Bone rattling and blood curling That’s how they think it will be My dead fingers grasp the living As a bouquet is handed to me What they don’t know is Im not in there An empty casket is all I see It’s funny when your dead How nice people can be -My Visitation

It was very personal and hit very close to home with my personal teenage experience: "And every girl I ever talked to told me you were bad, bad news/ You called them crazy, God, I hate the way I called 'em crazy too." This line from "Vampire" capture most of my adolescence and all the challenges which come along with it. I feel like it is a personal lyric but also one that can be universal. Being in love for the first time and being on litteral cloud nine with a heavy crush was very common for me as a teenager. Now, after very humbling a cringe worthy reflection, it is clear how well these lyrics depict my tragical, early romantic life. This is back when naivety really knew no bounds. There was always one guy who held the greatest charm, despite the very visible red flags I choose to ignore I leaped in anyway. I remember how, when a person had a certain reputation, the warnings from my friends: stories or concerns, in actuality attempts to save me from a world of heartache. In that whirlpool of infatuation, it was pretty easy to completely ignore all these warnings as jealous misunderstandings of my friends. In my deluded mind, I knew better, and things would be different with me. The second half of that lyric just guts me, though. I feel like it speaks to that idea that very often we take the narratives of those we're crushing on and make them our own, even if they are self-sabotaging. Now I cringe just thinking about when I'd defend someone's clearly bad actions or write off others for their very real concerns, claiming they were "dramatic." It's a painful and cringe worthy realization to look back and see how I feed into harmful stereotypes and dismissed the experiences of many other girls. This lyric is the epitome of the conflicting thoughts of adolescence that struggle between needing to trust your judgment and finding out, frequently too late, that you would have been way better off following the wisdom of others. The regret of finally seeing clearly what was there all along is what this song is about. In addition, the contents of this verse pertain to the larger experience of growing up and maturing to the feeling of trusting yourself as well as valuing your friends' and families' opinions. It's about navigating the complex and dramatic social dynamics of teenage years where loyalty, trust, and self-discovery are constantly intertwined and almost always at odds with each other. What makes Rodrigo's songwriting resonate so wonderfully is how she writes about those complex emotions into such a real and powerful lyric. It is not just about a crappy relationship but about the process of growing up, making mistakes, and learning from them, usually the hard way. That lyric, from my experience, reminds me to listen to those that care about us and also to trust in the support systems we have around us. It reminded me that while the teenage years may be filled with dramatic highs and lows of emotions and experiences, they're also a time for learning and growth. This is one of my favorite lyrics, from "vampire"; it captures so well the heart of a teenager: personal experience pitted against collective wisdom, the pain of coming to know one's mistakes, the twisted path to self-discovery that is teenage years.

I have chosen the following paragraph from John Locke's "An Essay Concerning Human Understanding," Book II, Chapter 1, Section 2: "Let us then suppose the mind to have no ideas in it, to be like white paper with nothing written on it. How then does it come to be written on? From where does it get that vast store which the busy and boundless imagination of man has painted on it—all the materials of reason and knowledge? To this I answer, in one word, from experience. Our understandings derive all the materials of thinking from observations that we make of - external objects that can be perceived through the senses, and of - the internal operations of our minds, which we perceive by looking in at ourselves. These two are the fountains of knowledge, from which arise all the ideas we have or can naturally have." John Locke's "An Essay Concerning Human Understanding," was first published in 1689, and is considered a one of the best foundational text of modern philosophy. Locke, an English philosopher born in 1632, challenged many prevailing notions of intrinsic ideas and established a systematic empiricist philosophy. The essay he writes argues that all knowledge derives from human experience, emphasizing the role of sensation and reflection when forming ideas. This work truly revolutionized epistemology, exploring the nature, origins, and limits of human cognition. It influenced well known Enlightenment thinkers like Hume and Berkeley, and its impact extended beyond philosophy and into fields such as psychology and even politics. Locke's concept of the mind as a "blank slate" from birth shaped subsequent and famous debates on human nature and knowledge acquisition To narrow things down to this specific pivotal passage it is crucial one understands that Locke presents his revolutionary concept of the human mind as a tabula rasa (blank slate), challenging the previous notion of innate ideas and asserting that all knowledge stems from experience. I argue that Locke's metaphor of the mind as "white paper" serves not only to refute the doctrine of innate ideas but also to emphasize the huge impact that sensory perception and introspection has on human cognition. The imagery of a blank slate is particularly striking to me, as it implies that our minds begin in a state of boundless potential, devoid of any inherent knowledge or indoctrination. This concept was radical for its time, as it directly contradicted the widely held belief in innate ideas which was taught by amazing philosophers like Descartes. By proposing that the mind starts as an empty vessel, Locke entirely shifts the focus from predetermined knowledge to the process of acquiring knowledge through lived experience. Locke's use of the question "How then does it come to be written on?" serves to bring the reader into his argument, inviting the reader to consider the origins of our thoughts and ideas. The answer he provides is "experience. " It is deceptively simple, yet it encapsulates a complex understanding of human cognition. By breaking down experience into two distinct categories – observations of external objects and internal mental operations – Locke lays the groundwork for a comprehensive theory of knowledge acquisition. The first category, observations of external objects through our senses, highlights the importance of empirical data in shaping our understanding of the world. This emphasis on sensory input as a primary source of knowledge aligns Locke with the more empiricist tradition, which holds that all knowledge is derived from sensory experience. By positioning the senses as a "fountain of knowledge," Locke really highlights the critical role of observation and interaction with the physical world in the formation of ideas. The second category, internal operations of our minds, introduces the belief of reflection or introspection as a source of knowledge. This aspect of Locke's theory is particularly intriguing, as it suggests that we can literally gain insights not only from external stimuli but also from examining our own thought processes. This self-reflective capacity allows us to form ideas about our own mental states, emotions, and reasoning processes, adding yet another layer to our understanding of human cognition. Locke's assertion that these two sources (sensory perception and introspection) are the springs from which "arise all the ideas we have or can naturally have" is a bold claim that has controversial far-reaching implications. It suggests that there are no innate ideas or knowledge that we are born with, and that even our most abstract, intense, grounding concepts can be traced back to our own lived or thought of experiences. The metaphor of the mind as "white paper" also implies a certain level of adaptability and potential for growth and mental continuation. Just as a blank page can be filled with an infinite variety of writings and illustrations, so too can the human mind be shaped and molded in the most intricate ways by a vast array of experiences. No mind is exactly the same as another. This view of the mind as inherently flexible and responsive to experience has serious implications for education, personal development, and our understanding of human nature. Moreover, Locke's theory questions the idea of universal truths and even set moral principles. If all our ideas come from experience, then our beliefs, values, and even our sense of ethics must be shaped by our interactions with the world around us and our reflections on those interactions. This intense and scarily raw perspective opens up more questions about cultural differences, individual variations in one's knowledge and beliefs, and the extremely important role education has in shaping the human mind. Locke's concept of the mind as a tabula rasa, as presented in his passage, is not just the rejection of innate ideas but a comprehensive theory of human cognition and knowledge acquisition. By emphasizing the role of experience, both external and internal, in shaping our understanding of everything that can and will be known, Locke lays the foundation for a more dynamic and empirical approach to epistemology. His ideas continue to influence our understanding of learning, cognition, and the nature of human knowledge, reminding us that our minds are not predetermined vessels of truth, but rather active, evolving systems shaped by our ongoing engagement with the world around us and within us.

I never thought of myself as someone who struggled with mental health. I was very driven and kept myself busy, which I now realize was a way to mask what was really going on. My self-esteem and identity were tightly bound to my grades, athletic abilities, and the approval of my parents and other adults. In my first year of college, I was an honors student with a full-ride scholarship that required a near-perfect GPA. Determined to succeed, I took on an intense workload: 18 credits, three hours of soccer daily, a part-time job, and participation in a leadership institute. I set no boundaries for myself, working relentlessly without realizing the toll it was taking on my health. The stress manifested physically. I rarely ate or slept, my hair began falling out, and I lost an unhealthy amount of weight rapidly. I experienced frequent episodes of passing out and sleep paralysis. Eventually, I developed a psychogenic movement disorder, characterized by violent, involuntary muscle spasms and contractions that made simple tasks like writing, driving, and eating challenging. At my mother's encouragement, I reluctantly agreed to try therapy. Though initially uncomfortable, I soon found myself very fascinated by the study of the mind. This newfound interest not only helped make my disorder more manageable but also introduced me to reading and writing as forms of stress relief. Since then, I've immersed myself in psychology, I've read nearly 100 books and writing a collection of poems I hope to publish this year. My passion for mental health advocacy has grown so much, and I plan to continue my studies at Spring Arbor University. I am particularly interested in their BOUNCE program which will allow me to work with and help children who have experienced trauma. My journey has also influenced my career aspirations. While my high school best friend aims for medical school, I've set my sights on psychiatry. I've become an advocate for therapy and open discussions about mental health among my family and friends, believing that creating space for honest conversations is crucial for promoting good mental health. I've come to understand that mental health struggles are universal, though they vary in intensity and certainly in duration for each individual. Regardless of the any scale, I believe in the importance of reaching out to loved ones and seeking professional help when needed. I'm eternally grateful to my mother for pushing me out of my comfort zone to seek support. Although I still experience tics and have my ups and downs like anybody else, the knowledge that I have support and can offer support to others makes it all worthwhile. Constantly reaching out to friends and family to simply ask how they are has been such a meaningful and fruitful task. I encourage everyone to do the same. You never know how much it means until your the one whose struggling.

I grew up on a farm and taking care of animals was a day-to-day practice that I'm glad I got exposed to early in life. I still remember the first time I helped deliver a baby goat. It was so scary and exciting. It was experiences like these that stirred my early interest in veterinary medicine. I soon became the go-to person in my family, for administering shots to our livestock, dishing out pills to sick animals, and bandaging wounds from minor accidents. I was always the one to get very attached to the runts of the litters. My parents would always tease me about how I was an unofficially vet, even before reaching my teen years. As I grew older, my interest in medicine remained strong, but I wasn't totally sure how I would end up pursuing it. It wasn't until my freshman year of college that my path took on more definition, though it came in a fairly unexpected way: I developed a psychogenic movement disorder. In a short span of time, I found myself on the other side of medical care, grappling with a condition as psychological as it was physical. The experience really introduced me to the world of psychology. I became engulfed in understanding the psychology behind instances such as my own. As I started to read and research this field more, I began to see an opportunity to combine my long-standing interest in medicine with my newly found passion for psychology. It was then that I decided to become a psychiatrist. I now see how this decision is the perfect combination of my younger self's dreams mixed with what interests me nowadays. I might not be treating animals as I certainly thought I once would, but I will be using my medical knowledge to help others. In fall I will be a junior at Spring Arbor University and I could not be more excited to continue my education. Having a career in medicine seems much more attainable now than it did in high school. What is even more unique is that I get to experience this with one of my very best friends from high school: we both will be attending medical school and will have each other to lean on throughout the journey. Though my career goals have evolved from those childhood desires, I know I am on the right track and I still maintain a love of medicine. Becoming a psychiatrist will enable me to help people in ways I never thought possible as a young farm kid helping attend to small animals. It's a beautiful way to combine both past and present hopes, and I look forward with anticipation to where this journey will take me.

I never thought I would be affected by mental health issues... until my college years. Growing up, I came from a good family with fairly healthy relationships. It was in the first year of college that the truth about myself and my upbringing finally dawned on me. Being a perfectionist, I took on a nearly impossible workload: 18 credits, daily sports practice, work, and honors and leadership programs, since my scholarship was based on my GPA maintenance it was extremely stressful. My need for excellence in all areas of life drove me to set impossibly high standards for myself. This behavior certainly came at a price. I barely ate or slept, and the rising stress was starting to come out in some very disturbing physical ways. I suffered from hair loss, fainting every day, sleep paralysis, and even panic attacks at random. At this time I didn't really know of healthy stress management tactics and I was not prepared for the pressure. The result of all this was the development of a severe psychogenic movement disorder: sudden uncontrollable tics that made it very difficult to write or drive. For weeks, I had to walk to classes and rely on talk-to-text technology. After. while of brushing it under the rug and the urging of my family and peers, I realized that this wasn't something I could ignore, and I quickly started therapy. Within a span of weeks, my symptoms showed improvement. That painful process forced me to confront realities: my home life had set the stage for the OCD behaviors, and an sole identification with academic and athletic success defined my self-esteem. Most of all, I had unofficially taken on the role of being family therapist, satisfying each family member constantly. It wasn't until I moved out of the house that my relationships with my family members began to heal. All of these things inspired me to look into the field of psychology. I was very interested by the mind and its functioning, this self-discovery journey kindled a keen interest in psychology. Now, I am pursuing a totally different academic track of studying psychology to have a psychiatric practice. I took to reading and writing poetry to handle my stress levels. I have read 75-80 books in the last year and even written a collection of poetry, which I hope to get published soon. Writing has become a very significant part of my healing process. Awareness of mental health and self-care are two very important features that I have gained from my experience. It has shown me that even those who seem to have it all together can struggle internally. As I further myself on this journey of healing and growth, I am grateful for the insights I have gained and the new direction my life has taken. Having people around me who really pushed me to seek help was key in my recovery and I hope to be that person for others. I believe that becoming a psychiatrist will also help me with this as well as help those who are struggling more than others and need additional help. I hope to use my experiences to help others who may be facing similar challenges. I am a very passionate mental health advocate, and I am thrilled about the opportunity to join the BOUNCE program at Spring Arbor University, which allows students to work with children who have experienced trauma. I am eager to contribute to this meaningful program and make a positive impact in supporting young individuals through their healing journey. Not only will my target audience be towards children with trauma but I also plan to put extreme effort into supporting mothers. My mom did so much for me and it wasn't until I was older that I realized the mental health issues she was dealing with. So my own experience with metal health was not the only thing that drove me to dedicate my entire career to the cause, the well hidden problems my amazing, hardworking mother was and is going through continues to be a major factor.

Growing up, I did not think I was the kind of person who was afflicted by mental problems. More recently I discovered this to be very untrue. To be precise, these issues didn't occur until my freshman year at college. Driven by perfectionism, I packed my schedule incredibly full: 18 credits, daily sports practice, work, and involvement in both honors and leadership programs. My scholarship depended on my perfect GPA, and I absolutely needed this financially. In hindsight, I now realize how such relentless pursuit of excellence set me up for a mental health crisis. I rarely ate or slept due to lack of time and stress, and I would push myself to extremes to meet my really impossibly high standards. The stress began to manifest physically: extreme hair loss, daily fainting spells, sleep paralysis, and severe panic attacks. I had never really learned healthy ways to manage stress or relax, and my body was certainly paying the price. Things came to a head when I was diagnosed with a severe case of psychogenic movement disorder. Suddenly, uncontrollable tics interrupted every part of my life. Simple activities—like writing or driving—became all but impossible. For multiple weeks, I had to walk to classes and use talk-to-text technology in order to contact people. The tics left me exhausted and frustrated. For someone who thrives on control and precision, the loss of bodily autonomy was such a devastating thing. I felt betrayed by my own body. It was a very humbling experience that made me face my vulnerabilities and take stock of my priorities. Reluctantly, I sought therapy as my first step in recovery. I had resisted the idea at first, seeing it as an admission of weakness. It was, however, the best decision I ever made. Over months of work, I slowly gained tools to manage my disorder and address the perfectionism that had underpinned my descent into this illness. This journey of healing helped me cope with my condition and also helped me choose a new career path. The complexities of the human mind became so intriguing to me that I decided to pursue psychiatry. My personal experience with mental health challenges has given me a unique perspective and deep empathy for others struggling with similar issues. These days, while living with the disorder, I have learned to push myself in much healthier ways. I challenge myself to step out of my comfort zone on daily basis, knowing that with each new experience, I am getting even stronger. I believe that bravery isn't just one act but many and it takes time to build up courage and stay motivated. My perfectionism has morphed into a passion for personal growth and a desire to help others with their mental health journeys. This unexpected detour in life has led me along a path much more rewarding and authentic than any other might have been: one on which my struggles can make a difference for others.

From my earliest memories, I have found great joy in serving others. As a child, I enjoyed shared my clothes with friends or baking treats for neighbors. I couldn't resist stopping to talk with strangers, offering them compliments that would brighten their day and mine. These small acts of kindness were the seeds of a lifelong passion for service. As I grew older, my desire blossomed to make a difference in people's lives. I started volunteering at homeless shelters and witnessed firsthand the struggles of those less fortunate. My car turned into a mobile aid station stocked with water, granola bars, and warm clothing for those I'd encounter on street corners. The gratitude of people in need really fueled my commitment to serve. I was committed enough to volunteer for a mission trip to Utah to clean parks and construct sheds for families in need. The hard work was well worth the price paid to see a smile and improve someone's life. Back home, I became an ESL assistant teacher at my local church until the program was no longer needed in my area, helping newcomers find their voice. My personal struggle with psychogenic movement disorder opened my eyes to the weight of mental health issues. The fear, frustration, and isolation I felt made me aware of the silent battles many face each day. This realization stirred a new passion in me—to help those wrestling with mental health challenges. Now, as a sophomore honors student at Kellogg Community College, I apply my energy and attention to detail to studying psychology. I want to become a psychiatrist because the profession will enable me to help people and also enter the medical field. Recently, I committed to Spring Arbor University, where I will live with and care for my grandmother while attending school. I hope to work at Spring Arbor with the BOUNCE program, supporting children who have faced trauma. Imagining any young life scarred by adversity breaks my heart, but it also fills me with determination to be a source of healing and hope. My ultimate dream is to open my own practice, creating an oasis where I can help people become their best selves. Every smile restored, every burden lightened, every life touched—these will be the rewards that make every step of this journey worthwhile. When I look to the future, a mix of excitement and humility overwhelms me. It won't be easy, but I am prepared to give it my heart and soul because there is no greater joy than being a light in someone's darkness, a helping hand in their struggle, or the catalyst for their transformation.

Growing up on a farm with my four siblings, I learned to appreciate nature and work hard. My involvement in 4-H and hands-on experience with animal care truly sparked my interest in learning, especially when it came to medicine and science. This was the beginning of my educational career, which has brought me to Kellogg Community College as a sophomore and, shortly, Spring Arbor University as a junior. My interest in the study of the mind as a future career was nailed after attending a class on the same during my high school. It further intensified due to my personal experience with psychogenic movement disorder causing involuntary movements or tics, particularly when the input through senses overloads my brain. Undergoing therapy for this condition not only helped me manage my symptoms but actually deepened my fascination for the field of psychology. My ultimate goal is to become a psychiatrist, following in the footsteps of my mother who attended medical school. At Spring Arbor University, I will be able to stay with my grandmother and take care of her as I continue with my studies. The psychology course at Spring Arbor University will benefit me because its structure encompasses current psychological theories from a Christian perspective. This will enable me to appreciate the subject from all dimensions and at the same time advance my personal life. I am not all about academics; there is a great deal of hobbies and interests. Soccer has been in my life since forever, and I am excited to continue it at Spring Arbor. It keeps me fit physically, but most importantly, it teaches a lot about teamwork and never giving up. Literature also plays a huge role in my life. I read more than 80 books per year in different genres. This reading supports my own writing, as I am working on a book of poetry. For me, personally, poetry is a great way to express myself and even to get rid of stress because it helps me to put my thoughts and emotions into some constructive and healthy form. I am an active person and love soccer, but I also like Jiu Jitsu, which I do with my father and brother in our local dojo. Besides a good workout, this martial art teaches discipline and mental strength. Community service has always formed part of my life. In the past, I volunteered as an assistant ESL teacher at my church and continue to volunteer my time at local homeless shelters. While I may not consider myself one of those individuals who would go out into the world and single-handedly change it, I find that my greatest joy is serving others. I feel that it is in approaching the help of people with real passion, joy, and motivation to act, instead of out of obligation, that one's actions become so much more meaningful and effective. Based on this natural feeling, one could create ripples of improvement in kindness, extending far beyond one's immediate actions. This commitment to serving is fairly attuned with Spring Arbor University's mission-a Christian worldview perspective: One that is advocating respect toward individual diversities of every person. I am excited to start this new chapter in my life, where I will be involved in the psychology program, continuing my athletics, and participating in community service. My diverse interests and experiences will no doubt add to my personal and professional growth as I work toward my goal of becoming a psychiatrist. The selfie is of my mother and I and the letter is from a former boss and friend!

Ever since I was young, I had recognized the importance of mental health, not just for myself, but for everyone else around me. This awareness has shaped many of my interactions and relationships, driving me to dream of an environment of understanding, empathy, and support. I believe good relationships are the groundwork of a decent life, and I make an effort to create strong bonds over open communication, trust, and mutual support. My passion for psychology was stirred in high school, the first time I had the subject in a classroom. Intricate details of how the human mind works really fascinated me, and I found myself drawn to the complexities of human behavior. From this interest, came my academic pursuits as I currently study psychology in my sophomore year of college at Kellogg Community College. As a vivid reader, I have read numerous books on mental health and psychology, and with each, my interest in the subject deepens. It is these books and articles and my own mental health struggles that have grown my knowledge and brought knowledge into the different challenges individuals with mental health issues like me go through. My personal mental health took an unexpected turn when I developed a psychogenic movement disorder. This disorder greatly disrupted my day-to-day life and was extremely frustrating. Simple things like eating, writing, and driving became very difficult. This made me seek therapy, and it turned out to be a life-changing decision. It helped me deal with my condition, and at the same time, I got hands-on experience with the therapeutic process that increased my interest in psychology. My mother, who also went to med school, encouraged me to join my love of psychology and medicine. She  inspired me to target medical school, with the eventual career goal of a psychiatrist. In my eyes, this is the ideal combination of my love for psychology and my desire to pursue medicine. I am basically motivated by the desire to help individuals deal with their mental health concerns, providing support, and evidence-based treatments. My love for learning extends beyond psychology, as my work ethic is reflected in my academic performance as a high honors student. I find a great sense of accomplishment in gaining understanding and the rewards that come with studying and hard work.  While pursuing further studies at Spring Arbor University and striving for my dream of becoming a psychiatrist, I will not neglect the concepts of promoting mental wellness, and developing and maintaining healthy relationships. I hope that I will be able to leave a positive impact on many people.

I would like to share my vision with you: to build a future that will change not only my life but also contribute positively to my community and those I care for. Having struggled with mental health challenges myself, especially psychogenic movement disorder, I've experienced the debilitating and frustrating effects firsthand. Simple tasks like driving, writing, and eating became difficult for me prior to therapy. This personal struggle had its benefits though, it solidified my decision to enter psychology and shaped my career goals to build something truly meaningful. I envision building more than a psychology practice; Ihope for it to be a safe place for healing and growth where people with mental health struggles can truly find understanding, support, and effective treatment. This will manifest my commitment to mental health advocacy and care for everyone. Building this practice means cultivating an environment of trust, knowledge, and empathy. I aim to incorporate innovative and effective therapeutic approaches, blending traditional methods with new and improving research. The space will be designed to be calming, inclusive and warm, reflecting the community it will serve. The main focus of this vision is relationship-building. My personal experience as a patient has given me a peek into the vulnerability and courage required to seek help. I want to forge strong, supportive relationships with clients based on a fondation mutual respect and real care. These connections will be the first steps of healing. It will providing a safe area for people to explore their challenges and strengths. I also hope to build a team of like-minded professionals passionate about mental health care. My high school best friend and fellow psychology student will join me in bringing our shared vision of opening this practice together to life. We will create a collaborative environment where knowledge is shared and treatment approaches are developed. The positive impact of this plan will go beyond just individual clients. By providing this quality mental health care, we hope to contribute to the overall well-being of our community. Partnering with local organizations to promote mental health awareness has always been a goal of mine. I hope to build a future where mental health is prioritized and treated with the same kind of urgency as physical health problems. With that said, I hope to not only build a successful practice but also contribute to a more mentally healthy community.

As someone who has always been fascinated by patterns and constants, I find math to be both enjoyable and intellectually stimulating. For me, the appeal of math lies in the immense satisfaction I feel when solving long problems. The moments after they are solved are ones of triumph. I find great beauty in the logical structure and proofs of mathematics. As someone who, again, appreciates patterns and symmetry, I find math to be as aesthetically pleasing as any work of art. I'm also drawn to its universal language. The way it transcends cultural barriers and offers common ground to thinkers worldwide, is something I think people don't value enough. The real-world applications of mathematical concepts never cease to amaze me. From architecture to finance, seeing how math makes wild ideas concrete and exciting. I've found that engaging with math has increased my critical thinking and pattern recognition skills, which I find to be very important. Contrary to what many people believe, I've discovered that mathematics often requires a lot of creativity. I find satisfaction in developing clear solutions to problems, a process that uses both logical and imaginative thinking. In an uncertain world, I find comfort in the certainty of math. For me, the appeal of math lies in its very constant nature. There's always something new for me to learn and understand. This makes math a continuous journey of intellectual growth. This learning process keeps me engaged, offering me both challenge and reward as I solve equations.

For most of my life, I was unaffected by mental health issues and believed I had a good family with healthy relationships. It wasn't until my first year of college that I discovered otherwise. I was taking 18 credits, playing a sport that consumed three hours daily, working, and participating in honors and leadership programs that funded my schooling due to my high GPA and extremely servitude in my community. I've always been driven by the need for perfection, striving for A+ grades with extremely high self-standards. Maintaining this level of performance in college proved challenging. I rarely ate or slept properly, and the high stress levels led to physical symptoms. I experienced extreme hair loss, daily fainting spells, sleep paralysis, and severe panic attacks. Having never learned healthy stress management techniques, I struggled to find relief. Consequently, I developed a severe case of psychogenic movement disorder. These sudden tics disrupted my daily life, making it nearly impossible to write or drive. For weeks, I had to walk to and from classes and use talk-to-text technology. The symptoms only slightly subsided before bedtime. I immediately sought therapy, which helped alleviate the condition after a few weeks. My relationships with my parents and siblings were strained. The lack of boundaries at home contributed to my OCD tendencies, and my self-esteem became heavily tied to my grades and sports accomplishments. I had grown up trying to fit a mold, often acting as my family's therapist and learning to "roll with the punches." It wasn't until I moved out of the house that my relationships with my family began to really improve. This experience truly sparked my interest in psychology. I began reading extensively on the subject and decided to major in psychology, with plans to attend medical school and become a psychiatrist. I just recently commited to Spring Arbor University and plan to attend Med school in two years alongside my highschool best friend. To better manage my stress levels, I turned to reading book and writing poetry. Over the past year, I've read 75-80 books and written a poetry collection that I hope to publish soon. This journey has taught me the importance of mental health awareness and self-care. By sharing my story and pursuing a career in psychiatry, I aim to help others who may face similar challenges, combining my personal experience with professional expertise to make a positive impact in the field of mental health.

In my life, I have found that faith often shines brightest against the backdrop of adversity. My story is a journey with Christ that has been filled with both a trial and a triumph. It is a testament to the power of faith standing in the face of life's challenges. At sixteen, my world was turned upside down by an awful illness. It suddenly took away all the sports that had defined me and seemed to be a huge part of my identity for over a year. Yet, during this time, realization finally dawned: what I lost wasn't my identity but an idol that had, unknowingly, gained precedence over my God. This suffering became the forge in which a deeper, and much more personal relationship with God was tempered. While my physical body was clearly weakened, my spirit grew stronger. Apologetics classes and Bible studies were no longer just academic pursuits and boxes to check but they became lifelines to a greater understanding of Christ. My journey from surface level faith to deep conviction and commitment had begun. But the battle of life did not end there and will not end there. My first year of college brought another adversary. I developed psychogenic movement disorder. The constant tics I had deterred day to day task and only frustrated me. To me, it was constant reminder of human frailty. After a phase of frustration and denial, I remembered my illness at sixteen and I found strength in the lessons of humility learned from my first trial. Faith became an anchor in the ebbs and flows of my relationship with God, in moments of mortal struggles. It was this faith that drew me to a remarkable community, a mix of those who gave support and those who received it. The very challenges that could certainly have broken my spirit instead of lighting a path forward. What initially began as a journey for healing turned into a calling towards psychiatry. To me it's not so much as a career, but as a mission field. I believe this field, as well as other branches of mental health care, need more christian compassion and morals. Nowadays, when the way forward seems lost in this sinful world, it is my faith in Christ Jesus that guides me. It reminds me that trials are simply opportunities for growth, for service, and for drawing closer to a God who loves his children dearly.This is my story of sickness, trials, and faith. It testifies to the power of belief in action. It reminds me that in our weakest moments, we often realize the great strength of faith in Christ.

As a college sophomore with further pursuit of medical school in mind, following in my mother's footsteps, I have already demonstrated great resilience and determination. Growing up on a farm with four siblings has taught me about strong work ethic and qualities that will prove to be invaluable in my future career as a psychiatrist. My commitment to attend Spring Arbor University in the fall of 2025 is a significant milestone in my academic journey. This institution will provide an excellent foundation for my future studies in psychiatry. My personal experience with mental health challenges, particularly the development of a severe psychogenic movement disorder early in my college career, has really shaped my career goals. This firsthand understanding of mental health struggles will only enhance my empathy and effectiveness in the future. My dedication to soccer, which I've played since I was four, demonstrates my ability to maintain long-term commitments. Having played at various levels, ranging from club to high school to junior college, showcases my versatility and adaptability. Continuing to play soccer at Spring Arbor University will allow me to pursue my athletic passion and also serve as a healthy outlet for stress. My volunteer work, which includes serving at homeless shelters, teaching ESL at my church, coaching soccer, and participating in mission trips, reflects a genuine commitment to serving others. Involvement in 4-H further underscores my dedication to community service and leadership. These experiences will undoubtedly enrich my perspective as a future medical professional, fostering empathy and a deep understanding of diverse communities. In addition, serving and helping others brings me so much joy, and I find immense value in the opportunity to positively impact lives through meaningful support. Being able to maintain an average GPA of 3.75 from high school through college, especially while balancing numerous extracurricular activities, is an achievement I'm proud of. This, combined with my diverse life experiences, positions me well for the challenges of medical school and beyond. I plan to use this scholarship to fund my college classes and books at Spring Arbor University, a decision that reflects my practical approach to achieving my goals. This financial support will allow me to focus more fully on my studies and personal growth, bringing me closer to my dream of becoming a psychiatrist. My journey so far has been characterized by academic drive, athletic dedication, and a sincere commitment to serving others. These qualities, coupled with my personal experiences with mental health, make me a strong candidate for a future in psychiatry. I am humbled by the potential to make a meaningful difference in the field of mental health and look forward to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Mental health has shaped a great part of my life's trajectory and career aspirations. Today, as a college sophomore, I stand at the crossroads of personal experience and professional ambition, driven by a profound urge to understand and help heal the human mind. I was thrown unexpectedly into the world of mental health as a freshman in college. For any student, the transition into a new environment and keeping up with academics is stressful enough. But then came an exceedingly unexpected turn of events: quite suddenly, and with high intensity, my body developed a severe psychogenic movement disorder. It turned my life upside down. The onset of this disorder brought along many problems. My body was overcome by constant tics that made it really hard to do everyday activities such as writing or driving. I would say it was much harder emotionally because it also filled me with a lot of anger, often towards myself because I felt physically out of control. In turn, my frustration fed the symptoms, resulting in a vicious cycle. I finally sought out therapy. Initially, I approached the sessions with lots of uncertainty about what to expect and how this could help my problems. However, over time, not only did I find myself benefiting from the process of therapy, but I found the process very captivating. A branch of science that once was abstract, became much more personally. Being an avid reader, going through about 75 books a year, this newfound interest naturally transferred into my readings. Books on psychology became an obsession. Every book I read increased my knowledge about the human mind and fed my growing interest in the field of psychology. The real revelation came when I combined my personal struggle with mental health and my academic exploration of psychology: I wanted to spend my life helping other people who are struggling with their mental health. This, combining well with my mother's career in medicine, has moved me one step closer to her field by inspiring me to attend medical school. My goal is to become a psychiatrist, a profession that perfectly combines my love for medicine with my passion for psychology. It is a career choice that seems like the natural culmination of my experiences, a way to turn my personal challenges into a force for positive change in other people's lives. As I further my undergraduate studies, I do so with purpose and an appreciation for the complexity of mental health. My own journey has taught me the importance of empathy, patience, and perseverance in dealing with mental health issues. These are qualities I hope to bring to my future practice as a psychiatrist. In conclusion, my path to pursuing psychiatry is not only a career choice but a very personal mission born out of my personal experiences. I hope this profession will enable me to offer others the understanding, support, and healing that were so important on my journey. As I continue, I carry the knowledge that our struggles can become our biggest strengths and our personal challenges can lead us to our life's calling.

By the age of 19 and as a sophomore in college, my life has already been rich in varied experiences that have molded both my aspirations and character. I was brought up on a farm with four siblings, a reality which instilled a strong work ethic and an appreciation for family bonding in me. Soccer became an important aspect of my young life through our rural upbringing. Soccer has been and continues to be a huge part of my life. From the age of four, I have immersed myself in every aspect of the sport—club teams, high school, co-ed leagues, indoor, and outdoor. This commitment has given me much more than athletic skill: it has taught me about teamwork, persistence, and the importance of managing time. Currently, I play soccer at the junior college level, and I am very excited to have just committed to Spring Arbor University, where I will continue my athletic career for the next two years. Spring Arbor University's program in psychology aligns with my academic and career goals. The university's approach to merging modern psychological theories with a Christian perspective appeals to my values and will provide a strong foundation for my future studies. My interest in psychology was catalyzed by a personal experience when, during my teenage years, I developed a psychogenic movement disorder due to stress. This disorder, typically characterized by involuntary movements induced by various psychological factors, lead to my undergoing of therapy. Besides alleviating my symptoms, the therapeutic process kindled an interest in the intricacies of the human mind's functioning. As an avid reader, consuming around 75 books annually, I have recently read extensively about psychology. This has helped me develop a better understanding of the subject and further deepened my interest in mental health. My hard work is reflected in my academic grades, too, as I have consistently maintained a high GPA since starting my university studies. Looking ahead, my goal is to follow in my mother's footsteps and attend medical school after completing my undergraduate degree. My ultimate ambition is to become a psychiatrist, combining my love for psychology with a medical approach to mental health treatment. This career path will allow me to make a meaningful impact on individuals struggling with mental health issues, much like the professionals who helped me during my own challenges. The psychology program at Spring Arbor University will provide an excellent foundation for this career trajectory. Because the curriculum focuses on integrating psychological concepts with a Christian worldview, it will provide a basis upon which to ground my practice in a holistic approach to mental health care. Additionally, the university's emphasis on practical experience through internships and volunteer opportunities will be invaluable in preparing me for the challenges of medical school and beyond. The path I have traveled, from an athlete raised on a farm to an aspiring psychiatrist, reflects how life's experiences can steer one's course. The combination of my athletic background, academic commitment, and personal experience with mental health challenges has created a unique perspective that will serve me well in my future career. As I further my studies at Spring Arbor University, I am eager to continue learning more about the field of psychology, further developing my soccer skills, and preparing for the challenging road ahead towards becoming a psychiatrist. Equipped with my passion for learning, commitment to personal growth, and desire to help others, I am confident in my ability to make a difference in the field of mental health.

Living out my faith in support of Pro-Life values is an extremely important part of my daily life and future aspirations. As an extremely devoted and passionate advocate for the sanctity of human life, I actively engage in discussions and promote awareness about Pro-Life issues, both with people I know and those I encounter. Understanding and encouraging the comprehension of verses like Psalm 119:73a (Your hands made me and formed me.) Job 10:11-12 (You clothed me with skin and flesh,and knit me together with bones and sinews. You have granted me life and steadfast love.) and Psalm 127:3-5a (Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them!) is such a wonderful and important calling. My faith and personal experiences have profoundly shaped my career aspirations, guiding me towards a path in psychiatry. This choice reflects my deep-seated belief in the value of every human life and the importance of mental health for every person. As I prepare for medical school, I'm acutely aware of the challenges that may arise from maintaining a biblical stance in a secular academic environment. However, I see this as an opportunity to bring a unique and sound perspective to my studies and future practice. I plan to use my education to push for change and protect life at all stages by doing the following: Providing compassionate care to patients, recognizing their inherent worth as a person created in God's image, advocating for ethical medical practices that respect human life from conception, offering support and resources to those facing difficult pregnancy related decisions, and by engaging in policy discussions that promote life-affirming approaches in healthcare. My commitment to Pro-Life values extends beyond just my career aspirations. In my daily life, I strive to promote this life changing knowledge. I try my best to act on what I believe by doing the following: Actively supporting my church finances that meet Pro-Life needs in the community, engaging in respectful dialogues with those who hold different views, and by actively seeking to understand and share my perspective in a loving and compassionate manner. By integrating my faith, academic and professional pursuits, I hope to contribute to a christian culture that protects life at all stages. This journey requires humility, continuous learning, and a willingness to engage with challenging and sensitive ethical questions. As I move continue through my career, I remain committed in my faith and pro-life stance, while respecting the diverse perspectives I will surely encounter in the medical field.

The Harry Potter series, both in book and on screen, has captivated the hearts and imaginations of millions both young and old. As someone who grew up immersed in J.k. Rowlings magical world, I believe the film adaptation has captured the essence of Hogwarts wizarding school, the characters and the intensity of the film in a truly remarkable way. As a vivid book reader myself, I understand the feeling of dread and anticipation when one of your favorite books gets adapted into the film. To this day I will always enjoy the book over the movie and believe that the film can never fully do a book justice. The ability our minds have to create a unique and personalized world and characters can never be recreated perfectly in the real world. A book and a movie can never be fully judges on the same scale. On the other hand, I find that the adaptations strength lies not in its literal translation of the text but rather its ability to evoke a similar emotional connection and sense of wonder that the books provide. The films, like the books, bring warmth, magical adventures, friendships, and courage to life. It allows you to see the enchanting atmosphere of Hogwarts, with its talking paintings, moving staircases, ghosts, and magically classes that we all secretly wish we could take. Who wouldn't want to take a potions class or learn how to levitate a feather. The casting of Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, and Emma Watson as the beloved trio of Harry, Ron, and Hermione was nothing short of magical. Their on-screen chemistry and growth throughout the series mirrors the books, allowing us to form deep emotional connections with these characters. Hagrid, my personal favorite character, coming to life on screen was an unreal feeling that I will always remember. In addition to the films being something you alone can experience it, unlike the books, is something you can share with other in perfect unison. It allows you to share the love of the Harry Potter with people who may not love reading. While it's true that some plot elements and character developments were condensed or altered to be put on screen, the filmmakers managed to distill the same extraordinary core themes and important messages of Rowling's work. The film and books, both in their similarities and differences, are wonderfully created and allow our minds to imagine the unbelievable.