My experience with anxiety has been both a challenge and a catalyst for growth. For much of my life, anxiety felt like a constant shadow, influencing my thoughts, decisions, and interactions with others. It often made me doubt myself, fear failure, and avoid situations that felt overwhelming. There were times when it seemed easier to retreat into my comfort zone rather than face the uncertainty of new opportunities. However, over time, I’ve learned to view anxiety not as a weakness, but as a part of my story that has shaped me into a more empathetic, resilient, and self-aware individual. One of the most significant ways anxiety has affected me is by teaching me the importance of self-care and mental health. I’ve learned to recognize the signs of anxiety and develop strategies to manage it, whether through prayer, mindfulness, or seeking support from trusted friends and mentors. Philippians 4:6-7 has been a source of comfort and guidance: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” This verse reminds me to turn to God in moments of worry and trust in His peace, even when circumstances feel overwhelming. Anxiety has also deepened my empathy for others who struggle with mental health challenges. It has given me a greater understanding of the invisible battles people face and the importance of offering compassion and support. I’ve learned to listen more intentionally, offer encouragement, and create spaces where others feel safe to share their struggles. In a world where mental health is often stigmatized, I want to be a voice of hope and understanding, reminding others that they are not alone and that healing is possible. Pursuing a college degree is important to me because it represents an opportunity to grow, overcome my fears, and achieve the goals I’ve set for myself. Education has always been a priority in my life, not only as a means of personal and professional development but also as a way to make a meaningful impact in the world. I believe that earning a degree will equip me with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to pursue my passions and contribute to my community in meaningful ways. For me, college is more than just an academic pursuit—it’s a chance to step out of my comfort zone, face my anxieties, and prove to myself that I am capable of overcoming challenges. It’s an opportunity to build relationships, explore new ideas, and discover how I can use my unique gifts to serve others. Proverbs 16:3 says, “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” This verse inspires me to approach my education with a sense of purpose and trust that God will guide my steps. Ultimately, pursuing a college degree is about more than personal achievement; it’s about preparing myself to make a difference in the world. Whether through my career, my relationships, or my faith, I want to use my education to uplift others and reflect God’s love. My experience with anxiety has taught me that growth often comes through struggle, and I am determined to use my journey as a source of strength and inspiration for others. As I pursue my degree, I am confident that God will use this experience to shape me into the person He has called me to be.

Growing up as the child of a military parent has been a unique and transformative experience, shaping my character, resilience, and perspective on life. My father’s service in the military meant that our family was constantly on the move, adapting to new environments, and facing the challenges that come with frequent relocations. While this lifestyle came with its share of difficulties, it also taught me invaluable lessons about adaptability, sacrifice, and the importance of community. One of the most significant aspects of being a military child was the constant change. Moving every few years meant saying goodbye to friends, adjusting to new schools, and starting over in unfamiliar places. At first, this was daunting, but over time, I learned to embrace change as an opportunity for growth. Each move brought new experiences, cultures, and perspectives, broadening my understanding of the world and helping me develop a sense of empathy for others. I learned to be flexible and open-minded, qualities that have served me well in every area of my life. As Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” This verse has been a source of comfort and encouragement, reminding me that even in the midst of uncertainty, God is working for my good. Another defining aspect of my experience was the sacrifice that came with having a parent in the military. There were times when my father was deployed for months, missing birthdays, holidays, and important milestones. While these absences were difficult, they taught me the value of sacrifice and the importance of supporting those who serve. I gained a deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by military families and a profound respect for the men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting our country. This experience also strengthened my faith, as I learned to rely on God’s presence and provision during times of separation and uncertainty. Psalm 46:1 became a cornerstone for me during those seasons: “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” Despite the challenges, being part of a military family also brought a strong sense of camaraderie and community. Military families share a unique bond, rooted in mutual understanding and support. Whether it was through base events, church groups, or neighborhood gatherings, I always felt surrounded by people who understood our lifestyle and were willing to lend a helping hand. This sense of community taught me the importance of building relationships and supporting others, even in the midst of my own struggles. Galatians 6:2 reminds us, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” This verse has guided me in my interactions with others, encouraging me to be a source of encouragement and support. In many ways, being a military child has prepared me for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. It has taught me resilience, adaptability, and the value of sacrifice, while also instilling in me a deep sense of gratitude for the freedoms we enjoy. Most importantly, it has shown me the power of faith and community in overcoming adversity. As I reflect on my experiences, I am reminded of Philippians 4:13: “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” This verse encapsulates the lessons I’ve learned as a military child—that with God’s strength, I can face any challenge and embrace every opportunity with confidence and hope.

Success, for me, is not defined by material wealth, status, or personal accolades, but by the impact I have on the lives of others and the fulfillment of the purpose God has placed on my life. True success is living a life of integrity, service, and faithfulness to God’s calling, using the gifts and opportunities He has given me to make a meaningful difference in the world. As Joshua 1:8 says, “Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.” For me, success is rooted in obedience to God’s Word and a commitment to glorify Him in all that I do. One of the key aspects of success in my life is the ability to influence others positively, whether through sharing my faith, mentoring others, or contributing to my community. I believe that success is measured not by what I achieve for myself, but by how I help others grow and thrive. Jesus said in Matthew 5:16, “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” This verse encapsulates my desire to live a life that points others to Christ and reflects His love and grace. Success, therefore, is about being a vessel for God’s work and leaving a legacy of faith and service. This opportunity is a pivotal step toward achieving the kind of success I envision for my life. It aligns perfectly with my goals of growing as a leader, deepening my faith, and making a tangible impact on the world around me. Specifically, this opportunity will help me achieve success in three key ways: by equipping me with valuable skills, expanding my influence, and strengthening my spiritual foundation. First, this opportunity will provide me with the tools and training I need to excel in my chosen field. Whether it’s through hands-on experience, mentorship, or access to resources, I will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to make a meaningful contribution to my community and beyond. Proverbs 22:29 says, “Do you see someone skilled in their work? They will serve before kings; they will not serve before officials of low rank.” This verse inspires me to develop my abilities so that I can serve effectively and make a lasting impact. By taking advantage of this opportunity, I will be better equipped to fulfill God’s calling on my life and use my talents for His glory. Second, this opportunity will expand my influence and enable me to reach more people with the message of hope and truth that I carry. Success, for me, is not about personal recognition but about the ability to inspire and uplift others. Through this opportunity, I will have the chance to connect with a broader audience, build relationships, and share my faith in meaningful ways. As Proverbs 11:30 says, “The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and the one who is wise saves lives.” I want to be a source of life and encouragement to those around me, and this opportunity will provide a platform to do just that. Finally, this opportunity will strengthen my spiritual foundation and deepen my relationship with God. Success is ultimately about walking closely with Him and aligning my life with His will. This experience will challenge me to rely on God’s guidance, trust in His provision, and grow in my faith. James 1:2-4 encourages us, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” I know that this opportunity will come with its own set of challenges, but I see them as opportunities to grow and become more like Christ. In conclusion, success for me is about living a life of purpose, impact, and faithfulness to God. This opportunity is a crucial step toward achieving that vision, as it will equip me with the skills, influence, and spiritual growth I need to fulfill my calling. I am excited to embrace this chance to grow, serve, and make a difference, trusting that God will use this experience to shape me into the person He has called me to be. As Philippians 1:6 assures us, “Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” I am confident that this opportunity is part of God’s plan for my life, and I am eager to see how He will use it to bring about His purposes.

Participating in speech and debate has been instrumental in preparing me to share my Christian faith effectively. The skills I developed in research, critical thinking, and public speaking have directly translated into my ability to communicate the Gospel with clarity, confidence, and compassion. As 1 Peter 3:15 reminds us, “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” Speech and debate has taught me how to do just that—prepare thoughtfully and respond graciously. One of the most valuable lessons I learned in speech and debate was the importance of understanding my audience. Whether I was crafting a persuasive case or preparing a rebuttal, I had to consider the perspectives, values, and potential objections of my listeners. This skill has been crucial in sharing my faith, as it allows me to connect with people where they are and present the Gospel in a way that resonates with their unique experiences and questions. Proverbs 18:13 says, “To answer before listening—that is folly and shame.” By listening actively and empathetically, I can address doubts, clarify misconceptions, and demonstrate how Christ’s message is relevant to their lives. Additionally, speech and debate taught me how to structure my arguments logically and support them with evidence. In defending my faith, I’ve been able to apply these principles by grounding my beliefs in Scripture, historical context, and personal testimony. Hebrews 4:12 declares, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” This truth inspires me to rely on the power of God’s Word as I present a well-reasoned case that invites thoughtful consideration rather than relying on emotional appeals alone. Public speaking also taught me the importance of clarity and confidence. Sharing my faith can be intimidating, but the experience of presenting in front of judges and audiences has given me the poise to speak boldly about what I believe. Romans 1:16 says, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes.” This verse reminds me that the Gospel is not something to shy away from but to proclaim with courage and conviction. Finally, speech and debate instilled in me a respect for dialogue and the value of engaging with differing viewpoints. This has shaped how I approach evangelism—not as a debate to be won, but as an opportunity to build relationships and plant seeds of truth. Colossians 4:6 encourages, “Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” By fostering respectful conversations, I can share my faith in a way that reflects Christ’s love and humility. In summary, speech and debate has equipped me with the tools to communicate my Christian faith effectively, thoughtfully, and winsomely, enabling me to be a more confident and compassionate witness for Christ. As Isaiah 52:7 proclaims, “How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation.” I am grateful for the opportunity to share the good news of Jesus Christ with the world.