My path to veterinary medicine is rooted in identity, purpose, and a deep belief in what representation can inspire. As an adopted Chinese American, I grew up navigating two worlds. One was shaped by my cultural heritage and another shaped by the family and community that raised me. What I didn’t see, however, were many people who looked like me in veterinary medicine. That absence didn’t discourage me; it motivated me. I want to be the kind of veterinarian I needed to see growing up. Someone who shows other Asian Americans, adoptees, and underrepresented students that they belong in this profession and that their stories have power and meaning! Veterinary medicine is the perfect intersection of my passions! These include advocating for those without a voice, educating the public, and strengthening the bond between animals, people, and the environment. I’ve always been drawn to roles where I can help others understand complex topics, whether that’s explaining preventive care to a client or helping classmates feel supported. The profession’s emphasis on communication, empathy, and problem-solving aligns naturally with who I am and how I want to serve any community that I'm a part of. One of my strongest interests is the One Health approach. My background in environmental sciences opened my eyes to how interconnected our world truly is. Animal health, human health, and environmental health are not separate conversations, they are one continuous system. As a future veterinarian, I want to contribute to solutions that acknowledge this reality. Whether it’s educating communities about zoonotic disease, promoting sustainable practices, or advocating for responsible animal care, I hope to be part of a generation of veterinarians who push the field forward with a broader, more holistic and integrative perspective. I am also deeply committed to animal welfare. To me, being a veterinarian means being a guardian for those who cannot speak for themselves. It means advocating for humane treatment, supporting responsible ownership, and ensuring that every animal, regardless of species, background, or circumstance, receives compassion and respect. I want to use my education to elevate welfare standards, strengthen community outreach, and empower people with the knowledge they need to care for their animals confidently. Beyond clinical goals, I hope to use my platform to expand diversity within veterinary medicine. Representation changes what people believe is possible. If even one young Chinese American or adoptee sees my journey and feels encouraged to pursue their own dreams, then I will have already made an impact. I want to help build a profession that is more inclusive, more accessible, and more reflective of the communities we serve. Thank you for taking the time to read my response!

My journey into veterinary medicine didn’t begin with a dramatic rescue story or childhood dreams of wielding a stethoscope—it started in the quiet, persistent moments. I watched my dog Jack struggle with chronic allergies, scratching until he bled. I felt helpless, yet consumed by the question: why? That question didn’t fade—it grew roots, and over time, it evolved into purpose. It taught me that curiosity, when paired with compassion, can transform into action. Veterinary medicine is my calling, not just because I love animals, but because I’m driven to improve their quality of life. The long nights, relentless exams, and emotional toll are heavy but never enough to make me question whether this path is worth it. Because nothing worth doing is ever easy. If it were, everyone would be doing it. As I advanced in this field, veterinary dermatology began to tug at me. Initially, I thought skin problems were minor—just rashes, ear infections, itchy allergies. But I quickly learned how deeply skin disease can affect a pet’s comfort and a pet owner's peace of mind. Chronic dermatological conditions can diminish lives in quiet yet profound ways. They don’t make headlines, but they leave lasting impressions. Dermatology challenges me to be part scientist, part detective, and part therapist. It’s precise, patient-centered, and often demands long-term dedication. I’m captivated by how even subtle skin issues can reveal systemic concerns and how treatment requires empathy as much as expertise. That balance between science and compassion is where I thrive. It’s where the intellectual meets the emotional, and both are necessary. My ambition is to pursue a dermatology residency, not just for the credentials, but because specialty training would allow me to help those facing the most complex cases. Alongside that, I’m drawn to independently owned veterinary practices. There’s a heart and freedom to them—a chance to practice medicine without quotas, where care is personal. I hope to merge the rigor of specialized training with the relationship-driven focus of private practice. That’s the ideal for me: autonomy, excellence, and trust. This scholarship represents more than financial support—it’s a spark, a vote of confidence, and a reminder that the challenges ahead are worth overcoming. I'm not at the summit yet, but I see the path. And I’m ready to climb with grit, grace, and an ever-growing sense of purpose. I believe in this journey. I believe in the impact thoughtful, compassionate dermatologic care can have, not only for animals, but for the humans who love them. Every challenge I face, every patient I treat, strengthens my resolve. This isn’t just a profession—it’s my purpose, my promise, and the legacy I hope to build!

From a young age, I knew I wanted to pursue a career that would allow me to combine science, compassion, and a deep love for animals. Becoming a veterinarian feels like the most natural expression of who I am and what I value. Animals have always played an essential role in my life—not just as companions, but also as sources of emotional support and inspiration. Our family dog, Jack, a Jack Russell-Fox Terrier mix, was my best friend during some of the hardest years of my life. During my parents' divorce, Jack was my comfort and my constant companion. That experience solidified my desire to help both animals and the people who love them. Veterinary medicine offers a unique opportunity to improve animal welfare, strengthen the human-animal bond, and be a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves. I am particularly passionate about working with companion animals and horses. I love the variety that comes with treating different species, and I am drawn to the relationships built with both patients and their owners. Whether it's ensuring that a family dog lives a long and healthy life or managing the complex care of an athletic horse, I want to be someone who brings trust, skill, and kindness to every exam room or barn. When it comes to purebred dogs and breeding, I believe the topic is complex and deserves a thoughtful, science-based perspective. Ethical breeding can play a role in preserving important working traits, physical characteristics, and temperaments. For example, guide dogs, herding breeds, and livestock guardians all serve specialized roles where selective breeding can enhance function and reliability. However, my feelings become more cautious when breeding choices prioritize aesthetics over health and welfare. Unfortunately, we have seen the consequences of poor breeding practices—dogs suffering from preventable genetic conditions like brachycephalic airway syndrome, hip dysplasia, and cardiac disorders. As a future veterinarian, I believe it is part of our duty to educate clients about responsible breeding practices and to advocate for animal well-being over profit or appearance. I support breeders who use health screenings, prioritize temperament and function, and have the long-term health of the animals as their top concern. At the same time, I strongly advocate for adoption and believe that mixed-breed dogs, often overlooked, can make equally wonderful and loving companions. Ultimately, I believe veterinary professionals should act as educators and advocates. We must engage in honest, informed conversations with clients about the implications of breeding and the responsibilities that come with it. My goal is to be a veterinarian who promotes evidence-based care, ethical decision-making, and compassion—both in how we treat animals and in how we engage with the people who care for them. Pursuing veterinary medicine is more than just a career goal for me; it is a calling grounded in love, resilience, and a commitment to doing what is right for animals. I want to spend my life not only treating illness but also helping to shape a more thoughtful and humane world for all species.

In three years, I see myself working as a veterinarian focused on both companion animals and horses. My dream is to join a mixed animal practice where I can split my time between dogs, cats, and equine patients—two worlds I’ve always felt deeply connected to. Whether it’s helping a family navigate a new puppy’s health or supporting a horse owner through lameness issues, I want to offer thoughtful, individualized care that makes a difference in both animals’ and owners’ lives. I’m especially drawn to preventative care, client education, and building long-term relationships with the people and animals I serve. I believe in taking the time to listen, explain, and truly partner with owners—whether they’re first-time dog parents or seasoned equestrians. Horses in particular hold a special place in my heart; working with them has taught me patience, trust, and the importance of quiet observation. They challenge you in the best ways and reward you with a kind of partnership that’s incredibly special. In addition to clinical practice, I hope to stay involved in mentorship and community outreach. Coming from a nontraditional background myself, I know how valuable it is to see someone who shares your story thriving in this field. I want to be that person for others—especially for students who feel like they’re navigating veterinary medicine on their own. One of the most important animals in my life was our family dog, Jack. He was a Jack Russell–Fox Terrier mix with wiry fur, big expressive eyes, and the kind of loyalty that stays with you long after they're gone. Jack came into my life when I was a kid, and he became my emotional anchor during one of the most difficult periods I’ve faced—my parents’ divorce. That time was filled with change, uncertainty, and a lot of feelings I didn’t always know how to process. But Jack was always there. He’d hop up next to me on the bed when I couldn’t sleep, rest his chin on my leg while I did homework, or sit beside me in silence when I just needed someone close. He wasn’t the kind of dog who needed constant attention—he just knew how to be there, and somehow that was enough. Jack had a way of grounding me. He gave me a sense of normalcy when everything else felt unpredictable. Looking back, I realize he was more than just a pet. He was a constant source of comfort and emotional support, even though we never used those words back then. His presence helped shape how I see animals now: not just as patients, but as companions, healers, and family members. My bond with Jack is one of the reasons I’m so passionate about this field. I want to be a veterinarian who sees that connection and treats it with the respect and care it deserves. Jack reminded me what it means to feel safe and loved—and I want to help other animals do the same for the people who need them.

If I am awarded this scholarship, I will do everything in my power to honor the values it represents—education, innovation, and a commitment to making a lasting impact. This opportunity would not only support my journey through veterinary school but also serve as a powerful reminder that my voice, background, and goals hold value in this field. It would encourage me to continue showing up, keep learning, and work toward a future I believe in—one where every animal receives thoughtful, informed care, and where veterinarians play a key role in preserving the legacy of the breeds we love. I was adopted from China when I was eight months old by a single mother who raised me in a world completely different from where I began. While I may not have direct memories of that early part of my life, I have always been aware of how different my life could have been, and how fortunate I am to have grown up in a home where education, compassion, and hard work were deeply valued. As a first-generation American, my path hasn’t always looked like everyone else’s, but it has shaped me into the person I am today in the best way possible. Growing up, I didn’t have a roadmap for navigating higher education, let alone veterinary school. I figured things out one step at a time, leaning on mentors, asking many questions, and learning to advocate for myself. This journey has made me resilient and resourceful—qualities I know I will carry with me into my veterinary career. It has also given me a unique perspective on the importance of access and opportunity. I understand what it feels like to work hard for every step forward, and I want to use my experience to support others who are trying to do the same. In veterinary medicine, I am particularly interested in canine genetics, preventative care, and collaborating with preservation breeders to ensure the health and longevity of purebred dogs. I believe veterinarians play a crucial role in preserving the traits, temperaments, and histories that make each breed special. I want to contribute to that mission in a thoughtful, informed, and collaborative way. With this scholarship, I could pursue more hands-on experiences—such as externships, research, and mentorship—that would deepen my understanding and allow me to give back to this community in a meaningful way. One of my primary goals is to mentor future students, especially those from nontraditional or underrepresented backgrounds. I want to be the kind of veterinarian who not only treats animals but also uplifts people, educates clients, supports breeders, and makes this field more welcoming and inclusive for the next generation. This scholarship embodies everything I care about: education, purpose, and the creation of something lasting. I would be proud to carry that vision forward!

Purebred dogs are more than just pets. They’re living examples of history, purpose, and thoughtful breeding. Each breed was developed with intention, whether it was herding livestock, guarding homes, retrieving game, or simply providing loyal companionship. Their distinct traits, both physical and behavioral, were carefully refined over generations. Preserving these breeds means protecting that legacy, and as a future veterinarian, I believe it also means ensuring their health and well-being for generations to come. Responsible breeders work tirelessly to maintain the integrity of their breeds. They are deeply committed to the animals in their care and rely on veterinarians to support them with informed, science-based guidance, whether through genetic testing, preventive medicine, or managing breed-specific health concerns. Without accessible, high-quality veterinary care, this essential work becomes much more difficult, and the long-term sustainability of many breeds is put at risk. I’ve seen firsthand how important the partnership between breeders and veterinarians is. Purebred dogs often face unique health challenges that require specialized knowledge, attention to detail, and a willingness to look at each case holistically. As a veterinary student, I want to be part of that solution. I want to help breeders and dog owners keep their animals healthy, improve breeding outcomes, and contribute meaningfully to the future of the breeds we love. That starts with education, but it extends far beyond the classroom. I’m especially interested in the role of genetics in breed preservation. Through responsible breeding practices and early detection of hereditary conditions, we can help reduce the incidence of certain health issues while strengthening the genetic diversity of future generations. Veterinarians play a crucial role in this effort, not just treating illness, but working alongside breeders to promote long-term health, ethical practices, and transparency. Veterinary school is both demanding and expensive, but my commitment to this field is strong. Support from this scholarship would help ease the financial burden and allow me to focus more fully on becoming the kind of veterinarian who not only understands medicine but also the deep connection between people, their dogs, and the legacy they share. Preserving purebred dog breeds isn’t just about tradition. It’s about honoring the work, care, and purpose behind each breed and making sure they continue to thrive. I’m proud to be part of that mission, and I look forward to dedicating my career to advancing the health and well-being of dogs and supporting the communities that care so deeply about them!

Growing up I always wanted to be a voice for others. In school, I'd stand up for my friends who were getting bullied, ask the teacher questions when others were too afraid to ask, and support groups that needed an extra voice and strength in numbers. My interest in veterinary medicine occurred in 3rd grade during career day when I learned from a guest speaker that I could become an advocate and a voice for animals. He told us about the many different paths we could take in veterinary medicine and how veterinarians can protect the health of animals and humans through research and education. I did back then and still do want to leave a positive impression on my colleagues, professors, mentors, and community. I receive satisfaction from assisting others and in the future, I want to do just that. I want to be a translator for animals, I want to protect their health, and I want to educate pet owners on their animal’s well-being. This knowledge has the power to not only benefit the welfare of animals but humans as well. In my many years of education, I learned how to collaborate with others efficiently and successfully in a classroom and laboratory setting. In microbiology, my classmates and I would come together and use our prior knowledge and experience to identify multiple case studies. I remember that particular experience being enjoyable and fulfilling. It was entertaining to see all of us work through what it could and couldn't be. I know in the future there will be tough cases in veterinary medicine where everyone will need to participate and use their skills, experiences, and knowledge to find a cure, treatment, or explanation. My ability to collaborate, understand, and mutually respect others improved the dynamicity of my team and helped us solve the problems at hand. It also led to increased team innovation, efficiency, and success. This experience, along with others, has given me insight into what it would be like to work in a veterinary clinic setting where I'd have to work with others to provide the best services. Other attributes I want to contribute to the veterinary profession and patient care are my abilities to be compassionate, adaptable, and an effective problem-solver. I find the job of a veterinarian, or any animal-related job, to be extraordinary. It can impact an animal's life and a person's life in so many different ways. While the veterinary medical field may be rigorous, challenging, and stressful, it can also be advantageous. It's fulfilling to know that in veterinary school and after veterinary school, I'll be able to use my analytical skills and medical knowledge to recommend appropriate medications and procedures to pet owners with my effective communication, emotional intelligence, and strong aptitude and interest in veterinary medicine.

From a young age, my passion for helping those in need has been the driving force behind my career aspirations. I have always been committed to advocating for the voiceless and defenseless. When I was in the third grade, I was inspired by a guest speaker who spoke about the importance of advocating for the health and safety of animals. This experience instilled in me a desire to pursue a career in veterinary medicine and make a positive impact on my community. As I continued my education and training, I developed the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in both a classroom and laboratory settings. One experience that stands out to me was working collaboratively with my classmates in Organic Chemistry 2 to solve complex case studies and experiments. This experience taught me the value of effective communication, leadership, and teamwork, skills that are essential in the veterinary profession. My degree in earth and environmental science along with my diverse experiences has equipped me with a strong foundation that will greatly contribute to my future in veterinary medicine. As a compassionate, adaptable, and effective problem-solver, I am confident in my ability to excel in the veterinary profession. I've learned about the importance of environmental science in veterinary medicine and I want to expand my knowledge about it. I want to not only educate myself but others on the One Health Approach which is essentially an integrated, unifying approach that aims to sustainably balance and optimize the health of people, animals, and ecosystems. This is the driving force behind my motivation to be a lifelong learner and what has maintained my focus and determination to achieve my goal. While the job can be challenging and stressful, I find it rewarding to use my analytical skills and medical knowledge to help animals and their owners. I am determined and committed to providing the best possible care and making a positive impact in their lives based on respect and trust. I strive to be an unselfish, reliable and compassionate partner in their wellness journey. By providing personalized care and attention to each patient, I aim to foster strong relationships with my clients. Furthermore, I am passionate about promoting animal welfare by educating the community through outreach opportunities. I've been blessed to be able to participate in many different internships. I've done an internship at the Cincinnati Zoo as an animal ambassador intern, Kentucky Equine adoption center, The Wilds, Lebanon Equine Clinic, Conley and Koontz Equine Hospital, and Veterinary Alternatives. In between internships I was able to work as a vet assistant at Towne and Country Animal Clinic in Fairborn, OH. Through these diverse experiences, I've been able to work with many different types of animals and people and I've seen the many different sides of veterinary medicine. I'll tell you now that my love for veterinary medicine has only grown. Through my work, I plan to raise awareness about the importance of preventative care, responsible pet ownership, and animals' role in our lives. In conclusion, I am confident that my passion, skills, and commitment to excellence make me an ideal candidate for the veterinary profession. I am ready to make a difference in the lives of animals and humans and am committed to providing the best possible care for all of my animal patients. Einstein said it best, “Our task must be to free ourselves by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures."

From a young age, my passion for helping those in need has been the driving force behind my career aspirations. I have always been committed to advocating for the voiceless and defenseless. When I was in the third grade, I was inspired by a guest speaker who spoke about the importance of advocating for the health and safety of animals. This experience instilled in me a desire to pursue a career in veterinary medicine and make a positive impact on my community. As I continued my education and training, I developed the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in both a classroom and laboratory settings. One experience that stands out to me was working collaboratively with my classmates in microbiology to solve complex case studies. This experience taught me the value of effective communication and teamwork, skills that are essential in the veterinary profession. My degree in earth and environmental science along with my diverse experiences has equipped me with a strong foundation that will greatly contribute to my future in veterinary medicine. As a compassionate, adaptable, and effective problem-solver, I am confident in my ability to excel in the veterinary profession. I've learned about the importance of environmental science in veterinary medicine and I want to expand my knowledge about it. I want to not only educate myself but others on the One Health Approach which is essentially an integrated, unifying approach that aims to sustainably balance and optimize the health of people, animals, and ecosystems. While the job can be challenging and stressful, I find it rewarding to use my analytical skills and medical knowledge to help animals and their owners. I am determined and committed to providing the best possible care and making a positive impact in their lives based on respect and trust. I strive to be a reliable and compassionate partner in their wellness journey. By providing personalized care and attention to each patient, I aim to foster strong relationships with my clients. Furthermore, I am passionate about promoting animal welfare by educating the community through outreach opportunities. I've been blessed to be able to participate in many different internships. I've done an internship at the Cincinnati Zoo as an animal ambassador intern, Kentucky Equine adoption center, The Wilds, Lebanon Equine Clinic, Conley and Koontz Equine Hospital, and Veterinary Alternatives. In between internships I was able to work as a vet assistant at Towne and Country Animal Clinic in Fairborn, OH. Through these diverse experiences, I've been able to work with many different types of animals and people and I've seen the many different sides of veterinary medicine. I'll tell you now that my love for veterinary medicine has only grown. Through my work, I plan to raise awareness about the importance of preventative care, responsible pet ownership, and animals' role in our lives. In conclusion, I am confident that my passion, skills, and commitment to excellence make me an ideal candidate for the veterinary profession. I am ready to make a difference in the lives of animals and humans and am committed to providing the best possible care for all of my animal patients. Einstein said it best, “Our task must be to free ourselves by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures."

When envisioning my ideal bookshelf, I imagine a diverse collection of books that incorporate many different tropes. I love the idea of exploring different genres and themes, so my bookshelf would be filled with books that take me on thrilling adventures, celebrate diversity and inclusivity, showcase acts of courage, and explore the many facets of love. For me, diversity is incredibly important. I am always striving to learn and grow, and one way I do this is by exposing myself to different perspectives and experiences. This applies to everything from the books I read to the food I eat and the cultures I explore. By embracing diversity, I hope to become a more compassionate and empathetic person. The must-have titles for me are every book in the 'Throne of Glass' and 'A Court of Thorns and Roses' series by Sarah J. Maas. Her books depict earth-shattering love stories with complex and ever-changing beautiful worlds. The main character's self-discovery journey introduces readers to a world of character development, where they grow with the character. I love such stories where character development is a key aspect. Sarah is a writer who specializes in creating pairs of characters that readers will root for until the end of the story. Additionally, the side characters in her stories have their own romantic relationships that are just as enchanting. The overall tone of her writing is dreamy and romantic, while also having an element of steaminess. Another one of the many reasons I adore books written by Sarah J. Maas is because they belong to the fantasy romance genre. Fantasy as a genre can take us to different dimensions, distant galaxies, and enchanted worlds, providing a break from the real world. Some other titles I'd like to add to my bookshelf that was recommended on #BookTok would be, 'The Love Hypothesis', 'LOVE Theoretically', 'Love on the Brain', and 'Check & Mate'. They are all novels written by the contemporary romance author, Ali Hazelwood. What I really appreciate about Ali's work is how each novel takes the reader on a journey into the main characters' pasts and showcases how they have developed and evolved throughout the story. Additionally, I love that each novel has a STEM-related theme, which is something that I can relate to as I am currently pursuing veterinary studies in the STEM field. So, my ideal bookshelf would be a reflection of this passion for diversity, adventure, love, and exploration. It would be filled with books that challenge my assumptions, expand my horizons, and make me fall in love. Whether it's about a person's experiences in a different country, a novel that explores different cultures in STEM, or a fantasy book that takes me on a thrilling adventure, each book would be an opportunity to learn something new and see the world from a different perspective.

Exposure to different cultures, socio-economic conditions, and political landscapes can challenge our worldview. When we travel, we are exposed to different cultures, customs, and ways of life, which can help us gain a deeper understanding of the world around us. This immersion can foster tolerance, empathy, and an appreciation for the diversity of humanity. By experiencing each country's food and culture, we can better understand where each person comes from and gain an appreciation and love for the people we meet. Even though many of them live in poverty, they are still happy people. Traveling is a great way to broaden our horizons and gain a new perspective on the world. One of the things I enjoy most about travel is that it’s a form of immersive education. Exploring historical sites, museums, and landmarks is an exciting way to learn about the history, art, and culture of different civilizations. These unique experiences offer personal knowledge of places that we can't get from a book. Travel provides first-hand knowledge of the wonders of the world, sparking intellectual curiosity and expanding our knowledge. Experiencing new environments, cultures, and perspectives can fuel creativity and stimulate our imagination. The sights, sounds, and flavors we encounter during travel can inspire us, sparking new ideas and invigorating our creative spirit. Above all, travel can instill a thirst for learning and knowledge that extends far beyond the confines of a classroom. It is widely known that stepping outside of our comfort zone is essential for personal growth. Traveling is a great way to achieve this, as it forces us to adapt to new and unfamiliar environments. During our travels, we are faced with the challenge of navigating through unknown terrain and must find ways to overcome any obstacles that may arise. As we go through this process, we develop important life skills such as resilience, self-confidence, and problem-solving abilities. The incredible thing is that when we break free from our usual routine, we open ourselves up to new experiences. Every new experience provides an opportunity for self-discovery and growth. Traveling teaches us to be comfortable with uncertainty and to embrace the unknown. It encourages us to be flexible, adaptable, and spontaneous. By stepping into the unfamiliar, we learn to trust our instincts, let go of our need to control, and appreciate the beauty of serendipity. Traveling offers a fantastic opportunity to connect with people from varied backgrounds. Engaging in meaningful conversations with fellow travelers and locals is a great way to broaden our horizons and gain new insights. By listening to their stories, sharing our own experiences, and exchanging perspectives, we can learn so much. Personally, I have met some of the most wonderful people while traveling! Traveling can be a great opportunity to contribute to underprivileged communities and create a positive impact. Engaging in volunteer work such as teaching in schools, participating in community development projects, religious missions, or providing aid to refugees can be very fulfilling. There are countless benefits to traveling. It broadens our horizons, opens our hearts and minds to the world, and provides us with a transformative experience. Traveling is a unique and tremendous experience that can truly change individuals for the better.

Mom and Dad, I want to express my gratitude for your unwavering support in helping me achieve my goals. From driving me to practices, games, and tournaments, to providing me with meal plans, waking up early for morning training sessions, and spending thousands of dollars, you have made it possible for me to live the life I've always dreamed of. Thank you so much for everything! I may not remember my very first soccer practice at the age of six, but I do recall the excitement I felt as I stepped onto the field. It was comforting to know that I was playing with my best friends and it filled me with pride to see my biggest supporters, you, cheering me on from the sidelines while sitting in your Dicks Sporting Good lawn chairs. Both of you did everything in your power to help me become a successful soccer player. It all started with BSA Celtic, then we moved to F.C. Bellbrook, Club X, and finally Ohio Galaxies FC. I realized that switching to different teams was necessary for me to be recognized. The hard work paid off when I made it to the Beavercreek High School Women's Varsity Soccer Team as a freshman and remained on the team throughout high school. Playing soccer while growing up taught me many valuable life skills that I still carry with me today. One of the most important skills I learned was how to make quick decisions. Unlike sports like football or basketball where coaches dictate the players' moves, soccer players have to adjust and make decisions in real time. I also developed my problem-solving skills by working with my teammates. In soccer, the team's success depends on everyone working together, passing the ball, and playing as a unit. Responsibility is another critical skill that soccer taught me. Each position on the field comes with a specific responsibility, and I learned to take on my role and execute it to the best of my abilities. Perseverance was also a key lesson I learned from soccer. I learned that success comes from hard work, learning, studying, sacrifice, and most importantly, a love for what I'm doing. I learned to pick myself up after failures and keep working towards my goals. Finally, soccer taught me the importance of being a team player and understanding the meaning of sportsmanship. No matter what happened on the field, we left it there and remained teammates and friends. We all did our best, and that was what mattered most. These are all the amazing traits I've learned from playing soccer, which my parents enrolled me in. Every day, I apply what I learned on the field to my life off the field. Whether it's communicating effectively and efficiently with peers, overcoming adversity, adapting to changing situations, or taking on new responsibilities, I've become a well-rounded individual. I've continued playing soccer at the collegiate level and will be starting veterinary school in the fall. I hope to use my past experiences to help me excel in the future. This is all thanks to my wonderful, caring, and supportive parents. I love you Mom and Dad and thank you for everything you sacrificed and gave me. I will not let any of it go to waste and I'll make sure I'll be an amazing parent just like you were for me.

During my time volunteering at the Carriage Hill MetroPark Riding Center in Huber Heights, Ohio, I discovered my passion for horses and helping others. I volunteered in various roles such as a barn aid, trail guide, pony/horse instructor, and groomer. Along with volunteering, I also participated in summer camps and horse lessons. The people I met there became like family to me and they provided endless support for my dream of getting into veterinary school. I was also inspired by the young individuals I worked with every day. Volunteering is an incredible way to expand one's thinking beyond oneself. It allows you to spend time doing things you love with people you care about while bringing happiness into their world and your own. When I started volunteering, I was primarily doing it for my co-workers, colleagues, guests, friends, and family. However, as I continued with it, I realized that it was also an excellent opportunity for me to develop personally and professionally. Notably, volunteering allows you to improve your social skills and communication with others. As a future veterinarian, these are essential traits to have, and volunteering helped me hone them. Even if I volunteered for just an hour, it made me feel good and had a positive impact on my mental health. Additionally, volunteering is an excellent way to become more involved in the community. For instance, when I volunteered at Carriage Hill MetroPark Riding Center, I had the opportunity to meet people who shared my love and passion for horses. Before I started volunteering, I was nervous about communicating with the public, thinking on my feet, and being a leader. However, after volunteering for a while, I became more self-assured in my abilities and gained more confidence. I can now take the skills I've learned while volunteering and apply them to various aspects of my life. For example, I can use the experience while pursuing my education at veterinary school and in my future role as a veterinarian. Overall, volunteering has been an incredibly rewarding experience for me. Not only did it allow me to give back to my community in a meaningful way, but it also helped me develop valuable skills that will benefit me in the long run. Every day I would highly recommend volunteering to anyone who was looking to make a positive impact in their community as well as want to gain personal and professional growth.

One series that I can watch repeatedly is Violet Evergarden. It features Violet, a well-written character who undergoes significant character development in just 13 episodes. At the start of the series, she struggles to understand human emotions and feelings and doesn't know how to cope with the loss of her major, Gilbert. Violet then sets out on a mission to travel the world as a Doll, helping people write heartfelt letters, and discovering her own emotions towards Gilbert. Each episode depicts a different interaction Violet has with someone, and the impact she leaves on each person is moving. No other anime series has moved me to tears as much as Violet Evergarden did. I am grateful to the producers and everyone involved in the making of this anime for making me feel so emotional throughout the season. It left a lasting impression on me and I always recommend it to anyone looking for new anime to watch. What I found endlessly captivating about Violet was her journey. She knew who she wanted to be and did everything in her power to become that person. She went above and beyond for her friends and clients. She fought for the possibility that Gilbert, the man she loved, was still alive. Violet is a young woman whom every woman, young or old, should look up to. She never gave up and kept moving forward. She overcame mental and physical adversity, challenges, and obstacles. She is the embodiment of resilience. I love Violet Evergarden because I can relate to the main character. As time goes by, I find myself becoming less emotionless and more expressive, just like her. When I see her struggles and growth, it impacts me in a meaningful way. This series has the power to touch anyone who watches it, including me.