Teaching from the Heart: Serving My Community and Inspiring the Future Teaching has always meant more to me than simply sharing information—it's about shaping lives, uplifting communities, and creating a sense of hope where it’s needed most. Growing up in Fayette, Mississippi, I learned the value of service early on. After losing my mother to breast cancer at 13 and later my father to heart complications, I understood what it meant to face life’s challenges without all the guidance I needed. That loss helped me become more compassionate, more determined, and more aware of how crucial support, love, and education are—especially in childhood. I’ve carried that spirit of service into every part of my life. Whether it was helping neighbors with childcare, volunteering at local events, or simply listening to others in times of need, I’ve always believed in the importance of showing up for people. I especially make time for young people, offering encouragement, sharing wisdom, and helping them feel seen and heard. Many of the children in my community face tough realities—poverty, family struggles, or emotional hardship. I see myself in them. I understand their silence, their frustration, and their need for someone who believes in them. As an Early Childhood Education major, I want to be more than a teacher—I want to be a source of stability and inspiration. I hope my future students will walk into my classroom and feel a sense of belonging, trust, and warmth. I want them to know that even if the world outside feels uncertain, they are safe, capable, and deeply valued inside our classroom. I want them to see education not as a task but as a pathway to empowerment. Beyond academic knowledge, I want my students to learn empathy, self-confidence, and resilience. I want to teach them how to communicate their feelings, solve problems with kindness, and embrace their uniqueness. I want them to know it’s okay to make mistakes, to ask for help, and to dream big. I want them to understand the power of using their voice and the importance of standing up for what’s right. My teaching philosophy is rooted in real-life experience. I know what it feels like to struggle—and I know what it feels like to overcome. That’s why I lead with heart and teach with purpose. I believe that every child has greatness inside them; sometimes, they just need someone to help them discover it. I want to be that someone. In the future, I also hope to give back beyond the classroom by organizing programs that support families, offer tutoring, and provide mental health resources. Education should be a community effort, and I plan to be involved in that effort every step of the way. Teaching is my calling because it gives me the chance to serve others, to uplift lives, and to make a lasting difference. I don’t just want to teach children how to read or count—I want to teach them how to love themselves, respect others, and believe in what’s possible.

Depression is not something you wake up one morning and immediately recognize. For me, it crept in quietly—like a fog slowly rolling over the landscape of my life until I could no longer see clearly. At first, I thought I was just tired. Then I blamed it on stress. But as time went on, I realized something deeper was happening. I was no longer myself. The things that used to bring me joy no longer mattered. Smiles became forced, and conversations felt like burdens. My experience with depression began in the shadows of grief. I lost my mother when I was just 13 years old, and my father passed away years later. As a teenager dealing with such significant loss, I learned early how to be “strong.” But that strength came at a cost. I never gave myself the time or space to fully process my emotions. I pushed through pain because that’s what I believed I had to do to survive. As I got older, I began to notice how heavy that unprocessed grief had become. Depression didn’t just make me sad—it made me numb. It made everyday tasks feel overwhelming. Getting out of bed, preparing meals, even answering the phone became exhausting. I wore a mask in public, pretending everything was fine, but inside I was silently screaming for help. One of the hardest parts about depression is how isolating it can be. Even when surrounded by people, I often felt alone. There were days when I felt invisible, like no one could truly see what I was going through. I was ashamed to talk about it because I didn’t want to be judged or seen as weak. In my community, mental health wasn’t something we openly discussed. We were taught to pray about it, push through it, and keep going. But prayer alone wasn’t enough for me—I needed real support and understanding. It took hitting rock bottom for me to realize that I couldn’t carry the weight on my own anymore. I remember one day, after crying for hours and feeling completely hopeless, I made a decision: I was going to ask for help. That decision changed my life. I reached out to a counselor and began therapy. At first, it was uncomfortable. I had buried my emotions for so long that speaking them out loud felt unnatural. But over time, I began to heal. Therapy taught me that my feelings were valid, that my pain was real, and that healing wasn’t a sign of weakness—but of courage. I learned how to identify negative thoughts, challenge them, and develop healthier ways to cope. I began journaling, practicing self-care, and surrounding myself with people who truly supported me. Living with depression is still a journey. There are good days and bad ones. But the difference now is that I’m no longer ashamed. I’ve found strength in my vulnerability. I’ve discovered that mental health is just as important as physical health, and it’s something we should never be afraid to talk about. This experience has also shaped my purpose. As someone studying Early Childhood Education, I hope to bring more awareness to mental health, especially for children and families who may be silently suffering like I once was. I want to be a voice of compassion, a source of comfort, and an advocate for mental well-being in every classroom I step into. Depression doesn’t define me, but it has transformed me. It taught me resilience, empathy, and the power of reaching out. And most importantly, it reminded me that even in the darkest moments, there is always light there.

If given the opportunity, my unique contribution to making mental health care affordable and accessible would be the creation of a global, community-based peer support network integrated with technology. This model would train everyday individuals—teachers, students, workers, and retirees—to serve as certified mental health listeners within their local communities, offering emotional first aid and guidance for seeking professional help when needed. To support this, I would develop a free, mobile-based platform where users can access peer listeners in real time, matched by language, culture, and experience. These peer supporters would be trained in foundational mental health skills, including active listening, empathy, and de-escalation techniques, overseen by licensed professionals who would guide more serious cases into formal care. The platform would also host mental health education modules, mindfulness resources, and self-assessment tools—all open-access. By shifting part of the mental health support system into communities themselves, we reduce stigma, improve early intervention, and provide comfort in familiar settings. This model is low-cost, scalable, and deeply personal—addressing cultural gaps and systemic shortages without replacing clinical care. Mental health care should not be a privilege reserved for the few but a right supported by the many. My contribution would empower communities to take collective responsibility for mental well-being, transforming support from something rare into something real, reachable, and ongoing. By blending technological innovation with cultural awareness and ethical accessibility, this platform could revolutionize how people seek and receive mental health support—anywhere, anytime. To further reduce barriers, I would collaborate with schools, workplaces, and community.

My name is Lashawn Felton, and I am from Fayette, Mississippi. I am currently pursuing a degree in Early Childhood Education because I believe that the earliest years of a child’s life are the most important in shaping who they will become. My passion for working with children is deeply rooted in my own life experiences, and I am determined to create a nurturing and supportive environment forthe next generation. My journey has not been an easy one. In 1991, when I was just 13 years old, I lost my mother to breast cancer. Her passing left a tremendous hole in my heart and changed the course of my life forever. Then, in 2002, I lost my father to heart problems. These losses were incredibly painful, and growing up without my parents forced me to becomestrong, independent, and resilient much earlier than most. Despite these hardships, I have never let grief define me. Instead, I have allowed it to fuel my determination to make a positive impact in the lives of others—especially children who may also be facing challenges. While in high school, I was a member of the Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC). Being part of JROTC taught me valuable life skills such as discipline, leadership, and the importance of service. These qualities have stayed with me into adulthood and continue to guide me in my academic journey and personal life. JROTC helped me see the importance of giving back, and I now want to give back by becoming a teacher who helps children reach their full potential. I chose Early Childhood Education because I want to be a safe, positive, and inspiring presence in the lives of young learners. I understand firsthand how much difference a supportive adult can make in a child’s life. My goal is to teach children not only their ABCs and 123s but also to help them build confidence, kindness, and a love for learning that will stay with them forever. Receiving this scholarship would be an incredible blessing. It would relieve some of the financial burdens of college and allow me to focus more fully on my studies and future career. More than that, it would be a recognition of the challenges I’ve overcome and a vote of confidence in the future I am working so hard to build. This scholarship would be a tremendous help as I work toward completing my degree. It would ease the financial pressure that often comes with higher education and allow me to focus more fully on my studies and gaining practical experience in the classroom. Your support would not only bring me closer to my career goals, but also honor the memory of my parents by helping me continue to rise above the challenges life has placed in my path. Thank you for considering my application. I am committed to making a difference, and with your support, I will continue striving to become the kind of educator every child deserves.

My Journey, My Dreams, and the Impact of TXT My name is Lashawn Felton,and I am a proud MOA (Moments of Alwaysness), a passionate believer in the power of music, and an aspiring early childhood educator. I grew up in a family where love was abundant, but resources were not. Education was always seen as the key to a better life, and I’ve carried that belief with me through every challenge. I’m currently working toward a degree in Early Childhood Education, with the goal of becoming a teacher who nurtures not only knowledge but emotional growth and confidence in every child I encounter. I plan to make a positive impact by becoming the kind of educator who sees every child as a unique light, deserving of care, patience, and possibility. I believe that the early years are the most critical, and I want to create classrooms that are safe, diverse, and emotionally empowering. I want every child, especially those who may feel overlooked or misunderstood, to know the love. Financing my education has been a challenge. I work part-time and apply for scholarships and grants to avoid burdening my family with debt. My financial situation has taught me resourcefulness and resilience, but it also makes opportunities like this scholarship deeply meaningful. Every bit of support allows me to stay focused on learning and serving others. How I Became a MOA and Why TXT Means So Much to Me I became a MOA during one of the hardest seasons of my life. I was overwhelmed with school, work, and the emotional stress of trying to prove my worth in spaces where I often felt invisible. I stumbled upon TXT by accident—or maybe it was fate. Their music, visuals, and genuine energy pulled me in. But what truly made me stay was the sincerity in their lyrics, the brotherhood they shared, and the emotional depth of their artistry. TXT, or Tomorrow X Together, isn't just a K-pop group to me. They represent growth, authenticity, and the quiet strength of healing. Unlike other groups, TXT doesn’t pretend everything is perfect. They openly explore themes like identity, anxiety, loneliness, and the struggles of growing up. That honesty resonates deeply with me and with so many MOAs around the world. While I love the group as a whole, Taehyun has a special place in my heart. His calm strength, introspective nature, and vocal versatility inspire me. He’s mature beyond his years and handles pressure with such grace. Watching him has taught me that it’s okay to be both soft and strong—something I’m still learning. A Favorite Song and Moment One of my favorite TXT songs is “Blue Hour.” On the surface, it’s bright and catchy, but underneath, it’s layered with emotional longing and confusion—the feeling of not quite fitting in and watching the world change too fast. That song came to me at a time when I felt stuck between childhood and adulthood, unsure of who I was becoming. It helped me embrace uncertainty as part of the journey rather than something to fear. Another unforgettable moment was their performance of “0X1=LOVESONG” on stage with raw emotion and powerful choreography. It wasn’t just a performance; it was a story. That performance made me feel less alone in my own feelings of not being enough—and it gave me permission to feel everything, even the hard things. How TXT Has Influenced My Aspirations TXT has taught me that healing is a process and that art—when used with intention—can change lives. Watching their growth from debut until now has mirrored my own desire to grow, adapt, and rise above challenges. They’ve reminded me that the most meaningful work comes from being real and connecting with others at a human level. That’s exactly what I want to bring into my teaching. Their lyrics encourage empathy. Their videos spark creativity. Their presence gives hope. All of these qualities have shaped how I view my future as an educator. I don’t just want to teach facts—I want to teach feelings, creativity, courage, and connection. TXT helped me realize that being “just a teacher” is actually being a life-changer. If I can touch lives the way TXT has touched mine that great.

Legacy, My Upbringing, and the Cycle I Choose to Create To me, legacy means the values, impact, and love we leave behind—not just in material things, but in the lives we’ve touched and the habits we’ve passed on. A legacy is about what people remember when we’re not in the room, what we plant for the future, and what kind of world we help build for those who come after us. It’s both personal and powerful. We don’t always choose the legacy we inherit, but we do have the power to shape the one we leave behind. My upbringing has shaped me in profound ways. I come from a family where resilience was essential, but resources were often limited. Love was present, but sometimes overshadowed by stress, instability, and the pressure of making ends meet. I saw firsthand the challenges that arise when education isn’t always prioritized—not out of lack of care, but lack of access. I watched strong women and hardworking men in my family give everything they had, often putting themselves last. That taught me the importance of perseverance, compassion, and sacrifice—but it also showed me what I wanted to do differently. Growing up, I didn’t always feel seen or heard in school. There were times when I struggled and didn’t know how to ask for help. But it was a handful of caring teachers—people who went beyond their job descriptions—that helped me find my voice. That experience is abig reason I chose to pursue a degree in Early Childhood Education. I want to be the educator who helps children feel valued from the start, who recognizes potential even when it’s buried under fear or frustration. I plan to break cycles of silence, self-doubt, and emotional neglect—and instead continue a new cycle of healing, education, and empowerment. I want to teach children not just academics, but how to believe in themselves, manage their emotions, and build healthy relationships. I want to give them what I often needed as a child: encouragement, stability, and the freedom to dream big. My legacy, I hope, will be rooted in service. I want the children I teach to grow up and say, “Someone believed in me.” I want to pass on a legacy of education, emotional strength, and opportunity. While my upbringing taught me the importance of survival, I’m choosing to focus on growth. By becoming an educator, I’m not just changing my own future—I’m reaching back to lift others, starting with the youngest learners. That’s how I will continue the legacy I wish had been handed to me—and that's how I’ll build one worth leaving behind.

My Plans for the Future and How This Scholarship Will Help Me From a young age, I have believed in the transformative power of education—especially in the earliest years of life. Children are born with limitless potential, and the guidance they receive in their earliest years lays the foundation for how they view themselves, the world, and their ability to learn. My goal is to become an Early Childhood Educator who not only teaches, but inspires confidence, resilience, and creativity in every child I work with. In the future, I plan to work in diverse early learning settings that prioritize inclusive, child-centered education. I aspire to create classrooms where every child feels seen, heard, and valued—regardless of their background, learning style, or developmental challenges. My long-term goal is to open a learning center that integrates traditional academics with emotional and social learning, outdoor exploration, art, and sensory-based play. I want to build a space where children not only grow intellectually but also learn how to navigate their emotions, develop empathy, and celebrate differences. To achieve this, I am currently pursuing a degree in Early Childhood Education. However, the financial demands of tuition, textbooks, transportation, and practical learning experiences present significant challenges. This is why this scholarship is so important to me. It would ease the financial burden on my family and allow me to fully focus on my studies, field placements, and volunteer opportunities that enrich my professional growth. Beyond tuition, this scholarship would help me attend educational workshops and early childhood conferences that expose me to the latest research and best practices in the field. Staying informed and inspired is critical, especially as our understanding of child development evolves. I want to be the kind of educator who never stops learning—who continuously reflects, adapts, and improves for the sake of the children and families I serve. Additionally, this scholarship would be a powerful symbol of belief in my journey. It would remind me that others see value in the work I am called to do, and that I am not alone in striving to build a better future through education. That encouragement, especially during challenging times, would mean more than words can express. In conclusion, I am committed to becoming a compassionate, skilled, and innovative Early Childhood Educator. This scholarship will not only support my education but also empower me to invest in the future of children—especially those who may not always be given the chance to shine. With your help, I will take what I learn and give it back to my community tenfold, shaping young minds with kindness, creativity, and purpose.

Experiencing a sense of one's own presence means becoming consciously aware of one's own identity, value, and impact in the world. For special needs students, this involves fostering self-awareness, confidence, and a belief that their voice matters. It's about helping them feel seen, heard, and valued—not just for what they can do, but for who they are. As an educator, my mission is to create a learning environment where every student, regardless of their challenges, feels safe to express themselves, to grow, and to recognizetheir strengths. I aim to cultivate this presence through personalized learning, empathy-driven interactions, and opportunities that validate their contributions. My goal is not only academic success but emotional and social empowerment. Teacher LaShawn and the Mirror of Presence” Once upon a time, in the Village of Quiet Voices, children with unique gifts lived in shadows, unheard and unseen. The townspeople didn’t understand them, and over time, the children forgot how to speak their truth. But one day, a kind-hearted teacher named LaShawn arrived, carrying with her a magical mirror called Presence. This mirror didn’t reflect faces—it reflected inner light. But the light could only be seen when the person believed in themselves. Teacher LaShawn made it her mission to help each child find their glow. She listened to their silences, taught through laughter and patience, and created a classroom where differences were celebrated like treasures. She used songs, colors, touch, and movement, helping each child express their feelings in their own way. One by one, the children began to see themselves in the mirror. Not as broken or different, but as whole and brilliant in their own way. Joy returned to the village. Teacher LaShawn smiled, knowing her magic was love, understanding, and unwavering belief. She had not just taught lessons—she had helped them feel their presence. One by one, as confidence bloomed, the children stood before the mirror. And one by one, it shimmered with color, reflecting their inner light. For the first time, they saw themselves—not invisible, not broken, but brilliant. Teacher LaShawn knew her mission was complete—not because the mirror shone, but because the children finally believed they did too. And in that little classroom, presence became power, and silence turned to song. And from that day on, the village changed. Because once a child sees their light, they never forget it. And so, the mirror stayed in the classroom, shining brighter every day.

I come from a large and close-knit family with five sisters and two brothers. I was born and raised in Fayette, Mississippi, where community ties run deep and family comes first. My childhood was shaped by both love and loss—losing my mother to breast cancer in 1991 and my father to heart problems in 2002. These painful experiences taught me the importance of resilience, compassion, and responsibility at a very young age. Being one of the older siblings, I naturally stepped into a caregiving role. I’ve helped raise younger family members, offered emotional and financial support where possible, and made sure our family stayed connected even during difficult times. These responsibilities shaped my character and instilled in me a deep commitment to serving others. Outside of my family, I’ve always tried to be active in my community. Whether volunteering at food drives, helping organize events at my local church, or assisting neighbors in need, I believe in the power of showing up for people. These small acts of service may seem minor, but they help strengthen the fabric of our community. My career goal is to work in early childhood education, a field that aligns with my passion for helping children grow, learn, and thrive. I believe education is one of the greatest equalizers, especially for children in underserved communities like mine. After college, I plan to return to my community and open a child development center that not only focuses on academic readiness but also offers family support services and parental workshops. I want to create a space where children feel safe, supported, and inspired to learn—and where parents feel empowered to be active participants in their children’s education. I also hope to mentor young people and encourage them to pursue careers in education or community service. My dream is to break cycles of poverty and educational neglect by giving our youngest generation the strong start they deserve. Although I am not of Haitian descent, I proudly represent the strength, pride, and perseverance of African American heritage. My life has been a testament to overcoming adversity through faith, family, and service—and I intend to carry that spirit with me in every step of my journey.

As an African American student passionate about science, technology, and service, I have always viewed education as a path to empowerment—not just for myself, but for my entire community. While I am not a first- or second-generation African immigrant, I share a connection to the values of perseverance, academic excellence, and cultural pride that this scholarship honors. My heritage has shaped who I am, how I contribute to those around me, and where I hope to go in my STEM journey.My cultural heritage as an African American has deeply shaped my values. I come from a community with a long-standing tradition of resilience, creativity, and collective advancement. Growing up, I was taught that education is not just a personal achievement, but a communal responsibility. These values motivated me to pursue challenging STEM coursework and to always look for ways to support others along the way. They also inspired my career goals: to become an engineer focused on creating sustainable technologies that improve everyday lives,particularly in underserved communities. Despite progress, African Americans are still significantly underrepresented in STEM fields. I want to change that—not just by succeeding academically, but by helping others break through as well. I envision starting mentorship programs, leading outreach initiatives, and eventually, creating innovative tools that address real-world problems in marginalized areas.Receiving the Dr. Soronnadi Nnaji Legacy Scholarship would be both an honor and a game-changer. Financially, it would relieve the burden of tuition and allow me to dedicate more time to research, internships, and community outreach. Personally, it would connect me to a legacy of excellence and service that I am proud to reflect, even as someone from a different, yet deeply connected, cultural lineage. The values this scholarship upholds—intellectual rigor,community upliftment, and cultural pride—are the same values I aim to embody throughout my life and career. While I may not share the immigrant experience directly, I stand in solidarity with the broader African diaspora and the vision that Dr. Nnaji’s legacy represents. With this support, I hope to continue building a future where STEM serves not just science—but society.Beyond my school, I volunteered with a weekend STEM program hosted by a local community center. We introduced young students—many from underserved backgrounds—to robotics, coding, and simple engineering projects. Seeing their curiosity ignite after building a working circuit or coding their first game reminded me why representation in STEM is so critical. When these students saw someone who looked like them leading the program, they saw a reflection of what they could become. That realization was powerful—for them and for me.

The Pillars of Preparedness: A Case for Mandatory Life Skills Education in K-12 In a world increasingly driven by academic achievement and specialized skills, fundamental building blocks of responsible, fulfilling adulthood can sometimes get overlooked in the K-12 curriculum. A mandatory course for all students from kindergarten through twelfth grade could be centered around Life Skills and Practical Knowledge. This course would provide students with essential competencies needed to navigate academic careers, along with the complexities of personal, social, and professional lives, ultimately fostering a generation of confident, capable, and well-adjusted individuals. The curriculum of this mandatory K-12 life skills class would be comprehensive and developmentally appropriate, evolving with students as they progress through each grade level. In the younger grades, the focus could be on foundational social-emotional learning (SEL) skills, such as self-awareness, emotional regulation, empathy, and effective communication. Activities like role-playing, group discussions, and guided reflections would help students understand their own feelings and how to interact respectfully with others. As students advance, the curriculum could introduce practical knowledge areas like basic financial literacy, including budgeting and saving, as well as time management and organizational skills. High school students would delve into more complex topics such as critical thinking, problem-solving, digital literacy, and even foundational career readiness skills like resume building and interview techniques. Throughout all grade levels, the course would emphasize healthy habits, both physical and mental, including self-care and stress management techniques. The impact of this mandatory life skills class would be far-reaching. For individual students, it could cultivate independence, confidence, and resilience, empowering them to tackle challenges and make informed decisions about their lives. They would be better equipped to navigate social interactions, build healthy relationships, and cope with adversity. Furthermore, studies suggest that life skills education can actually boost academic performance, as students with strong self-management and organizational skills are better positioned for success in their traditional coursework. Beyond individual benefits, this course could contribute to creating more positive school climates and safer environments by promoting empathy, conflict resolution, and responsible decision-making. Ultimately, a generation of K-12 graduates armed with these crucial life skills would be better prepared for both college and career, possessing the practical abilities and emotional intelligence highly valued by employers in today's workforce. The implementation of such a program would require careful consideration, including dedicated time within the school day, teacher training, and possibly integrating aspects of life skills education into existing subjects. However, the potential return on investment, in terms of student well-being, academic success, and overall societal benefit, makes this mandatory class a vital step towards preparing students not just for tests, but for life itself. By prioritizing life skills alongside traditional academics, a generation of well-rounded individuals capable of thriving in a complex and ever-changing world can be nurtured.

The sun is bright this morning, contrasting the shadows often felt. It feels surreal, sitting here about to pursue higher education, a path that seemed uncertain. Losing a mother at 13 and a father at 23 fundamentally shifted life. It was a premature thrust into adulthood, a forced embrace of resilience and self-reliance. These losses, though devastating, shaped the present. Grief instilled compassion and empathy, particularly towards those experiencing hardship. The importance of human connection and support from a strong community was learned. Career aspirations are now linked to this understanding. The goal is to contribute to improving the lives of others, perhaps providing the support system not available during those years. The aim is to be a source of strength for those facing similar adversities. The commitment to community service grew from personal experience. Witnessing the impact of kindness and support, volunteering became a way to give back, process experiences, and connect with others. Higher education unlocks potential for a larger, positive impact. This degree will provide the knowledge and skills to empower and uplift. The education will be used to: Become a skilled professional in the chosen field, allowing service to the community in meaningful ways. Advocate for policies and initiatives that address the needs of vulnerable populations, particularly those who have experienced loss or hardship. Mentor and inspire others who may be facing adversity, showing them education is a pathway to a brighter future. This scholarship is more than financial aid; it's an investment and vote of confidence. It will alleviate the financial burden, allowing dedication to studies and maximizing potential for success. With this support, the focus is on gaining the knowledge and skills to excel and make a difference in the lives of others. The aim is to turn pain into purpose and challenges into opportunities to serve.A strong commitment to community service involves dedicated participation in activities that benefit the local area and its residents, often without expectation of personal gain. This can include volunteering time, skills, or resources to organizations and initiatives that address community needs, such as disaster relief, education, or environmental protection. Such commitment fosters personal growth, strengthens community bonds, and contributes to a more vibrant and supportive environment. This scholarship will enable me to pursue my passion for Early Childhood Education and make a positive impact by providing high-quality care and learning experiences for young children. The financial assistance will reduce my need to work multiple jobs, allowing me to focus on my studies and gain valuable experience through internships and volunteer work. This will allow me to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to create nurturing and stimulating environments where children can thrive, ultimately contributing to their future success and well-being.

The concept of uniqueness and its subtle power was considered, particularly as someone who values quiet reflection, intelligence, and the world found within books. Making a difference doesn't necessarily require a loud voice or grand gestures. Quiet strength and a love of reading can influence others in ways that may never be witnessed. A quiet nature allows for keen observation. While others may be focused on being heard, the nuances of conversations can be absorbed, reading between the lines of human interaction, and noticing details that others might miss. This deep observation can fuel intelligence, helping to understand people and situations on a deeper level. A love of reading further enhances this. Every book read can expose new perspectives, expand empathy, and deepen understanding of the human experience. Insights into different cultures, emotions, and ways of thinking are gained, allowing for a broader understanding and compassion. These qualities, quiet intelligence and a love of reading, allow for making a difference in small, often unseen ways. Someone might be inspired to pick up a book after seeing someone engrossed in one. Thoughtful contributions in a group setting, born from quiet observation and deep thought, may guide the conversation in a more productive direction. A calm and patient presence in a tense situation may offer silent reassurance to someone struggling. The full extent of this ripple effect may never be known. However, by being true to a unique self, by embracing quiet intelligence and feeding the mind with books, a positive impact on the world around may be made. It's a quiet power, but one that is valued deeply.Being different and making a difference in someone else's life, even without knowing it, is worth considering. It can be easy to feel invisible, as though the impact is minimal when being quiet. However, a quiet nature combined with intelligence and a love of reading can lead to unexpected connectionsQuietness allows for deeper observation and listening. While others may seek attention, the ability to notice subtle nuances in interactions, unspoken emotions, and quiet struggles or joys is possible. This attentiveness, fueled by intelligence, enables understanding and empathy. Reading helps to expand this empathy. Through stories, it's possible to step into different lives, see the world through new perspectives, and better understand human experiences, both familiar and vastly different.Though it may not be the loudest voice in the room, a quiet presence can offer a sense of calm, or a space where someone feels heard. Intelligence allows for deep information processing and offering thoughtful insights. A love of reading may inspire someone else to explore their own journey of discovery and empathy. By simply being yourself—quiet, intelligent, and a lover of books—it's possible to contribute to a world that needs more understanding and compassion. This is a quiet revolution, driven by the power of empathy and knowledge. Perhaps this is how uniqueness makes a difference.

The weight of this psychosis and depression feels heavier than usual. It's more than just feeling sad; it's like a deep, persistent ache that drains my energy and makes everything feel pointless. The psychosis adds another layer of difficulty. There are times when it's hard to distinguish what's real. Hallucinations and delusions can be terrifying and exhausting. The mind can play tricks, and it's not always possible to trust thoughts. This combination of symptoms makes it difficult to do simple things. Getting out of bed can feel like a monumental task, and facing the day can be overwhelming. Motivation and concentration may be affected, making it difficult to complete tasks or engage in activities. Social interactions can be challenging. It's common to feel isolated and misunderstood, and the fear of judgment or rejection can lead to withdrawal. It's difficult to explain these experiences, and sometimes a person may feel like a burden. This disability can impact every aspect of life. It can affect the ability to work, socialize, and care for oneself. It's a constant struggle, but it's possible to find ways to cope and manage symptoms. Working with a doctor and therapist, and exploring different strategies, can help. Hope can be maintained. Recovery is a journey with ups and downs. It's important to keep fighting and to not let this disability define a person. Psychosis can manifest as foreign thoughts. It may also be a whisper causing suspicion or paranoia. It makes it hard to trust one's judgment, to discern what's real. Questioning everything, even familiar faces, is possible. This uncertainty can be exhausting and isolating. This combination can steal motivation and energy. Activities like walks, music, and socializing can become overwhelming. Sensitivity to light and sound may make everyday interactions difficult. The illness can affect every part of life, from work to relationships. Getting out of bed and making tea can be a small victory. Finding small ways to nurture oneself can be a reminder that there's still a part of one that wants to feel better. Reflecting on past accomplishments can remind one of strength and resilience. It is a journey with ups and downs. Journaling can document the experience, process emotions, and track progress. There are resources available. Remembering to be kind to oneself, letting go of judgment, and approaching each day with self-compassion is important.Psychosis and depression, particularly when they occur together (psychotic depression), can significantly affect daily life and well-being.

Losing my mother at 13 in 1991 and my father at 23 in 2002 significantly shaped the trajectory of my life, including my eventual decision to pursue a career in education. While the immediate impact of parental loss can lead to academic difficulties for many children, studies show a decrease in academic achievement and motivation. For some, grief can even result in social withdrawal or behavioral changes, making it difficult to engage in school and learn effectively. The experience of loss can also be a catalyst for personal growth and finding new purpose. The resilience developed during difficult years can influence later choices. The decision to pursue education may not be solely about finding a stable career. It can be driven by a desire to positively impact the lives of young people, especially those facing challenges. The importance of supportive adults in a child's life and the profound influence of guidance during formative years may be recognized. Making a social contribution and working with children can become increasingly appealing when reflecting on personal experiences. Motivations may be intrinsically linked to the opportunity to connect with and nurture young minds and to create a supportive environment where students feel seen and heard. The pain of losing parents can help one appreciate the value of education and the critical role dedicated educators play in a child's life. This journey can instill a passion to be a positive force, offering guidance and support to students as they navigate their own journeys. It’s a way to transform personal grief into meaningful purpose. Losing my mother at 13 was losing a part of myself. During adolescence ,trying to navigate school and discover identity, guidance was suddenly lost. A deep sense of sadness and confusion arose. This experience highlights the complexities of grief and the need for support. Losing my father a decade later when I was just starting out in life , brought a different kind of pain. The loss of guidance can be felt ,along with the knowledge he won't be there for major life milestones. That when the idea of education was solidified. These experiences provided a unique perspective on the importance of understanding and empathy. The challenges students face outside of the classroom can be understood and as a teacher I can focus not only on academics but provide emotional experience. Overcoming loss and finding a way forward can instill resilience and a desire to help others do the same. In a way, becoming a teacher can be a way to honor my parents and the values they instilled- kindness , resilience ,and the importance of supporting others.

Impact on a Child Life A positive and consistent presence in a child's life can significantly impact their development. By offering support , encouragement,and a safe space for emotional expression. Small everyday actions like actively listening , showing empathy, and providing age appropriate responsibilities. Can have lasting, positive impact. One specific time I made an impact a child was struggling,by teaching them about their identity in Christ and how to respond with love. I focused on building character. I provided tools for responding to difficult situations with love. The child continued to grow in their faith and ability to handle adversity. If I could Change Anything in Education If given the power to transform education,the most significant change I would implement is the creation of personalized learning pathways for every student. Current educational systems,while well intentioned, often operate under a one-size-fits-all model,which, while efficient on a macro level,fails to adequately address the diverse learning styles,needs,and aspirations of individual students. This rigid structure can stifle potential, particularly for students who learn at a different pace or in a different way from established norms. The current system with its standardized curricula and assessments,often prioritizes rote memorization and standardized testing rather than fostering critical thinking, creativity,and genuine understanding. While these elements have their pace , they should not be the sole measure of a student's success. For instance , a student who excels in hand-on activities might struggle with abstract concepts presented through lectures. My vision for personalized learning pathways would involve a fundamental shift in how we approach education. Instead of a single, prescribed path, students would embark on a journey tailored to their individual needs and goals My vision of education is not just about academic achievement, it is about nuturing well rounded individuals who are equipped to contribute meaningfully to society. It is about fostering creativity, critical thinking,and a lifelong love of learning. Profound Impact The single defining figure was my 12th Grade English teacher Mrs. Thomas. She inspired me to pursue a career in education. She fostered a love for learning,who guided my career choice. She influence me and shape my decision to enter the field. She exhibit passion, dedication and a genuine care for students. She made learning engaging who boosted my confidence. Ultimately, the decision to work in education was a personal one, it was shaped by a combination of influences and a deep seated belief in the power of learning and development. Mrs.Thomas had a positive influence ,who encourage me. She sparked my love for literature and writing. I have the desire to impact student 's lives and help them succeed.Being an educator is a very important job . Mrs. Thomas played a crucial role an my academic progress. I want to have that impact when I become a teacher. She was a role model,imparting values ethics , and essential life skills like resilience,empathy and integrity. Why I want to be a teacher is to help students discover their strengths, and pursue their passions. The positive influence of a good teacher can extend beyond the classroom, impacting future generations. In essence , teachers are not just instructors ; they are mentors ,role models and advocates who play a vital role .