Mental health is something that many people overlook until it directly affects their lives. For me, mental health became a personal journey after a difficult relationship that left me emotionally drained. For months, I held my feelings inside, trying to appear strong and handle everything on my own. I thought I could manage the sadness, the anger, and the loneliness by myself, but over time, those emotions became overwhelming. I began feeling helpless and hopeless. I cried constantly for no apparent reason and found it difficult to leave my house, focus on schoolwork, or participate in activities I once loved, like softball. What made it even harder was that some of the friends I trusted started spending time with my ex, leaving me feeling isolated and unsupported. For a long time, I did not know how to process my emotions or where to turn for help. I believed that being strong meant managing everything on my own. Eventually, my mom encouraged me to see a therapist. At first, I hesitated. Opening up about my feelings felt uncomfortable and unfamiliar. I worried that sharing my struggles meant I was weak or failing. But I soon realized that therapy was not a sign of weakness. It was a tool for growth, a place to untangle my emotions and develop strategies for coping with them. Therapy taught me how to process my feelings, communicate them clearly, and set boundaries that protect my mental health. I learned that emotional strength is not the absence of struggle but the ability to face challenges while seeking help when needed. Alongside therapy, I relied on my faith to navigate these challenges. I downloaded a Bible app and began completing daily lessons, journaling my thoughts, and praying. One verse that has guided me through this period is Psalm 34:18, which says, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” This verse reminded me that even in my lowest moments, I was not alone. Faith gave me comfort and clarity when life felt overwhelming. It allowed me to pause, reflect, and approach my struggles with patience and hope. Through prayer and reflection, I began to regain a sense of control and perspective, even when emotions felt chaotic. These experiences with mental health have profoundly shaped my understanding of the world. I have learned that everyone carries unseen struggles and that compassion and empathy are essential in every interaction. I have become more intentional in my relationships, learning to listen actively and support others who may be struggling. I now understand the importance of reaching out to friends and loved ones, checking in on them without judgment, and creating a safe space for them to share their emotions. At the same time, I have learned to advocate for my own well-being, prioritize my mental health, and recognize when it is necessary to ask for help. My journey has also reshaped my aspirations. I am passionate about using my experiences to help others by fostering open, honest conversations about mental health. I want to be a voice for those who feel alone or misunderstood. Whether through mentoring younger students, volunteering in my community, or simply being a supportive friend, I hope to encourage others to prioritize their emotional and mental well-being. I want to help break down the stigma surrounding mental health, particularly in communities where it is still considered a taboo subject. I want people to know that struggling with mental health is not a sign of weakness but an opportunity for growth, support, and understanding. Academically, my experiences have strengthened my determination to succeed. Despite the challenges I have faced, I have maintained a high GPA, earned Academic All-State honors, and continued to push myself in competitive athletics, particularly softball. These achievements are not just personal milestones; they are proof that resilience, persistence, and a support system can help overcome the darkest moments. I am excited to attend Southern Illinois University Carbondale to study Cybersecurity and Information Systems while continuing to play Division 1 softball. My goal is to build a career in technology where I can apply the same dedication, focus, and perseverance that helped me overcome personal struggles. In addition to my career aspirations, I hope to continue advocating for mental health awareness. I want to create safe spaces where people can discuss their struggles openly and access resources without fear of judgment. I hope to be a role model for young athletes, students, and peers, showing that it is possible to pursue excellence while managing mental health challenges. I aim to combine my professional and personal experiences to inspire others, encourage resilience, and foster a culture of understanding and compassion. This journey has also transformed my relationship with myself. I have learned to accept that it is okay to cry, to feel sadness, and to experience emotional pain. I have learned that healing is not linear and that setbacks do not define me. I have discovered the importance of self-care, reflection, and seeking support from both professionals and loved ones. I have developed tools to navigate life’s challenges with patience, empathy, and determination. Ultimately, my experiences with mental health have shaped my goals, relationships, and understanding of the world. I have learned the value of empathy, the power of seeking help, and the importance of resilience. I am committed to continuing my personal growth, using my experiences to positively impact others, and advocating for greater awareness and understanding of mental health. I hope to carry these lessons into my future career, my community involvement, and every relationship I build. I want to honor those who struggle, support those who feel alone, and help create a world where mental health is understood, respected, and openly discussed.

Growing up, family has always been the foundation of who I am. I was adopted by my dad in middle school, and from that moment, my life changed completely. My dad has not only been a father but also a mentor, coach, and constant source of encouragement. My mom has always been there for me too, supporting me emotionally and making sure I had what I needed to succeed. Together, they have guided me, pushed me, and helped me become the person I am today. Without their love and support, I would not be the athlete, student, and leader I am. From the beginning, my dad taught me discipline, determination, and resilience. He helped me develop the habits that allowed me to excel in sports while balancing school. He encouraged me to set goals and always give my best. It is because of his guidance and belief in me that I have earned Academic All-State honors, maintained a GPA above 4.0, and earned the opportunity to play Division 1 softball in college. My mom has also been an incredible influence in my life. She has supported me emotionally, encouraged me when things were hard, and helped me understand the importance of balancing my responsibilities. Watching both of my parents work hard, support each other, and put their family first has taught me the value of perseverance, gratitude, and responsibility. They have shown me that hard work and love go hand in hand and that success is not only about personal achievement but also about lifting up those around you. Being raised in a supportive family, even with challenges along the way, has shaped my character and goals. I have learned to push through obstacles, stay focused, and always try to do my best. I have also learned the importance of using my talents to help others. I want to mentor younger athletes, volunteer in my community, and be a positive example for others who may be struggling. I know how much it matters to have people believe in you, and I want to be that source of encouragement for others. Looking toward the future, I am excited to continue my journey in college and beyond. I plan to pursue a career in technology while continuing to play softball at the Division 1 level. No matter where life takes me, I want to carry forward the lessons of dedication, perseverance, and compassion that my parents have instilled in me. I want to use my talents and opportunities to create positive change and help others reach their potential. Being raised by both of my parents has been one of the greatest gifts of my life. Their love, guidance, and support have shaped me into someone who is determined, passionate, and ready to give back. I am proud of the person I have become, and I am committed to using my abilities to help others, just as they have helped me.

Mental health has been something I have struggled with in ways I did not expect. Recently, I went through a really difficult time after ending a toxic relationship. For a long time, I held my emotions inside, trying to appear strong and handle everything on my own. Eventually, all of those feelings built up and became too much to manage. I began feeling helpless, sad, and overwhelmed. I cry for no reason at times and it has been hard to find peace or motivation. On top of that, people I considered friends started hanging out with my ex-boyfriend, which made everything even harder and left me feeling isolated. At first, I tried to manage on my own by focusing on school and softball, but it did not work. My mom encouraged me to start seeing a therapist. It was hard at first because I was not sure how to open up or what I would even say. Going to therapy has been helping me slowly. I am learning ways to process my emotions instead of keeping them all inside. I am learning how to manage sadness and frustration in healthier ways. Therapy has taught me that it is okay to ask for help and that seeking support does not make me weak. It makes me stronger. Alongside therapy, I have leaned on my faith. I downloaded a Bible app and have been doing short daily lessons, journaling, and praying. One verse that gives me comfort is Psalm 34:18, which says, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” It reminds me that I am never truly alone, even when life feels overwhelming. My faith gives me hope and strength to take things one day at a time. I have learned that mental health is not something you can ignore. I am learning to recognize when I need support, how to express my emotions, and how to set boundaries to protect my well-being. It has been a process and some days are still harder than others, but I am committed to growth. I am starting to feel moments of peace again. I am learning that it is okay to cry and process my emotions rather than keeping everything inside. Academically, I am focused on maintaining my goals despite the challenges I face. I have taken multiple dual credit classes, earned Academic All-State honors, and kept my GPA above a 4.0. I plan to attend Southern Illinois University Carbondale to study Cybersecurity and Information Systems while playing college softball. I want to continue growing academically, personally, and emotionally while preparing for a future in technology where I can make an impact. To continue managing my mental health, I plan to stay consistent with therapy, continue daily prayer and reflection, and surround myself with people who are supportive and understanding. I know challenges will come, but I am learning to face them without shutting down or feeling completely helpless. This experience has taught me resilience, patience, and the importance of asking for help. It has reminded me that even when life feels overwhelming, I am capable of healing and growth. I am committed to continuing my journey, pursuing my education, and sharing my story to encourage others to take care of their mental health and seek the support they need.

Faith has always been a part of my life, but I never knew how much I would need it until I went through one of the hardest times I have ever faced. I was in a relationship that completely broke me down. I lost friends, confidence, and the version of myself that I once loved. I stopped wanting to go out, talk to people, or even be around my team. No matter how hard I tried to stay strong, I felt like I was falling apart inside. During that time, I started going to church again because I was searching for peace. Balancing school, softball, and all the emotions I was feeling made it hard to stay positive. I remember sitting in church some days, trying not to cry, just asking God for strength. Even after the relationship ended, I still felt lost. When school started, things got even harder. Some of my teammates made comments and spread rumors that made me feel unwanted. I became so unhappy that I did not want to leave my house or go to practice anymore. My mom noticed how much I was struggling and suggested that I see a therapist. At first, I did not want to go because I thought that meant something was wrong with me. Eventually, I realized that getting help was one of the best choices I could have made. My therapist helped me learn how to control my emotions, speak about what I was feeling, and find healthy ways to cope instead of holding everything inside. At the same time, I began rebuilding my relationship with God. I downloaded a Bible app on my phone and started doing small daily lessons. I prayed every morning and before bed, sometimes just thanking God for helping me make it through another day. One verse that helped me was Psalm 34:18, which says, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Reading that verse reminded me that I was never truly alone, even when I felt like I had no one. Little by little, things started to change. My faith and therapy together helped me find peace again. I began to focus on what truly mattered, like my goals, my family, and my relationship with God. I started to feel happier and more confident. I realized that everything I went through was preparing me for something greater. Now I continue to pray and study the Bible. I still talk to my therapist when I need to and I have learned how to manage my emotions in a healthy way. Most importantly, I have learned that my faith will always guide me through difficult times. That experience changed me in many ways. It taught me that God’s love never leaves, even in the darkest moments. My faith helped me find strength when I had none and gave me the courage to keep going. I want to carry that lesson with me for the rest of my life and use my story to help others believe that healing is possible when you have faith.

Mental health has a significant impact on both my academic performance and personal life, especially as I prepare to transition to college. Lately, I’ve been feeling more stress than usual, mostly because I am trying to balance schoolwork, athletics, and my own expectations for success. Sometimes I question whether I am doing enough or if I am good enough, especially with softball. Playing at Southern Illinois University Carbondale is an exciting opportunity, but it also comes with pressure to perform at a high level while managing college responsibilities. Recently, I’ve noticed that I’ve been pushing people away, even though I already feel lonely at times. I think part of it comes from not wanting to add more stress or worry to my relationships while I try to manage everything on my own. At the same time, this isolation makes the stress feel heavier and sometimes affects my mood and motivation. It’s a reminder that mental health isn’t just about academics or athletics, it also affects how I connect with others and how I feel about myself. Academically, stress can make it harder to focus or manage my time efficiently. I usually strive to stay organized and maintain strong grades, but when stress builds, it can feel overwhelming. Simple tasks can seem more complicated when I’m constantly worrying about whether I’m keeping up. These moments of self-doubt can slow me down and create extra pressure, even though I am fully capable of handling my responsibilities. In my personal life, stress and loneliness can affect how I feel about myself and interact with others. I sometimes worry about whether I am living up to my potential or meeting the expectations I set for myself. This can make it challenging to fully enjoy the activities I love, like softball, or to relax and spend time with friends and family. Recognizing these feelings has made me realize the importance of prioritizing my mental health before stress starts to take a bigger toll. To take care of my mental health, I have made a few important steps. First, I have scheduled my first counseling appointment for September 15. I am hopeful that talking with a professional will help me manage stress more effectively, work through feelings of loneliness, and provide tools to stay balanced while navigating the challenges of college and athletics. Second, I focus on self-care, including making time for rest, staying organized, and giving myself breaks when I need them instead of pushing myself too hard. Finally, I lean on my support system of family and friends, their encouragement reminds me of my strengths and helps me regain confidence when I start doubting myself. Another key step is maintaining balance and perspective. I try to remind myself that my worth isn’t only determined by grades or athletic performance. By keeping this mindset, I am learning to be kinder to myself, reduce stress, and enjoy both academics and softball more fully. Overall, mental health plays a central role in my success at school and in my personal life. While stress, loneliness, and self-doubt are challenges I continue to face, I am proud of the steps I am taking to prioritize my well-being. Counseling, self-care, and support from loved ones are helping me build the tools I need to thrive academically, athletically, and personally. By addressing my mental health now, I am preparing myself to handle the demands of college while continuing to grow as a student, athlete, and individual.

I love math because it challenges me, math is not always easy and that is exactly what makes it exciting, each problem feels like a puzzle waiting to be solved and I enjoy pushing myself to find solutions even when the answer is not obvious right away, I have always been motivated by the idea that with focus patience and effort I can work through the difficulties and reach the right conclusion, that sense of accomplishment keeps me inspired. All throughout high school math has been one of the subjects that has shaped me the most, I have taken advanced courses including College Algebra and each class has helped me build stronger problem solving skills, I have learned how to think critically, pay attention to details, and look at challenges from different perspectives, these are skills I know I will carry with me far beyond the classroom. Another reason I love math is because of how practical it is, no matter where you go in life math is part of it, for me it directly connects to my career goals, I plan to pursue digital forensics and cybersecurity, fields that require strong logical reasoning and analytical thinking, whether it is interpreting data, recognizing patterns, or uncovering hidden details the same persistence I use in math will help me succeed in solving complex real world problems in technology. To me math is more than just numbers and equations, it is a way of thinking, it teaches me discipline patience and confidence, even when I get stuck I have learned not to give up but to keep trying until I find a solution, that mindset has influenced not only my academics but also the way I approach challenges in life and athletics. In the end I love math because it pushes me to grow, it has taught me that hard work pays off, that challenges are opportunities, and that every problem has a solution if you are willing to keep working at it, those lessons will guide me as I move into college and pursue my dream of working in digital forensics

Growing up, I learned early that life does not always go the way you expect, but what matters is how you respond to challenges. My story is shaped by family struggles, financial awareness, and the need to grow stronger through adversity. These experiences have motivated me to pursue a career in digital forensics, a field where I can use problem-solving, determination, and the desire to make a meaningful impact in the world. Every challenge I have faced has taught me lessons about resilience, responsibility, and the importance of working hard for the future I want to create. In middle school, I discovered that the man I thought was my real dad was not my biological father. He lived in Florida, had other children, and had never played a role in my life. He did not attend my adoption hearing, and I saw the hurtful things he said to my mom and his wife. That experience left me questioning my worth, but it also made me appreciate the father I have now. He chose to step into my life, love me, and raise me as his own. That taught me that family is not only about blood but about love, sacrifice, and commitment. Knowing that someone would choose to care for me and guide me has made me determined to honor that by working hard and making the most of the opportunities I have been given. At the end of my freshman year, my parents divorced. Living with my mom, I saw firsthand how much she handles on her own. While we have never gone without food or a roof over our heads, she carries most of the financial responsibility for school, sports, and everyday expenses. She even worked hard to buy me my car on her own. Seeing her make these sacrifices has shown me the value of hard work and careful planning. It has also inspired me to take responsibility for my own future and to do everything I can to ease some of the pressure she carries. I want to graduate from college not only with a degree and skills that will allow me to succeed in my career but also with the ability to give back to the person who has given me so much. These family experiences, along with the responsibilities I have taken on, have built my resilience. I have maintained a GPA above 4.0, earned Academic All-State recognition in multiple sports, and taken several dual credit classes to prepare for college. Balancing academics and athletics has taught me discipline, time management, and perseverance. Softball, in particular, has been my safe space and an outlet to cope with challenges. It has reminded me that I am capable of more than I sometimes believe and that dedication and hard work can produce meaningful results. The lessons I have learned on the field translate directly to my academic and personal life, reinforcing the importance of persistence, teamwork, and focus. My passion lies in STEM, specifically digital forensics. I am drawn to problem-solving and critical thinking, and the idea of investigating digital crimes and analyzing evidence excites me. Technology is deeply integrated into nearly everything we do, and with its growth come risks. Digital crimes can devastate businesses, harm individuals, and compromise entire systems. I want to investigate these incidents, uncover the truth, and help protect others. Digital forensics is more than a career to me; it is a way to make the digital world safer and ensure accountability. I am motivated by the knowledge that my work could help solve problems that affect real people and communities, and that every case I work on has the potential to make a positive impact. I am also driven by the fact that digital forensics is a field where women are underrepresented. I want to challenge that and show that no matter your background or the challenges you face, you can succeed in STEM. I hope to excel in digital forensics and to open doors for others who might hesitate to pursue it. Mentoring and supporting other young women in technology is an important part of my vision for the future because I want them to know that their voices, skills, and perspectives are valuable and necessary. Looking ahead, I envision myself working in digital forensics while also mentoring others who are interested in STEM. I want to take the resilience I have built from my personal experiences and use it to inspire others who may feel the odds are stacked against them. Beyond my career, my greatest hope is to give back to my mom. I want her to see that her sacrifices, hard work, and faith in me have made a lasting impact. The challenges I have faced, from my biological father’s absence to my parents’ divorce and my mom’s financial responsibilities, could have broken me. Instead, they became the foundation for my strength, resilience, and determination. They taught me that nothing is handed to you and that building a better future requires focus, effort, and dedication. That is exactly what I plan to do in college, in my career, and in life. I am determined to turn the lessons from my past into opportunities for success, growth, and making a positive difference for those around me.

Being a first-generation student means carrying my family’s hopes and proving that dreams can become reality through hard work. It is about breaking barriers, opening new doors, and representing not just myself but also my family and community. Every step I take in my education reminds me that I am building a path for those who will come after me. My journey has not been easy, but challenges have only made me stronger. As a student athlete, I balance school, practices, and travel while maintaining above a 3.9 GPA. There are times when it feels overwhelming, but I have learned how to stay focused and keep pushing forward. Losing my grandpa was one of the hardest moments in my life. He was someone I admired deeply because he always reminded me of the value of hard work and never giving up. Even though he has passed, his words still guide me every day and motivate me to continue striving for success. Softball has played a major role in shaping who I am. My freshman year I earned Second Team All-Conference, First Team All-District, and Second Team All-Regional. As a sophomore, I received First Team All-Conference, First Team All-District, First Team All-Regional, and First Team All-State. My junior year I earned those same honors again, was named the number one outfielder in Missouri for Class 3, and broke four school records. These accomplishments mean more to me than just awards. They are proof of the discipline, commitment, and resilience I have built through the sport. Softball has given me confidence and shown me that success comes from dedication both on and off the field. What drives me is the desire to succeed for myself, my family, and those who look up to me. I want to show others that with determination and persistence, anything is possible. My dream is to build a career in cybersecurity and digital forensics, a STEM field where I can make an impact by protecting people and organizations in the digital world. At the same time, I will be continuing my athletic journey by playing softball at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, which has been a dream I have worked toward for years. This scholarship would help ease the financial pressures of tuition, books, and athletic expenses so I can focus fully on my education and softball. More importantly, it would be a reminder that others believe in me and my future. Being a first-generation student is about paving the way and honoring my family’s sacrifices. With this scholarship, I would be one step closer to achieving my goals and inspiring others to chase their own.

Being a “You Got It Girl” means showing strength, determination, and confidence no matter what challenges come your way. It means staying focused on your goals, pushing through setbacks, and inspiring others by leading through example. I believe I embody these qualities through my dedication as a student, an athlete, and a leader. My journey has been shaped by hard work, perseverance, and resilience, and I know this scholarship will help me continue chasing my dreams as a college athlete. Softball has been a central part of my life for as long as I can remember, and it has shaped who I am today. From the first time I picked up a glove, I fell in love with the game. Over the years, I have dedicated myself to improving my skills and being the best teammate I can be. My awards and honors include: Second Team All-Conference – First Team All-District – Second Team All-Regional as a freshman, First Team All-District – First Team All-Conference – First Team All-Regional – First Team All-State as a sophomore, and the same honors repeated my junior year while also being recognized as the Number One Outfielder for Class 3 in Missouri. Along the way, I broke four school records, which reflect not only my talent but also years of dedication and hard work. These accomplishments are meaningful, but what I value most are the lessons softball has taught me. I have learned how to lead, how to manage my time, how to overcome failure, and how to give my best even when no one is watching. Balancing athletics with academics has taught me discipline and resilience. I currently maintain a GPA above 3.9, serve as Vice President of National Honor Society, and have been recognized as Academic All-State in softball three years and once in track. I have also completed several dual credit classes, preparing me for the rigor of college academics. These experiences have set me up to continue my softball career at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, where I will play on scholarship while studying Cybersecurity or Information Systems with a minor in Marketing or Business. My journey has not been without challenges. Balancing school, sports, and personal struggles has tested me many times. There were moments when I questioned whether I could handle it all, but I learned to lean on the support of my counselor and coach, Kayln, and my athletic director turned vice principal, Kevin O’Neil. Both have guided me through difficult times and helped me grow stronger. These experiences taught me that asking for help is not weakness but strength, and that setbacks can become opportunities to learn and grow. The person who has inspired me most in my life was my grandpa. He passed away, but his influence continues to guide me every day. He taught me the value of hard work, humility, and perseverance, and he always encouraged me to chase my dreams no matter the obstacles. I often think about his advice and how he believed in me even when I doubted myself. His example motivates me to work hard, lead with integrity, and honor his memory by striving to be my best in every aspect of my life. The You Got It Girl Scholarship would be instrumental in supporting my journey as a Division I student athlete. College athletics require financial resources for equipment, travel, and school expenses, and this scholarship would ease that burden so I can focus entirely on my goals. Beyond financial support, it would allow me to represent YGIG as someone who embodies determination, confidence, and resilience, and to inspire other young women to believe in themselves just as I have. As I begin my college career at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, I know being a student athlete means long practices, late nights of studying, early morning workouts, and giving my absolute best every day. It means holding myself accountable for my team, coaches, family, and community. Most importantly, it means carrying the lessons I have learned from softball such as teamwork, leadership, perseverance, and discipline into every area of my life. I am proud of what I have accomplished, but I am even more excited about what is ahead. I am a “You Got It Girl” because I have shown that determination, resilience, and hard work can turn dreams into reality. This scholarship would not only provide vital support for my journey but also allow me to inspire other young women to reach higher, push further, and believe in themselves as fiercely as I believe in myself. With the right support, I know I can continue to grow, compete, and leave a legacy both on and off the field.

Throughout high school, I have been fortunate to have mentors who truly shaped the person I am today. Two of the most influential people in my life have been my school counselor and softball coach, Kalen Bradshaw, and my athletic director who later became our vice principal, Kevin O’Neil. Both of them guided me through challenges, supported me in difficult times, and reminded me of my worth when I struggled to see it myself. Their influence has not only helped me grow in high school but has also changed how I approach life. Kalen Bradshaw has played a unique and meaningful role in my journey because she has supported me both academically and athletically. As my counselor, she has always been there when the pressures of school, sports, and personal challenges felt overwhelming. In moments when I doubted myself and questioned whether I was doing enough, she reminded me of my value and encouraged me to keep going. As my softball coach, she has seen me succeed and fail, but she never let me define myself by mistakes. Instead, she encouraged me to grow from them. Her ability to balance encouragement and accountability taught me resilience, perseverance, and self-belief. Kevin O’Neil has also had a lasting impact on my life, particularly during one of the most difficult situations I faced in high school. He stepped in when I needed support the most, walking me through everything with patience and care. He reminded me that I did not have to face challenges alone and that my worth was never determined by my struggles. What stands out most is his consistency. He did not just offer help once, but continues to check on me to this day. His genuine care has shown me what true leadership looks like. It is not about authority or titles but about compassion, encouragement, and making people feel seen and valued. The lessons I have learned from both Kalen Bradshaw and Kevin O’Neil extend far beyond high school. They taught me that success is not about perfection but about resilience, growth, and believing in myself even when life feels overwhelming. They also modeled the kind of leader I aspire to be, someone who pushes others to reach their potential while also offering unwavering support. Because of them, I carry myself with more confidence, face challenges with greater determination, and strive to extend the same encouragement to others that they have given me. Looking back, I realize that the impact of a mentor goes far beyond what happens in a classroom or on a field. Kalen Bradshaw and Kevin O’Neil shaped me during some of the most important years of my life. They reminded me of my worth, helped me grow through challenges, and gave me the tools to approach life with strength and compassion. Their influence will stay with me long after high school, guiding me as I continue my journey in academics, athletics, and beyond.

Softball has been a huge part of my life for as long as I can remember. Growing up, I always loved being active and pushing myself, but softball became more than just a game to me. It became a way to challenge myself, build confidence, and grow as a person. Through the sport, I have learned discipline, perseverance, and the value of hard work. Balancing school, softball, and other activities has not always been easy, but it has taught me how to manage my time, stay organized, and push through challenges both on and off the field. Academics have always been important to me, and I have worked hard to maintain a GPA above 3.9 while taking multiple dual credit and advanced classes. I have also been able to earn Academic All-State honors in softball three years in a row. Being able to succeed in both school and sports has given me a strong sense of accomplishment and has reinforced the idea that dedication and effort really do pay off. Beyond academics and athletics, I have learned a lot about teamwork and leadership through softball. Playing on a team means learning to support others, communicate clearly, and work together toward shared goals. Some of my closest friendships have come from this sport, and I have learned how to be a teammate who encourages and lifts others up. Being a leader on the field has also helped me grow as a leader off the field, including in my role as Vice President of the National Honor Society and my participation in organizations like FTA, FBLA, and SADD. These experiences have taught me the importance of responsibility, empathy, and staying committed to something bigger than myself. Softball has also fueled my passion for continuing to grow and compete at a high level. I have been fortunate enough to play at a Division I level while still in high school, which has pushed me to improve every season and set higher goals for myself. Looking ahead, I am excited to continue my softball journey at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, where I will compete at the Division I level while pursuing my college degree. My goal is to continue growing as a player, contribute to my team’s success, and use the lessons I have learned from sports to guide me in life. Outside of sports, I am passionate about technology and business, and I plan to combine those interests in a career in tech sales with a focus on cybersecurity or digital forcinsics. I want to challenge myself academically and professionally just like I do on the softball field, and I am excited to take on opportunities that will allow me to grow, learn, and make a meaningful impact. All of these experiences, including softball, academics, leadership, and my passions, have shaped who I am today. They have taught me how to work hard, stay focused, and believe in myself even when things get challenging. Most importantly, they have taught me the value of teamwork, resilience, and staying committed to my goals. I am excited about the future and the chance to keep growing, learning, and pushing myself in every area of my life.

Softball has been one of the most influential parts of my life, shaping me through discipline, perseverance, leadership, and balance. From the start, the game challenged me physically and mentally, teaching me that success requires dedication, focus, and resilience. These lessons have carried into every area of my life, helping me grow as a student, teammate, and leader, and they will continue to guide me long after my playing days are over. One of the greatest impacts softball has had on me is the development of discipline and time management. Balancing a demanding athletic schedule with challenging academics has required focus, organization, and accountability. Throughout high school I have taken multiple dual credit and advanced classes, maintained a GPA above 3.9, and earned Academic All-State honors three years in a row. These achievements would not have been possible without the structure softball instilled in me. The sport has taught me how to manage my time effectively, handle pressure, and stay committed to long-term goals even when the journey is challenging. Softball has also given me the gift of teamwork and leadership. Playing on a team requires trust, communication, and the willingness to put others before yourself. I have learned the importance of supporting my teammates, celebrating their successes, and working together toward a common goal. Some of my closest friendships have come through the sport, and the bond created with teammates is something that cannot be replicated. Being part of a competitive program has pushed me to lead by example, hold myself accountable, and encourage others to reach their potential. These skills have carried into my academic and extracurricular involvement, including my role as Vice President of the National Honor Society and my participation in organizations such as FTA, FBLA, and SADD. I am proud of the accomplishments I have achieved academically and athletically. Recognition such as Academic All-State has been rewarding, but I value most the lessons learned, the relationships formed, and the perseverance developed through the sport. Looking ahead, I am excited to continue my softball journey at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, where I will compete at the Division I level while pursuing my degree. My goals are to keep developing as a player, contribute to my team’s success, and grow as a leader on and off the field. I want to make the most of every opportunity that comes with playing at SIUC, and I know the lessons I have learned through softball will prepare me for challenges both on and off the field. Beyond college, I will carry with me the values the game has taught me, including perseverance, teamwork, dedication, and resilience. Softball has given me far more than wins, statistics, or recognition. It has given me lifelong friendships, unforgettable experiences, and lessons that will shape my future. It has shown me the importance of hard work, proven that challenges can be overcome with determination, and taught me to push myself to be better not just for my own success but for the success of those around me. Softball has been a defining part of my life, and I am truly grateful for everything the sport has given me.

When I lost my grandpa in middle school, it was one of the hardest experiences of my life. He was the person who always kept me grounded, told me when I was in the wrong, and brought so much joy into my life. Losing him showed me just how strong I could be, even in the face of grief that felt unbearable. I realized I had the capacity to navigate intense emotions and still keep moving forward, something I had not recognized in myself before. That experience shaped the kind of person I want to be and the way I lead others today. Recently, I have been struggling mentally, and working through that has shown me a new side of mental health. I have become more aware of when people around me are having a hard time. I take bullying and emotional struggles seriously because you never know what someone is going through at home. When I see a teammate or friend who seems down but insists they are okay, I always let them know they can come to me anytime. I want to be the person who listens, encourages, and helps others carry their burdens because I know firsthand how much even a little support can matter. Now, as a senior, I am focused on showing the underclassmen that leadership means stepping up for your teammates, your friends, and anyone who needs support. It is hard for me to sit back and watch someone suffer because I have been there myself. I struggle with self-doubt and self-sabotage, telling myself I am not good enough, especially at a small school where every comment can feel magnified. Instead of letting negativity stop me, I work harder, push myself, and show that coming from a small school does not limit what I can accomplish. I will play Division One softball, and I use my experiences to inspire others to lay their hearts out, believe in themselves, and give their best. I do not believe that good leadership is only about support. There are many layers to it. Constructive criticism is necessary, but it matters how you say and do things to help others. You cannot sugarcoat everything, because that often does not change anything and can even make situations worse. At the same time, I have learned you have to read your audience. High school sports and competitive sports are completely different. High school is more about fun, learning, and working together, while competitive sports often have everyone aiming for the same goal, lifelong friendships, and support at all times. That is the culture I want to bring to high school softball. I am also working on my own brand, SWY, which stands for Stay Within Yourself. The idea behind SWY is to encourage people to focus on their own growth, feelings, and goals instead of constantly trying to meet other people’s expectations. Everyone struggles, especially me, and I do not like hiding how I feel. My goal is to create a space where people can have honest, difficult conversations and feel supported, both online and in real life. I want to make a difference and inspire others to lead with honesty, strength, and compassion, just as my grandpa inspired me.