Character, Sportsmanship, and Work Ethic Exemplified Through Fishing in Durango, Colorado Fishing has always been more than a pastime for me. It is the time spent by the water reflecting on many life values. Growing up, fishing behind my family cabin in Durango, Colorado taught me important life lessons regarding character, sportsmanship, and work ethic. The rugged terrain, clear waters, and beautiful mountain backdrop have provided the perfect setting to develop and demonstrate these traits, not only on the water but also in my everyday life and my community. Character: Patience and Perseverance Character is defined by the strength of a person's principles and the integrity with which they approach challenges. Fishing in Durango, with its winding rivers and picturesque streams, has taught me the value of patience. The waters behind our cabin are home to some of the most beautiful yet elusive fish—especially the elusive brook trout. On many occasions, I’ve spent hours waiting for the right moment to catch that perfect fish, often with no guarantee of success. But each cast, each adjustment, and each new try is an opportunity to learn and grow. Sportsmanship: Respecting Nature and Other Anglers True sportsmanship does not relate to only playing the game but creating due respect toward nature and your fellow angler. Fishing in the pristine waters of Durango has instilled in me a deep appreciation for the natural world. When I fish for brook trout behind my family's cabin, I make sure to follow the "catch and release" rule, respecting the delicate balance of the ecosystem. This means handling each fish with care, ensuring that it's returned to the water unharmed, and taking only what is necessary. In the same aspect, sportsmanship means being considerate of others. Fishing in public spaces can sometimes be crowded, especially during peak seasons. I’ve learned to share fishing spots, respect others’ space, and offer advice when asked, all while fostering a sense of camaraderie with fellow anglers. Sportsmanship isn’t just about competing; it’s about creating an environment where everyone can enjoy the experience and respect the craft. Work Ethic: Dedication and Focus Fishing, like any other skill, requires discipline and a strong work ethic. Every time I go out to fish behind our cabin, I realize that no success comes without putting in effort. I have spent countless mornings preparing my gear, learning the best techniques for fly fishing, and studying the behavior of the brook trout. Whether I'm dealing with the challenges of changing weather conditions or navigating the rocky, swift waters, I understand that every trip requires a combination of preparation, determination, and adaptability. All these experiences have helped me to hone my work ethic. Fishing isn't always about instant gratification; it's about the process of preparation, persistence, and the lessons learned through trial and error. These qualities have carried over into other areas of my life. This, in itself, means when I approach an intricate project or any kind of difficult task, the dedication to put in all the time, adapt through new challenges, and maintain focus on the end is very much parallel to fishing. Impact on My Community These values of character, sportsmanship, and work ethic are not only personal virtues but also have a ripple effect in my community. In the same way that I show respect for the environment and others while fishing, I try to extend that same respect and consideration to the people I interact with in my community. Whether it's volunteering at local events, helping out in a community clean-up, or supporting friends and neighbors through tough times.

Energy is the lifeblood of modern civilization, from the energy that runs our homes and industries to the transportation system and digital infrastructure. Lying at the very core of human progress, energy has played a fundamental role in shaping the course of societies, economic development, technological innovation, and quality of life. But beyond its functional role in powering the world around us, energy is deeply ingrained in the way we live, work, and interact with each other. This essay explores the multifaceted role of energy in our society, its impact on economic and technological advancement, and the growing importance of transitioning towards sustainable energy sources in facing environmental challenges. Energy and Economic Growth Energy is a basic element of economic development. Energy allows industry, machinery, electrical production, and transportation systems to operate. It has been evident that through the ages, since early industrialization, societies able to employ energy resources effectively registered significant progress in productivity, furthered trade, and elevated the general quality of living. For instance, coal provided the widespread use to spark the Industrial Revolution; the transition to oil-based engines led to the proliferation of steam engines, and factories, and then the rise of automobile manufacture. Today, energy remains central to the functioning of economies worldwide. Industrial production, agriculture, information technology, and healthcare systems depend on a steady and reasonably priced energy supply. The cost and accessibility of energy directly affect the economic competitiveness of a nation. Countries with abundant, inexpensive energy—whether derived from fossil fuels, nuclear power, or renewable sources—have stronger economies and higher levels of industrialization. In contrast, shortages of energy, or high energy prices, stunt growth, generate inflation, and even geopolitical instability where nations compete for resources. Energy and Quality of Life Energy is a driving factor in daily life, nearly touching all aspects of it. It has, among other factors, been cited as a major determinant of quality of life, more so in developing countries. Basic energy services-for example, lighting, refrigeration, and clean cooking will continue to be critical in reducing morbidity, increasing education, and improving well-being, especially in developing countries. In many areas, energy access is usually quite limited; this affects poverty alleviation and the economic and social advancement of that area. Electricity lights up homes, enabling people to study and work at night, and it powers heating and cooling systems, making homes livable in extreme weather. In the health sector, energy is crucial for medical equipment, refrigeration of vaccines, and lighting and heating systems in hospitals. Modern agriculture also depends on energy-whether operating irrigation systems, processing plants, or transportation. Without a constant and reliable supply of electricity, it would be impossible to access the Internet, which is at the heart of today's economy and education systems. Besides, energy is at the core of mobility. Getting around by car, bus, train, or plane requires fuel, and access to fast transportation undergirds global trade and communication. As international travel becomes increasingly interconnected, transportation systems continue to need more energy resources. This emphasizes the fragile balance between energy requirements and environmental sustainability, especially as countries look to diminish their dependence on fossil fuels. Environmental Challenges and the Transition to Sustainable Energy Energy has indeed given rise to the modern world, but it has come with great environmental consequences. The combustion of fossil fuels-coal, oil, and natural gas leads to air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and climate change. With the growing global demand for energy, the environmental impact of conventional energy sources has increasingly become an urgent issue.

The question of life—its value, sanctity, and dignity—has been long central in discussions concerning ethics, law, and human rights. Those who are pro-life have, as the cornerstone for advocating policies, practices, and behaviors that protect the most vulnerable among us, a belief in the inherent dignity of each human being from conception throughout life until natural death. As I reflect on how my experiences have shaped my pro-life position, I recognize the deep impact of personal encounters, cultural narratives, and philosophical reasoning that in concert confirm my commitment to the protection of human life, especially the unborn. This essay explains the experiences that have influenced my pro-life stance, the principles that shape and guide it, and some of the actions I have been taking to advance a culture that respects the worth and dignity of all human beings. Personal Experiences and Philosophical Foundations I was brought up in an environment from a young age where life was sacred, and respect for others was not just a duty to one's morals but an identity one lives by. My family commonly discussed ethical issues that sometimes involved the sanctity of life, and I was urged to think deeply about topics of this nature. Early life lessons in religious and philosophical discourses on human dignity, therefore, shaped my convictions about the subject. The most formative experiences in my pro-life journey happened during the time I volunteered at a local pregnancy center. There, I had the opportunity to listen to the stories of women facing unplanned pregnancies. Their struggles were real, their fears palpable, but so often, their circumstances were marked by a sense of uncertainty and vulnerability. In many cases, the women felt overwhelmed, unsupported, and unsure of their options. What I saw in these women were not mere "choices" to be made, but human beings, each with unique hopes, dreams, and aspirations-just as any other person, regardless of age, size, or location in the womb. These encounters deepened my understanding of what it means to affirm the dignity of the unborn and to recognize the interconnectedness of all life. In addition, my studies in philosophy and ethics gave a more theoretical framework to my pro-life views. The concept of human dignity's intrinsic quality that cannot be diminished or negated by circumstances struck a chord with me. I came to believe that human life is not contingent upon societal approval or the potential for personal gain, but that it is valuable in and of itself. Whether in the womb or at life's end, a human being possesses an inherent value that demands respect and protection. Actions and Activities to Uphold the Value and Dignity of All Human Beings My conviction in the pro-life position is not merely something abstract but one that also extends to concrete actions on behalf of human dignity. As a rule, the pro-life movement focuses on protection from the womb, but really, it extends further beyond into family support, a commitment to social justice, and the creation of such a culture that honors and respects the lives of all beings, whatever their age, ability, or socioeconomic standing may be.

Sabrina Carpenter is a multifaceted artist, who impresses me through her talents, authenticity, and positive influence on people. Being an actress, singer, and songwriter, she has made a big impact in the entertainment industry and among her fans, of which I am a part. She does so while balancing a lot of creative outlets and staying true to herself trait that inspires me in many aspects, especially how to approach challenges and pursue my passions. First and foremost, Sabrina’s music has had a lasting impact on me. Her songs are a reflection of her personal experiences and emotions, often tackling themes of self-empowerment, love, and personal growth. As a young person navigating life’s ups and downs, I’ve found comfort and inspiration in her lyrics. Songs like "Thumbs" and "Skin" strike a real note because they sing about relationship confusion and self-acceptance. They remind me that it is okay to fight struggles, and growth often stems from embracing vulnerability. The music teaches me to be true to myself, stand up for myself, and always put my happiness and self-respect first. Sabrina's acting career also resonates with me. It's been great to watch her grow from her role as Maya Hart on Girl Meets World to her more recent work in both television and film. Not only has she shown incredible versatility in her acting, but she's also portrayed characters that reflect the complexity and depth of young adulthood. It has been great to watch her grow from a Disney Channel star into a mature and respected artist in the industry, and it shows that growth and evolution are important in any career or journey. Her ability to challenge herself with new roles and to take on projects that reflect her evolving interests has been a motivation for me to think beyond my current goals and to stay open to new possibilities that may come into my life, be they academic, personal, or professional. But what makes Sabrina Carpenter truly different is how genuine she is. She has never been afraid to speak out on important issues, whether it's about body positivity, mental health, or standing up for what she believes in. Her openness about navigating the pressures of fame and the complexities of being a young woman in the public eye has shown me that it's okay to be imperfect and to embrace one's flaws. Living in a social media world that can often make unrealistic standards, Sabrina's openness to sharing highs and lows has helped me appreciate honesty and self-compassion. Personally, Sabrina's career path has given me the courage to pursue my passions with confidence. Whether it be academics, extracurricular activities, or future career aspirations, her story has taught me the importance of perseverance and resilience. She has proven that success isn't just about talent but also hard work and staying true to one's values. Her journey reminds me never to be afraid of trying new things, taking risks, and working toward my dreams-even if sometimes the path is not easy.

My Plans for the Future and How This Scholarship Will Help Me My future goals include graduating from New Mexico State University with a major in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation. This degree will be a stepping stone toward my future career, protecting and preserving wildlife and natural habitats. As an aspiring wildlife ecologist, I plan to work in wildlife management, conservation policy, or law enforcement, with the long-term goal of contributing to sustainable environmental practices and ensuring that future generations can enjoy the beauty and diversity of the natural world. The opportunity to pursue a degree in wildlife ecology and conservation at NMSU will allow me to gain the scientific knowledge and practical experience required for dealing with some of the major environmental challenges we face in our world today. The strong focus on hands-on learning, fieldwork, and research will prepare me for the acquisition of skills necessary for ecosystem monitoring, wildlife population management, and advocating for conservation policies. Apart from my course work, I am looking forward to participating in internships, research projects, and volunteer opportunities that would provide me with the direct experience of working in the field of conservation. However, reaching this goal is not very easy. Higher education is costly, and studying wildlife ecology requires a lot of time and financial investment. This is where this scholarship will be priceless in its support. Receiving the scholarship will alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with tuition, textbooks, and other educational expenses to devote myself more fully to my studies and field experiences. By lessening the need to have an extremely time-consuming part-time job, I can free up more time for coursework, research, and volunteer opportunities, all of which are paramount to my future success as a wildlife professional. The extra added advantage of this scholarship is it instills a certain amount of confidence and encourages me to carry on with my passion for conservation. This proves that someone has taken note of the commitment I make toward excellence both academically and professionally, and thus reinforces it. This will allow me to focus not only on earning my degree but also on becoming a well-rounded individual ready to make a positive impact in the world of wildlife management and conservation. This scholarship will enable me to take the next step in realizing my dreams and building a career that will contribute to the preservation of our natural resources. I am deeply committed to using my education to protect wildlife and their habitats, and with the support of this scholarship, I will be one step closer to achieving that goal

My Goals for the Future and the Path Toward Becoming a Fish and Game Warden As I look to the future, my ultimate goal is to become a fish and game warden to protect wildlife, enforce laws related to conservation, and contribute toward the protection of natural habitats for the continuation of life in all its forms. Therefore, the goal of my career is to not only achieve this ambition but also make a significant commitment to preserving the tender balance of nature, protecting the well-being of wild animals, and contributing fully towards their home, and the ecosystem. Studying higher education in the field of wildlife ecology and conservation, I am at the very start of making my dream a reality. It would be an understatement if I said I am wholly aware of the challenges ahead. Steps Towards Achieving My Goal I chose to major in wildlife ecology and conservation in college to become a fish and game warden. This academic undertaking has thus far provided me with the foundational knowledge to understand animal populations, their respective habitats, and the often complex relationships between different species and their environments. The program has so far taught me various methods of managing wildlife, environmental policies, and legislation that guide the conservation of natural resources. Complementing these academic pursuits, I have looked for opportunities to gain practical exposure in the field. Working as a volunteer with local conservation groups, participating in projects that require monitoring wildlife, and working in various internships associated with environmental protection all have given me insight into what exactly a fish and game warden does on a daily basis. These experiences have not only strengthened my passion for wildlife conservation but also provided me with practical skills that will be important in my future career. Difficulties and Challenges While I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead, I also understand that pursuing a career as a fish and game warden will come with its share of hardships. One of the main challenges is the rigorous educational requirements. Wildlife ecology and conservation is a field that demands a deep understanding of biology, ecology, and environmental science. The coursework is demanding, and the subject matter requires a high level of attention to detail and critical thinking. At times, juggling an arduous academic schedule with hands-on fieldwork and internships can feel overwhelming, but I am determined to stay focused and persevere. Another major challenge pertains to the financial burden that comes along with pursuing higher education. Tuition, books, and other expenses add up rapidly, and although I do have a few scholarships, which help to soften the impact, I still find that I must work part-time while going to school. Stressful times may arise when trying to juggle work and school; however, I also recognize that this is a temporary condition payoff for a long-term goal of earning a degree in wildlife ecology that well exceeds short-term sacrifices. In addition to the academic and financial hurdles, I am also aware that the career itself can be physically demanding and emotionally challenging. Fish and game wardens often work in tough conditions, including extreme weather, remote locations, and sometimes dangerous situations. Whether it is illegal hunting, investigations, or rescue operations involving injured animals, the job demands a resilient person with a great work ethic and calmness under stress. I know that I am likely to face many tough situations, both physically exhausting and emotionally challenging, but I'm ready to do it, knowing the difference it would make in this world of wildlife preservation for future generations.

Gilgamesh V.S. Frankesteins View on What it Means to Be Human What does it mean to be human? Is it about living forever, like the hero in Gilgamesh, or playing god, like Victor Frankenstein? Both stories ask big questions about life, death, and what we want to do to understand ourselves and the world around us. Even though they were written at very different times, both Gilgamesh and Frankenstein show us the dangers of pushing beyond our limits in the search for immortality or in trying to play God- and force us to look upon what it means to be human. Gilgamesh was written between 2150 and 1400 BCE and is considered to be the oldest known piece of epic world literature. Franketsin was written in 1816 inspired by science and what horror could come with it. In comparing the two historical texts Gilgamesh and Frankenstein they both answer the question of what it means to be human. Still, in this essay, I argue why Frankenstein’s meaning of the question is more meaningful to history and our understanding of these critical questions. I have chosen 3 reasons to support my claim. My first reason for support is human autonomy and knowing the limits. My second reason is the moral responsibility and consequences that are faced. And my third reason is the conflict between nature and human will. In Frankenstein, the author explores the theme of human autonomy by highlighting the dangers of pushing beyond natural limits, illustrating how Victor Frankenstein's obsessive pursuit of knowledge and control eventually leads to his downfall. “I had worked hard for nearly two years, for the sole purpose of infusing life into an inanimate body. For this, I had deprived myself of rest and health. I had desired it with an ardor that far exceeded moderation. Still, now that I had finished, the beauty of the dream vanished, and breathless horror and disgust filled my heart.”(Chapter 5). Victor's quote here shows an intrinsic human push to understand and master the world around us. His obsessive work to "infuse life into an inanimate body" shows the human grasp for knowledge and the ambition to go past natural limits. This trait has pushed scientific discovery and technological creations throughout history. However, it is portrayed as a self-destructive ambition, and knowledge without ethics or morals can lead to demise. A quote from Gilgamesh that counters Victor is when Gilgamesh says “There is no permanence. Do we build a house to stand forever, or do we seal a contract to hold for all time? Do brothers divide an inheritance to keep it forever, does the flood-time of rivers endure? Only the nymph of the dragonfly sheds her larva and sees the sun in its glory.”(Chapter 11). In this quote Gilgamesh finished his search for immortality; he realizes death is inevitable and focuses on other aspects of life. Comparing these two quotes, Gilgamesh grows as a person and knows that continuing his search is futile, while Victor works day and night ruining himself in the chase of knowledge and life. When researching different verified sources on the things relating to what I am arguing, I came across a quote from a Professor who spoke at The University of Texas at Dallas that speaks volumes. She said “While one might think that a class on Frankenstein would be all horror and shadows and gasps, I would argue it’s a class asking some of the most pivotal, pointed human questions,” said Starnaman, “including questions about the responsibilities that creators or scientists have to their creations or their science.” The reason I find this quote important is because the Professor speaks on how her students can take away as almost a lesson or a learning point, as she said that Franketsein provides pivotal questions. This quote supports my claim that Frankenstein provides human life by showing moral responsibility and the consequences that are faced. On the other hand a quote from Professor Mohammad Fakkhar on what life knowledge we can gain from Gilgamesh, he writes “The epic encourages us to ponder our mortality”. While I do think that this is something important we can think about, I do not believe this is something that relates to what it means to be human. In Frankenstein, there are so many quotes that give the reader the drive to think about the conflict between nature and human will. But this quote found in chapter sixteen stuck out to me “I am alone and miserable: man will not associate with me; but one as deformed and horrible as myself would not deny herself to me. My companion must be of the same species and have the same defects. I would wish to live with him in the most perfect solitude.” The creature/monster that Victor created cried for companionship to help exhibit the unnaturalness of his existence. Created in defiance of nature's laws, he yearns for a natural connection with another being; because it is a result of human will, he is rejected by humanity and excluded from the natural world. Thinking about how Victor created something that clashes with nature and human will is interesting. A quote Gilgamesh said “I will kill Humbaba, and cut down the cedar trees. I will build a great city with their wood.”(Tablet IV) This quote is similar to the monsters in the sense of controlling nature. But this quote does not provide the reader something to internally take in and think about. Between reading the two quotes as a reader I can ponder the existence of the monster and how it clashes with nature and human will, and when I read and think about Gilgamesh’s quote I find it challenging to connect it back to what it means to be human. Both Gilgamesh and Frankenstein provide interesting insight into what it is to be human, especially life and death, and the limitations of human beings. Gilgamesh explores the futility of searching for immortality in the face of obvious death, Frankenstein warns against the attempt at gaining control over life or nature. Both stories expose humanity to the risks of going past something’s natural tendencies. Although more modern, both texts give us good insight into the limitations of human power. Gilgamesh is more universal in his outlook of humanity because it deals with death in a way that speaks to everyone, everywhere. Gilgamesh learns to accept that death is inevitable, which is true for any period of writing. Frankenstein, on the other hand, focuses on 19th-century fears about science and technology, making it seem less universal and more tied to its time in history. While Gilgamesh gives a reflection on death, Frankenstein adds another layer by addressing human autonomy, moral responsibility, and the consequences of pushing beyond natural limits. Victor Frankenstein tries to control life, and in so doing, he causes fear and harm, showing us the dangers of playing god. As Professor Starnaman says, Frankenstein raises critical questions about the responsibility that comes with scientific discovery, which feels highly relevant today. The struggle between nature and humans will help us reflect on human will and its ethics, while Gilgamesh does not have that type of historical writing. In conclusion, Gilgamesh and Frankenstein create deep questions concerning human existence, mortality, and the consequences of exceeding natural limits. Gilgamesh provides thought about the event of death and acceptance of the limitations of man, Frankenstein speaks more about human autonomy, moral responsibility, and conflict between nature and human will. While Gilgamesh offers a universal meditation on mortality, Frankenstein is more based on modern concerns, as it reveals the ethical problems that come with creation, science, and power. The moral messages of Understanding our limitations, accountability in our actions, and respect toward nature are relevant not only to the period in which it was written but also increasingly so in this day and age of rapid technological advancement and scientific exploration. However, both texts provide insight into what it means to be human.

My name is Louden Grimes I am attending New Mexico State University in the Spring of 2025, and I am studying Wildlife Ecology/Conservation. I chose this career path because of the way I was raised. My dad raised me since I was 4, and every weekend we went fishing or shed hunting. And come hunting season we would go out as much as we could. My dad's passion for wildlife and mother nature inspired me to find a career that involved these aspects. Being a fish and game warden will provide me with so many opportunities to make a difference in what I care about. I care about hunting and illegally poaching animals is horrible, I will be able to arrest the people who poach and illegally kill animals. I also want to have an impact on my community as well. Being able to be a voice for some citizens who can't express their thoughts and concerns will help me leave and long-lasting impact.

My name is Louden Grimes, I am a freshman in college transferring from WNMU to NMSU. As a little kid, I wanted to dedicate my life to the outdoors. Whether that meant being a game warden, park ranger, or a volunteer. Now I have chosen to go to college for a Fish and Game Forestry degree. I most definitely stayed on track with my childhood. I want my kids to be able to enjoy the great outdoors as much as I did, I want to bring together whichever community I work for together. I believe the sights and sounds that Mother Nature provides to us should be available forever. As I stated before I want to make a lasting impact in my community, I want to take into perspective what the local citizens are telling me, but I also want to follow the code of law enforcement. As a fish and game warden, I will try my best to preserve the wildlife around me. My drive to get done with college and start my path is because of my dad. My dad has taken me hunting and fishing ever since I can remember. He loves the outdoors he's a true mountain man at heart. He is the one who taught me to respect and look after nature and animals. So I want to channel all of my childhood into this degree. My degree is a 4-year degree and after I graduate I will go attend a police academy in either Colorado or New Mexico and get officially licensed. I will feel content withmy career when it gets to a point where I have contributed everything I can to wildlife and nature. I will also be arresting with people who misuse firearms and poach animals. Which is very important to me because gun violence was the reason my grandfather passed away. Drive and ambition is what makes someone who they are, every single person I have met has had a drive to do something, they are always trying to achieve there goals and dreams. Ambition being the same almost. To succeed at something you have ambition for requires a certain amount of drive. Some different than others, but I know that the drive and ambition I have is not going to stop. Thank you Brazelton family for providing a meaningful scholarship anyone can apply. Doing this helps so many other students feel like they can do it.

Living sustainably is something that, over the years, has grown on me, especially because I was raised on a farm. Growing up surrounded by nature and being conscious of how natural systems are interrelated with human life is what framed my view of the meaning of sustainability. I try today to make choices that will be intentional in reducing my carbon footprint, believing this is very important for the welfare of our planet and future generations. Another important aspect of my sustainable lifestyle is minimizing waste. Growing up on a farm, we were always conscious of what we threw away, as resources such as water, feed, and materials were valuable. This mindset has carried over into my daily life, through the prioritization of recycling, composting, and eschewing single-use plastics. I carry reusable bags to go shopping, buy in bulk to reduce packaging waste and compost food scraps whenever I can. These efforts not only keep waste out of landfills but also cut down on emissions from manufacturing, transporting, and disposing of products. Another area on which I place great emphasis is transportation. On the farm, it was often most practical to walk or use a tractor, so I learned early that using less energy to move around is more sustainable. Nowadays, in my life, I have tried to walk or ride a bike for short distances instead of driving. For longer distances, whenever possible, I use public transportation or carpool. On days when driving is unavoidable, I try to maintain my vehicle and drive in ways that optimize fuel efficiency. I also try to keep electric vehicles as an alternative to the commonly known gas-powered cars, since they have lesser emissions. Lastly, conscious consumption has become a big part of my sustainable lifestyle. Most of our food was grown on the farm while growing up, and we always deeply understood where our food came from and how it was produced. This has influenced how I shop for food today. I try my best to purchase locally grown and seasonal produce to minimize the carbon footprint that comes along with food transported over a long distance. I also try to avoid processed foods and plastic-wrapped products, choosing instead fresh, unprocessed items that are both healthier and more environmentally friendly. It is relevant for me to reduce my carbon footprint because the future of humanity depends on the health of the planet. Climate change, driven by excessive carbon emissions, poses serious threats to ecosystems, biodiversity, and human communities. In making more sustainable choices, I thus hope to play my own small yet meaningful part in the mitigation of these effects toward a healthier planet. Besides, living sustainably is not only about reducing carbon emissions; it is about building a lifestyle that values the conservation and stewardship of natural resources for future generations. Sustainability is one of the key values that I have internalized from the farm and try to make conscious decisions about in my life. From energy efficiency to reducing waste, from sustainable transport to conscious consumption, I strongly believe that every action counts in the fight against climate change. Reducing our carbon footprint is crucial, not just for our generation, but for the generations that will inherit the world we leave behind.

My name is Louden Grimes, I am from Colorado and I grew up watching the King play. One of my first memories watching him play was his infamous 3-2 comeback against the powerhouse Warriors. My dad has always believed that Lebron is the G.O.A.T. over Michael Jordan. and he even got to see MJ play in his prime. I have always loved Lebron as a person too, he always kept it real and is a true leader. My favorite basketball player of all time was Dwight Howard back in the day, but after seeing Lebron take him and that 2020 Lakers squad to the championship was something else, ever since then Lebron has been my favorite all-time NBA player. Anytime one of my friends tries to argue that MJ is the G.O.A.T. I can't help but argue, he was more dominant than MJ, more reliable, and a better leader than MJ in my opinion. Lebron carried a squad of washed players and young Kyrie Irving to a chip. MJ always had a great supporting cast throughout his career. I think it would be so cool to receive a scholarship for being a Lebron fan. Thank you to whoever is giving this opportunity.

My name is Louden Grimes, I grew up in Durango Colorado. My family started farming in 2017, but my dad and step-mom had been farming for years. We raise a heritage breed of hogs called North American Guinea Hogs. We also raise Native American Churro Sheep. We also raise laying hens,meat-birds, and ducks. My family runs a farmers market from June to October every Saturday that helps give back to our community and further build it as well. For the past 3 summers I have been working on a ranch in Colorado, it has been a great experience I have learned how to run a bailer, back up big trailers, fix and maintain irrigation pumps, and much more. I mainly stacked hay, mended fences, and replaced broken gates on the irrigation pumps. I have learned a lot these past 8 years about farming and ranching. I believe now that having even a small farm or a 10,000-acre cow ranch, you will still learn so many new things at all stages of the agriculture journey. My dad has been taking me hunting and fishing since I was a little kid. He did a great job at teaching me all the rules and regulations around hunting and fishing, without him I would not be where I am today. He loves our farm and we are all very proud to call it home. I want my future kids to grow up in the same environment, I plan to get a Wildlife Ecology/Conservation degree from New Mexico State University. New Mexico State is a renowned university for agriculture and ranching programs. Watching game wardens do their job was always inspiring and interesting. With this degree, I feel I can make our wildlife and the agricultural world safer and better. I want to make an impact on the community where I work, and with this degree, I can help bring back endangered species and make sure the wildlife population is teeming. On the side of being a fish and game warden, I also intend to build a small-sized farm dedicated to my family's farm. I will always love the agricultural world and I will spend as much time as possible helping local farmers and ranchers in my community because that's how I grew up, and my degree will aid in that as well as get me a job that I love and feel passionate about.