There was a time when I did not know if I would ever walk, run, or play soccer again. After a field injury I was left temporarily paralyzed. Although I believed I wouldn't enter another hospital after my scoliosis surgery on August 17,2020, I was forced to face the possibility that I would never walk again, and my love for soccer would be snatched away. These experiences told me never to take a single opportunity for granted; so today, as a first-generation college student I'm prepared to attend Oklahoma Wesleyan University, to play soccer, study psychology, and take this opportunity as both my blessing and responsibility. My experiences with recovering, and uncertainty became the foundation of my “why.” During difficult moments I learned how strongly physical challenges affected my mental and emotional well-being. The fear of not knowing whether I would walk or play soccer again gave me firsthand understanding of what the word anxiety could feel like, what resilience was, and the importance of truly understanding the shoulder you lean on, our support. My life inspired my desire to study psychology so that I can one day support and navigate others during their own hopeful moments. I can walk, because each of my challenges lifted me stronger, creating this determined person. I learned perseverance through rehabilitation, patience, through setbacks, and gratitude for every opportunity I am given. Returning to the field after believing I might never run again taught me that obstacles do not define me, yet my response to them does. My lessons continue to shape the way I approach academics, athletics, and life. Change is scary, and forever necessary. This scholarship aligns with my mission to pursue higher education while using my experiences to serve others through psychology and athletics. Financially, this support would significantly reduce the burden on my family during an especially difficult time. My mother is currently battling complications related to sickle cell disease and will be undergoing a month-long medical procedure, which places additional financial strain on our household. Receiving this scholarship would help cover tuition and educational expenses, allowing me to focus on succeeding academically and athletically rather than emotionally, while supporting my family through our story. With the chance to attend Oklahoma Wesleyan University. A chance to never take another opportunity for granted, as a first-generation student-athlete, I'm determined to succeed. This scholarship would support my education, This scholarship would prove my journey was created with purpose. Thank you so much for taking time out of your day to know my story.

There was a time when I did not know if I would ever walk, run, or play soccer again. After a field injury I was left temporarily paralyzed. Although I believed I wouldn't enter another hospital after my scoliosis surgery on August 17,2020, I was forced to face the possibility that I would never walk again, and my love for soccer would be snatched away. These experiences told me never to take a single opportunity for granted; so today, as a first-generation college student I'm prepared to attend Oklahoma Wesleyan University, to play soccer, study psychology, and take this opportunity as both my blessing and responsibility. My experiences with recovering, and uncertainty became the foundation of my “why.” During difficult moments I learned how strongly physical challenges affected my mental and emotional well-being. The fear of not knowing whether I would walk or play soccer again gave me firsthand understanding of what the word anxiety could feel like, what resilience was, and the importance of truly understanding the shoulder you lean on, our support. My life inspired my desire to study psychology so that I can one day support and navigate others during their own hopeful moments. I can walk, because each of my challenges lifted me stronger, creating this determined person. I learned perseverance through rehabilitation, patience, through setbacks, and gratitude for every opportunity I am given. Returning to the field after believing I might never run again taught me that obstacles do not define me, yet my response to them does. My lessons continue to shape the way I approach academics, athletics, and life. Change is scary, and forever necessary. This scholarship aligns with my mission to pursue higher education while using my experiences to serve others through psychology and athletics. Financially, this support would significantly reduce the burden on my family during an especially difficult time. My mother is currently battling complications related to sickle cell disease and will be undergoing a month-long medical procedure, which places additional financial strain on our household. Receiving this scholarship would help cover tuition and educational expenses, allowing me to focus on succeeding academically and athletically rather than emotionally, while supporting my family through our story. With the chance to attend Oklahoma Wesleyan University. A chance to never take another opportunity for granted, as a first-generation student-athlete, I'm determined to succeed. This scholarship would support my education, This scholarship would prove my journey was created with purpose. Thank you so much for taking time out of your day to know my story.

There was a time when I did not know if I would ever walk, run, or play soccer again. After a field injury I was left temporarily paralyzed. Although I believed I wouldn't enter another hospital after my scoliosis surgery on August 17,2020, I was forced to face the possibility that I would never walk again, and my love for soccer would be snatched away. These experiences told me never to take a single opportunity for granted; so today, as a first-generation college student I'm prepared to attend Oklahoma Wesleyan University, to play soccer, study psychology, and take this opportunity as both my blessing and responsibility. My experiences with recovering, and uncertainty became the foundation of my “why.” During difficult moments I learned how strongly physical challenges affected my mental and emotional well-being. The fear of not knowing whether I would walk or play soccer again gave me firsthand understanding of what the word anxiety could feel like, what resilience was, and the importance of truly understanding the shoulder you lean on, our support. My life inspired my desire to study psychology so that I can one day support and navigate others during their own hopeful moments. I can walk, because each of my challenges lifted me stronger, creating this determined person. I learned perseverance through rehabilitation, patience, through setbacks, and gratitude for every opportunity I am given. Returning to the field after believing I might never run again taught me that obstacles do not define me, yet my response to them does. My lessons continue to shape the way I approach academics, athletics, and life. Change is scary, and forever necessary. This scholarship aligns with my mission to pursue higher education while using my experiences to serve others through psychology and athletics. Financially, this support would significantly reduce the burden on my family during an especially difficult time. My mother is currently battling complications related to sickle cell disease and will be undergoing a month-long medical procedure, which places additional financial strain on our household. Receiving this scholarship would help cover tuition and educational expenses, allowing me to focus on succeeding academically and athletically rather than emotionally, while supporting my family through our story. With the chance to attend Oklahoma Wesleyan University. A chance to never take another opportunity for granted, as a first-generation student-athlete, I'm determined to succeed. This scholarship would support my education, This scholarship would prove my journey was created with purpose. Thank you so much for taking time out of your day to know my story.

There was a time when I did not know if I would ever walk, run, or play soccer again. After a field injury I was left temporarily paralyzed. Although I believed I wouldn't enter another hospital after my scoliosis surgery on August 17,2020, I was forced to face the possibility that I would never walk again, and my love for soccer would be snatched away. These experiences told me never to take a single opportunity for granted; so today, as a first-generation college student I'm prepared to attend Oklahoma Wesleyan University, to play soccer, study psychology, and take this opportunity as both my blessing and responsibility. My experiences with recovering, and uncertainty became the foundation of my “why.” During difficult moments I learned how strongly physical challenges affected my mental and emotional well-being. The fear of not knowing whether I would walk or play soccer again gave me firsthand understanding of what the word anxiety could feel like, what resilience was, and the importance of truly understanding the shoulder you lean on, our support. My life inspired my desire to study psychology so that I can one day support and navigate others during their own hopeful moments. I can walk, because each of my challenges lifted me stronger, creating this determined person. I learned perseverance through rehabilitation, patience, through setbacks, and gratitude for every opportunity I am given. Returning to the field after believing I might never run again taught me that obstacles do not define me, yet my response to them does. My lessons continue to shape the way I approach academics, athletics, and life. Change is scary, and forever necessary. This scholarship aligns with my mission to pursue higher education while using my experiences to serve others through psychology and athletics. Financially, this support would significantly reduce the burden on my family during an especially difficult time. My mother is currently battling complications related to sickle cell disease and will be undergoing a month-long medical procedure, which places additional financial strain on our household. Receiving this scholarship would help cover tuition and educational expenses, allowing me to focus on succeeding academically and athletically rather than emotionally, while supporting my family through our story. With the chance to attend Oklahoma Wesleyan University. A chance to never take another opportunity for granted, as a first-generation student-athlete, I'm determined to succeed. This scholarship would support my education, This scholarship would prove my journey was created with purpose. Thank you so much for taking time out of your day to know my story.

There was a time when I did not know if I would ever walk, run, or play the sport I love again. After scoliosis surgery on August 17,2020, and a separate injury that left me temporarily paralyzed for a week, I was forced to face the possibility that everything I loved could be taken away. Those experiences taught me never to take a single opportunity for granted. Today, as a first-generation college student preparing to attend Oklahoma Wesleyan University to play soccer and study psychology, I view this opportunity as both blessing and responsibility. My experiences with surgery, recovery, and uncertainty became the foundation of my “why.” During difficult moments, I learned how deeply physical challenges affect mental and emotional well-being. The fear of not knowing whether I would walk or play soccer again gave me firsthand understanding of anxiety, resilience, and the importance of support. The experiences inspired my desire to study psychology so that I can one day help others navigate their own struggles with strength and hope. These challenges shaped me into a stronger and more determined person. I learned perseverance through rehabilitation, patience through setbacks, and gratitude for every opportunity I am given. Returning to the field after believing I might never run again taught me that obstacles do not define me that my response to them does. Those lessons continue to shape the way I approach academics, athletics, and life. This scholarship aligns with my mission to pursue higher education while using my experiences to serve others through psychology and athletics. Financially, this support would significantly reduce the burden on my family during an especially difficult time. My mother is currently battling complications related to sickle cell disease and will be undergoing a month-long medical procedure, which places additional financial strain on our household. Receiving this scholarship would help cover tuition and educational expenses, allowing me to focus on succeeding academically and athletically while supporting my family through this season. The challenges I have faced have taught me to never take opportunity for granted. From moments of uncertainty and recovery to the chance to attend Oklahoma Wesleyan University as a first-generation student-athlete, every step has strengthened my determination to succeed. This scholarship would not only support my education but also affirm the resilience, purpose, and perseverance that have shaped my journey. Thank you so much for taking time out of your wonderful day to read my story.

There was a time when I did not know if I would ever walk, run, or play the sport I love again. After scoliosis surgery on August 17,2020, and a separate injury that left me temporarily paralyzed for a week, I was forced to face the possibility that everything I loved could be taken away. Those experiences taught me never to take a single opportunity for granted. Today, as a first-generation college student preparing to attend Oklahoma Wesleyan University to play soccer and study psychology, I view this opportunity as both blessing and responsibility. My experiences with surgery, recovery, and uncertainty became the foundation of my “why.” During difficult moments, I learned how deeply physical challenges affect mental and emotional well-being. The fear of not knowing whether I would walk or play soccer again gave me firsthand understanding of anxiety, resilience, and the importance of support. The experiences inspired my desire to study psychology so that I can one day help others navigate their own struggles with strength and hope. These challenges shaped me into a stronger and more determined person. I learned perseverance through rehabilitation, patience through setbacks, and gratitude for every opportunity I am given. Returning to the field after believing I might never run again taught me that obstacles do not define me that my response to them does. Those lessons continue to shape the way I approach academics, athletics, and life. This scholarship aligns with my mission to pursue higher education while using my experiences to serve others through psychology and athletics. Financially, this support would significantly reduce the burden on my family during an especially difficult time. My mother is currently battling complications related to sickle cell disease and will be undergoing a month-long medical procedure, which places additional financial strain on our household. Receiving this scholarship would help cover tuition and educational expenses, allowing me to focus on succeeding academically and athletically while supporting my family through this season. The challenges I have faced have taught me to never take opportunity for granted. From moments of uncertainty and recovery to the chance to attend Oklahoma Wesleyan University as a first-generation student-athlete, every step has strengthened my determination to succeed. This scholarship would not only support my education but also affirm the resilience, purpose, and perseverance that have shaped my journey. Thank you so much for taking time out of your wonderful day to read my story.

There was a time when I did not know if I would ever walk, run, or play the sport I love again. After scoliosis surgery on August 17,2020, and a separate injury that left me temporarily paralyzed for a week, I was forced to face the possibility that everything I loved could be taken away. Those experiences taught me never to take a single opportunity for granted. Today, as a first-generation college student preparing to attend Oklahoma Wesleyan University to play soccer and study psychology, I view this opportunity as both blessing and responsibility. My experiences with surgery, recovery, and uncertainty became the foundation of my “why.” During difficult moments, I learned how deeply physical challenges affect mental and emotional well-being. The fear of not knowing whether I would walk or play soccer again gave me firsthand understanding of anxiety, resilience, and the importance of support. The experiences inspired my desire to study psychology so that I can one day help others navigate their own struggles with strength and hope. These challenges shaped me into a stronger and more determined person. I learned perseverance through rehabilitation, patience through setbacks, and gratitude for every opportunity I am given. Returning to the field after believing I might never run again taught me that obstacles do not define me that my response to them does. Those lessons continue to shape the way I approach academics, athletics, and life. This scholarship aligns with my mission to pursue higher education while using my experiences to serve others through psychology and athletics. Financially, this support would significantly reduce the burden on my family during an especially difficult time. My mother is currently battling complications related to sickle cell disease and will be undergoing a month-long medical procedure, which places additional financial strain on our household. Receiving this scholarship would help cover tuition and educational expenses, allowing me to focus on succeeding academically and athletically while supporting my family through this season. The challenges I have faced have taught me to never take opportunity for granted. From moments of uncertainty and recovery to the chance to attend Oklahoma Wesleyan University as a first-generation student-athlete, every step has strengthened my determination to succeed. This scholarship would not only support my education but also affirm the resilience, purpose, and perseverance that have shaped my journey. Thank you so much for taking time out of your wonderful day to read my story.

As a student with an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), I've faced a number of challenges especially when it comes to staying focused on my work and absorbing key details. My learning disability makes it harder to follow instructions or stay on task, and at times, I struggle to keep up with my peers. However, despite these challenges, I refuse to let them define me or limit what I can achieve. Having an IEP often means that I have to work harder than others to keep my mind from drifting. I sometimes get distracted or miss small details, which can make tasks feel overwhelming. But rather than letting this hold me back, I’ve learned to be patient with myself and find ways to stay focused. I break down tasks into smaller, manageable steps and rely on different strategies like using reminders or asking for clarification when needed. Even when I fall behind, I keep pushing forward. Throughout my life, I’ve been made fun of because of my learning disability. The teasing and judgment hurt, but instead of letting it knock me down, I use it as fuel to keep going. I drown out the negativity and focus on what I can control my effort and my mindset. I know that my journey is mine alone, and I don’t need to listen to anyone who says I can’t do something. I push myself to prove them wrong. What truly motivates me is the realization that I’m doing this for myself. I know that even though my learning challenges make things more difficult, they don’t make me less capable. I teach myself to keep going, to fight through the struggles, and to believe in my potential. My drive comes from the simple fact that I want to be more than what people expect me to be. I’m not defined by my learning disability, but by the strength I show every day in trying to succeed despite it. In the end, what keeps me going is this: I’m living my own life, and no one else can tell me what I’m capable of. The challenges might be there, but they don’t stop me. I’m still trying, still fighting, and most importantly, still believing in myself. I will continue to fight for those that cant fight for themselves. I hope that I am a good candidate and I hope you keep in my mind my application.

Look, my digital habits are a masterpiece of organized chaos—if you can call it that. I live in a world where 2 a.m. TikTok scrolls are practically a ritual, and my “For You” page knows more about my mood than I do. Some nights, it’s just me, my phone, and a sea of memes that make me laugh until I forget I’m actually supposed to be doing something productive. (Like sleeping. Oops.) I’ve mastered the art of multitasking: seven tabs open, half of them are for schoolwork, one’s a YouTube video I promised to watch three days ago, and the rest are Instagram stories I can’t stop watching but won’t admit to anyone I’m actually invested in. Oh, and don’t even get me started on my Notes app. It’s a mess of half-finished thoughts, ideas for TikToks that never made it past the brainstorming stage, and random grocery lists that probably shouldn’t be there. But that’s my process chaotic, disorganized, and somehow productive? I’m also a BeReal overachiever. Like, I’ll snap a picture of my lunch just to prove that I’ve “lived a full day” because who doesn’t love the pressure of 2 minutes to take the most authentic shot of your face while still making sure your air pods are visible in the background? It’s the realest part of my digital routine. No filters. Just pure, unfiltered chaos.

Mental health and resilience have played an incredibly important role in shaping my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the profound impact of chronic illness on both the individual and their loved ones, especially as I watched my mother navigate life with sickle cell disease. My mother was born with sickle cell, a condition that posed significant risks during both her pregnancy with me and my brother. Doctors warned that my brother might not survive due to her condition, but against all odds, he was born and thrived. The same was true for me. We were both born into a world with a mother who faced continuous physical challenges. Despite this, she has never let her condition define her. Instead, she has taught me invaluable lessons about perseverance, resilience, and the importance of a positive mindset, even in the face of adversity. Seeing my mother push through difficult days where pain and fatigue often seemed overwhelming—has shaped the way I approach both my personal life and my academic pursuits. It has instilled in me an unwavering belief that even in the toughest of times, it’s possible to find strength, remain hopeful, and keep pushing forward. The lessons she taught me about fighting through hardships and staying strong have shaped my views on mental health. It’s not just about enduring the physical challenges, but also about maintaining a healthy mindset, seeking support when needed, and knowing that it's okay to lean on others. One of the most impactful aspects of my mother’s journey is her dedication to giving back to others. Despite her own health struggles, she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing through a community college. She worked tirelessly to ensure she could support herself and her family, all while helping others through her work as a nurse. Her example has inspired me to consider a career in healthcare, where I can use my experiences to empathize with others, offer support, and contribute to the wellbeing of those in need. My mother's resilience has fueled my desire to pursue a career that allows me to not only help people, but also inspire them to persevere through their challenges, just as she has done for me. Beyond her professional success, my mother has always emphasized the importance of helping others every day. Whether through simple acts of kindness or being a listening ear, she has shown me the value of community and human connection. This has influenced the relationships I build with others, whether friends, family, or even strangers. I believe that the mental health of individuals is closely tied to the support of a strong community, and I am committed to fostering those connections, not just for myself, but also for those around me. In summary, my experiences with my mother’s illness and her strength in overcoming its challenges have deeply influenced my perspective on mental health, relationships, and my career goals. It’s not just about surviving it's about thriving, helping others, and using our experiences to make a positive difference. My mother has shown me what it means to fight for something greater than yourself, and that is exactly what I want to do with my career. I hope to use my education and skills to contribute to the healthcare field, not only to help those who are suffering but also to empower them to keep going, just as my mother has empowered me. Thank you for considering my story.

My name is La'raya Jackson, and I am a passionate and driven individual currently pursuing a career in Health Science and physical training. Throughout my life, I’ve learned the importance of hard work, discipline, and perseverance, and I am excited to channel these qualities into mastering my trade and giving back to my community. From a young age, I developed a strong sense of dedication, whether it was in my academics, athletics, or extracurricular activities. Over the years, I have discovered that my true calling lies in Health Science. I have always been fascinated by helping people in need, and I believe that pursuing this field will allow me to make a meaningful impact on both my life and the lives of others. To master my trade, I plan to take a combination of formal education, hands-on experience, and mentorship. I recognize that the journey to expertise is not an easy one, but I am committed to putting in the necessary time and effort to learn and grow. I will actively seek out internships, apprenticeships, or any opportunities that will provide real-world experience and deepen my understanding of the industry. I also plan to continue developing myself professionally by staying updated with the latest advancements and trends in my field, and I will never stop learning. Giving back to my community is equally important to me. I understand that the success I achieve isn’t solely for my own benefit, but also to uplift others. I am passionate about using my skills and knowledge to contribute to the development of my community, whether it’s through volunteering, mentorship, or creating opportunities for those who might not have the same resources. By sharing my knowledge and helping others pursue their dreams, I hope to inspire a cycle of growth and support that will have a lasting impact. Whether through offering internships, organizing community workshops, or simply serving as a role model, I want to be a resource that helps others realize their potential. Ultimately, I believe that mastering my trade isn’t just about personal success; it’s about creating a ripple effect of positive change that extends far beyond myself. I’m excited about the future, and I’m committed to both achieving my goals and giving back to those who helped me get there. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to my community and succeed in my chosen field.