My name is Keysten and I am a 25 year old cosmetology student at Jenks Beauty College. My journey to this point has not been easy but the experiences I have faced have shaped who I am and the future I want to create. When I was six years old, I lost my mother to a very rare form of cancer. She was only 21 years old. Losing my mother at such a young age left both my father and me devastated. My dad was suddenly faced with raising me on his own while trying to cope with the loss of the woman he loved. For a few years, my grandmothers stepped in and helped raise me while my dad worked to rebuild his life and find stability. Eventually, I began spending weekends with my dad and his new girlfriend, who would later become my stepmother. Becoming part of a blended family was difficult. My stepmother and I did not get along from the beginning and as I grew older, I often felt that I was treated differently from her children. I was expected to clean up after them, watched them receive new things while I received hand-me-downs, and struggled with hearing my biological mother spoken about negatively. One of the hardest parts was trying to understand why I was treated this way. As I got older, I began to realize that some of the anger and hurt surrounding my mother may have been taken out on me. My stepmother and my mother had gone to high school together and I often felt caught in emotions and circumstances that existed long before I was old enough to understand them. For nearly twelve years, I experienced the challenges that came with growing up in a complicated blended family. Once I graduated, moved into my own place and was able to make my own decisions, I began discovering who I truly was outside of everything I had experienced. Looking back, I am proud of the strength those experiences gave me. I learned that I cannot control the circumstances I am given but I can control what I choose to make of them. My childhood could have defined me but instead, I chose to use it as motivation to build a different future. That is one of the reasons cosmetology means so much to me. Beauty is about more than hair, makeup or appearance to me. It can give someone confidence, allow them to express themselves and help them feel good about who they are. I know what it feels like to struggle with your identity and wonder where you belong. I want to use my creativity and talents to help others feel confident, valued and comfortable being themselves. My goal is to create a career where I can do more than provide a service. I want my chair to be a place where people feel welcomed, heard and truly cared for. I want someone to walk in feeling defeated and leave feeling a little more confident and hopeful. Growing up in a single-parent and blended family taught me resilience, independence, compassion and the importance of choosing who I want to become. My past will always be part of my story but it does not have to be the ending. I want to turn what I have been through into something good and use my talents to help others feel beautiful, confident and worthy- inside and out.

Hi! My name is Keysten and I am a cosmetology student with a passion for all things hair. While I dream of building a career that helps people feel beautiful and confident, the foundation of that dream was built long before I ever picked up a pair of shears. It was built by the woman who stepped in when my world fell apart. When I was six, I lost my mother to a rare cancer that wrapped around her spinal cord and eventually left her paralyzed. At that age, I couldn't understand the weight of what was happening. I only knew that my momma was gone. As I've gotten older, I've found peace in knowing she is with Jesus, free from the pain that took so much from her. Losing my mom at such a young age left a space in my heart that could never truly be filled. While my father worked to get back on his feet, I moved in with my grandmother and great-grandmother, who had also helped raise my father. They didn't just open their home to me—they opened their hearts. In a season filled with uncertainty, they became my safe place. My great-grandmother, Colette, whom I called my GG, was the definition of strength. She was a firecracker with a sharp wit, an old-school mindset and a heart bigger than she would ever admit. She loved spending her evenings rocking in her chair while watching Dancing with the Stars or Judge Judy. She believed in respect, responsibility and doing what was right even when no one was watching. She wasn't afraid to correct me, hold me accountable, or tell me exactly what I needed to hear. At the time, I didn't always appreciate her tough love. Today, I recognize it as one of the greatest gifts. My GG taught me that your circumstances do not define your future. She showed me what resilience looked like through her actions, not just her words. She made sure I understood the importance of showing up, working hard and treating others with kindness and respect. Those lessons became the foundation of the woman I am today. When my GG passed peacefully in her sleep, I moved back in with my father and my new stepmother. One thing that has always stayed with me is that my step-grandmother later moved into my GG's house. It felt like more than a coincidence, it was a reminder that while people leave this world, the love they give and the lives they shape continue to live on. Today, I carry my GG's lessons into every part of my life, especially as I pursue cosmetology. To some, hairstyling is simply about appearance. To me, it's about helping someone see the beauty in themselves, even on days when life feels heavy. I know firsthand how one person's love, encouragement and belief in you can change the direction of your life. I want every client who sits in my chair to leave feeling seen, valued, and more confident than when they arrived. Without my GG, I would not have the discipline, determination or work ethic that have carried me this far. She taught me that love is often shown through sacrifice, consistency and unwavering support. Although she is no longer here to see the woman I have become, I strive every day to honor her legacy. Everything I accomplish is a reflection of the values she instilled in me. Her influence transformed one little girl facing unimaginable loss into a woman with purpose, compassion and the determination to build a future she would be proud of.

Throughout high school, I have looked for every opportunity to serve my school and community. Whether I was volunteering through National Honor Society, organizing activities in Student Council or supporting my classmates as a cheerleader- I learned that leadership is about showing up, encouraging others, and making a positive impact. Service has never felt like an obligation to me but it has been one of the most rewarding parts of my high school experience. One of the most meaningful ways I volunteered was through National Honor Society. Over the past four years, I participated in service projects that benefited many different groups in my community. I have volunteered at nursing homes, helped at food banks, participated in canned food drives and assisted with 5K fundraising events that supported local animal organizations. Each experience has allowed me to connect with people from different backgrounds and reminds me that even small acts of kindness can make a huge difference. As a four year member of Student Council, I also had the opportunity to help organize events that strengthened our school community. We planned lock-ins, created vision boards that reflected our school's goals and made decorations and signs for homecoming to build school spirit. These projects required teamwork, organization and creativity. I learned that leadership is not about receiving recognition but it’s about working alongside others to create an environment where everyone feels included and supported. Beyond volunteering, I have stayed involved in many aspects of my school. As a four year cheerleader for the Skiatook Bulldogs, I encouraged and supported our athletes while helping build school pride. Through Bulldog TV and Business Professionals of America, I developed communication and leadership skills that allowed me to collaborate with others. I also wrote fashion articles for our school newsletter, sharing affordable outfit ideas and encouraging students to express themselves with confidence. These experiences have shaped my understanding of leadership through service. A true leader does not simply direct others but inspires people by setting an example. Leadership means being dependable, willing to help and committed to improving the lives of those around you. Every volunteer project, school event and extracurricular activity taught me the importance of compassion, responsibility and teamwork. As I continue my education, I plan to carry these values with me. I want to remain actively involved in my community, continue volunteering and use my experiences to encourage others to serve as well. Receiving this scholarship would not only help me achieve my educational goals, but it would also allow me to continue giving back to the communities that have helped shape me into the person I am today. Thank you for your time.

My name is Keysten and I am an aspiring hairstylist with a passion for helping people feel confident, valued, and comfortable in their own skin. My experience with mental health has deeply shaped who I am, how I interact with others, and the goals I have chosen to pursue. Through my experiences with grief, loss, and learning how to navigate difficult emotions, I have developed a greater understanding of compassion, resilience, and the importance of creating meaningful connections with the people around me. When I was six years old, my mother passed away from chordoma, a rare cancer that affected her spinal cord and left her paralyzed. At a young age, I did not understand what was happening or how much that loss would impact the rest of my life. Losing my mother was the most significant experiences of my childhood and shaped the way I learned to understand emotions, relationships and the world around me. My father and I had to learn how to move forward without her. While we both did our best, grief is something that affects everyone differently, and I did not have the support or resources needed to fully understand what I was feeling. I never learned how to process my emotions or talk about the pain I was experiencing. Instead, I learned to be strong, keep going, and carry those feelings quietly. As I got older, I began to realize that grief does not simply disappear with time. It changes, and it becomes something you learn to carry while continuing to grow. One of the most difficult parts of losing my mother at such a young age is that I have very few memories of her. My clearest memories are her wedding day and the day of her funeral. Growing up, there were many milestones where I wished I had her guidance and support. There were moments when I wanted to ask her questions, celebrate accomplishments with her, or simply have her there. Experiencing this loss at such a young age shaped my mental health in ways I did not always understand at the time. As a child, I did not have the words to explain my emotions or understand why certain moments felt harder than others. Over time, I learned the importance of acknowledging feelings instead of ignoring them. I learned that asking for support, allowing yourself to process difficult experiences, and showing yourself compassion are important parts of growth. My journey with mental health has greatly influenced the way I view relationships. Because I know what it feels like to experience a loss that others cannot always see, I have become more aware that everyone carries something behind the scenes. This understanding has taught me not to judge people based only on what I see. Instead, I try to approach others with patience, kindness, and empathy because I know how meaningful it can be when someone takes the time to truly care. This perspective helped shaped the way I want to impact others through my future career. Ever since I was little, I have loved making people smile and have been drawn to creativity and connection. I have always enjoyed hair because it allows people to express who they are and feel confident in themselves. However, my experiences have taught me that hairstyling is about much more than the physical result. It is about creating an experience where people feel heard, respected, and valued. Because of my own experiences, I understand how powerful it can be to have someone listen, encourage you, and make you feel important. I want to bring that same feeling to the people I serve. My goal is to become a hairstylist who works with people of all ages and backgrounds, from children receiving their first haircut to seniors who appreciate the comfort, conversation, and connection that come from a salon visit. I want every person who sits in my chair to feel welcomed and accepted. I hope to create an environment where people can be themselves, express their individuality, and leave feeling more confident than when they arrived. My mental health journey has also shaped the way I approach challenges. Losing my mother was something I never would have chosen, but it taught me resilience and determination. Instead of allowing my loss to prevent me from moving forward, I have used it as motivation to build a meaningful future. I want my life to honor my mother by making the most of the opportunities I have been given and by bringing kindness to others. Pursuing cosmetology is not only about building a career for myself; it is about creating a future where I can make a positive impact. I am currently working toward becoming a licensed hairstylist and continuing to develop my skills through education and hands-on experience. My long-term goal is to continue growing within the industry, build a loyal clientele, and eventually create a space where people feel safe, comfortable, and confident. My experiences with mental health have changed the way I understand the world. They have taught me that strength does not mean never struggling; strength means continuing forward, learning from experiences, and using what you have been through to help others. The person I am today has been shaped by both the challenges I have faced and the love I have carried with me throughout my life. My mother’s life was too short, but the lessons I have learned from losing her continue to guide me. My goal is to take those lessons and use them to create a career centered around connection, confidence, and kindness. Through hairstyling, I hope to do more than create beautiful hair. I hope to create moments where people feel valued, listened to, and reminded that they matter. My mental health journey has inspired me to become someone who brings positivity into the lives of those around me and to build a future that reflects the compassion and resilience I have gained along the way.

My name is Keysten and I am a 25 year old aspiring hairstylist. To me, selflessness means choosing to make a positive difference in someone else's life without expecting anything in return. It means recognizing that everyone has different struggles and needs, and taking the time to show kindness, compassion and support whenever possible. Throughout my life, I have tried to embody selflessness by being someone who looks for opportunities to help others and bring positivity into their lives. During high school, I was a member of the National Honor Society, where I had the opportunity to serve my community through volunteer work. Through this experience, I participated in activities such as volunteering at food banks, helping at local pantries, and spending time with residents at nursing homes. These experiences showed me that helping others does not always require a grand gesture. Sometimes, the smallest acts of kindness like taking time to listen, offering companionship, or simply showing someone they are cared about, can have a meaningful impact. One experience that stood out to me was volunteering at nursing homes. Many residents did not always have frequent visitors and I learned how important it was to give them my time and attention. Sitting with them, listening to their stories and sharing moments reminded me that everyone deserves to feel valued and remembered. It taught me that selflessness is not just about what you give but also about being fully present for someone who may need connection and kindness. I was also involved in Student Council throughout all four years of high school, which strengthened my desire to serve and support those around me. Being part of Student Council allowed me to work with others to create positive experiences for my school community. Whether it was helping organize events, supporting fellow students, or finding ways to improve the school environment, I learned the importance of teamwork, responsibility and using my voice to help others. These experiences have shaped the person I am today. They have taught me the importance of empathy and reminded me that everyone has a story that may not be visible on the outside. I carry these lessons with me as I continue my education and pursue my career as a hairstylist. I believe selflessness will always be an important part of my profession because behind every person who sits in my chair is someone who deserves to feel heard, respected, and valued. I strive to continue embodying selflessness by serving others, creating meaningful connections, and using my skills to bring confidence and happiness to those around me. Whether thats through volunteering, my future career, or everyday interactions, I hope to always be someone who makes a positive difference in the lives of others.

My name is Keysten Burggraaff and I am a first-generation college student pursuing my dream of becoming a licensed hairstylist. Being a first-generation student means stepping into a path that was not already created for me. It means learning how to navigate new challenges, make important decisions and believe in myself even when I did not always have someone to show me the way. It represents courage, determination and the desire to create a better future through hard work and education. Growing up, I did not always have the guidance or resources to understand how to turn my passions into a career. I believed that doing something I loved and building financial stability could not exist together. Without someone close to me who had gone through college or a professional program, I had to learn how to find opportunities, ask questions and advocate for myself. One of the most important moments in my journey happened during a hair appointment when my hairstylist shared her experience in cosmetology and encouraged me to consider pursuing the profession. That conversation opened my eyes to a future I never realized was possible and gave me the confidence to take the first step toward my dream. My journey has not been without challenges. I have had to balance the responsibilities of adulthood while pursuing my education, including managing the financial demands of tuition, supplies, transportation, and everyday expenses. There have been moments where continuing my education felt overwhelming, but I have remained committed because I know the importance of investing in my future. Instead of allowing challenges to stop me, I have used them as motivation to work harder and continue moving forward. My goal is to successfully complete cosmetology school, obtain my license and build a meaningful career as a hairstylist. I have always loved making people smile and I believe hairstyling is about much more than appearance. It is about creating connections, helping people feel confident and providing a space where everyone feels valued. After graduation, I hope to gain experience in a salon, continue my education through advanced training and eventually explore opportunities such as becoming an independent stylist or opening my own salon. This scholarship would have a meaningful impact on my journey by helping relieve some of the financial pressure that comes with pursuing my education. It would allow me to focus more of my time and energy on developing my skills, learning from my instructors and preparing for a successful career. More than financial assistance, this scholarship would be encouragement that the path I have chosen is worth pursuing. Being a first-generation student means creating opportunities that may not have existed before me. My dream is not only to build a successful career but also to inspire others to believe they can pursue their goals, even when the path is unfamiliar. This scholarship would help me continue my journey toward becoming a hairstylist who makes a positive difference in the lives of others.

My name is Keysten Burggraaff and my goal is to build a successful and fulfilling career as a licensed hairstylist. Ever since I was a little girl, I have loved making people smile and have been drawn to the creativity and connection that comes with doing hair. To me, hairstyling is more than a service but a way to help people feel confident, express themselves, and feel valued. My long-term goal is to create a career where I can positively impact the lives of others while continuing to grow as an artist and professional. My journey toward this goal began when I realized that doing something I loved could also become a stable and rewarding career. For a long time, I did not have the guidance to understand how it was possible to turn a passion into a profession while still supporting myself financially. During one of my own hair appointments, my hairstylist shared her experience in cosmetology and encouraged me to consider pursuing the field. That conversation inspired me to take a leap of faith and enroll in cosmetology school. Since beginning my education, I have discovered how much I enjoy learning the technical and creative sides of the industry, including haircutting, coloring, styling, client communication, and maintaining healthy hair. My immediate goal is to successfully complete cosmetology school, obtain my cosmetology license and continue developing my skills through hands-on experience and advanced education. To reach this goal, I am utilizing the resources available to me through my school including instructors, educators, classmates, practical salon experience, and continued training opportunities. I understand that becoming successful in this industry requires more than simply completing school but requires dedication, continued learning, professionalism, and building strong relationships with clients. After graduation, my plan is to begin working in a salon environment where I can continue improving my skills, gain experience and build a loyal clientele. My goal is to work with clients of all ages, from children receiving their first haircut to seniors who enjoy the confidence and connection that comes from a salon visit. I want to create a welcoming space where every person feels comfortable, respected, and confident. Financial planning is also an important part of reaching my goals. My current expenses include cosmetology tuition, professional tools and supplies, transportation and everyday living costs. A professional cosmetology kit, quality products, continued education classes, licensing fees and maintaining reliable transportation are all necessary investments in building my career. While I am committed to working hard and contributing financially toward my education, managing these costs can be challenging. This scholarship would help reduce some of the financial pressure associated with completing school and allow me to focus more of my time and energy on developing my skills. In the future, I have considered multiple paths for continued success. My first goal is to gain experience working in a salon and establish myself within the industry. As my skills and clientele grow, I would like the opportunity to explore additional options such as booth renting, becoming an independent stylist, or eventually opening my own salon. My vision for the future is to create a space where people of all backgrounds feel welcome and where beauty services are combined with genuine care and connection. This scholarship would not only provide financial assistance but it would help me continue pursuing a career that I am passionate about and bring me one step closer to achieving my goal of becoming a successful hairstylist who makes a difference in the lives of others.

My name is Keysten and I am an aspiring hairstylist with a lifelong passion for helping people feel confident beautiful and comfortable in their own skin. Ever since I was little, I have loved making people smile. Whether it was helping a friend feel better with a compliment or experimenting with different hairstyles on anyone who would let me, I was always drawn to the creativity and confidence that hair can inspire. To me, hairstyling is much more than cutting, coloring, or styling hair but it is an opportunity to connect with people, listen to their stories and help them leave feeling better than when they walked through the door. Growing up, I did not have the guidance or resources to understand that it was possible to build a successful career doing something you truly love. I believed that passions were hobbies and that careers were simply jobs you tolerated to pay the bills. Because of that mindset, I never imagined that cosmetology could provide both personal fulfillment and financial stability. Everything changed during one of my own salon appointments when my hairstylist shared her journey with me. She explained what cosmetology school was like, how rewarding the profession could be and that it was possible to make a living while doing something you are passionate about. For the first time, I could clearly picture a future where I loved what I did every day. Soon after, I enrolled in cosmetology school and committed myself to turning that dream into reality. Since starting school, my passion has only continued to grow. Every lesson reminds me that I chose the right career path. I especially enjoy meeting new people and learning about their lives while helping them achieve a look that makes them feel confident. One of the things I love most about this profession is that every client has a unique story and every appointment is an opportunity to brighten someone's day, even in a small way. After graduation, I plan to continue building my education and experience while developing a loyal clientele. I hope to work with clients of all ages, from children receiving their first haircut to seniors who appreciate the comfort and confidence that come from visiting the salon. My goal is to create an environment where every person feels welcomed, respected, and valued regardless of their age, background, or style. I want my chair to be a place where people can relax, express themselves, and leave feeling more confident than when they arrived. As I continue to grow in the industry, I also hope to expand my skills through advanced education and specialized certifications so I can provide the best service possible. Receiving this scholarship would make a tremendous difference in helping me achieve these goals. Like many students, I am balancing the financial responsibilities of tuition, supplies, and everyday living expenses while working hard to complete my education and a part time job. Although I am fully committed to investing in my future, the financial burden can sometimes create added stress and make it more difficult to focus entirely on my studies. This scholarship would help ease that pressure allowing me to dedicate more time and energy to mastering my craft, serving clients and preparing for a successful career. This scholarship would be an investment in my future and bring me one step closer to building the career I have dreamed of since I was a little girl. I am determined to use my education to make a positive impact in the lives of others.

My name is Keysten Burggraaff and I am a 25 year old aspiring hairstylist. When I six, my mother passed away from chordoma, a rare cancer that affected her spinal cord and eventually left her paralyzed. At that age, I was too young to understand what was happening or realize how little time I had left with her. I did not know that I was experiencing one of the most significant losses of my life, and I certainly did not understand how deeply it would affect my mental health as I grew older. After my mother passed away, my father and I were left to navigate life without her. As a child, I simply learned to keep moving forward because I did not know there was another way. I buried my emotions instead of talking about them and for years I convinced myself that I was okay because I didn't know how to express what I was feeling. One of the most painful parts of losing my mom so young is that I have very few memories of her. My clearest memories are of her wedding day and the day of her funeral. As I have gotten older, realizing how much I have forgotten has been almost as painful as the loss itself. It often feels like I am grieving not only the mother I lost but also the memories I never had the chance to create with her. Growing up without my mother also meant growing up without someone to guide me through many of life's memories. Watching my friends have that support made me realize what I was missing and at times it was incredibly difficult not to compare my life to theirs. Those feelings sometimes led to loneliness and sadness but they also taught me to appreciate every meaningful relationship I have. As I grew older, I began to understand that grief is not something that simply disappears with time. Instead, it changes. Some days it is quiet, while other days it returns unexpectedly. There are moments when I wonder what my life would have looked like if my mother had been here to watch me grow up. Although those questions may never have answers, I have learned that it is okay to acknowledge those feelings instead of ignoring them. Despite these challenges, I have worked hard to ensure that my loss does not define me. Instead, it has become one of my greatest sources of strength. Experiencing grief at that age taught me compassion and empathy for others. Because of my own experiences, I try to approach people with kindness, patience, and understanding. A smile, a conversation, or simply listening to someone can make a greater difference than we often realize. Looking back, I wish I had received more support while learning to cope with the loss of my mother. I believe that mental health deserves the same attention and compassion as physical health, especially for children who experience trauma or loss. My journey has shown me that healing is not about forgetting someone you love but it is about learning to carry that love with you while continuing to grow. Although losing my mother is something I would never wish on anyone, it has shaped me into someone who values resilience, empathy, and human connection. Her life continues to inspire me, even though our time together was far too short. Everything I accomplish is, in many ways, a way of honoring her memory. These lessons have not only strengthened my mental health journey but have also inspired the person I strive to become every day.

My name is Keysten and I am currently pursuing a career in cosmetology at Jenks Beauty College. Ever since I was young, I have always had a passion for hair and beauty. I always loved how something as simple as a new hairstyle can completely change the way a person feels about themselves. Hair has always been a form of creativity and self-expression for me and I enjoy being able to switch up styles depending on my mood or even just to make the day feel different and exciting. That passion is what ultimately inspired me to pursue cosmetology as my future career. Growing up, I was always the family member experimenting with different hairstyles. I would spend hours practicing braids, trying out new looks, and convincing my cousins and friends to let me style their hair. My family would joke about me starting “braid trains” because I was constantly gathering everyone together to practice different techniques and styles. Even at a young age, I found happiness in making people feel more confident and beautiful through hair. I did not realize it then but those small moments were shaping the career path I would eventually choose. As I got older, my love for cosmetology only grew stronger. I began paying closer attention to the techniques my hairstylist used during appointments and became fascinated by how much skill and creativity went into the work. However, I also had fears about turning my passion into a career. One of my biggest concerns was whether I would be able to successfully make a living while going through school and starting out in the industry. Like many people pursuing a dream, I worried about financial stability and whether I was making the right decision. Last year, I had a meaningful conversation with my hairdresser that truly inspired me and gave me confidence in my decision. I asked her about her experience in cosmetology school, how she balanced responsibilities, and how she was able to make ends meet while building her career and doing what she loves. She shared great advice and encouraged me to trust my passion and work hard for what I wanted. Hearing her story helped me realize that success in this field is possible with dedication, persistence, and love for the craft. That conversation confirmed for me that cosmetology is not just something I enjoy but it’s something I genuinely want to dedicate my future to. I want to continue learning new techniques, improving my skills, and helping others feel confident in themselves. For me, cosmetology is about more than hair. It’s about creativity, connection, and making people feel their best and I am excited to continue my journey at Jenks Beauty College and work toward turning my passion into a successful and meaningful career.

Hello, my name is Keysten Burggraaff, and I am a 24-year-old aspiring cosmetologist with a passion for hair and beauty. My interest in this field began at a young age when I discovered how meaningful something as simple as styling my hair could be. I would wake up early before school just to try something new. Whether it was a different braid, curl pattern, or style because it made each day feel unique. Hair became more than just part of my routine; it became my creative outlet and a way to express who I was. As I grew older, my curiosity turned into dedication. I spent hours teaching myself new techniques by watching youtube tutorials and studying the work of professional hairstylists. I became fascinated not only with the artistry of hair design but also with the confidence it can give people. I realized that cosmetology is not just about appearance but it’s about helping others feel comfortable, confident, and empowered in their own skin. Currently, I work as a manager at a wellness massage and chiropractic clinic, where I have had the opportunity to observe massage therapist professionals who are truly passionate about their work. Watching my massage therapists care for their clients with such purpose has truly inspired me. Their ability to positively impact someone’s well-being showed me the kind of fulfillment I want in my own career. I realized that I want to create that same sense of confidence and care for others but through my passion for hair. I also spoke with my hairstylist about pursuing cosmetology and while I had concerns about balancing school with my financial responsibilities, I knew deep down that this was the right path for me, regardless of what it takes to get there. Choosing to pursue this field required courage and commitment but my passion outweighed my fears. I decided to take that leap because I believe in investing in a career that truly fulfills me. Cosmetology isn’t just a job to me, it is a lifelong passion and a meaningful way to connect with others. I am driven to build a career where I can combine creativity, skill, and compassion to make a positive difference in people’s lives. This is why I have chosen this field. After graduation, my goal is to work under an experienced stylist to continue building my skills while expanding my education through programs like Dermalogica. I want to provide not only great service but also help my clients feel confident and cared for. As I grow, I plan to rent a booth and eventually open my own salon where people feel welcomed, valued, and empowered. I am also interested in creating a mobile hairstyling service to reach those who may not have easy access to a salon. I am passionate about using cosmetology to make a positive impact on others, and I would be grateful to be considered for this scholarship as I continue pursuing my goals. Thank you so much for your time!

Hi, my name is Keysten Burggraaff and I am an ambitious cosmetology student at Jenks Beauty College set to graduate in 2027. My personal experiences with mental health have deeply shaped my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations in ways that continue to guide me today. At the age of six, I experienced a life-altering loss when my mother passed away at just twenty-one years old. Losing her at such a young age left a lasting impact on my emotional well being and sense of stability. I was very much a “momma’s girl,” and her absence created a void that I carried with me throughout my childhood and into adulthood. During that time, I moved in with my grandmother while my father worked to find stability in his own life. Although I was surrounded by family who cared about me, the absence of my mother significantly influenced my understanding of love, security, and emotional connection. Growing up without a mother figure forced me to mature earlier than many of my peers. I had to learn how to process grief, navigate uncertainty, and build resilience at a young age. These challenges did not come without difficulty, there were moments of confusion, sadness, and feeling out of place but they ultimately shaped my belief that strength can be found even in the most painful circumstances. My experience taught me that mental health is not something to ignore, but something to prioritize. It also helped me develop empathy for others who may be struggling silently, as I understand how deeply personal and emotional pain can be. My relationships throughout life have also been influenced by this loss. Trust, communication, and emotional vulnerability did not always come easily to me, as I had experienced such an extreme disruption early on. However, over time, I have worked to build meaningful and supportive relationships by learning how to open up and connect with others in a healthy way. These experiences have shown me the importance of surrounding myself with people who uplift and encourage me, and they have strengthened my ability to be that same source of support for others. Most importantly, my journey with mental health has played a major role in shaping my career aspirations. My decision to pursue cosmetology goes far beyond a passion for hair and beauty—it is in a desire to help others feel confident seen and valued. Through my work, I hope to create a positive and welcoming environment where clients not only leave looking their best but also feeling empowered and uplifted. In many ways, my motivation is driven by my mother’s memory. I strive to live a life that would make her proud and to chase the dreams and opportunities she never had the chance to experience. Her absence has become a source of strength, pushing me to work harder, stay focused, and build a meaningful future for myself. While my journey has not been easy, it has given me a sense of purpose and a deep appreciation for growth, resilience, and compassion. Overall, my experiences with mental health have shaped who I am today. They have influenced my beliefs about strength and perseverance, impacted how I build and maintain relationships, and inspired me to pursue a career where I can make a positive difference in the lives of others. I am committed to continuing this journey of growth, using both my personal experiences and professional skills to uplift those around me.

My name is Keysten Burggraaff and I am a 24 year old cosmetology student currently studying at Jenks Beauty College. I am passionate about turning my love for hair and beauty into a meaningful career that goes far beyond just appearance. Cosmetology is not only about creating beautiful styles but also about helping people feel confident, empowered, and comfortable in their own skin. I have always been drawn to the idea of making others feel good about themselves, and this career allows me to combine creativity with purpose in a way that truly makes me happy. Throughout my journey, I have developed a strong desire to make a positive impact in the lives of others. I want every person who sits in my chair to feel welcomed, heard, and valued from the moment they walk in. My goal is to create a safe, inclusive, and body-positive environment where individuals of all genders can express themselves freely without fear of judgment. I believe that beauty should be easily accessible to everyone, and that self expression plays a huge role in building confidence and self-worth. Creating that kind of environment is just as important to me as the technical skills I continue to learn. I am especially passionate about promoting positivity and self-acceptance. In today’s world, many people struggle with insecurities and something as simple as a haircut or style can make a powerful difference in how someone feels about themselves. I want to be someone who uplifts others, listens to their needs, and helps them see their own beauty in a new light. Whether it’s a small refresh or a bold transformation, I strive to make each experience meaningful, personal, and empowering for every client I work with. As I continue my education and grow in my skills, I am committed to constantly learning and improving with new trends, techniques, and industry knowledge. I take pride in my strong work ethic, creativity, and dedication to my craft. I am excited to continue building my confidence behind the chair while developing meaningful connections with clients and mentors alike. My ultimate goal is to build a career where I not only succeed professionally, but also make a lasting, positive impact on the people I meet. Cosmetology, to me, is about connection, confidence, and creativity. It is about helping others feel seen, supported, and beautiful in their own unique way. I am excited to continue this journey and to use my passion to inspire others, helping them feel like the best version of themselves every day.

Hi! My name is Keysten and I am an aspiring cosmetology student with a strong passion and love for helping others feel confident and valued. I am actively working to address the important social issue of bullying by promoting confidence, self-worth, and positivity through my future career in cosmetology. Bullying often comes from insecurities, misunderstandings, differences, and it can have long-lasting effects on a person’s self-esteem and mental well-being. These effects can follow individuals for years, shaping how they see themselves and interact with the world. I was one of those people. I believe that one powerful way to fight this ongoing issue is by helping people feel confident in who they are, both inside and out, and by creating spaces where they feel accepted and supported. As I pursue a career in haircare, my goal is to create a welcoming and body-positive environment where every client feels seen, respected, and valued regardless of their background, appearance, or personal style. I want my chair to be a safe space where individuals can relax, express themselves, and leave feeling better than when they walked in. Something as simple as a haircut, style, or color can make a huge difference in how someone feels about themselves. When people feel good about their appearance, it builds their confidence, changes the way they carry themselves, and improves how they interact with others in their daily lives. I want to use my skills not only to enhance beauty but also to uplift my clients emotionally and mentally, reminding them of their worth and uniqueness. In addition to working with clients, I am committed to building a supportive and positive atmosphere within the workplace. The environment behind the chair is just as important as the service itself. Being part of a team that encourages one another, rather than tears each other down, is essential in setting an example of kindness, respect, and professionalism. I want to contribute to a culture where coworkers uplift one another, celebrate each other’s successes, and create a healthy, motivating environment. By doing this, I hope to inspire others to treat people with compassion and understanding, not only in the salon but in all areas of life. I also recognize that addressing bullying goes beyond individual interactions. It requires consistency, empathy, and a real commitment to creating safe spaces where people can be themselves without fear of judgment. Through my future career, I plan to be intentional about the way I communicate, the way I treat others, and the environment I help build. Whether it is offering encouragement to a client who may be struggling with confidence, listening to someone who needs support, or standing up for positivity in group settings, I want to be someone who actively makes a difference. Even small acts of kindness and encouragement can have a lasting impact on someone’s life. Ultimately, my goal is to use cosmetology as a platform to empower others and promote self-acceptance. I want to help people recognize their beauty, embrace their individuality, and feel confident in their own skin. By helping people feel confident and valued, I believe I can play an important role in reducing the impact of bullying and contributing to a more positive and supportive community.

HMy name is Keysten Burggraaff and I am a twenty four year old, currently interested in studying at Jenks Beauty College in the cosmetology field. When I was six years old, my mother was taken from us to be with God. An aggressive cancer had wrapped around her spine and put her into a wheelchair at the young age of twenty-one. For as long as I can remember, it has always been my dad and me. My father is my best friend, and we really only had each other when such a heartbreaking loss happened. My dad has raised me to be responsible, courageous, and to always lead the pack, never follow. Being raised by a single dad has truly shaped me in many meaningful ways. Growing up without my mother was not always easy, but my dad worked tirelessly to make sure I never felt alone or unsupported. He had to take on both parental roles while also coping with his own grief. Watching him handle life with such strength taught me resilience at a young age. There were many moments when things were difficult, but my dad always showed me how to push forward and keep going no matter what obstacles stood in our way. Because of him, I learned that hardship does not define you; instead, it can build your character and determination. My dad also instilled a strong sense of independence in me. Since it was just the two of us, I often had to learn how to take responsibility early in life. Whether it was helping around the house, staying focused in school, or learning how to handle challenges on my own, these experiences helped shape me into someone who is confident and capable. He constantly reminded me that I was stronger than I believed and that I could accomplish anything if I worked hard enough for it. Beyond responsibility and independence, my father also taught me the importance of kindness and empathy. Losing my mom so young gave me a deep understanding of how fragile life can be. My dad always encouraged me to treat people with kindness because you never truly know what someone else may be going through. This lesson has stayed with me and influences the way I interact with others today. I believe it is one of the reasons I am drawn to the cosmetology field. Helping people feel confident and beautiful may seem simple to some, but to me it is a meaningful way to brighten someone’s day and uplift their spirit and that’s what I hope I’m able to do everyday as a hairstylist. Being raised by a single dad has also shown me what true dedication looks like. My father sacrificed so much to make sure I had opportunities and a stable life. Seeing his work ethic and commitment motivates me to pursue my goals with the same determination. As I work toward a future in cosmetology, I carry those lessons with me every day. Although my life began with loss, it has also been filled with love, strength, and perseverance. Being raised by my father has shaped me into the person I am today—someone who is hardworking, compassionate, and driven to succeed. I am incredibly grateful for the values he has taught me, and I hope to carry them forward as I pursue my education and future career. Thank you for listening!

Hello, my name is Keysten Burggraaff, and I am 24 years old. I am very interested in pursuing my cosmetology passion at Jenks Beauty College. For as long as I can remember, I have always loved helping people feel good about themselves and being the person who can put a smile on someone’s face. I believe that hair is so much more than just hair but it is a form of self-expression. The way someone chooses to style their hair can reflect their personality, their confidence, and the way they want to present themselves to the world. Being able to help someone feel more confident and comfortable in their own skin is something that truly inspires me, and it is the reason I want to pursue a career in cosmetology. My passion for uplifting others is deeply connected to my life experiences. When I was only six years old, I lost my mother to chordoma, a rare and aggressive cancer that wrapped around her spinal cord and eventually left her in a wheelchair. My mother was only 21 years old when she passed away and still had so much life ahead of her. Even though I was young, the memories I have of her are incredibly meaningful to me. She was my best friend, and I was truly her “mini me.” She loved rock music, baking sweet treats, and dancing whenever she had the chance. She had a bright spirit that could make anyone around her feel loved. One memory that stands out to me the most is when I was the flower girl at my parents’ wedding ceremony, which had to take place in the back of the hospital. Because of her illness, my mom could not travel far, but my parents still wanted to celebrate their love and commitment to each other. Even though the setting was not traditional, it was filled with love and emotion, and it showed me how strong my mother truly was. She faced her illness with courage and continued to find joy in the small moments. After my mom passed away, my dad struggled to pick himself back up, which was completely understandable given the circumstances. During that time, I moved in with my great-grandmother and my grandmother. They helped raise me and provided the love, stability, and support that I needed during such a difficult period in my life. I lived with them until I was old enough to move back in with my dad and his new wife. Even now, at 24 years old, I still sometimes find myself wondering why life unfolded the way it did and why I was given this particular hand. However, instead of letting those questions hold me back, I try to focus on making the best out of my experiences. They have shaped me into the person I am today and have given me a deep sense of empathy for others. I live my life in honor of my mother and strive to experience all the things she never had the chance to experience. I want to build a career where I can make people feel confident, beautiful, and valued. Cosmetology allows me to combine creativity with compassion, and I believe it is the perfect path for me. Attending Jenks Beauty College would give me the opportunity to grow my skills, follow my passion, and create a future where I can positively impact others every day. Thank you so much.

Hello! My name is Keysten Burggraaff. I am 24 years old and currently heading into the cosmetology field at Jenks Beauty College. I’m excited about starting this new chapter in my life and learning skills that will allow me to help people feel confident and beautiful. Creativity has always been important to me, and I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands, which is one of the reasons cosmetology feels like the right path for me. When I was younger, my grandfather was my very best friend. He had served in the Marines, though I didn’t fully understand that part of his life until later. To me, he was simply my grandpa—a tall man with a grey beard and a bald head who always made time for me. He loved creating things with his hands and sharing them with the people he loved. That was one of the ways he showed his care for our family. One of the most special things he ever made was a fireplace for our home. He built it completely by hand, and every time I see it reminds me of him. He also made me many necklaces when I was growing up. Those necklaces mean so much to me because they weren’t just gifts, they were pieces of his time effort and love. My grandpa also loved teaching me new things. When I was bored, he would take me outside in the backyard and show me how to use nunchucks or a metal detector. We would walk around searching the ground for hidden treasures, even if most of the time we only found small pieces of metal. To me, those moments were exciting adventures. Some of my favorite memories with him were the nights we stayed up late watching Ghost Adventures together. At the time, I was very interested in paranormal things, and he always encouraged my curiosity. One day he even gave me a small camcorder and showed me how to walk around the house trying to capture “orbs” in photos—little circles that sometimes appeared in pictures but weren’t visible to the naked eye. I thought it was the coolest thing ever. It wasn’t until after he passed away that I truly learned he had been in the military. We buried him alongside his brothers in a beautiful field, where their similar headstones were decorated with red bows. Seeing that made me realize how much of his story I never knew. I often wish I had asked him more questions while he was still with us about the places he had traveled and the things he experienced during his life. Even so, the memories we shared will always stay with me. I know he would be proud of my ambition and is rooting me on through all my endeavors. Thank you for listening!

Hello! My name is Keysten Burggraaff. I am 24 years old and very interested in hair and all things cosmetology! When I was six years old, I lost my beautiful mother to a very rare and aggressive cancer that wrapped around her spinal cord and eventually putting her in a wheelchair. Watching someone so full of life gave something so devastating and not be able to help, was very hard at such a young age. My mother was a young mother who was full of life and loved baking, listening to music, and writing. Her favorite color was green and she loved makeup. As long as I can remember, I had always been a momma’s girl, unfortunately one day changed everything. When my mother passed, I started living with my grandmother and grandma who raised me to understand responsibly and discipline. As I grew older, I eventually moved in with my father and stepmother. Adjusting to a new household and routine came with its challenges, but it also helped me grow. I learned how to adapt, how to build relationships, and how to balance my responsibilities at home and at school. I was determined not to let my circumstances define me, but instead to let them motivate me and push me. That determination carried into my grades, where I graduated high school with a 3.8 GPA. I also participated in National Honor Society and Student Council. Those experiences strengthened my leadership skills and taught me the value of teamwork, service, and accountability. I often find myself thinking about how short my mother’s life was and how much more she dreamed of doing. There were probably goals she hadn’t reached yet and moments she still hoped to experience. It hurts to know that her time was cut short, but it also reminds me of how precious and meaningful life truly is. Because of her, I carry a deeper sense of purpose. I want to accomplish the things she didn’t get the chance to. I want to make choices that would make her proud and build a life that reflects the love, strength, and lessons she gave me. Even though she is no longer here physically, her influence continues to guide me and I know she is looking down, smiling. I want to strive to live fully, not only for myself, but in honor of her while keeping her spirit alive in everything that I do!

Hi! My name is Keysten Burggraaff and I am a 24 year old with lots of love for the cosmetology profession. Ever since I was little I always had a love for doing my hair up to showcase my personality. I graduated from a small town in Skiatook and finished with a 3.8 GPA. I enjoyed being apart of the student council and national honor society where we would volunteer our hours on the weekends to help out with food banks, nursing homes, and food drives. When I was six years old, my mother was taken away from me an aggressive rare cancer that wrapped around her spinal cord and put her into a wheelchair. My brain tries to shut off when I try to relive my memories with her, as if it’s trying to keep me from that hurt all over again. What I do remember- is my mom as a kind soul, an amazing friend and mother and being full of life- even when she was hurting. She loved alternative rock, baking, and was the life of the party in any room she walked into. I remember her warm deep brown eyes and the small tattoo she had on her thumb. I remember my parents getting married in the back of the hospital and forgetting to throw the flower petals out. The hardest memory of all, is remembering the funeral. Remembering being dragged out after collapsing in front of her casket. It was very hard at six years old to grasp what was going on and I set and wish I had so much more time with her. With school peeking my interest, I can tell she is here with me now and I can feel her spirit in the perfect times through music and others around me, letting me know I’m doing the right thing. I miss her smile, the way she smelled, and that kinda guidance you can only receive from a mom. Growing up, I found myself getting envious of my friends who had that other parent. I wanted so badly to be able to call her up and was jealous I no longer had that. I started to think something was wrong with me because of it. I love looking at her guest book online and throughout my years of life, it’s how I’ve kept up and shared my life with her just in case shes busy up there snd Jesus is needing her help. My aunt is the one who helps me through most of my grief. My father seemed to unravel when we lost her as well. I can tell he will always be searching for that love that he was only able to feel with her and I mourn that as well. After she passed, I was raised by my great grandma and my grandmother. They taught me what it meant to be disciplined and responsible just as they did my dad. On the weekends, I would visit my dad and my step mother. I later found out in high school while reading through my mother’s poems, my step mother and my mom were friends in high school! Small world. I go every year on her birthday to spend time visiting her grave and decorating it with the color green- both our favorite. Her friends I haven’t met also drop things off and I love being able to see the kind of friend she was. I plan to live for her and do the things she wasn’t able to do because she was taken too soon.

Hi!My name is Keysten Burggraaff and I am going to Jenks Beauty College for cosmetology. I am 24 years old and have always had a passion for hair since I was young girl. I lost my mother to a rare cancer at the young age of 6 and my father is not around much anymore. My grandma and my great grandmother raised me when my mother passed and taught me a lot about responsibility and discipline. I graduated at 17 from Skiatook High School, a very small town with a lot of heart! I live in my own apartment with two amazing cats and a great boyfriend. I cheered all four years of high school and loved every minute of pep rally’s, sports, and extra curricular’s. My sixteenth birthday I started working at a fast food ice cream chain and had little girls skipping in for ice cream cones and loved seeing them light up. This is when I knew I liked making people others smile. Throughout the challenges and hardship I’ve faced, I have graduated school with a 3.8 weighted GPA and was apart of both Student Council and the National Honor Society with my high school. Our honor society would help with food banks, thanksgiving drives, and anything that needed assistance. I especially loved singing to the nursing home. In high school and even now, I have always loved changing my hair up to fit the day. I really enjoy sharing the knowledge I have received and learned over the years about hair from videos and social media. One day I finally sat down with my hairdresser to get an idea on how she was able to reach her goals and have the job she loves which pushed me to go back to school for something I have never swayed on. Hair! The funds that I have had were never enough to peacefully go to school and pay for household bills. I was letting the stress of money, keep me from doing what I’m meant to do. Finally, letting the passion take the lead and allowing me to do what I love. I am more than ready to get back into school and learn the skills I need to make my dream a reality. As of now, I work at a massage and chiropractic wellness clinic as a manager and have learned about trades and how they can benefit in the real world. I would love it if I were able to make clients feel the way my chiropractor makes our clients feel. My dream in this life is to be able to make others smile and feel their best. I want to be the one that picks them back up and gives them that feeling of peace again. I want nothing more than a job that does not feel like a job but more of a skill that I love and can take with me anywhere or share with others around me. I love being creative and artistic and love to do advertising for my place of work as well. Whether that be poster boards, advertisements on socials and even helping my boss make the harder decisions. My plans for after passing my cosmetology boards, would be to work under someone who could show me the ropes in their salon and to eventually have my own place to rent out and reach the clients that need it the most. This scholarship would allow me to break free of the money burden and challenges I’ve faced to show my true potential, passion, and creativity for hairstyling and grooming.

My name is Keysten Burggraaff and I am going to Jenks Beauty College for cosmetology. I am 24 and have always had a passion for hair since I was young. I lost my mother to a rare cancer at the young age of 6 and my father is not around much. I live on my own with two amazing cats and a great boyfriend. I cheered in high school and loved every minute of sports and extra curricular’s. With the challenges I’ve faced, I have graduated school with a 3.8 weighted GPA and was apart of both Student Council and the National Honor Society with my high school. In high school and even now, I have always loved changing my hair up to fit the day. I really enjoy sharing the knowledge I have received and learned over the years about hair and have sat down with my hairdresser to get an idea on how she was able to reach her goals and have the job she loves which pushed me to go back to school for something I have never swayed on. The funds that I have had were never enough to peacefully go to school and pay for household bills. I was letting the stress of money, keep me from doing what I’m meant to do. Finally, letting the passion take the lead and allowing me to do what I love. As of now, I work at a massage/chiropractic clinic and have learned about trades and how they can benefit in the real world. I would love it if I were able to make clients feel the way my therapist makes our clients feel. I want nothing more than a job that does not feel like a job but more of a skill that I love and can take with me anywhere. I cannot wait to make others feel their best. I love being creative and artistic and love to do advertising for my place of work as well. My plans for after passing my cosmetology boards, would be to work under someone who could show me the ropes in their salon and eventually I would love to have my own place to reach my clientele. This scholarship would allow me to break free of the money burden and challenges I’ve faced to show my true potential, passion, and creativity for hairstyling and grooming. Thank you for your time.