
Hobbies and interests
Drawing And Illustration
Science
Reading
Biography
Academic
Environment
Food and Drink
Novels
Young Adult
I read books multiple times per month
Madison Manak
1,315
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Finalist
Madison Manak
1,315
Bold Points1x
FinalistBio
I am most passionate about working hard and being helpful! I love to run, sing, and be outdoors in my free time.
Education
Texas State University
Bachelor's degree programMajors:
- Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other
Jacksonville College-Main Campus
Associate's degree programMajors:
- Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness
Sealy H S
High SchoolMajors:
- Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
Miscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Bachelor's degree program
Graduate schools of interest:
Transfer schools of interest:
Majors of interest:
- Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness
Career
Dream career field:
physical therapy
Dream career goals:
Physical therapist
Cashier
Back Acres Ranch BBQ2017 – 20192 yearsCustomer Service Associate
Walgreens2019 – 2019
Sports
Track & Field
Varsity2017 – Present8 years
Cross-Country Running
Varsity2017 – 20203 years
Awards
- Girls MVP
Arts
Sealy High School
ChoirRegion and Area Choir2017 – Present
Public services
Volunteering
National Honor Society — Member2019 – PresentVolunteering
Student Council — Secretary2019 – 2020
Women in Healthcare Scholarship
I chose to pursue a degree in healthcare because I am passionate about helping people regain their confidence, independence, and quality of life. My personal journey has deeply influenced this decision. After being hit by a truck, I faced significant physical injuries and mental health challenges. Recovering from these experiences taught me the importance of both physical and emotional healing. I know firsthand what it feels like to struggle and persevere, and this motivates me to help others through their own recovery journeys.
I found my calling in physical therapy because it combines my love for problem-solving, working with people, and being actively involved in the healing process. As a student at Texas State University, majoring in Kinesiology and Physical Therapy, I am excited to gain the skills necessary to support individuals in their recovery. I am eager to learn how to guide others through rehabilitation, helping them regain mobility and strength.
As a woman in healthcare, I hope to bring empathy, patience, and advocacy to every patient interaction. Growing up with anxiety and often feeling unheard has made me sensitive to the importance of listening to others and understanding their stories. I believe every patient’s voice matters, and I will strive to create a safe space where they feel seen and understood. This is crucial for building trust and ensuring effective treatment.
I also hope to inspire other women, both patients and future healthcare providers, by showing that resilience and compassion are powerful tools for making a difference. I want to be part of a movement that challenges stereotypes and promotes diversity within the healthcare field. By doing so, I aim to uplift every patient I encounter and encourage them to believe in their own strength and potential.
My goal is to foster inclusive, patient-centered care, where emotional well-being is just as important as physical recovery. Whether it is guiding an athlete back to peak performance or helping someone regain mobility after an injury, I want to empower people to believe in themselves. As a woman, I understand the challenges that come with breaking stereotypes, and I am committed to using my position in healthcare to promote positive change.
In conclusion, my personal experiences and passion for helping others have driven me to pursue a degree in healthcare. I am determined to make a positive impact as a woman in this field by bringing empathy, advocacy, and a focus on comprehensive care to my practice. I am excited to contribute to a healthcare environment that values diversity and uplifts every individual. Through my work, I hope to inspire others and create lasting, positive change in the lives of my patients.
Norton Scholarship
From a biblical standpoint, there is a significant difference between "our truth" and "God's truth." While "our truth" often refers to personal perspectives, feelings, or experiences that shape how we see the world, God's truth in the Bible is seen as absolute, unchanging, and universal.
In Scripture, God's truth is presented as objective and eternal, not influenced by human perception or circumstances. Verses like John 14:6, where Jesus says, "I am the way, the truth, and the life," emphasize that God's truth is definitive and not open to individual interpretation. This stands in contrast to the subjective nature of "my truth," which can change based on emotions, personal experiences, or societal influences.
Biblically, God's truth is grounded in His Word (John 17:17: "Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth"). It is meant to guide human behavior and understanding, transcending personal or cultural truths. Therefore, from this perspective, while people may walk around with their version of "truth," God's truth remains the ultimate standard by which everything is measured.
In summary, "our truth" can vary from person to person, but in the Bible, God's truth is seen as the ultimate, unchanging authority.
As a student at Texas State University, I have had the privilege of serving in various leadership roles and participating in numerous volunteer activities. These experiences have taught me the importance of humility, service, and seeking truth. For example, as Secretary of the Texas State Running Club and Treasurer of the Texas State Pre-Physical Therapy Organization, I have learned to balance personal perspectives with the needs and truths of the groups I serve.
My volunteer work, such as counseling at the Texas State Autism Camp and participating in Bobcat Build, has shown me the value of serving others and seeking a truth that goes beyond my own experiences. These activities have reinforced the idea that while my personal truth is important, it is essential to align it with a higher, unchanging truth.
Being on the Dean's List and earning the Bobcat Premier Transfer Scholarship are achievements that I am proud of, but they pale in comparison to the lessons I have learned about truth and service. These accomplishments reflect my commitment to academic excellence and personal growth, but they also remind me of the importance of humility and seeking God's truth in all aspects of life.
In my studies and extracurricular activities, I strive to live out the principles found in Philippians 4:8, which encourages us to think about whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable. This verse serves as a constant reminder that God's truth should guide my thoughts and actions, even as I navigate the complexities of college life and personal growth.
In conclusion, while "our truth" can be influenced by personal experiences and societal changes, God's truth remains constant and unchanging. My experiences at Texas State University and Jacksonville College have taught me the importance of seeking this higher truth and aligning my life with it. As I continue my journey, I am committed to living out these principles and sharing the unchanging truth of God's Word with others.
Women in STEM Scholarship
Deciding to become a physical therapist has been a deeply personal journey for me, shaped by my experiences and a genuine passion for helping others. My interest in the human body started in childhood, but it really took off after I was struck by a truck. That experience was tough, but what stood out most was the incredible support I received from my physical therapists during my recovery. They didn’t just help me regain my strength; they inspired me with their compassion and dedication. It was during those sessions that I realized I wanted to be that person for someone else.
Physical therapy is about more than just getting people back on their feet; it’s about empowering individuals to regain their independence and improve their quality of life. I’m drawn to this field because I want to make a real difference in people’s lives. Seeing the resilience in myself and others during recovery fueled my desire to pursue this path. It’s incredibly rewarding to think that I could help someone overcome their challenges and achieve their goals.
As a woman in a STEM field, I know how important representation is. While physical therapy has many female practitioners, there’s still a need for more women in leadership roles and in the sciences. I want to be a role model for young girls who might not see themselves in these fields. By sharing my story, I hope to encourage them to explore their interests in STEM and healthcare.
Community outreach is something I’m passionate about, too. I plan to get involved in programs that introduce young girls to physical therapy and science. Creating a supportive environment where they feel encouraged to pursue their passions is essential. I want them to know that they can succeed and make a real impact in these areas.
I’m also excited about the role of technology in physical therapy. Innovations like telehealth and wearable devices can change how we approach patient care and make rehab more accessible. I’m eager to explore how these tools can enhance treatment plans and engage patients in their recovery. Personalizing care is crucial, and I believe technology can help with that.
Additionally, I want to focus on addressing disparities in healthcare access. As a future physical therapist, I want to advocate for fair treatment for all patients, regardless of their background. It’s important to ensure everyone can access the physical therapy services they need to thrive. I plan to get involved in initiatives that raise awareness about physical therapy, especially in underserved communities.
In summary, my goal of becoming a physical therapist is driven by my experiences and a deep desire to help others. I’m excited about the chance to inspire young women in STEM and advocate for innovation and equity in healthcare. Through my work, I hope to make a lasting impact on my patients and contribute to a more inclusive and compassionate healthcare system.
Iliana Arie Scholarship
My story is deeply shaped by my mom’s incredible strength and determination. As a single mother, she faced challenges that would have overwhelmed many, yet she always found a way to keep going. I grew up watching her balance multiple jobs while pursuing her college degree. There were countless nights when she’d come home exhausted, but instead of giving up, she would sit down with me and help me with my homework. Her patience and encouragement showed me that hard work truly pays off.
One of my favorite memories is when she would tell me about her classes, sharing stories of what she was learning. It inspired me to dream big and work hard for my goals. She taught me that education is a powerful tool; I took that lesson to heart.
Then came a life-changing moment: I was hit by a truck. It was a devastating experience that turned my world upside down. The physical and emotional pain was overwhelming, but it was during my recovery that I found a new purpose. I spent countless hours in physical therapy, and I was deeply moved by the dedication of the therapists who helped me regain my strength. They didn’t just treat my injuries; they offered me hope and encouragement when I needed it most.
In those difficult times, my mom was my rock. She would sit with me in the hospital, holding my hand and reassuring me that I could overcome anything. Her belief in me never faltered, and it inspired me to push through the hardest days. I then realized I wanted to become a physical therapist—to help others heal and find their strength, just as I had.
As I prepare to pursue physical therapy school, I think about everything my mom sacrificed for me. Her hard work and determination have shown me that nothing is impossible if you’re willing to fight for it. I know that pursuing this career will not only honor her sacrifices but also allow me to give back to my community.
If I receive funds for my education, I’ll use them to cover tuition, books, and supplies. This support would relieve some of the financial stress and allow me to focus on my studies. My ultimate goal is to return to my community as a caring and skilled physical therapist, helping others navigate their journeys to recovery.
My mom’s unwavering support and resilience have taught me invaluable lessons about perseverance and compassion. With every step I take toward my dream, I carry her lessons with me. I’m committed to making a difference in people’s lives, just as she has made a difference in mine.
Leela Shah "Be Bold" Womens' Empowerment Scholarship
My story is deeply shaped by my mom’s incredible strength and determination. As a single mother, she faced challenges that would have overwhelmed many, yet she always found a way to keep going. I grew up watching her balance multiple jobs while pursuing her college degree. There were countless nights when she’d come home exhausted, but instead of giving up, she would sit down with me and help me with my homework. Her patience and encouragement showed me that hard work truly pays off.
One of my favorite memories is when she would tell me about her classes, sharing stories of what she was learning. It inspired me to dream big and work hard for my goals. She taught me that education is a powerful tool; I took that lesson to heart.
A life-changing moment happened to me when I was hit by a truck. It was a devastating experience that turned my world upside down. The physical and emotional pain was overwhelming, but it was during my recovery that I found a new purpose. I spent countless hours in physical therapy, and I was deeply moved by the dedication of the therapists who helped me regain my strength. They didn’t just treat my injuries; they offered me hope and encouragement when I needed it most.
In those difficult times, my mom was my rock. She would sit with me in the hospital, holding my hand and reassuring me that I could overcome anything. Her belief in me never faltered, and it inspired me to push through the hardest days. I then realized I wanted to become a physical therapist—to help others heal and find their strength, just as I had.
As I prepare to pursue physical therapy school, I think about everything my mom sacrificed for me. Her hard work and determination have shown me that nothing is impossible if you’re willing to fight for it. I know that pursuing this career will not only honor her sacrifices but also allow me to give back to my community.
If I receive funds for my education, I’ll use them to cover tuition, books, and supplies. This support would relieve some of the financial stress and allow me to focus on my studies. My ultimate goal is to return to my community as a caring and skilled physical therapist, helping others navigate their journeys to recovery.
My mom’s unwavering support and resilience have taught me invaluable lessons about perseverance and compassion. With every step I take toward my dream, I carry her lessons with me. I’m committed to making a difference in people’s lives, just as she has made a difference in mine.
Emma Jane Hastie Scholarship
I’ve always found purpose in connecting with and helping others, especially those who face unique challenges. Growing up with anxiety and in a divorced household, I’ve experienced what it’s like to feel unheard and struggle with uncertainty. These experiences shaped my passion for supporting others, particularly those who may not always have a strong voice.
One of the most impactful experiences I’ve had was as a camp counselor at the Texas State Autism Camp. This camp provided a safe and supportive environment for children with autism to engage in activities they might not normally have the opportunity to experience. I was responsible for leading aquatic activities, which was a completely new and intimidating experience for many campers.
There was one camper who stood out to me—a young boy who was terrified of the water. On the first day, he refused to go near the pool, clinging to the edge with fear in his eyes. I knew that pushing him too quickly would only make his fear worse, so I decided to take a different approach. Every day, I spent time with him near the water, just sitting with him, then encouraging him to dip his toes in, and eventually helping him float in the shallow end with my support.
It was a slow process, requiring a lot of patience and empathy. I had to pay attention to his cues and ensure he felt safe and supported at every step. By the end of the camp, this boy who had been so terrified at the start was confidently jumping into the pool alone. Seeing the joy on his face and the pride in his parents’ eyes was incredibly rewarding. But more than that, I realized how much this experience had changed him. He had gained confidence not just in swimming, but in himself, and I knew that was something he would carry with him beyond the camp.
This experience taught me the importance of patience, empathy, and the power of support in helping others overcome their fears and challenges. It reinforced my desire to work with individuals who might be overlooked or marginalized and showed me how much of an impact I can make by simply being there for someone and helping them take those first steps toward overcoming their challenges.
My time at the Autism Camp is just one example of how I try to make a positive impact on my community through service. It’s experiences like these that have inspired me to pursue a career in physical therapy, where I hope to continue supporting and empowering others on their journeys to recovery and growth.
Girls Ready to Empower Girls
Being raised by a single mom is a unique experience that has shaped who I am and how I view the world. My mom's dedication, resilience, and unwavering support have had a profound impact on my life. She has supported what I wanted to do and has put her life on hold for me. She had me at the age of 20 when she was enrolled in college. When she was pregnant with me, she continued to attend college and work full-time. I admire her for that because I can now see how much strength that took for her physically and mentally. My dad has always been in my life, but they were not married and she was alone a lot of the time because my dad was always working to help support me.
My mom's love and support has been a constant source of inspiration. As a single parent of three children, she has taken on the responsibilities of both mom and dad. She ensured that I had everything I needed to thrive. She always supported extracurriculars and classwork. She would stay up with me as long as it took for me to be prepared for a test and she taught me unique ways of studying. She watched me practice for cheer when I was a cheerleader. She paid thousands of dollars for me to participate in competitive cheer; and brought me around the whole country to compete at the national level competitions. Her love and encouragement were something I took for granted as a child, but it has given me the confidence to pursue my dreams, even in the face of challenges.
My mom's strength and determination are admirable and she has faced challenges with grace and resilience. She has shown me the importance of perseverance and never giving up. My mom has taught me that setbacks are temporary and that with hard work you can overcome any obstacle. Seeing my mom juggle many roles has been inspiring; as she was a student, worker, and mother, and still made time to do everything for me and everyone around her.
Beyond the practical aspects, my mom has been my emotional anchor. She has been there to listen to my triumphs and challenges. She offers me guidance and provides a safe space for me to express myself. Her ability to offer comfort and understanding has helped me to navigate the ups and downs of life with confidence and resilience. My mom's sacrifices have not gone unnoticed. Her selflessness and dedication have taught me the value of hard work, gratitude, and the importance of giving back.
My mom has provided me with support in multiple ways and has been an incredible role model along the way. She has shown me the power of independence and that I can do anything; regardless of who is or isn't there with me. Through her actions, she has taught me to believe in myself, stand up for what I believe in, and never settle for anything less than what I deserve.
1989 (Taylor's Version) Fan Scholarship
Taylor Swift's song, "Style" from 1989 describes my year. Style is a catchy and relatable song that strongly resonates with my experiences this year. The song captures the essence of a passionate and intense relationship, which symbolizes the ups and downs I have faced this year. The song also captures certain themes and emotions that I can relate to regarding this year.
The lyrics of Style talk about the magnetism between two people and how their connection is undeniable. This reflects the deep connections I have made with friends and family this year. I have formed new friendships this year that brought more joy and support into my life. Personally, making friends has not been easy throughout my life; but this year I have made strides to put myself out there even if I am rejected. The connections that I have made have been a source of strength and have helped me to navigate through the ups and downs of this year. This song feels like the feeling of being drawn to someone's energy and finding comfort in their presence; which I have felt this year.
Another aspect of the song that resonates with me is the idea of transformation and growth. Taylor Swift sings about how she has changed and evolved, and how this change has impacted her relationship. As a college student studying physical therapy, I have been on a journey of acquiring knowledge, gaining skills, and discovering my passion for helping others. This growth affects my relationships in positive and negative ways; but overall positive. I am happy with my choice of study, which reflects my positive attitude in my relationships as well. It can also be hard to stay close and spend time with people that you love due to having to study more than usual as I get closer to graduation. The people who are always going to be there for me are so understanding of this and we catch up whenever we get the opportunity. These lyrics reflect the personal growth that I have experienced throughout this year in my studies, personal goals, and outlook on life.
Style has a nostalgic and reflective tone. It is about looking back on a past relationship and reminiscing over the good times. For me, Style used to be on my running playlist; as I was a collegiate and high school runner. It has always made me feel happy and motivated to get work done. Style encourages me to celebrate all of my achievements and appreciate the lessons I have learned from the challenges faced along the way.
Furthermore, Style by Taylor Swift is a song that captures the essence of intense connections, personal growth, and reflection. This song reminds me to prioritize my physical and mental well-being. It is a reminder to embrace the journey that I have been on throughout the year and to take time to appreciate the moments that have made this year special.
Brynn Elliott "Tell Me I’m Pretty" Scholarship
From the time I was little, I’ve always had the amazing examples from many successful women in my life. My mother was in college when she had me and was able to finish by the time I was four years old. She is a woman who has a passion for working hard, science, and helping others. At the age of 27, she went back to school to pursue her passion for nursing after watching the birth of her goddaughter. She has inspired me to achieve huge goals and is one of the reasons I have decided to also pursue nursing as my career. My goal is to become a psychiatric nurse or an orthopedic nurse. My mom tells me that I can do anything and everything is worth it in the end. She inspired me to keep pushing myself more than ever. My grandma is another woman who has inspired me. She is a leader in her church and teaches confirmation and communion classes. She does everything for her family and has knowledge of so many things. I aspire to be like her in many ways, such as her empathetic personality and her positive outlook on life. Because of these women, I know I can achieve all of my goals in life.