Throughout high school, I have worked hard to grow as both a student and a leader. I am a varsity lacrosse player and I have been a captain on my team the past 3 years. Lacrosse has taught me many lessons including discipline, accountability, and the importance of supporting the people around me. While it is the busiest and sometimes most stressful time of my year, it is also the most rewarding and teaches me more about how much farther I can push myself every year. Due to the positive impact sports have had on my life, I plan to continue playing lacrosse in college while also pursuing a career in Accounting. I would also love to coach collegiate lacrosse and be able to help mentor student-athletes both on and off the field in the future. One of the accomplishments I am most proud of is organizing and running a Morgan’s Message charity lacrosse game each year. Morgan’s Message is an organization dedicated to raising awareness for student-athlete mental health and ending the stigma surrounding mental health struggles. This cause is deeply personal to me because I understand how real and difficult these challenges can be. Planning this event has allowed me to combine my passion for lacrosse with my desire to make a difference. It has shown me that even small actions, like starting conversations, raising funds, or creating a supportive environment can have a meaningful impact on others. Mental health challenges have been one of the biggest adversities I have faced. There were times when balancing school, athletics, and personal struggles felt overwhelming and nearly impossible. Some days it was difficult to stay motivated or focused and it made academics more challenging than they may have appeared from the outside. Some days all I wanted to do was quit and those were the times I started to learn that overcoming adversity does not mean handling everything alone. I had to learn how to ask for help, lean on trusted people, and develop healthy ways to manage stress. I also learned the value of perseverance even when progress feels slow. Those experiences made me stronger, more empathetic, and more determined to help others who may be facing similar struggles. I plan to pursue a career in Accounting because math has always been one of my greatest strengths and something I genuinely enjoy. I appreciate that math provides logic, structure, and solutions, which is something I find motivating. There is always an answer in a math equation. Accounting is especially appealing to me because finances are one of the biggest sources of stress for many individuals and families. Being able to help people manage their money, budget effectively, and plan for their future would be incredibly rewarding. I want to use my skills to reduce stress for others and provide stability during uncertain times. In the future, I hope to make a positive impact by combining professional success with service to others. Whether that means helping clients achieve financial security, coaching and mentoring collegiate athletes, or continuing to advocate for mental health awareness, I want to be someone who creates support and opportunity for the people around me. My experiences have taught me that success is not only measured by personal achievements, but also by how you help others succeed.

Choosing to go out of state for college was not a decision I made lightly. During my recruitment process I realized I may need to look beyond the opportunities available in my home state. I valued continuing my lacrosse career and had to come to terms with the sacrifices necessary to go out of state. After visiting programs, talking with coaches, and considering how each school could support both my athletic and academic goals, it became clear that the best fit for me was out of state. While this choice opens doors that will help shape my future, it also comes with a significant increase in cost which is something that has been at the main concern in my mind throughout this process. Coming from a single-income household and being the oldest of three sisters, I am very aware of the financial pressures my family faces. My parents have always worked hard to ensure that my sisters and I have access to the opportunities we care about, but paying for college is a challenge for any family. I have watched my parents manage the weight of student loans from their own education and know how that stress can impact a family. Receiving scholarship support would not only make attending my chosen school feasible, but it would also allow me to focus more fully on my academics, athletics, and long-term goals without carrying as much financial stress. In college, I plan to major in actuarial sciences with a focus on accounting and minor in biomedical sciences with an emphasis on research. While these paths may seem different at first glance, together they reflect both my strengths and my passions. I am drawn to actuarial sciences and accounting because they require analytical thinking, precision, and problem-solving which are all skills I have always enjoyed developing. Math has always been something that has come easy to me and I have enjoyed. At the same time, biomedical research is personally meaningful to me. My mom suffers from multiple sclerosis and growing up around her diagnosis has shaped a lot of what I would like to do in the future. After completing my degree, I plan to work as an accountant to build financial stability and establish a long-term career. However, my goal is not limited to professional success. I hope to eventually use my financial resources to support independent research related to multiple sclerosis. Whether through funding early-stage research projects, partnering with nonprofit organizations, or contributing to scientific studies. I want to play a role, small or big, in moving us closer to better treatments and hopefully a cure. Ultimately, pursuing an out-of-state education gives me the chance to grow academically, athletically, and personally. With financial support I can take full advantage of these opportunities and work toward a future where I can give back in ways that matter deeply to me and my family.

Everyone has a dream that sits just beyond the horizon, close enough to see clearly, but far enough to demand courage and commitment. Mine is ambitious: I want to contribute to curing Multiple Sclerosis. It’s a dream rooted not in abstract ambition, but in something deeply personal. My mom has lived with MS for over 20 years and watching her navigate the unpredictable symptoms of the disease along with side effects of the medication has shaped the way I see the world, science, and my own purpose. It’s painful to watch someone you love fight a battle they never asked for, and her strength has become the spark that drives my biggest dream. Growing up, I was always curious about how things worked. But seeing the real-life impact of Multiple Sclerosis—fatigue turning ordinary tasks into challenges, days when walking becomes a struggle, and the emotional toll of never knowing what tomorrow will look like—turned that curiosity into determination. I didn’t just want to understand the disease; I wanted to be part of the solution. Over time, fascination blended with love, and that combination became the fuel behind my “pie in the sky” goal. My path toward that dream may seem unconventional at first glance. I plan to major in actuarial science while minoring in biomedical research. To many, those fields appear unrelated, but to me they form the framework of a realistic strategy. Actuarial science will allow me to begin my career with stability and financial security—something important not only for my future, but also for my ability to support my family. It will also give me the freedom later in life to invest the time and resources into the research I hope to pursue. Numbers have always been a language I understand and actuarial work offers a strong, steady foundation on which I can build. At the same time, minoring in biomedical research keeps me connected to the work I ultimately want to do. It gives me hands-on experience in the scientific process, exposes me to the complexity of diseases like MS and allows me to build the knowledge base I will need when I eventually transition into research full-time. This route will also give me additional time to get a deeper understanding of the skills I need. My plan is not linear, but it is intentional. I know that curing a disease requires persistence, scientific rigor, and financial flexibility which are all things I’m preparing for at the moment. The dream feels big, sometimes overwhelmingly so. But I imagine a future where I wake up knowing I am contributing to research that could change lives; not just my mother’s, but the lives of millions of families affected by MS. Even if I am just one person among many doing this work, I want to be part of that collective push toward healing. Ultimately, what drives me is both love and fascination: love for my mom, fascination with the human body, and the science behind complex neurological diseases. My “pie in the sky” isn’t just about reaching a goal; it's about committing to growth, embracing the long path ahead, and believing that even the most ambitious dreams are worth chasing. For my mom, I’ll keep chasing this one for as long as it takes.

The journey toward higher education has not been simple for me, but it has been one that shaped my resilience, independence, and clarity about the future I want. Growing up with ADHD, I learned early on that traditional learning environments didn’t fit the way my brain processes information. While my classmates seemed to effortlessly retain lectures, I often needed written notes, structure, and repetition just to keep up. It was frustrating, especially before I understood why learning felt harder for me than it did for others. Over the years, with therapy, medication, and a lot of trial and error, I’ve built strategies that allow me to succeed academically. This challenge pushed me to become organized, adaptable, and determined; all qualities that have prepared me well for college. These experiences also helped me recognize my strengths. One of them has always been math. Numbers make sense to me in a way that other subjects don’t. They are consistent, dependable, and logical; there is always a solution to be found. Because of that, I plan to study actuarial science. Instead of fighting against my learning style, this field aligns with it, allowing me to lean into what I excel at. It’s a path where I can thrive, grow, and contribute meaningfully. In addition to majoring in actuarial science, I plan to minor in biomedical research. My interest in this area comes from personal experience with my mom’s multiple sclerosis. Throughout my life, I’ve watched her strength and the challenges that come with chronic illness. Because of her, I want to eventually contribute to research related to MS and mental health conditions. The science behind why people suffer and how we can better treat or prevent these conditions is something that matters deeply to me. Being able to combine my strengths in math with a long-term goal of contributing to meaningful research is one of the reasons I am so motivated to pursue this path. I also hope to make an impact in my community, especially for young people who struggle the way I did. Many students with ADHD or anxiety feel defeated before they even begin. I want to show them that success doesn’t look the same for everyone and finding the right systems or the right field of study can completely change your future. Whether it’s tutoring younger students, helping create organizational tools, or continuing my involvement in mental health advocacy, I want to use my experience to support others who feel overwhelmed by challenges they can’t control. In the long run, I hope to bridge both areas that matter most to me. Whether I end up working as an actuary, contributing to medical research, or doing both in different seasons of my life, my goal is the same: to use my strengths to create stability, understanding, and hope for others. My challenges have shaped me, but they have also prepared me. They taught me discipline, compassion, and persistence; qualities I will carry with me throughout college and into my future career.

Living with anxiety has been one of the biggest challenges of my life and it is something I am still learning how to navigate. I wouldn’t say I have “overcome” it, because I’m not sure what overcoming anxiety even looks like. What I do know is that every morning requires a choice: either I face it or I let it take the lead. I see my journey as a continuous process of understanding myself, learning what I need, and building habits that allow me to show up for my life, even on the days that feel hard. My mental health challenges began early. In 5th grade I started having crippling anxiety attacks almost every day and missed a lot of school. This continued through 6th grade and it wasn’t until COVID quarantine that the constant daily panic finally slowed down. I started on medication and therapy, which helped, but it's hard to help a child understand why this is happening to them. I continued going to therapy on Zoom and I still go currently. There were many days I didn’t want to talk, didn’t want to go, and didn’t want to face the things that made me anxious, but I kept showing up. Even now, therapy remains an important part of my routine, a reminder that healing isn’t a moment, it’s a commitment. With time, I began to understand my stressors and how to manage them. I’ve learned the importance of routine, structure, and consistency in keeping my anxiety steady. Some of this has been an unfortunate reality to face, but I’ve learned that managing anxiety doesn’t mean forcing myself through everything; it means making choices that keep me healthy. Sometimes that means stepping back, sometimes that means saying no, and sometimes that means trusting myself enough to try again. As I worked on my own mental health, I found myself wanting to help others who felt the same way, especially because anxiety felt so lonely for me, made even worse by my age and the timing of quarantine. For the past three years, I have served as the student leader of a Morgan’s Message mental health charity game for my women’s lacrosse team. Organizing these events—planning, promoting, speaking, and fundraising—has shown me how powerful it is when athletes open up about mental health. The games don’t just spread awareness; they create community. People come forward with their stories. Teammates feel seen. Younger athletes learn that struggling is not something to be ashamed of. Looking forward, I want to expand this advocacy even further. I will be playing college lacrosse, and I hope to start or continue a similar charity game on my future team. I also want to get involved in online mental health advocacy, possibly through a podcast or platform where student-athletes can share their experiences. I believe that sometimes the most powerful thing we can do is simply tell the truth about what we’re going through. When people see someone who is struggling, but still showing up, they realize that healing is not about perfection. It’s about persistence. It’s about honesty. It’s about choosing to try again. Supporting others with mental health challenges is more than important to me, it is essential, because I know how isolating anxiety can feel. My goal moving forward is to use my story, my voice, and my leadership to create spaces where people feel safe, supported, and understood. Even though my journey is ongoing, I’ve learned that you don’t need to be “finished” to help others, you just need to care, to show up, and to keep going.

From a young age, I understood the weight that financial stress can place on a family. Growing up in a single-income household due to my mom’s multiple sclerosis, I saw firsthand how money challenges affect not only daily decisions but also mental health, relationships, and overall stability. That experience shaped both my strengths and my goals, and it is the foundation of why I want to pursue an education in accounting. I want to help families create stability and confidence through financial planning. One of my biggest strengths has always been math. Numbers have always felt natural and come easily to me because they are consistent; there is always an answer, a solution, or a pattern that makes sense. I’ve always found comfort in that reliability. While other subjects sometimes felt overwhelming or abstract, math gave me a sense of control and confidence. That is part of what draws me toward accounting: it is a field built on clarity, logic, and problem-solving, all areas where I excel. Using my math skills to help others gain financial understanding feels like the most meaningful way to apply my strengths. Another skill that has shaped my interest in accounting is organization. I naturally gravitate toward structure, whether I’m planning schoolwork, managing my time, or helping teammates stay on track during a season. Many people feel stressed or overwhelmed by finances, but I enjoy creating order out of confusion. The idea of taking something that causes anxiety for others and turning it into clarity and stability is exciting to me. I want to use my accounting education to help individuals and businesses feel confident, prepared, and supported. Beyond personal finance, I envision using my accounting degree to support causes that are important to me, especially nonprofit organizations. With my lived experience around chronic illness and mental health challenges, I hope to assist nonprofits focused on multiple sclerosis research and mental health advocacy. Many smaller organizations struggle with budgeting, compliance, and long-term planning, but with a strong accounting background, I can help ensure that donations are used efficiently, programs stay running, and organizations can continue creating positive change. Accounting will also support one of my long-term goals: coaching lacrosse. As a varsity athlete and youth referee, sports have been a major part of my life. Coaching involves much more than working with players; it includes budgeting for equipment, fundraising, and making sure every athlete has what they need to succeed. A strong understanding of accounting will allow me to build well-supported, financially responsible programs that make a lasting impact on young athletes. Ultimately, I see accounting as more than numbers. I see it as a tool to strengthen communities, support families, and empower organizations that make a difference. By combining my natural strengths in math and organization with my desire to help others, I hope to bring stability where there is stress, clarity where there is confusion, and support where it is needed most. My education in accounting will not only prepare me for a meaningful career but also allow me to make a positive impact in the business world and in the communities that shaped me.

When I was nine years old, just eight days before my tenth birthday, I experienced the first major loss of my life: the death of my grandfather, my dad’s dad, and one of my favorite people. At that age, I didn’t fully understand death, but I understood fear, confusion, and the feeling that something in my family had changed forever. The suddenness of his passing and the impact it had on my family left a lasting impression. I began checking in more on my family, became more aware of the importance of emotional support, and started therapy—partly to process the loss and partly to cope with the stress from my parents’ struggles after his death. I learned how to give people space, how to show up when someone is hurting, and how deeply loss can affect the people we love. I also developed strong boundaries in my own life; I do not drink nor do I associate with people who do, an instinct formed from witnessing the consequences of my grandfather’s alcoholism. As I’ve grown older these lessons have shaped how I support friends through mental health challenges and how I work with younger kids in my community. I’ve learned to notice when someone seems off, ask if they’re okay, and be a person people can trust. Losing my grandfather so young gave me perspective, maturity, and a deep awareness of how fragile life is. It strengthened my desire to make others’ lives a little easier, lighter, and kinder. These experiences have also shaped my future goals. I am passionate about pursuing a career where I can combine my interest in science with my desire to help others, particularly in mental health research and advocacy. I plan to study biomedical sciences and actuarial sciences in college, with the goal of contributing to research on mental health and developing ways to support those struggling with anxiety, depression, and other challenges. I want to help make mental health resources more accessible, effective, and destigmatized, so that others do not feel the loneliness and confusion I experienced as a child. Losing my grandfather taught me that life is fragile and that supporting others is one of the most important ways we can make a positive impact. I carry these lessons into every part of my life through my friendships, my community involvement, and my future career striving to turn a personal loss into a source of motivation to help and uplift others.

Long before my IEP was put into place or ADHD and anxiety were even a thought, an average school day felt like a series of obstacles I had to overcome just to start on the same level as my peers. Even in second or third grade, I noticed that I didn’t learn or retain information the same way my classmates did. By high school, it became impossible to ignore. I tried countless ways of studying, each taking triple the time and energy that others seemed to need, yet I was still barely keeping up. The constant struggle caused overwhelming anxiety, and it wasn’t until I was diagnosed with ADHD that I began to understand why school had always felt like a burden. Receiving the diagnosis was both a relief and a challenge. It explained why I struggled, but it also meant I had to learn to navigate school differently. Implementing an IEP was a turning point. Extended time, altered assignments, and teachers who understood my learning style gave me the support I needed to succeed academically. However, the IEP alone wasn’t a magic fix. I had to confront the emotional side of my struggles, unlearning the idea that needing help meant I wasn’t capable. I learned to advocate for myself when assignments felt overwhelming, to use strategies like breaking work into manageable steps, and to ask for guidance when I needed clarification. Slowly, I began to see progress and regain confidence in my abilities. I also realized that these struggles were shaping my character, teaching me patience, empathy, and a deeper understanding of perseverance. This journey has shaped my motivation for pursuing higher education. I am determined to succeed academically, but more than that, I want to use my experiences to inspire others who feel as alone as I once did. My ADHD and anxiety no longer define my limitations, they define my determination. They have taught me resilience, self-advocacy, patience, and the importance of using the tools available to reach my goals. I am motivated to not only achieve academically but also to contribute to a community of learners who support and encourage one another. I feel I am a strong candidate for this scholarship because I know firsthand how obstacles can shape a person’s character. I have learned to persevere in the face of difficulty, to seek support when needed, and to use challenges as opportunities for growth. I am eager to continue learning, set an example for others facing similar challenges, and show that determination and resourcefulness can overcome barriers. With the help of this scholarship, I am ready to continue my education, prove to myself what I am capable of, and demonstrate that learning differences do not limit potential but guide you toward your own path to success.

One of my favorite memories as a lacrosse referee happened during a 2nd-grade game in the fall season. I was officiating a match where a little girl had been practicing for weeks to score a goal, dreaming of one day playing with the older girls on the 3rd-6th grade team. That day, she finally got her chance. She ran down the field, made a clean shot, and the ball hit the net. My role was simple—I had to confirm whether the goal was legal. When I told her it counted, her face lit up with pure excitement. She ran to her teammates, cheering, her joy completely unfiltered. Later, she shared with me how much she had been working toward that moment and how she hoped to play with the “big girls” one day. Seeing her confidence and happiness in that moment reminded me why I referee: to create positive experiences, foster growth, and help young athletes feel proud of their accomplishments. Refereeing 2nd through 8th grade lacrosse games has been a powerful teacher for me. While there are challenging moments like overly competitive parents, misunderstandings about calls, or kids frustrated with the pace of the game; the rewarding moments far outweigh the difficulties. Being a referee has taught me patience, fairness, and how to communicate respectfully. It has strengthened my leadership skills, as I am often the authority figure guiding the game, setting expectations, and modeling sportsmanship. I’ve learned that how I respond to conflict, frustration, or mistakes can shape the experience for everyone on the field. These lessons have carried over into my personal life, helping me navigate relationships, work in groups, and stay composed under pressure. Beyond the technical aspects of officiating, refereeing has shaped my character by reinforcing the importance of encouragement and support. Moments like the little girl scoring her goal show me that sports are not just about competition, they are about growth, confidence, and community. They have taught me empathy and the impact that small actions can have on young athletes’ development. Looking ahead, I hope to continue refereeing while also pursuing my dream of becoming a high school lacrosse coach. I want to combine my understanding of the game, leadership skills, and commitment to mentorship to create spaces where athletes feel supported and empowered. Whether on the field as a referee or as a coach guiding practices and games, my goal is to positively influence young athletes, helping them build confidence, resilience, and a lifelong love of the sport.

My experience with mental health has profoundly shaped the way I view the world, build relationships, and plan for my future. I have struggled with anxiety for as long as I can remember. At its core it began in kindergarten, but it became particularly challenging starting in fifth grade and only increased through Covid as well as the return back to school after Covid. At times, my anxiety has prevented me from going to school or fully participating in activities I wanted to be a part of. Simple social situations, like sleepovers or parties, often feel overwhelming, leaving me with fewer friends than some of my peers. On the flip side, these challenges have also taught me self-awareness and the value of meaningful connections. The friendships I do have are deep, built on understanding, trust, and support, rather than numbers or appearances. My experiences have shaped my beliefs about mental health and the importance of advocacy. I strongly believe that mental health should never be silenced or ignored as I had a friend pass by suicide in January and another friend attempt the following month in Febraury. Anxiety and other mental health struggles are often invisible, yet they affect millions of people in ways that ripple through families, friendships, and communities. I understand the weight of these challenges firsthand, therefore I feel a responsibility to help others feel seen, supported, and heard. I make it a priority to listen without judgment, ask how people want support, and be present when someone is struggling. I encourage openness, compassion, and kindness, knowing that small gestures can make an enormous difference in someone’s life. These beliefs naturally influence my career aspirations. I plan to study actuarial sciences and biomedical research. While actuarial science will provide a stable and structured career that helps me manage my own mental health, biomedical research offers the opportunity to explore the underlying causes and treatments of mental health conditions. Ultimately, I hope to contribute to advancements in mental health awareness, prevention, and care; bridging the gap between data, research, and real-world impact. Through my work and personal experiences, I also hope to make a broader impact on the world. By advocating for mental health, mentoring others, and sharing what I have learned from my own struggles, I want to create environments where individuals feel safe, supported, and understood. Anxiety has shaped my perspective in ways that many may not see; it allows me to empathize, anticipate challenges, and approach problems thoughtfully. I hope to use this perspective to build a future where mental health is treated with the same care and attention as physical health, and where no one feels alone in their struggle. Living with anxiety has been challenging, but it has also given me resilience and purpose. It has guided my relationships, inspired my career goals, and shaped my vision for how I can positively influence the world. My hope is to use my experiences and knowledge to advocate for mental health, support those in need, and contribute to a future where mental health is valued, understood, and never silenced.

When I was nine years old, just eight days before my tenth birthday, I experienced the first major loss of my life: the death of my grandfather, my dad’s dad and one of my favorite people. At that age, I didn’t fully understand death, but I understood fear, confusion, and the feeling that something in my family had changed forever. My grandfather had been sick with bronchitis and struggled with alcoholism for most of his life. One afternoon he told his wife he would call her on her lunch break after a doctor’s appointment. When that call never came, she called 911 and left work early. By the time she arrived, paramedics had already broken down the door and found him unresponsive in the bathroom. He had suffered a heart attack while alone. It was clear he knew something was wrong; he had been reaching into the medicine cabinet and still had his phone in hand. The shock of losing him so suddenly hit my family in ways I didn’t yet have the words to describe. I remember sitting in the living room that evening when my grandmother called again, clearly panicking. My dad answered expecting reassurance, but instead, everything became real. I watched him drop the phone and bury his face in his hands, crying harder than I had ever seen a grown man cry. That moment is burned into my memory—not just the grief itself, but the vulnerability of seeing my father break. We immediately packed our things and started the 15-hour drive to their home. Later that night, when he thought everyone was asleep, I heard him crying again. It was then I realized that loss doesn’t just hurt in the moment; it reshapes people. The trip felt endless. I remember staring out the window, trying to understand why the world looked exactly the same when everything in my family felt so different. When we arrived, I saw grief from every angle—anger, silence, exhaustion, guilt, and heartbreak. People we never expected showed up, some we wished hadn’t, and love came from places we never anticipated. Watching adults crumble, I learned that losing someone can shake every foundation a family has. My parents went through some of the hardest years of their marriage after his death, as the stress and grief affected all of us. This experience shaped me more than I realized at the time. I learned how to give people space, how to show up when someone is hurting, and how deeply loss can affect the people we love. It also taught me the importance of emotional support within families, especially during trauma. As I’ve grown older, this understanding has shaped the way I support friends through mental health struggles and work with younger kids in my community. I’ve learned to notice when someone seems off, ask if they’re okay, and be a person people can trust. Losing my grandfather so young was painful, but it gave me perspective, maturity, and a deep awareness of how fragile life is. It strengthened my desire to be someone who makes others’ lives a little easier, a little lighter, and a little kinder, because I’ve seen what happens when life becomes unbearably heavy.

Growing up, my experiences have shaped the kind of person I am and the kind of impact I want to have on my community. I have grown up in a single-income household because my mother has multiple sclerosis. This impacts our family’s finances as I have 2 younger sisters as well, but FAFSA does not consider the financial impact of a parent on disability. As I enter higher education, I am facing financial need. I am committed to my education and hoping to major in actuarial sciences, but I know I will need support to make it possible. This is what motivates me to work hard, give back, and use my experiences to support others however I can. My community involvement centers around youth sports, mental health advocacy, and creating safe environments for the kids I work with. Lacrosse has been a major part of my life since I was very young. Currently I play at the Varsity level and am signed to play Division 2 in college. I referee 2nd through 8th grade games on weekends, help run drills at middle school practices, and make myself available to players who need guidance or encouragement. For many kids, sports are more than an activity; they are a community, a confidence-builder, and sometimes even a safe space. I take that responsibility seriously as lacrosse has always been an outlet and safe for me. Because of my own past, protecting youth from bullying and cyberbullying is something I feel deeply connected to. When I was younger, I was bullied often, and during COVID the cyberbullying became especially severe. Feeling unsafe both in person and online at such a young age taught me how harmful words can be, especially when someone is isolated. These experiences only became more real as I grew older. Last year, my friend group lost a friend to suicide, and shortly after, another friend attempted. These tragedies changed the way I view mental health, kindness, and the importance of connection. I now encourage the youth I work with to be kind above all else because you truly never know what someone is going through. Keeping kids safe means teaching them how to communicate, modeling empathy, and creating environments where they feel supported. When I ref games or help with practices, I make sure the atmosphere is positive and respectful. I intervene when I hear hurtful language and I talk openly with players about sportsmanship with teammates and opponents. I also remind them that online behavior matters just as much as what happens on the field. Many young athletes look up to older players, so I do my best to model kindness, strength, and respect both in person and online. My goal as I continue my education is to stay involved in youth development, strengthen my ability to advocate for mental health, and ultimately make my community a safer, kinder place for young people. My past experiences have shaped me into someone who wants to make a difference. With financial support, I can continue doing so on an even larger scale.

Youth sports have shaped my life in meaningful ways and have shown me how powerful athletics can be in building confidence, community, and character in young people. Due to the positive impact that lacrosse has on me, I’ve made it a priority to give back and create those same opportunities for younger athletes in my community. On weekends in the fall, I referee 2nd through 8th grade lacrosse games because without referees these kids wouldn't be able to play and I have so many great memories from fall ball. Refereeing has also allowed me a chance to help kids learn the sport in a fun and encouraging environment. At this age, every rule, every whistle, and every skill is new to them, so I take the time to explain calls, offer positive feedback, and make sure each player feels supported. My goal is simple: help them fall in love with the sport and feel proud of themselves every time they step off the field. Beyond reffing, I also volunteer with my school's middle school team. After finishing my own varsity practice, I go to their practices to help run drills, work with players one-on-one, and teach the fundamentals that will help them grow. There was a varsity player that did that for me when I was in middle school and I remember how cool it felt to have that attention, it was a major reason I wanted to continue playing in high school. I’ve learned that mentorship is one of the most powerful ways to create lasting impact. I want to be the kind of role model who encourages them, pushes them, and shows them what they are capable of. These experiences have inspired my long-term goal: I hope to become a high school lacrosse coach in the future and if the opportunity arises I would love to coach college after that. Coaching is more than teaching skills; it’s creating a space where young athletes feel supported, confident, and connected. The difference between a good coach and a bad coach is very formative. I want to build teams that value sportsmanship, hard work, and personal growth. My hope is to guide athletes through the challenges of competition and the challenges of life, helping them develop resilience, leadership, and a sense of belonging. By continuing to support youth sports I plan to make a positive, lasting impact in my community to shape not only the next generation of athletes but also the next generation of confident, capable young people.

Supporting others with their mental health has been one of the most meaningful parts of my life. Last February, a close friend attempted suicide. I dedicated myself to being there for her in every way I could. I spent as much time as possible with her while also gauging if that's what she needed in the moment. Through this experience I learned that sometimes the most important thing is simply showing up and being present. Offering consistency and care can be more powerful than words alone. I have also developed an approach that prioritizes the needs of the individual. I let people talk to me openly about their struggles and ask them how they want me to respond. Some need advice, some just need someone to listen, and some need a push to face difficult truths. By respecting these boundaries, I have been able to provide meaningful support while fostering trust and understanding. These experiences have shown me that emotional support is not one-size-fits-all; it requires patience, empathy, and the willingness to adapt to the person in front of you. Beyond one-on-one support, I have also taken initiative to raise awareness and support mental health in my broader community. This spring, I hosted a charity lacrosse game where all proceeds were donated to a mental health nonprofit “Morgan’s Message”. Organizing the event taught me the value of advocacy, community involvement, and creating opportunities to bring people together around an important cause. It was incredibly rewarding to see how collective action can make a real difference for those struggling with mental health challenges. Looking forward, I plan to study actuarial sciences and medical research with the goal of combining analytical skills with mental health advocacy. I hope to contribute to research that supports mental health in impactful ways. By understanding patterns and risks, I aim to help create systems that identify and support those at risk, while also using my personal experience to ensure empathy and humanity remain at the center of my work. Ultimately, my experiences have taught me that helping others is not just about preventing crises as that is nearly impossible. It is about creating connections, listening without judgment, and offering consistent support. Through my studies and future career, I hope to continue providing both emotional and structural support for those struggling with mental health, combining compassion with actionable solutions to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

My experience with mental health has profoundly influenced every aspect of my life. I have struggled with anxiety for as long as I can remember. It is a constant challenge, but it has also taught me to approach situations with a different perspective. Sometimes anxiety is limiting, forcing me to ask myself, “How will this affect me?” Other times, it allows me to face challenges with the mindset, “I can do this without letting anxiety control me.” This duality has taught me resilience and adaptability, skills I carry into every part of my life. Even simple social situations, such as attending parties or spending the night at a friend’s house, often feel overwhelming. The unpredictability of social interactions, the fear of judgment, and the pressure to “fit in” have sometimes left me feeling isolated. I have had to learn how to set boundaries for myself, communicate my needs honestly, and prioritize relationships that bring genuine connection and support. While I definitely have fewer friends than some of my peers, the relationships I do have are deeply meaningful, built on trust, and show mutual care. These experiences have taught me the value of quality over quantity in relationships, my parents always emphasize “You would rather have 4 quarters than 100 pennies. My mental health has also profoundly shaped my goals and ambitions. Living with anxiety has made me acutely aware of the importance of financial and routine stability. I am motivated to pursue a career that provides both security and structure. For me, having a steady job is not just practical, but essential for maintaining my mental well-being, giving me a framework in which I can function at my best. This awareness has given me a clear sense of direction, encouraging me to plan carefully, set realistic goals, and prioritize long-term stability. I have learned to balance ambition with self-care, understanding that my mental health is integral to achieving the success I desire. At the same time, anxiety has given me a unique perspective on the world. While it can be overwhelming, it has also made me more observant, reflective, and empathetic. I notice details others might overlook, which can sometimes increase anxiety, but it also allows me to consider multiple angles before making decisions and approach situations thoughtfully. I have come to recognize that many people face invisible struggles, reminding me to approach others with kindness, patience, and understanding. My experiences have inspired me to advocate for mental health awareness in the communities I am a part of, whether through school, sports, or personal relationships. I strive to create spaces where others feel safe to share their struggles and seek support, and I am motivated to challenge the stigma surrounding mental health wherever I can. Overall, my experience with mental health has been both a challenge and a guide. It has influenced the relationships I prioritize, the career path I pursue, and the way I interpret and respond to the world around me. Anxiety has forced me to adapt, reflect, and grow, fostering resilience, empathy, and a strong sense of purpose. While living with mental health challenges is not always easy, it has given me insight into myself and others and continues to shape my goals and my understanding of life in ways I value deeply. I have learned that challenges do not define a person, they shape the lens through which they see the world, and for me, that lens is one of empathy, thoughtfulness, and determination.

Mental health has shaped my life since I was very young, both through my own experiences and through those of the people I love. From an early age, simple tasks like going to school or spending the night at a friend’s house were overwhelming and anxiety-provoking. As a child, this felt unfair, and in many ways it was, but it was something I had to learn to cope with, as it was not something I could simply remove. Even today, I continue to face challenges with my mental health, but I am in a much stronger place and have developed tools and resilience to navigate these struggles. My experiences with mental health extend beyond myself. Last January, my friend group lost a friend to suicide, and shortly afterward, another friend attempted suicide in February. Losing someone in this way is a gut-wrenching and emotionally exhausting experience that I wish for no one to endure. This was a formative and eye-opening event for me. I witnessed firsthand how mental health crises can bring people together, but they also create anxiety and fear that must be actively managed. In our friend group, we learned to check in constantly and support one another, understanding that even brief lapses in communication could trigger worry or panic. This experience taught me the importance of showing up for others, listening without judgment, and advocating for mental health awareness. Motivated by this, I organized a mental health lacrosse charity game this spring, raising funds and awareness for “Morgan’s Message,” a nonprofit dedicated to suicide prevention. Within my family, mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression are prevalent, and I have seen firsthand how they affect relationships, routines, and communication; sometimes in positive ways, sometimes in difficult ones. Observing my loved ones persevere through setbacks has instilled in me a deep sense of empathy, patience, and compassion. These experiences have also shaped my ambition and determination. I am committed to continuing my education, not only as a personal goal but also as a way to maintain structure and well-being in my life. Beyond academics, I aim to continue my lacrosse career and use it as a platform to advocate for athletes’ mental health, sharing my story to help reduce stigma and encourage open conversations. Receiving the Elizabeth Schalk Memorial Scholarship would not only provide financial support for my education but also give me more time and resources to continue advocating for mental health in my school, sports, and community. Mental health has profoundly shaped who I am, guiding my empathy, resilience, and sense of purpose. With this scholarship, I can continue to grow personally and academically while honoring those affected by mental illness and supporting those who need it most.

For as long as I can remember, I have been fascinated by numbers, which naturally drew me to actuarial sciences and accounting. The idea that every answer in math is supported by evidence-based reasoning gives me confidence, knowing I can always test and verify my results. I plan to use these analytical skills to make a real difference in the world. My ultimate goal is to combine this foundation with a career in medical research, focusing on understanding and treating multiple sclerosis, a disease that affects millions worldwide, including my mom. My interest in medical research stems from my personal connection to MS, but I have always been deeply intrigued by disease research in general. I enjoy gathering data, identifying patterns, and uncovering the root causes of complex problems. By approaching medical research with the precision and rigor I cultivate in actuarial studies, I hope to contribute to breakthroughs that improve the quality of life for those affected by MS. I also hope to collaborate with scientists, clinicians, and patient communities to ensure research findings translate into meaningful treatments and support systems. Beyond the scientific impact, I am passionate about empowering women in fields where they are underrepresented. Both the finance and medical research sectors often lack female voices in leadership and decision-making roles. By pursuing a career that blends data analysis and medical innovation, I hope not only to advance critical research but also to mentor and inspire other women to enter STEM and scientific research fields. Representation matters, and I want young women to see that their ambition, intellect, and curiosity are valued and essential in shaping the future. Encouraging more women to participate in STEM creates a diverse, innovative environment where new ideas can thrive. My ultimate vision is to pursue a career in actuarial sciences while dedicating time to meaningful medical research projects along the way. I am committed to using my education and career to make a positive impact in multiple ways: advancing medical knowledge, improving the lives of those affected by MS, and uplifting other women in STEM. With dedication, curiosity, and a drive to contribute to meaningful change, I hope to not only break barriers for myself but also help pave the way for the next generation of women scientists, analysts, and leaders. I believe that when women support one another and combine expertise with compassion, the possibilities for innovation and societal progress are limitless. Receiving this scholarship will provide me with the financial support I need to pursue my education and research goals, allowing me to focus fully on making a meaningful difference in medical research and empowering women in STEM.

Long before my IEP was put into place, my ADHD and anxiety turned an average school day into hundreds of emotional obstacles I had to overcome just to reach the same starting line as my peers. Even as a second or third grader, I could tell that I didn’t learn or retain information the same way it was being taught to everyone else. By the time I reached high school, it became impossible to ignore. I knew I couldn’t just slide by anymore and something had to change. I tried countless different ways of studying, each one taking triple the time and energy that my classmates seemed to need, and I was still barely keeping up. This caused overwhelming anxiety for me, and after many attempts to simply contain the anxiety, we finally looked into the deeper problem: ADHD. Receiving the diagnosis was both a relief and a challenge. It helped explain why school had always felt like such a burden, but it also meant I had to learn how to navigate my education differently. Getting an IEP put into place was one of the first steps in changing the direction of my academic experience. Instead of feeling constantly behind, I finally had accommodations that allowed me to work in a way that matched how my brain functions. Extended time, altered assignments, and teachers who understood my learning style made a huge difference. But even with an IEP, it wasn’t an instant fix, which was one of the biggest challenges for me. I had to learn that my IEP wouldn’t fix the emotional side of my struggles and learn to accept help without feeling like I was less capable than everyone else.I had to unlearn the idea that needing support meant I wasn’t smart. I had to learn how to advocate for myself when assignments felt overwhelming or when anxiety made it hard to start. Slowly, I began to understand that my IEP wasn’t an excuse, it was a tool. With it, I started noticing real progress. I became more confident asking questions, creating routines that worked for me, and using strategies like breaking assignments into smaller steps. What motivates me to continue my education is the growth I’ve seen in myself since the day I finally received the help I needed. I’ve learned resilience through every moment I felt behind but kept going anyway. I’ve learned self-advocacy by speaking up when something wasn’t working. My goal is not only to succeed academically but to use what I’ve learned to inspire others who feel the way I once did because it can feel very lonely. I want to show that a learning disability doesn’t limit your potential, it just means you take a different path to reach it. My ADHD and anxiety no longer define my limitations; they define my determination. I finally feel ready to go to college and confident in what I am capable of. With the support of this scholarship, I’m ready to continue my education and prove to myself that the obstacles I once faced have only made me stronger.