In the selected passage from Marcus Aurelius' Meditations, the stoic emperor delivers a profound assertion about the nature of human suffering, emphasizing the role of perception over circumstance. My thesis is this: Aurelius argues that suffering is not inherent in events themselves, but in the mental judgments we attach to them, thereby placing the responsibility for peace or distress not on the world, but on the self. This core idea represents a radical shift from viewing ourselves as victims of external events to becoming masters of our internal responses. In this essay, I will explore the philosophical underpinnings of this claim, its implications for personal agency, and its enduring relevance to our psychological well-being. First, we must understand the Stoic worldview from which Marcus Aurelius writes. Stoicism, developed in Ancient Greece and adopted by Roman philosophers like Seneca and Epictetus before Aurelius, teaches that virtue is the only true good, and that external events are neither good nor bad in themselves. Rather, the only thing within our control is our response to these events. When Aurelius says, "the pain is not due to the thing itself but to your estimate of it," he is reiterating this foundational belief. The distress we feel is not imposed upon us by events, but constructed internally through interpretation. This is a powerful idea because it offers a path to freedom in a world full of uncertainty. If we cannot control all that happens to us, but can control how we perceive and respond to it, then we have a means of attaining peace that does not depend on changing the world. Aurelius speaks from experience; as emperor, he faced constant warfare, political betrayal, illness, and the death of loved ones. Yet, through Stoic practice, he cultivated a mental fortress. By constantly reminding himself that suffering is a matter of perception, he trained his mind to remain undisturbed amid chaos. The modern psychological parallels to this are striking. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), one of the most effective modern therapeutic approaches, is built on the notion that our thoughts shape our emotions and behaviors. Much like Aurelius, CBT teaches that by examining and reframing our beliefs about events, we can reduce emotional suffering. This convergence of ancient wisdom and contemporary science affirms the truth of Aurelius' insight: our internal narratives shape our reality. Aurelius' teaching also brings forth the ethical implication of self-responsibility. If I am suffering because of my perception, then I have the duty to reexamine that perception. This does not mean we should become apathetic or detached to the point of ignoring injustice or pain in others. Rather, it calls for a courageous internal audit: am I magnifying this event beyond reason? Am I identifying with my pain in a way that serves me? Such questions demand humility and honesty. They place the burden—and the opportunity—of transformation on the individual. Furthermore, this passage encourages resilience. In a world where adversity is inevitable, those who believe that external circumstances must align with their desires in order to be content are destined for disappointment. Stoicism, and this quote in particular, invites us to cultivate a different kind of strength: the ability to maintain clarity, composure, and purpose even when life does not cooperate. It is the strength of the captain who cannot control the storm but can steer the ship. This philosophy, however, is not easy. It requires continual practice and self-awareness. We are emotional beings, prone to fear, anger, and grief. Aurelius does not deny these feelings, but he insists they do not have to govern us. The key lies in developing what he and other Stoics called "right reason" or "rational judgment." Through meditation, reflection, and moral discipline, we can train the mind to respond instead of react. There is also a deep spiritual aspect to this teaching. By focusing on what is within our control, we come to accept what is not. This acceptance is not resignation, but a kind of harmony with the natural order. For Aurelius, who believed in a rational, providential universe, aligning one's will with nature was the highest form of wisdom. When we stop resisting what we cannot change and instead focus on our response, we align ourselves with this cosmic reason. Applying this to daily life, the implications are profound. Imagine a student receiving a poor grade, an employee being overlooked for promotion, or a person rejected in a relationship. In each case, the initial emotional response may be disappointment, anger, or shame. But if we follow Aurelius' advice, we step back and ask: what is the event, and what is my judgment about the event? Is it truly harmful, or am I assigning it a meaning that intensifies my pain? This moment of reflection creates space for freedom—the freedom to choose a more empowering response. In my own life, this passage has served as a guiding light. There was a period during my adolescence when my family faced economic hardship. It would have been easy to view those circumstances as purely negative, to feel like a victim of fate. But over time, I began to see how those trials sharpened my character, deepened my empathy, and motivated me to pursue a better future. The external reality didn’t change overnight, but my perception did—and that made all the difference. In conclusion, Marcus Aurelius' statement that "the pain is not due to the thing itself but to your estimate of it" is not merely a philosophical musing, but a profound directive for living. It invites us to reclaim our power, to become stewards of our inner world, and to find peace not in changing circumstances but in changing our minds. This insight, born from Stoic thought and validated by modern psychology, remains as relevant today as it was in ancient Rome. Through its practice, we can endure adversity with grace, resist despair with understanding, and walk through life with a quiet but unshakable strength.

The Impact of Mental Health on My Beliefs, Relationships, and Career Aspirations Mental health has profoundly shaped my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. My struggles with anxiety, self-doubt, and childhood trauma have given me a deep understanding of the importance of mental well-being. However, one of the most defining aspects of my journey has been my relationship with my grandmother. Her struggles with mental illness and addiction, combined with the challenges of caring for her after her stroke, have left a lasting impact on my life. Through these experiences, I have developed resilience, compassion, and a passion for helping others overcome adversity. My grandmother was once a woman full of dreams. She was on her way to becoming a nurse, eager to make a difference in people’s lives. But life had other plans. She endured an abusive relationship that stripped her of her confidence, leading her down a dark path of addiction and mental illness. Major depression and anxiety took hold of her, making it nearly impossible for her to reclaim the future she had once envisioned. Despite the love and care of those around her, she found herself lost in a cycle of pain, her potential buried beneath years of struggle. When she suffered a stroke, everything changed. She moved in with my family, and suddenly, I found myself balancing my responsibilities as a full-time student, a caregiver, and an employee working two jobs. Seeing her in such a vulnerable state broke my heart. The woman who had once cared for me now needed my care. Some days, I felt overwhelmed, wondering how I could juggle it all. But through the exhaustion, I discovered something powerful: the ability to love unconditionally, to support someone even when they feel unworthy of it, and to advocate for mental health with deeper understanding and urgency. My experiences have strengthened my belief that mental health should never be overlooked. It is not just about emotions—it is about survival, stability, and the ability to live a fulfilling life. I have seen firsthand how a lack of mental health support can derail dreams, but I have also witnessed the power of patience, compassion, and advocacy in helping someone reclaim their dignity. Caring for my grandmother has also reshaped my relationships. It has taught me that true connection goes beyond words—it is in the silent moments of understanding, in showing up when someone needs you the most, and in reminding them that they are not alone. I strive to be that kind of person for those around me, always offering a listening ear, encouraging mental health discussions, and being a source of support when others feel lost. These experiences have influenced my career aspirations as well. I am pursuing a degree in business finance, but my goal extends beyond numbers. I want to help individuals and families achieve financial stability, knowing that financial hardship is a major stressor contributing to mental health struggles. By providing financial literacy and advocating for policies that support mental wellness, I hope to create meaningful change in people’s lives. Mental health has shaped every aspect of my journey—from my beliefs to my relationships and my career goals. Caring for my grandmother has reinforced my commitment to being a source of strength for those who are struggling. Through my education, advocacy, and personal experiences, I hope to be part of the movement that destigmatizes mental health, making it a priority for individuals and communities alike. My past has shaped me, but it does not define me. Instead, it has given me the strength to push forward, the empathy to uplift others, and the unwavering determination to make a difference.

The Importance of Mental Health in My Life as a Student Mental health is an essential part of my success as a student. Balancing academics, work, and personal responsibilities can be overwhelming, and without prioritizing mental well-being, it becomes difficult to stay motivated and perform at my best. My personal experiences with anxiety and self-doubt have shown me just how vital mental health is—not only for academic achievement but also for overall well-being. As someone who has faced mental health challenges, I understand the importance of advocating for awareness, support, and resources to help others in my community. One of the biggest reasons mental health is important to me is because I juggle multiple responsibilities. As a full-time student working two jobs while also caring for my grandmother, my schedule is often demanding and stressful. Without proper self-care and emotional support, it would be easy to burn out. I have learned that taking time for my mental health—whether through mindfulness, journaling, or seeking support—is just as important as studying or attending classes. By managing stress effectively, I am able to stay focused and continue working toward my goals. Beyond my personal struggles, I am passionate about advocating for mental health in my community. I believe that mental health awareness should be normalized, not stigmatized. I make it a priority to create a supportive environment for my peers, friends, and family by encouraging open conversations about mental health. Whether it’s checking in on a friend who seems overwhelmed, offering a listening ear, or sharing helpful mental health resources, I strive to make a positive impact in the lives of those around me. In my home, I play an important role in supporting my grandmother, who has faced her own battles with depression, anxiety, and addiction. Through this experience, I have gained a deeper understanding of how mental illness affects individuals and families. I advocate for her by ensuring she has access to proper care, medication, and emotional support. Watching her navigate these challenges has reinforced my belief in the importance of mental health advocacy and the need for accessible resources. In my school community, I encourage classmates to prioritize their mental well-being by promoting healthy study habits, stress management techniques, and the importance of seeking help when needed. I have also engaged in discussions about the pressures students face, from academic stress to personal struggles, and how these can impact mental health. By fostering an open and supportive environment, I hope to help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health challenges. The Learner Mental Health Empowerment for Health Students Scholarship would allow me to continue my advocacy efforts while supporting my educational journey. Mental health is not just a personal concern—it’s a societal issue that affects countless students and individuals. I am committed to using my voice and experiences to encourage others to seek help, practice self-care, and support one another. Through education and awareness, I believe we can create a world where mental health is treated with the same importance as physical health. My goal is to continue advocating for mental wellness while striving for academic and personal success.

Finding Strength Through Adversity: How Mental Health Has Shaped My Life Mental health is an often overlooked but deeply impactful aspect of life. My personal experiences with mental health have been shaped by childhood trauma, including bullying and sexual harassment from people I once trusted. These experiences left me with deep-seated trust issues, anxiety, and moments of self-doubt. However, they have also fueled my ambition and given me a strong desire to help others become the best versions of themselves. While my past has been painful, it has also given me a unique perspective on resilience, relationships, and the importance of self-improvement. Growing up, I struggled with the weight of my experiences. The betrayal from those I trusted made it difficult for me to open up to others, and the bullying I endured left me questioning my self-worth. Over time, I developed anxiety surrounding decisions, constantly second-guessing myself and fearing the consequences of my choices. Some days, I felt overwhelmed by sadness, as if I were trapped by the pain of my past. These feelings made it hard to trust not only others but also myself. I doubted my ability to succeed, to form meaningful connections, and to navigate the world confidently. Despite these struggles, I refused to let my past define me. Instead, I used my experiences as motivation to push forward and find purpose. I channeled my pain into ambition, setting high goals for myself and striving to create a positive impact in the lives of others. My experiences taught me the value of empathy, and I developed a deep passion for helping people overcome their own obstacles. I find joy in encouraging others, providing support, and uplifting those who feel lost or unheard. My struggles with mental health have also shaped my relationships. I have learned to be more discerning in who I trust while still allowing myself to form genuine connections. It has taken time, but I have begun to rebuild my confidence in both myself and others. I now surround myself with people who respect and uplift me, rather than those who take advantage of my kindness. Though my past has made trust difficult, I have learned that healing is a journey, and forming meaningful relationships is an essential part of that process. Beyond personal growth, my experiences have given me a deeper understanding of the world. I recognize that many people struggle with their own mental health battles, often silently. This awareness has fueled my desire to be an advocate for mental health destigmatization. I want to use my voice to encourage open conversations about mental well-being and ensure that others do not feel ashamed of their struggles. By sharing my story, I hope to inspire others to seek help, embrace their healing journey, and understand that they are not alone. Receiving the Ethel Hayes Destigmatization of Mental Health Scholarship would not only support my educational aspirations but also serve as a testament to the importance of mental health awareness. My journey has been one of pain, resilience, and transformation. I am committed to using my experiences to uplift others, advocate for mental health, and contribute to a world where people feel empowered to seek help and heal. My past has shaped me, but it does not define me. Instead, it has given me the strength to pursue a future filled with purpose, growth, and compassion.

Resilience in the Face of Mental Illness: My Grandmother's Story and Its Impact on My Life Mental illness not only affects those who suffer from it but also their families. My grandmother was once on track to becoming a nurse, but an abusive husband, major depression, anxiety disorder, and drug addiction derailed her dreams. After suffering a stroke, she now lives with us, and I take on much of her care while working two jobs and attending college full-time. Balancing these responsibilities has been overwhelming, but it has also shaped me into a resilient and determined individual. Growing up, I heard stories about my grandmother’s potential. She was intelligent, hardworking, and passionate about helping others. However, the trauma of an abusive marriage and the weight of untreated mental illness led her to addiction. Substance abuse became her escape, and the consequences of that struggle followed her for decades. Eventually, she suffered a stroke, which further impacted her ability to care for herself. Today, she depends on my family and me for daily needs, including medical assistance, emotional support, and financial stability. Caring for her has given me firsthand insight into the devastating effects of mental illness and addiction. It is heartbreaking to see the contrast between the person she was and the person she has become due to circumstances beyond her control. While I feel privileged to help her, it is not easy to juggle these responsibilities alongside my education and work. I often come home exhausted from my jobs, only to continue working—this time as a caregiver. Despite this, I remain committed to my future and the goals I have set for myself. I am pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business finance because I understand the importance of financial stability, especially for those who have experienced hardship. My grandmother never had access to financial education or resources, and I want to ensure that I break that cycle for myself and others. By earning my degree, I hope to help families build secure financial futures and avoid the struggles that my family has faced. Time and financial constraints remain my biggest challenges. Between my coursework, caregiving duties, and two jobs, finding time for myself is nearly impossible. However, I refuse to let these obstacles hold me back. I have learned to prioritize my responsibilities and manage my time efficiently to stay on track academically. The sacrifices I make today are investments in a better future for my family and me. Receiving the Elizabeth Schalk Memorial Scholarship would provide much-needed financial relief, allowing me to focus more on my studies and less on financial stress. More than just financial support, this scholarship would be a testament to my hard work and perseverance. Mental illness has deeply impacted my family, but it has also shaped me into someone who refuses to let adversity define them. I will continue striving for success, not just for myself, but for those who depend on me. My journey is one of resilience, and I am determined to make a difference.

Kielin Thompson 3-26-2025 The Impact of the Dr. William and Jo Sherwood Family Scholarship on My Future Pursuing a degree in business finance as a college junior has been both rewarding and challenging. While I am committed to achieving academic excellence, financial burdens have made balancing school, work, and personal obligations increasingly difficult. The Dr. William and Jo Sherwood Family Scholarship would provide much-needed financial relief, allowing me to focus on my studies and career preparation without the constant worry of educational expenses. This scholarship would not only save me money but also grant me the time and mental clarity needed to excel academically and professionally. The rising cost of education, including tuition, books, and other expenses, has forced me to make difficult financial decisions. Like many students, I have had to take on personal debt to cover unexpected costs, which adds stress and diverts attention from my coursework. Receiving this scholarship would significantly reduce my financial strain, enabling me to allocate more time toward learning and professional development rather than working long hours to make ends meet. With fewer financial worries, I can dedicate myself to mastering key business finance concepts, engaging in meaningful internships, and participating in networking opportunities that will help shape my future career. Beyond financial relief, this scholarship would give me the freedom to focus on gaining the hands-on experience necessary for success in business finance. Many opportunities, such as unpaid internships, professional workshops, and industry networking events, require time and sometimes additional expenses. Without the burden of excessive work hours, I could immerse myself in these valuable experiences, building the skills and connections needed to excel in the financial industry. Investing in my education now will allow me to gain knowledge and expertise that will have a long-term impact, ensuring I am well-prepared to support businesses and communities in financial decision-making. Additionally, the time saved through this scholarship would enable me to engage more deeply with my academic community. I would have more opportunities to participate in study groups, business clubs, and leadership initiatives that will further develop my problem-solving, critical thinking, and leadership abilities. These experiences are crucial in shaping a well-rounded professional ready to tackle the financial challenges businesses face today. Ultimately, the Dr. William and Jo Sherwood Family Scholarship would not just support my education—it would empower me to make the most of my college experience, ensuring that I graduate with the knowledge, skills, and network necessary to thrive in business finance. By easing my financial burdens, it will allow me to focus on what truly matters: gaining the expertise and experience to positively impact the financial industry and my community. This scholarship is not just an investment in my education; it is an investment in a future where I can make a meaningful difference.

Leading Through Efficiency and Teamwork Leadership is about more than just managing—it’s about inspiring, problem-solving, and fostering an environment where people can succeed together. One of my most impactful leadership experiences came when I was assigned to boost performance on the To-Go Specialist team in a professional setting. Tasked with improving efficiency and teamwork, I faced significant challenges in ironing out inconsistencies in workflow, addressing communication gaps, and motivating a team that had grown accustomed to inefficiency. To tackle these issues, I took a strategic approach centered on rapport-building and system comprehension. I began by actively engaging with my team members to understand their perspectives, frustrations, and challenges. Instead of enforcing immediate changes, I prioritized communication and clarity—ensuring that each team member understood the system and their role within it. By increasing their knowledge and comfort with the workflow, I helped eliminate confusion and hesitancy, leading to a smoother, more productive operation. In addition to refining our processes, I used positive reinforcement to encourage collaboration and accountability. Recognizing small wins and celebrating improvements fostered a more motivated team atmosphere. Over time, the team not only became more efficient but also more cohesive, supporting each other to achieve shared goals. This experience reinforced my belief that leadership is not about control but about empowerment. Applying These Leadership Skills to My Future Career As I pursue a career in business finance, I plan to apply these leadership skills in a way that drives both individual and organizational success. In finance, efficiency and teamwork are just as critical as they were in my previous leadership experience. Whether working with clients, colleagues, or teams within a company, I will continue to focus on building strong relationships, improving systems, and fostering a collaborative culture. In particular, I aim to support businesses and individuals in making sound financial decisions by ensuring clarity in financial processes. Just as I worked to eliminate inefficiencies in my previous role, I will apply that same problem-solving mindset to help businesses optimize their financial strategies, reduce waste, and improve profitability. Additionally, my ability to build rapport will be crucial in establishing trust with clients and guiding them toward long-term financial stability. Beyond my direct work, I also want to contribute to financial literacy initiatives within underrepresented communities. Many individuals struggle with financial planning due to a lack of accessible education. By applying my leadership and mentorship skills, I hope to create programs that make financial knowledge more understandable and actionable, helping people gain confidence in managing their finances. Leadership is an evolving skill, and with every challenge, I aim to develop further and create positive change in the environments I lead. Whether optimizing financial operations, mentoring aspiring professionals, or improving access to financial education, my experiences in leadership will guide my efforts to make a lasting impact.

Building a Stronger Financial Future for Black Communities As a business finance student, I have witnessed firsthand the power of financial literacy in transforming lives. Unfortunately, many Black communities continue to face economic disparities due to systemic barriers and a lack of access to quality financial education. My goal is to bridge this gap by providing financial advice, guidance, and mindset development to empower individuals and businesses within Black communities. One of the biggest challenges in the Black business world is limited access to capital. Many aspiring entrepreneurs struggle to secure funding due to low credit scores, lack of collateral, or limited financial literacy. With my education in business finance, I plan to assist Black entrepreneurs in understanding financial statements, improving their creditworthiness, and strategically managing their businesses to attract investors. By offering workshops and one-on-one guidance, I can equip individuals with the knowledge and confidence needed to build sustainable businesses and create generational wealth. Beyond entrepreneurship, financial stability begins at the individual level. Too often, wealth is lost due to poor financial decision-making and a lack of long-term planning. I aim to change this narrative by promoting financial literacy within Black communities, focusing on budgeting, saving, investing, and debt management. By using social media, community programs, and educational initiatives, I plan to make financial knowledge accessible and relatable, helping individuals build strong financial foundations. However, financial success is not just about knowledge—it is also about mindset. Negative beliefs about money, fear of investing, and skepticism about financial institutions have held many Black individuals back from reaching their full financial potential. Through mentorship and mindset coaching, I want to help dismantle these mental barriers by encouraging a growth-oriented and wealth-building mentality. By sharing success stories, highlighting financial role models, and emphasizing the power of long-term planning, I aim to inspire confidence and ambition in those seeking financial security. My vision extends beyond individual success; it is about creating a collective impact. As I advance in my career, I hope to establish programs that provide Black students with scholarships, financial mentorship, and internship opportunities in the finance industry. Representation matters, and by guiding more Black professionals into finance, we can change the system from within—ensuring that more Black entrepreneurs, homeowners, and investors receive fair and equitable financial opportunities. The Edward Dorsey, Jr. Memorial Scholarship will help me continue my education and develop the skills necessary to turn these aspirations into reality. Through financial education, guidance, and positive mindset development, I am committed to breaking generational cycles of financial hardship and building a legacy of wealth and empowerment for Black communities.