the 8th grade I only did enough to get by. I honestly believe that is because I was not placing healthy people in my life. Most people believe that this is the time that people are trying to find themselves and figure out where they belong in society. I do believe that was me, I wasn't sure about a lot and I wanted to try to fit in with everyone. But I learned that I cannot fit in with everyone. I began to communicate more and I began to ask for help from others. As a result, I become to come into my being and as a result, I could identify who I was and what I stood for in life. I now challenge myself to mentor others, similar to myself and help them understand the need to find and surround themselves with people who uplift, encourage and motivate. I hope that I can make a difference with others as I had wished someone took the time to mentor me.

I am passionate about science because it is a way of engaging with solutions for everyday life. We may exchange ideas through science while also learning more fundamental things. It helps us live longer and healthier lives, keeps track of our health, provides medicine to treat diseases, gives us energy, and makes life more enjoyable through sports, music, entertainment, and cutting-edge communication technology. Science aids in meeting our fundamental needs of food, water, and energy. Science helps restore landscapes, reduce carbon emissions, or reforest and reinstate wildlife habitats. Through research on biodiversity, scientists can find long-term solutions to problems impacting the world's natural environments. The study of nature and biodiversity on Earth to preserve species, their habitats, and ecosystems is known as conservation biology. The systems that sustain all life on Earth, including humans, depend on biodiversity. I am also passionate about technology because technology can increase facilitated learning, productivity, and efficiency. Technology has made it possible for people to have access to different resources. Technology can be super simple and also very complicated. New technologies have sparked the adoption of sustainable practices, improved resource management, and the switch to solar and renewable energy sources. The advancement of environmental technology can have a positive effect on the environment. Humans can harness the energy found in nature thanks to technology's beneficial benefits on society. Additionally, environmental technology, such as water turbines, solar panels, and electricity, aids in transforming energy into useful heat. Since technology is designed to address human problems, assist humans in adapting, and realize human aspirations, it has a greater direct impact on society than science. Technology is the use of scientific knowledge to real-world problems to carry out tasks that are otherwise impossible. With the development of farming methods and medical systems for disease treatment, science and technology have helped humanity overcome many of its challenges. Science and technology can be used to solve society's problems by exploring and considering how the future can be changed. Science and technology have altered our lifestyles in ways that have changed communication, how we work, how we live, what we wear and eat, how we travel, and even the quantity and quality of life. It is my passion to help others and to make a big difference in someone else's life and in our environment. Science must continue to play an active role in improving our society and the environment we call home.

In this day and age, there has been a lot that involves our law enforcement. Many people call for the disbanding of the police. However, it is not the need to disband the police but to ensure that the police have the proper education and training needed to address high-risk situations without the use of excessive force. The Washington Post reported that the police shoot and kill more than 1,000 people every year. It has been identified that African Americans and Hispanics are shot at a disproportionate rate. Many solutions have been addressed, however many lawmakers at local, state and federal levels do not share the same concerns about the reform of our law enforcement agencies. The initial need to build a relationship between African Americans and law enforcement would be through ongoing education. There is a need for diversified employment in leadership positions is also important within law enforcement. Having training that involves cultural diversity is a must. It also needs to be taught at all levels for elected officials. Having a citizen's police relations board can be instrumental in helping foster healthy relationships that build community policing, identifying challenges within the community on both sides. Another idea would be to ensure that the cadets engage in more vigorous training that includes cultural diversity. Departments should offer better pay and working conditions to their employers. If the employee comes from a work environment that cares for its people, they are more willing to commit themselves to providing the utmost service. Reforming the laws regarding deadly force is important. Officers who use deadly force must be admonished immediately. It is not fair that they are placed on administrative leave with pay while investigations are going on. Their pay should be immediately suspended while under investigation. Also if found guilty of using deadly force, officers should have to forfeit their pension or lose the portion that the employer matched. Officers have to understand that is it no longer acceptable to use excessive force or to do things their way, but that they are expected to adhere to the policy and regulations of the department. This is not something that is specifically geared to African Americans or Hispanics but it is for all nationalities, creeds, and origins. As human beings, we deserve to have hope for a bright future that treats us all with dignity and respect and we must recognize that we are valuable.

I am passionate about science because it is a way of engaging with solutions for everyday life. My plans for my future are to pursue a four-year degree in biology from a university. I am still in the planning phase on which university I am interested in attending. We may exchange ideas through science while also learning more fundamental things. It helps us live longer and healthier lives, keeps track of our health, provides medicine to treat diseases, gives us energy, and makes life more enjoyable through sports, music, entertainment, and cutting-edge communication technology. Science aids in meeting our fundamental needs of food, water, and energy. Science helps restore landscapes, reduce carbon emissions, or reforest and reinstate wildlife habitats. Through research on biodiversity, scientists can find long-term solutions to problems impacting the world's natural environments. The study of nature and biodiversity on Earth to preserve species, their habitats, and ecosystems is known as conservation biology. The systems that sustain all life on Earth, including humans, depend on biodiversity. I am also passionate about technology because technology can increase facilitated learning, productivity, and efficiency. Technology has made it possible for people to have access to different resources. Technology can be super simple and also very complicated. New technologies have sparked the adoption of sustainable practices, improved resource management, and the switch to solar and renewable energy sources. The advancement of environmental technology can have a positive effect on the environment. Humans can harness the energy found in nature thanks to technology's beneficial benefits on society. Additionally, environmental technology, such as water turbines, solar panels, and electricity, aids in transforming energy into useful heat. Since technology is designed to address human problems, assist humans in adapting, and realize human aspirations, it has a greater direct impact on society than science. Technology is the use of scientific knowledge to real-world problems to carry out tasks that are otherwise impossible. With the development of farming methods and medical systems for disease treatment, science and technology have helped humanity overcome many of its challenges. Science and technology can be used to solve society's problems by exploring and considering how the future can be changed. Science and technology have altered our lifestyles in ways that have changed communication, how we work, how we live, what we wear and eat, how we travel, and even the quantity and quality of life. That is why science plays a major role in our lives and is so important for the betterment of our world.

I am a senior in high school and I will graduate in 2024. I am nervous about this being my final year of high school, but I am excited about my future. I look forward to what the future holds for me. I am pursuing a degree in biology and I am prayful that I will be able to change the future. I am passionate about science because it is a way of engaging with solutions for everyday life. We may exchange ideas through science while also learning more fundamental things. It helps us live longer and healthier lives, keeps track of our health, provides medicine to treat diseases, gives us energy, and makes life more enjoyable through sports, music, entertainment, and cutting-edge communication technology. Science aids in meeting our fundamental needs of food, water, and energy. Science helps restore landscapes, reduce carbon emissions, or reforest and reinstate wildlife habitats. Through research on biodiversity, scientists can find long-term solutions to problems impacting the world's natural environments. The study of nature and biodiversity on Earth to preserve species, their habitats, and ecosystems is known as conservation biology. The systems that sustain all life on Earth, including humans, depend on biodiversity. I am also passionate about technology because technology can increase facilitated learning, productivity, and efficiency. Technology has made it possible for people to have access to different resources. Technology can be super simple and also very complicated. New technologies have sparked the adoption of sustainable practices, improved resource management, and the switch to solar and renewable energy sources. The advancement of environmental technology can have a positive effect on the environment. Humans can harness the energy found in nature thanks to technology's beneficial benefits of society. Additionally, environmental technology, such as water turbines, solar panels, and electricity, aids in transforming energy into useful heat. Since technology is designed to address human problems, assist humans in adapting, and realize human aspirations, it has a greater direct impact on society than science. Technology is the use of scientific knowledge to real-world problems to carry out tasks that are otherwise impossible. With the development of farming methods and medical systems for disease treatment, science and technology have helped humanity overcome many of its challenges. Science and technology can be used to solve society's problems by exploring and considering how the future can be changed. Science and technology have altered our lifestyles in ways that have changed communication, how we work, how we live, what we wear and eat, how we travel, and even the quantity and quality of life.

Unfortunately, I cannot tell you one fun thing about Disney. Everything is fun! From start to finish, you are faced with a world of excitement. What I do love about Disney is that this is the one place you are allowed to be a kid the entire time you are there. And any problems you may have had can be left at the door. An adult can visit and simply be a kid with or without the kids. I recall my visits to Disney with family and friends and we had the best time ever. It amazes me that you have people of all ages, races, and ethnicities present at Disney. Everyone has the same goal in common, to be a kid and have fun. Disney tends to unite everyone. They recognize the difference and are not afraid to embrace them. Everyone has a different background but they all share the same love for Disney. I truly enjoyed watching the parade on Main Street. The fireworks above the castle were magical. I also love to take photos with the characters. They are the best. Once you leave Disney, you are exhausted. But the experience leaves lasting memories. I would love the opportunity to travel to other Disney locations and compare the experiences. Visiting California or China or even Paris would be exciting to me. I live about five hours from Disney World in Orlando, FL. This makes it a lot of fun to go hang out from time to time. Another experience I would like to try is Disney's Animal Kingdom. My goal is to take a Disney Cruise too. What I love most is that Disney is always adding a new attraction to debut. Therefore each experience will be a different one because you will have something new to enjoy. Any age can enjoy Disney if you only believe. Disney means to me that I can be a kid at any time. It is scary growing up and becoming an adult in today's society. But it is a major relief that I know I have one place where I can go and revert to my youth and just enjoy and have no worries at all. Disney does not have to be a miserable experience, it can be so much fun if one would only open their minds to being exposed to something different. Yes it is expensive but it is well worth every penny!

Leadership sets the tone in our everyday lives. Not everyone possesses the ability to be a leader. Some people are capable of leading naturally while others must be taught the skills of a leader. Even then, it does not mean they are capable of being a leader. As a Senior in high school, I exemplify leadership abilities in various areas of my life. I believe in taking the initiative to do things without being told. And I also believe in helping others when necessary. Oftentimes, students will come to me and inquire if I understand a problem and I will take time and walk them through the problem step by step. At work, I frequently will volunteer to stay over when there is a staff shortage. Also, I will help with the training of the new employees as they come on board. I do not mind helping someone clean up or do extra duties before leaving to ensure the next shift is prepared. As a leader, it is important to lead by setting an example for others to follow. I learned this information from my mother who always goes above and beyond to help others. A leader motivates others and goes over and beyond to assist others who are in need. Another great quality of a leader would be that the leader shares information with others and does not try to conceal the information. A leader must be open to helping others grow and teaching them skills that will help them be successful. These are qualities that I do believe that I possess because they were instilled in me from day one. Another quality that I possess as a leader is a good listener. I listen for understanding and support others. As a friend, I am very supportive and encouraging to my friend and always want to see them grow and excel. One of my friends is currently experiencing some family problems and I try to encourage her and motivate her so that she does not feel down. For her 18th birthday, she was sad that her mother was in the hospital and not with her. I supported her by acknowledging how her mom's absence could cause her sadness but reminded her that her mother was trying to get well and that it was important that she did get well to be present for my friend for a long time. After our conversation, my friend recognized that it was more important for her mother to be present for several birthdays to come and not just this one in particular. As a leader, my goal is to help build a connection with my peers and be able to effectively communicate and not be afraid to jump in and help where needed.

My diagnosis of attention deficit disorder was never really observed until around the 4th grade. I started to meet challenges with completing my class assignments as evidenced by being easily distracted and being able to complete multiple tasks. This was an obstacle that I needed to adjust myself and learn to overcome. As a result, I was placed on medications. I did not like how the medications made me feel. So after an agreement with my mother, I learned to focus more and become less distracted. I had to learn how to organize things and put things in priority by level of importance. I learned how to write things down to help me keep track of assignments or tasks. Having a 504 Plan is good but I do not depend on it. I am allotted extra time on assignments if needed and breaks if needed. However, I challenge myself to stay focused and complete all assignments. At times I still struggle with receiving multiple directions. Therefore I learned the importance of asking for help or requesting my teachers to break down the directions into smaller parts that way I can follow them more effectively. But I continue to work on this challenge also by working at a fast food restaurant. Having the ability to be able to control myself and slow things down so I can receive them has been helpful as well. As a biology student, one thing I would like to do is explore the human mind to determine ways to prevent weaker function and structure of prefrontal cortex circuits, especially in the right hemisphere. I would also like to be able to identify environmental and prenatal factors that may trigger a child to be diagnosed with Attention Deficient Hyperactivity Disorder. And determine if there is a medical way to prevent one from being diagnosed. Though i may not be able to prevent it, maybe I will be able to produce medications that help decrease symptoms without the side effects. Either way, as a biology major I hope to be able to make a difference in someone else’s life. To help them be able to be the best they can be despite having a diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Last but not least, I hope to be able to encourage someone so they know they can still do anything they set their minds to as well. That is an awesome feeling to know that you are not limited to your disability and that you can be normal as others. My current 504 plan recognizes that I am not limited to my disability. And I am so grateful that I did not allow it to.

My belief in God has helped my personal faith by recognizing that there is no failure with God in front of me. That is why, I keep him as the head of my life. The answers he provides may not be what we want to hear or get and if not, he has something better in store for us. We must remember that our timing is not His timing and our ways are not His ways. We can learn and grow from our mistakes and our disappointments. Having my faith guide me throughout my career, is critical for my success. Letting him guide me daily in my schooling, job, physical growth, etc. helps me to know that I can with God's guidance. Often we can become lazy, tired, distracted, disappointed, and even overthink things, we even think that we cannot go on. But just his subtle reminders remind us that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us! As His child, we do not doubt that He has plans for us to prosper and grow! Therefore he is the inspiration that carries me through each day and helps to fight obstacles that are seen and unseen. He allows me to be a light for others and through Him, I am hopeful that I can show others His goodness. I desire to allow Him to work through me to overcome the fears that I currently have regarding life after graduation. Sometimes those fears are designed to lead me away from my higher calling. Sometimes negative thoughts can bombard you and can cause you to fear and distract you from your goals. However, we recognize that with God it is hard to stumble or fail. His messages and words vibrate in my life to help me stay grounded and focused. The scriptures remind us to walk by faith and not by sight, and I truly put my faith in God and know that he can do all things but fail. My college career after graduation is to pursue a degree in Biology and eventually become a trauma surgeon. My prayer is that the Lord will anoint my hands so that I can be an instrument through him to others. I continue to have faith and trust the Lord and know that I can do anything but fail! And that I must keep God first no matter what distractions come my way.

During my years of high school, an event that resulted in me overcoming adversity was COVID-19. COVID-19 resulted in a number of individuals lives having to change distractedly. And I was one of those individuals. My entire schooling had been spent engaging in face to face learning. Therefore having to revamp our entire lifestyle was somewhat of a challenge. It was truly difficult but many of us made it through. I went from not having a face to face with my teacher and them easily assessable to now not being able to go to them when I needed immediate assistance. I had to get out of my comfort zone and go into a world that was virtual. That was an adjustment for me. Simply because I am more of a hands on learner, and my first year of high school I had to learn through a computer through zoom. It was extremely challenging for me to do so, but I was able to get through. Not only am I a hands on learner, but I have been diagnosed with ADHD which adds additional challenges to my learning. As many others were also in similar boats. I never thought that I could do well at virtual learning, but it was not as bad as I had actually imagined. It caused me to prioritize things and organize things slightly differently. I had to recognize that no one could hold my hand and ensure that I was compliant with things, I now had to grow up, take more responsibility, and learn how to effectively manage the challenges I was presented with. I had to ensure that I had my assignments organized, I took time outs to not overwhelm myself, I set timers, and I changed my mindset about things. Often times, I was shy about turning on my camera. But I would step out of my comfort zone and attempt to engage on camera. It wasn’t comfortable but I made it through. Alot of things were definitively mind over matter. Requiring me to change the way I viewed things or the way I thought about things. Instead of focusing on the negative, I reassured myself that it was not so bad and that I could do it. As a result, my first year of virtual learning was a success! I made A/B honor roll. This adversity helped me to recognize the need to help others who are similar to me not get frustrated when change occurs. Also to promote the fact that it is okay to be different. Many people shun those with disabilities and think of them less than because of their disability. Providing others with knowledge is powerful to help dispel those negative beliefs that others have. What i have recognized through this all is that I am my own biggest advocate and the only thing that will stop me from being successful is myself.

My plans are to raise awareness for domestic violence by wearing purple especially during domestic violence awareness month. The month of October is dedicated to those who has survived domestic violence and to those who maybe in a domestic violence situation. The problem is many people do not want to intervene. That is my goal, to commit to saying something if I see something. My mother is a domestic violence victim advocate on a military installation. And there are times they have events to put information out to the military family’s. I will go with her to some of their fairs and help pass out information and to encourage people to stop by their information table to get brochures and trinkets. The lack of knowledge of their services is often stated when families approach the table. I understand the impact that domestic violence has on families by the information and education she has provided to me. This motivates me to want to help college students and others to understand that they too can by victims or impacted by domestic violence. My desire is to encourage victims to speak up as well as to encourage my peers if they see something they should say something. Often times people will say that this is not my problem, but the problem belongs to us all. No one, man or woman should be subjected to violence. It not only impacts the victim but if children are involved it can have a major impact on them as well. And many males do not understand that they can be victims too. Many people turn their heads and do not want to intervene. Intervention can be through the form of asking the person if they are okay, it can be providing them with resources so they understand they are not alone, and intervention can be notifying the police. In orders words, you do not have to be directly involved to help. Many survivors do not know there are resources available to help them. Many are not aware that shelters are accessible to help in various areas. Some are not aware that there are pro bono legal services available to them. And many do not know about victim advocates. My goal is to encourage others to intervene and report. And to acknowledge awareness of the impact of domestic violence. By speaking up or encouraging reporting, I hope that more people will get involved and not be afraid to say something.

Music has shaped the way I view the world by changing the way I perceive things. Today we live in a society where racism is prevalent and people have opinions based on things that have seen or learned from others. I have learned that music is a universal language that everyone knows. It is a language in that no one sees color but only feels the beat or hears the lyrics. I am amazed at watching how babies respond inside their mother's wounds when they hear music or singing. As a baby, my mom exposed me to music and after I was born I started dancing when I would hear various tones or songs. I would start jumping and smiling. Music affects neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin and it also impacts your mood. I listen to music to help motivate me and get my day started. Sometimes I do not want to get out of bed, but after turning on my music I have a better attitude and it gives me energy to start my day. Being diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder, music helps promote attentiveness and helps me to be able to focus and concentrate. It also helps me to relax when I am stressed or feel overwhelmed. I found it interesting to learn that music has been used to help victims with severe brain trauma, Alzheimer's patients, and even children with autism. It can reduce hyperactivity and strengthen social skills. My ancestors used music to help tell a story. The songs they would sing would help to define passages to help them gain their freedom. Many slaves would listen to words in the songs to be able to get directions for where to go and how to get there. It amazes me how music has shaped our world and provides and can be used as an aid to help those in need. Even musical instruments are essential in helping a person with Attention Deficit Disorder expand their abilities by sharpening their concentration skills. Music and musical instruments pave the foundation for increasing cognitive development and overcoming various impairments. I do believe that it is important to have music in our daily walks of life to help promote and shape healthy behavior and to help with many disabilities. My goal is to work in the field of medicine majoring in Biology. I intend to incorporate music to help activate emotional responses in the brain. Music is a universal language that makes everyone, including me feel great! And I want to continue that same energy when working with others.

Leadership sets the tone in our everyday lives. Not everyone possesses the ability to be a leader. Some people are capable of leading naturally while others must be taught the skills of a leader. Even then, it does not mean they are capable of being a leader. As a Senior in high school, I exemplify leadership abilities in various areas of my life. I believe in taking the initiative to do things without being told. And I also believe in helping others when necessary. Often times, students will come to me and inquire if I understand a problem and I will take time and walk them through the problem step by step. At work, I frequently will volunteer to stay over when there is a staff shortage. Also I will help with the training of the new employees as they come on board. I do not mind helping someone clean up or do extra duties before leaving to ensure the next shift is prepared. As leader, it is important to lead by setting an example for others to follow. I learned this information from my mother who always goes above and beyond to help others. A leader motivates others and goes over and beyond to assist others who are in need. Another great quality of a leader would be that a leader shares information with others and does not try to conceal the information. A leader must be open to helping others grow and teaching them skills that will help them be successful. These are qualities that I do believe that I possess because they were instilled in me from day one. Another quality that I possess as a leader is a good listener. I listen for understanding and support others. As a friend, I am very supportive and encouraging to my friend and always want to see them grow and excel. One of my friends is currently experiencing some family problems and I try to encourage her and motivate her so that she does not feel down. For her 18th birthday, she was sad that her mother was in the hospital and not with her. I supported her by acknowledging how her mom's absence could cause her saddness but reminded her that her mother was trying to get well and that it was important that she did get well in order to be present for my friend for a long time. After our conversation, my friend recognized that it was more important for her mother to be present for several birthdays to come and not just this one in particular. As a leader, my goal is to help build a connection with my peers and be able to effectively communicate and not be afraid to jump in and help where needed.

Being a vegan means an individual is practicing abstaining from using any products that may be dispensed or derived wholly or partly from animals. Individuals who claim or identify themselves as vegans tend to abstain from consuming products such as meat, fish, or poultry. They also do not consume products produced by animals such as eggs, dairy, or honey. Nor do vegans use products derived from animals such as leather, fur, silk, wool, cosmetics, and soaps. Humans become vegans for several reasons. Many people opt to be vegans in hopes to live healthier and longer lives. Others become vegans because of their desire to live a lifestyle that promotes humane and a caring world that does not center around harming animals. But whatever the reason it does require discipline. The future for veganism is upon us, many individuals and restaurants are conforming to the changes in the promotion of healthy eating. It is a less expensive way to eat and to feed others, and it does not place a huge burden on the environment. It requires less water and crops to sustain a vegan diet which has less impact on the environment. Restaurants are conforming to this change as it the trend is becoming increasingly popular. This is similar to how restaurants made significant changes to accommodate individuals with diabetes. The restaurant industry took steps to tackle diabetes in the community. They began to develop simple, economically-feasible, healthier items to promote healthy food in the environment. Having a plant based environment requires about one-third of the land to be used, which is a more suitable way to perserve the land. Nearly 10% of the U.S. population is vegan now and they are in search of restaurants that provide a 100% vegan menu from start to finish. This is mainly due to the health benefits associated with veganism. As a results, this is encouraging a new trend within restaurants. Many people today are looking at the need for a green world, which includes the use of solar, electric cars, recycling, veganism and much more. Restaurants are constantly assessing the needs of their consumer's behaviors and their demands and will accomodate them accordingly. When this happens, the restaurants do their best to accommodate their consumers. Recently I have attempted to change the way I eat. I am still working on it sometimes, but for the most part, I have chosen a life that is free of meat. My uncle and my mom are teaching me the importance of living a healthier life in order to live long.

I became introduced to soccer while enrolled in the local recreation department. This was my first time having contact with the game. I found the sport to be better than I expected. Soccer promotes teamwork and sharing. It helped me to be able to focus on and concentrate, something that I had found to be a challenge. I was diagnosed with ADHD, Attention Deficit Hyperactively Disorder and I had a hard time being able to focus in the classroom. Soccer gave me a better understanding of how to focus and concentrate on the ball and being able to kick the ball into the goal. I also helped with persistence and self-discipline. I enjoyed meeting people and interacting with people. One of my teammates had a mental health disorder and also had a handicap. It was encouraging to see her out on the field and running after the ball. There were moments she would be tired and would stop, but she never gave up she may have stopped to take a breath but not once did she give up and quit. This was a lot of motivation I needed to help me to understand that no matter what life deals your way, never stop and never quit. Not to mention this sport taught me to think while on the run. I got to focus and put my thoughts into action at the same time through concentration. I did not feel as if I had a million things going on at once. Soccer was not a hard sport to learn so that made things even better for me. One thing on my bucket list is to go to Australia. Soccer is very popular there and is played recreationally and competitively. Therefore when I do visit Australia this will be one thing that I am familiar with and feel like I am apart of the community because I know a little about the sport. This scholarship will be very helpful to me. I would be able to use the funds to help get needed materials for college to include books, items needed for my dorm room or even to help with my meal plan. I am also excited that the school I will be attending has a soccer program. I would be interested in trying out for the team or just playing soccer on the field with friends. This sport helped to shape me and provide me with a better way to effectively cope with my disorder.

My greatest achievement to date is my ability to improve my performance in school and make A/B Honor Roll. Around my 5th thru 8th-grade years of school, I started to have behavior issues. I was trying to figure out my place in life and where I belonged. I began to associate with peers who I thought were cool but I found myself making poor choices which came with consequences. At the after-school program, I began interacting with other kids who did not have the same outlook as my family had for me. As a result, there was a decline in my grades and I was never written up, but my teachers recognized that I was becoming more of a follower than I was a leader. And encouraged me and my family to explore what was happening, which we did. I was diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), I was placed on medications as a result. I also participated in counseling services as well. All of this helped! I began to learn skills to help me become more organized, I learned how to focus more and I also worked on my leadership skills. As a result, I found myself doing much better during my first year of high school. I was back on A/B honor roll and I was not getting into trouble or following others. This experience taught me that I must be accountable for my own actions. I learned to communicate more and ask for help when needed. I have also learned how to be become better organized so that I could pass my classes. Fo my future, my goal is to major in biology and to eventually work towards a medical degree where I can help others who have been traumatized and face loss of limbs or who have been impacted from a severe accident or some type of trauma. I enjoy learning about the human body and how it works. I also hope that one day I can work on finding a cure for a disease that will help someone and possibly keep them from losing their life. I believe in restoring hope for someone who feels that all is lost. I am hopeful that by furthering my education in the field of biology, I am able to make a difference for others as someone helped to make a difference for me and helped to motivate me to get on the right track.

My diagnosis of attention deficit disorder was never really observed until around the 4th-grade. I started to meet challenges with completing my class assignments as evident by being easily distracted not being able to complete multiple tasks. This was my obstacle that i needed to adjust myself and learn to overcome. As a result I was placed on medications. I did not like how the medications made me feel. So after an agreement with my mother, I learned to focus more and become less distracted. I had to learn how to organize things and put things in priority by level of importance. I learned how to write things down to help me keep track of assignments or task. At times I still struggle with receiving multiple directions. Therefore I learned the importance of asking for help or requesting of my teachers to break down the directions into smaller parts that way I am able to follow them more effectively. But I continue to work on this challenge also by working at a fast food restaurant. Having the ability to be able to control myself and slow things down so I can receive them has been helpful as well. As a biology student, one thing i would like to do is explore the human mind to determine ways to prevent weaker function and structure of prefrontal cortex circuits, especially in the right hemisphere. I would also like to be able to identify environmental and prenatal factors that may trigger a child to be diagnosed with Attention Deficient Hyperactivity Disorder. And determine if there is a medical way to prevent one from being diagnosed. Though i may not be able to prevent it, maybe I will be able to produce medications that help decrease symptoms without the side effects. Either way, as a biology major I hope to be able to make a difference in someone else’s life. To help them be able to be the best they can be despite having a diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Last but not least, I hope to be able to encourage someone so they know they can still do anything they set their minds too as well. That is an awesome feeling to know that you are not limited to your disability and that you can be normal as others. My current 504 plans recognizes that I am not limited to my disability. And I am so grateful that I did not allow it too. My experience makes me a good candidate for this scholarship simply because I have firsthand knowledge and experience and I recognize the dilemma that comes with having this disorder.

My dream version of my future is to assist someone involved in a traumatic accident with being able to have a healthy recovery and not lose activity of their ability to function daily.

My diagnosis of attention deficit disorder was never really observed until around the 4th-grade. I started to meet challenges with completing my class assignments as evident by being easily distracted not being able to complete multiple tasks. This was my obstacle that i needed to adjust myself and learn to overcome. As a result I was placed on medications. I did not like how the medications made me feel. So after an agreement with my mother, I learned to focus more and become less distracted. I had to learn how to organize things and put things in priority by level of importance. I learned how to write things down to help me keep track of assignments or task. At times I still struggle with receiving multiple directions. Therefore I learned the importance of asking for help or requesting of my teachers to break down the directions into smaller parts that way I am able to follow them more effectively. But I continue to work on this challenge also by working at a fast food restaurant. Having the ability to be able to control myself and slow things down so I can receive them has been helpful as well. As a biology student, one thing i would like to do is explore the human mind to determine ways to prevent weaker function and structure of prefrontal cortex circuits, especially in the right hemisphere. I would also like to be able to identify environmental and prenatal factors that may trigger a child to be diagnosed with Attention Deficient Hyperactivity Disorder. And determine if there is a medical way to prevent one from being diagnosed. Though i may not be able to prevent it, maybe I will be able to produce medications that help decrease symptoms without the side effects. Either way, as a biology major I hope to be able to make a difference in someone else’s life. To help them be able to be the best they can be despite having a diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Last but not least, I hope to be able to encourage someone so they know they can still do anything they set their minds too as well. That is an awesome feeling to know that you are not limited to your disability and that you can be normal as others. My current 504 plans recognizes that I am not limited to my disability. And I am so grateful that I did not allow it too.

I have two medical conditions. My first is asthma and the second is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Both have resulted in challenges in my life. But neither have been a detriment to me, instead they both have been instrumental in my life. My diagnosis of asthma has not placed any limitations on my life. It has not hindered me from being able to play sports or engage in any extracurricular activities. I have more knowledge of triggers and I am able to recognize and notice others who maybe experiencing challenges with breathing. I experience some breathing issues during the winter season, but my mom and I tried to tackle those matters before they got out of control. My diagnosis of attention deficit disorder was never really observed until around the 4th-grade. I started to meet challenges with completing my class assignments as evident by being easily distracted not being able to complete multiple tasks. As a result I was placed on medications. I did not like how the medications made me feel. So after an agreement with my mother, I learned to focus more and become less distracted. I had to learn how to organize things and put things in priority by level of importance. I learned how to write things down to help me keep track of assignments or task. At times I still struggle with receiving multiple directions. Therefore I learned the importance of asking for help or requesting of my teachers to break down the directions into smaller parts that way I am able to follow them more effectively. As a biology student, one thing i would like to do is explore the human mind to determine ways to prevent weaker function and structure of prefrontal cortex circuits, especially in the right hemisphere. I would also like to be able to identify environmental and prenatal factors that may trigger a child to be diagnosed with Attention Deficient Hyperactivity Disorder. And determine if there is a medical way to prevent one from being diagnosed. Though i may not be able to prevent it, maybe I will be able to produce medications that help decrease symptoms without the side effects. Either way, as a biology major I hope to be able to make a difference in someone else’s life. To help them be able to be the best they can be despite having a diagnosis of asthma or even a diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Last but not least, I hope to be an encouragement to someone with either of these diagnosis, so they know they can still do anything they set their minds too and never ever feel that things are impossible for them.

If you could have everyone in the world read just one book, what would that book be and why? If I could have everyone in the world read just one book, I would choose All About Love: New Visions by Bell Hooks. All About Love was originally published December 22, 1999, but also in 2000. This book talks about different aspects of love in life and breaks down how love is evasive. Hooks wrote and published this to teach others how to properly communicate their love for one another. This book can teach anyone on how to love and heal themselves. The book All About Love contains thirteen chapters, each named on tenants of love. I believe that this book expands the meaning of love, instead of the word just being linked to romance. This book has plenty of reviews of readers discussing how the book helped them change their way of thinking and open up. I believe this book can help anyone gain peace and creativity. The author Bell Hooks has published multiple books on topics concerning sexism and racism. Hooks has shared before that “love is the active nurturing of spiritual growth in ourselves and others”. All About Love talks about key ideas like changing our definition of love and how our society makes it difficult for us to experience love. I would encourage everyone to read this book because it discusses important topics in relationships with family and friends. I believe this book is helpful to anyone dedicated to making change in their life or someone else’s.

Generational wealth means creating a income that will not only sustain me but it will be an income or assets that will be passed down for generations to come. By having generational wealth, I can ensure that my children and their children will be financially stable. Generational wealth can be in the form of money, stocks, bonds, property or assets of some sort. Currently my uncle is teaching me about stocks and bonds and the importance of investing money and allowing my money to grow. He showing me how to monitor stocks and teaching me what are good stocks to invest in. He is also teaching me the importance of having a business. And getting a Limited Liability Company. Presently I have a small business, I provide tutoring services to individuals. And by doing this I can make a small fee that helps me purchase snacks. As I learn more from my uncle, I realize that this could blossom into a big business. Leaning this information, I discovered that this was something that my uncle also did when he was in college. He likes science and so do I. How coincidental! By having my own business, I am setting the foundation for much more. I fan use that income to invest in stocks and bonds and work to grow my own wealth. I can then begin to develop a plan on how the wealth I grow can be passed along to my family. Another desire is to learn more about building my wealth so that I am doing things in accordance to the law. I want to be able to make sound financial decisions that will help me grow my income versus making unhealthy decisions that could result in fiancial loss. Another thing I think I would be interested in doing is learning to invest in real estate. I would like to be in a position where I can purchases run down homes and be able to flip homes and then sell them and make a profit. I enjoy watching shows like flip my house and the profits gained from some of the flips. Rich Dad Poor Dad written by Robert Kiyosaki discussed the need to be educated financially. It also addressed the need to take extra money and invest it instead of spending it on frivolous things that we do not need. It also stresses that it is not necessary to earn a high income in order order to be rich. I am appreciative to be learning about generational wealth from my uncle. Some of the information shared by uncle has opened my eyes to help me learn to build my own wealth. I have not mastered this but I am starting to learn things to better myself.

Diverse representation in STEM careers affords patients the opportunity to receive services through different perspectives. Many people have difficulties trusting other races and having someone who represents them. They feel more confident by going to someone who looks like them. They trust them more and more likely to be follow their recommendations as stated to improve their health. Having diversity affords others to the same health care as others. Diverse representation offers a chance to understand and anticipate the needs of the customers. Diverse populations tend to understand their health risk and are able to present their needs in a manner that makes things more comprehensive. Diversity provides the opportunity for others to participate and provide their perspectives. Without diversity their is an underrepresentation of talent within the community. Without diversity in STEM careers students are less likely to see themselves in STEM occupations. May individuals grow up wanting to be basketball players because they see a representation of themselves in those fields. Many kids want to be the super heroes in play because they see someone who looks like them. Presently Whites and Asians are highly represented in the STEM field and Blacks and Hispanics are underrepresented. Someone in the STEM career field that looks like them, heightens the desire of youth to want to be in that career field as well. Also today a more hands on approach is being extended in schools to create an increased interest in STEM programs. But without that visual representation, youth are less likely to participate. Having a diverse representation in STEM can help alleviate disparities. It fuels growth in the economy. Having a diverse representation in the STEM field can help provide clients services in disadvantaged populations. Diversity in STEM is not just about race. Diversity in STEM is also about gender and individuals with physical disabilities as well. Expansion of diversity is very important to help others feel represented and understood. There are many other reasons to note the importance of diversity in STEM careers. It is important that we create an atmosphere where everyone has a fair and equal chance to be apart of the STEM field. I hope to be a role model to someone to encourage them to want to be apart of the STEM career field. Thank you for the opportunity to acknowledge my thoughts and opinions on the importance of diversity in the STEM career field.

My college major I wish to pursue is in Biology. My longterm goal is to become a trauma surgeon where i can assist those who require emergency services to repair blnt force injuries that may occur. This will be a costly pursuit that will require a major financial need. Having this scholarship will be a way to relieve some of the financial burden I will acquire as a result. This scholarship will help decrease the stress related to the purchase of a new computer. Having a new computer will carry me through my undergraduate experience to be able to complete homework assignments. This is one less stress that my parents or I have to be concerned with. Also, having this scholarship will assist with housing needs. Part of this scholarship will be used to secure housing on the campus. I would like to be able to get housing on campus in up-to-date housing. This will decrease exposure to things allergens that may be present in old housing accommodations. I have asthma for which I take medications to mitigate symptoms. Having new up-to-date housing is very important. Also applying remaining balances to books for the semester is important. Books are expensive and also take up a lot of your financial need. This will help to relieve sone of the burden acquired from having to purchase books and work books. Having thus scholarship will allow me the opportunity to focus on my studies. Without it, i may need to apply for work study to help with my financial need. I would prefer that my time is devoted to studying my first year in order to get organized and get a clear feel for college and what it offers. Also to be able to enjoy some of the events on campus instead of juggling classes, work, and studying. I am excited to be able to have this opportunity to apply for this scholarship. It is my prayer to be able to obtain scholarships to help me be successful in my career field. And it is an honor that this scholarship centers around someone who also enjoys the field of science. I enjoy learning about science and it is my desire to be able to make a difference in someone’s life through the field of science! Thank you for this opportunity to share with you and I would be honored to be a recipient of The North Star Dreamers Memorial Scholarship.

My decision to pursue a degree in the science field is to help continue to discover cures for various illnesses. As a child, I recall my paternal grandfather passing away from Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy and Sarcoidosis. He went from being a vibrant individual to being confined to a wheelchair and eventually having to be placed in a nursing home with round the clock care. The illness affected his speech, his ability to walk, and to stand. My family was responsible for his entire care. Eventually his breathing became labored until his demise. Doctors gave him seven years but he fight and our belief in God kept him around much longer. This was the beginning of my journey to want to know more about science. I also began to take interest in medical drama shows such as Grey’s Anatomy. I found the medical procedures very interesting. But most of all, I found an interest in the caring spirits of the staff towards their patients. Offering them hope or comfort in time of need, especially when things appear hopeless. Recently my mother had an open wound following a medical procedure. I had to pack it twice per day with gauze in order for it heal. The doctor commended me for doing a great job of packing the wound and applying the medications. This reassurance helped built my confidence that a career in the science/medical field was my calling. Especially now when the science/medical field is a necessity in our world. Diversity is critical in any field, it builds trust within the community and reassurance that patients have someone they can relate too. Patients feel comfortable and safe in being able to discuss medical issues with a person whom they feel understands and cares about their well being. Having a diversified work environment can help to build moral for the employees. Staff share their opinions and help promote different perspectives and opinions which bring about creative thoughts. This builds an even more diversified work place. This will allow a work environment to flourish. A diversified work environment will promote the employees to feel valued and respected. If the employees feel that way, the quality of their care and services in the science/medical field will increase tremendously and patients will be eager to seek your services and to refer others. It is my goal to one day be a valued team member with a diverse health care system. I hope that i can use my skills, knowledge, and abilities to help someone in need. This scholarship is a start in that direction.

Mentorship comes with many benefits. As a student, having a mentor helps me to build a relationship with someone who can help me to grow as an individual. The mentor is someone who can walk with me from beginning to the end of my journey and provide me with feedback based off of their own personal experiences. They are great listeners and have insight into how to overcome adversities and challenges. They also can be your biggest advocates to push you when you feel as if you can not continue. A mentor provides you with a plan of action when you things seem hopeless. And a mentor is a teacher, they leave a huge mark or a blue print on your life so that you too become a mentor to someone else. They never leave you behind! They provide you with advice from their own experiences. A mentor does all of this because they want to help or give back to others. They do not seek monetary gain, your accomplishments makes their hearts smile! Being a military child was a great experience. I had the opportunity to live on different Military bases and meet awesome friends. I grew up in daycares were my teachers really showed me love, and they taught me a lot. My mom still has a lot of my work. Daycare was fun! During my toddler years, my father was a Drill Sergeant in the Army. He was often “on the trail” working long hours to train Soldiers. So when I got to see him, I was so happy to spend time with him. I often would go to their graduation ceremonies and I was amazed at my dad leading Soldiers in marches and singing in cadence. Having to leave friends behind was a little difficult but you always made new friends wherever you went. I recall my dad leaving for a year, and it was just me and my mom. It was a challenge for her, but my mom was strong and she had a great support system to help her if needed. I was about eight when my father decided to retire after 26 years of service. My dad served our country and I consider him my hero. Today he is a disabled Veteran now, my youngest brother is actively serving in the Navy and my oldest brother is considering joining the Army. My dad has hopes that I too may one day join the military, but I am not certain, but what I do know is my dad is the best Soldier ever in my eyes and always will be.