
Hobbies and interests
Babysitting And Childcare
Bible Study
Music Theory
Music
Church
Reading
Art
Christianity
Classics
Literary Fiction
I read books daily
leanna rison
455
Bold Points1x
Finalist
leanna rison
455
Bold Points1x
FinalistBio
Hi! I am a college junior studying Chemistry with a passion for both science and service. I currently serve as a student leader in two college ministries, where I help foster community, mentor students, and grow in faith alongside others.
As someone who values both academic excellence and spiritual growth, I strive to lead with integrity, compassion, and purpose. My background has shaped my commitment to giving back, especially to underrepresented communities in STEM and faith-based spaces.
Through my studies, I hope to pursue a career where I can combine my love for chemistry with meaningful impact—whether in healthcare, education, or research.
Education
Bellarmine University
Bachelor's degree programMajors:
- Chemistry
Miscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Master's degree program
Graduate schools of interest:
Transfer schools of interest:
Majors of interest:
Career
Dream career field:
Chemicals
Dream career goals:
researcher
bellarmine university2024 – 20251 yearteam lead
panera bread2021 – 20243 years
Research
Chemistry
Bellarmine University — Researcher2025 – 2025
Arts
whitefield academy
Music2018 – 2022
Earl Pascua Filipino-American Heritage Scholarship
Having read the report laid before me, I was struck by the extent to which human relationship, trust, and simple shared experience shape global wellbeing. As someone who is studying chemistry and envisioning a future life that is founded upon teamwork, problem-solving, and service, these observations shattered my assumptions and reoriented the way I now view my future work-life balance, not just for myself, but for those with whom I will live and share life in the future after my graduation. Perhaps the most surprising aspect that I learned in this was how people all around the world take kindness for granted.
For example, the study revealed that individuals are twice as likely to return lost wallets as others would estimate they would. This "benevolence boost" is a global degree of goodwill that is simple to underestimate. It was a reminder that generosity and trust are quiet yet powerful drivers of joy, traits I would want to promote in any environment I am in. Another trend that interested me was the emotional price of loneliness, especially in young adults.
It says that nearly 19% of individuals under the age of 30 have no one to turn to for support, a 39% increase since 2006. This challenged my own presumption that younger generations are more socially connected than ever before. On the other hand, countries that ranked highest in positive emotions—such as laughter, learning, and mutual respect—were not the wealthiest but the most socially connected. These results underscored the importance of community, a principle that is consistent with my own life experience as a leader of two college ministries. These communities have shown me that communal joy, mentorship, and purposive care are not just important—they are essential. If I were to choose one action from the report to focus on, it would be the creation of positive emotions.
They are daily joy, laughter, respect, and the ability to learn—all of which result in long-term wellbeing, resilience, and engagement. These qualities don't only benefit individuals—they motivate whole teams, organizations, and industries. As a chemistry student, this is especially empowering. It serves as a reminder that building an emotionally healthy, joyful work environment is as important as intellectual achievement or technical success. As I continue on my scholarly and professional path, this report positions me to be a more integrated thinker about success. I understand now that creating a successful and meaningful career in science will depend not only on what I learn, but on how I support others, create balance, and create spaces in which people can thrive emotionally as well as academically.
The World Happiness Report reminded me that, at its best, science is a matter of improving lives—and it begins with a knowledge of what makes life worth living in the first place. This scholarship would allow me to not only continue my education, but to learn how to integrate emotional wellbeing into my research, leadership, and service in the years ahead.