My commitment to occupational therapy stems from a deep understanding of its transformative power. I've witnessed firsthand how it can reshape lives, providing a sense of independence and instilling a sense of purpose where previously there was struggle. This impact deeply resonates with me, fueling my desire to pursue this career path. Occupational therapy is about more than just rehabilitation; it's about empowering individuals to reclaim control over their lives. It's about helping people overcome physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges, enabling them to participate fully in their communities and achieve their personal goals. I'm drawn to the holistic nature of this profession, its focus on the whole person, not just their ailment. It's about addressing the individual's needs within the context of their environment, fostering a sense of belonging and self-worth. This opportunity to create meaningful change is what truly motivates me. I envision myself working with people facing diverse challenges, from stroke survivors regaining their motor skills to children with developmental delays reaching thier full potential. The satisfaction of witnessing a person's progress, their renewed confidence, and their ability to overcome obstables is incredibly rewarding. It's a privilege to be a part of their journey, to witness their resilience and celebrate their triumphs. Beyond the individual impact, I'm also very drawn to the collaborative nature of occupational therapy. It requires working closely with other healthcare professionals, families, and caregivers, creating a supportive network that fosters growth and healing. this collaborative approach is essential for providing comprehensive and effective care, ensuring that each person receives the tailored support that they need in order to become the best version of themself. My aspiration to become an occupational therapist is not merely a career choice; it's a calling. it's a commitment to making a tangible difference int he lives of others, to empowering them to live their lives to the fullest. The challenges inherent in this profession will only strengthen my resolve, reinforcing my belief in the transformative power of occupational therapy and my dedication to this rewarding career. I am eager to contribute my skills and compassion to this fiels, making a lasting impact on the lives of those I serve. The opportunity to witness the positive changes in a person's life, to see them regaint heir independence and find joy, is the ultimate reward. This is why I am committed to occupatupational therapy, and why I believe I am well-suited to succeed in this demanding yet deeply fulfilling profession.

Mrs. Haverland has been a beacon of light in my high school journey, guiding me through some of the most challenging times and becoming more than just a teacher—she became a friend and mentor when I felt I had no one. From the moment I stepped into her classroom, I could sense that Mrs. Haverland was different from other teachers. Her genuine interest in her students' lives and well-being was evident in the way she greeted us each day. She always had a smile on her face and a kind word to share, making her classroom a safe haven where I could escape the pressures of high school life. Throughout my high school years, I faced numerous trials, both academically and personally. There were times when the weight of my mental health struggles and anxiety felt unbearable. In those moments, Mrs. Haverland was there, offering a listening ear and words of encouragement. She understood the importance of mental health and never dismissed my feelings. Instead, she provided me with the support I needed to navigate through those difficult times. Mrs. Haverland's impact on my life extended beyond the classroom. She became a friend who I could confide in, someone who genuinely cared about my well-being. She took the time to get to know me, understanding my strengths and weaknesses, and always encouraged me to believe in myself. Her unwavering support gave me the confidence to face my challenges head-on and strive for success. One of the most significant ways Mrs. Haverland helped me was by becoming my mentor. She recognized my passion for helping others and guided me toward a career that aligned with my values and aspirations. Her mentorship was invaluable, as she provided me with the tools and resources to pursue my dreams. Mrs. Haverland's dedication to her students was evident in the countless hours she spent outside of class, offering extra help and guidance. She was always willing to go the extra mile to ensure that we understood the material and felt supported. Her teaching style was engaging and interactive, making learning enjoyable and accessible. She had a unique ability to make complex concepts understandable, and her passion for teaching was contagious. In addition to her academic support, Mrs. Haverland also played a crucial role in my personal growth. She taught me the importance of resilience and perseverance, encouraging me to keep pushing forward even when things seemed impossible. Her belief in my abilities helped me develop a sense of self-worth and determination that I carry with me to this day. As I reflect on my high school years, I am incredibly grateful for Mrs. Haverland's presence in my life. She was more than just a teacher; she was a mentor, a friend, and a source of unwavering support. Her impact on my life is immeasurable, and I am forever thankful for the guidance and encouragement she provided. Mrs. Haverland's dedication to her students and her genuine care for their well-being make her an exceptional teacher and an extraordinary human being. Her influence has shaped me into the person I am today, and I am committed to paying it forward by supporting those I come in contact with through my future career endeavors.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." (Proverbs 3:5-6) My journey of faith has been a transformative one, marked by moments of doubt and struggle, but ultimately leading to a profound sense of purpose and direction. There was a time when I wrestled with my faith, questioning my beliefs and feeling distant from God. However, through His grace and countless blessings, I have been drawn closer to Him, discovering a deeper understanding of my purpose and the strength to pursue it. In my earlier years, I often found myself overwhelmed by life's challenges and uncertainties. My faith wavered, and I struggled to find meaning and direction. It was during these difficult times that I began to seek God more earnestly, yearning for a sense of peace and clarity. Through prayer, reading the Bible, and surrounding myself with a supportive faith community, I slowly began to feel God's presence in my life. He revealed Himself to me in ways I had never experienced before, providing comfort and guidance when I needed it most. One of the most significant blessings God has bestowed upon me is the realization of my purpose. As I grew closer to Him, I began to understand that my struggles were not in vain. They were shaping me, preparing me for the path He had set before me. This newfound sense of purpose has become the foundation of my everyday life, guiding my decisions and actions. I now approach each day with a sense of gratitude and determination, knowing that God is with me every step of the way. My faith has not only provided me with a sense of purpose but also with the strength and determination required to pursue my future career. In moments of doubt and fatigue, I find solace in prayer and the knowledge that God is my constant source of strength. He has given me the resilience to overcome obstacles and the courage to face challenges head-on. My faith serves as a reminder that I am never alone, and that with God's help, I can achieve anything I set my mind to. Moreover, my faith has given me something to fall back on during times of uncertainty. Life is unpredictable, and there will inevitably be moments when I feel lost or unsure of my path. In these moments, I turn to God, seeking His guidance and trusting in His plan for my life. This unwavering trust in God provides me with a sense of peace and assurance, allowing me to navigate life's ups and downs with confidence. In conclusion, my faith journey has been one of growth and discovery. Through God's blessings and guidance, I have found a deeper sense of purpose and the strength to pursue my dreams. My faith has become the cornerstone of my life, providing me with the resilience and determination needed to overcome challenges and achieve my goals. As I move forward in my career and personal life, I am confident that God's presence will continue to guide and support me, helping me to fulfill the purpose He has set before me.

From a young age, I have always been drawn to the medical field. The idea of helping others, being a part of their healing process, and making a tangible difference in lives has always inspired me. This passion led me to pursue my Certified Nursing Assistance (CNA) certification my junior year of high school. This proved to be a stepping stone that would bring me closer ot my dreams and realize what I wanted to become. While pursing this certification, I discovered a profound love for occupational therapy, a field that perfectly aligns with my desire to assist others in reaching their highest potential. As I worked towards my CNA certification, I had the opportunity to observe and assist occupational therapists. I was fascinated by their ability to help patience regain independence and improve their quality of life through personalized theraputic activities. The holistic approach of occupational therapy, which considered not just the physical but also the emotional and psychological aspects of recovery, resonated with me deeply. It was in these moments that I realized that occupational therapy was my true calling. My future goals are firmly rooted in this passion. I plan to attend Oklahoma State University, where I will pursue a Bachelor's degree in psychology, with a pre-occupational therapy focus. This program will provide me with a strong foundation in understanding human behavior, mental processes, and the therapeutic techniques necesary for effected practice in occupational therapy. The comprehensive curriculum at Oklahoma State Univerity will equip me witht he knowledge and skills required to excel in this field. After completing my undergraduate studies, I aim to further my education by getting a Master's degree in Occupational Therapy. This advanced degree will allow me to specialize in specific areas of interest, such as pediatric or geriatric occupational therapy, and refine my therapeutic techniques. I am particularly interested in working with children, helping them to overcome developmental challenges and reaching their full potential. By obtaining a Master's degree, I will be well-prepared to take on leaderhsip roles and make significant contributions to the field of occupational therapy. In addition to academic goals, I am committed to gaining practical experience through internships and volunteer work. I believe that hands-on experience is invaluable in developing the skills and empathy required to be an effective occupational therapist. By working directly with patients and collaborating with experienced professionals, I will gain insights that cannot be learned in a classroom. Ultimately, my goal is to become a licensed occupational therapist and work in a healthcare setting where I can make a difference in patients' lives. I am determined to continuously learn and grow in my profession, staying updated with the latest advancements in occupational therapy to provide the best possible care for my patients. In conclusion, my journey towards a career in the medical fiels has led me to discover a deep passion for occupational therapy. With a clear vision of my future goals and a plan to achieve them through education and practical experience, I am excited to embark on this fulfilling career path. I am confident that my dedication, compassion, and commitment to helping others will enable me to excel as an occupational therapistand make a positive different in the lives of those I serve.

After countless days of what seemed to be unreasonable fear and a racing heart, I was diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder in second grade. At the time, I didn't realize what a huge effect this would have on my life, and I never expended the coming years and how difficult they would be. In Junior high- around sixth grade, I was first put on anti-anxiety medicine because my panic attacks had gotten so common and debilitating. A day without a breakdown meant it was the best day of my week. I lived in fear of when my next attack would be, and it began to consume my life. Because of this constant fear, I was diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder and Panic Disorder. With every new diagnosis, I felt like I was losing a piece of myself to those titles and that one day that was all I would be- sick. Covid-19 lockdown was the worst time of my life. I was in seventh grade, 13 at that point. I was suffering with constant suicidal ideation, a bad relationship with food, and self harm. After my first suicide attempt did not work, it became a regular occurrence. The fact that no one noticed these days made it even easier. I felt like if they didn't notice, then it wouldn't hurt them when I was gone. Looking back, it hurts that someone so young was experiencing these issues, but at the same time I am grateful because it taught me who I am. I know that I want to help people. I don't want other kids to feel the same way I did. I have been able to be open and honest with others about what I have been through, and I have had so many people, friends and strangers, come to me. These experiences shaped my beliefs because I truly know it my heart that it is by the grace of God that I am here today. I overcame countless things that I was never sure I would survive. Things I probably shouldn't have survived. It helped my relationships because I learned that you never know what someone is truly thinking or feeling. My family described me as a happy kid while I was alone in my room, crying for hours on end. I knew that if I had felt kindness from someone, shown some purpose in life, it could have changed anything. I learned to never be afraid to tell people how I feel, and especially never be afraid to hug the people I live, because I never know who needs it the most. As for my aspirations, it was difficult because I never saw myself making it to high school, much less college. I went so long without a dream, that it felt impossible to decide on one. All I knew was that I wanted to help people. I considered becoming a therapist, but I wasn't sure if that was the right fit for me. I thought about becoming a nurse, but I am horrible with blood. I learned about occupational therapy through a high school CNA class, and knew that was my calling. I could help people in their most vulnerable states by supporting them both physically and mentally. I have never felt passion for anything like I do for this career. Through this career, I hope to spread awareness of mental health, support people in all aspects of their lives, and make a difference in this world. Mental health is something this is so important, but also so overlooked. I believe that reaching out, one person at a time, will truly change the world.