“The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts. Therefore guard accordingly, and take care that you entertain no notions unsuitable to virtue and reasonable nature."Marcus Aurelius, In this passage, Marcus Aurelius argues that genuine happiness is created by the discipline of the mind rather than by external circumstances. His deeper message is that people achieve lasting peace and freedom only when they carefully shape their thoughts according to reason and virtue, because the way they interpret life ultimately determines the quality of their character and their experiences. At first glance, Marcus Aurelius appears to be offering straightforward advice about maintaining a positive mindset. However, a closer reading reveals that he is making a much deeper philosophical argument about the relationship between thought, character, and happiness. He does not claim that happiness comes from favorable circumstances, financial success, or the absence of suffering. Instead, he argues that happiness begins within the individual and depends on the quality of one's thinking. This distinction is important because it shifts responsibility away from uncontrollable events and places it on something every person possesses the ability to examine and direct their own thoughts. The phrase, "The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts," emphasizes that thoughts are not passive reactions but active choices that shape reality. Marcus Aurelius deliberately uses the word "quality" instead of "quantity." This choice suggests that happiness is not determined by how many thoughts a person has but by the nature of those thoughts. Thoughts grounded in wisdom, patience, honesty, and self-control strengthen character, while thoughts driven by anger, envy, fear, or resentment gradually weaken it. The passage implies that our inner dialogue quietly influences every decision we make, affecting not only our emotions but also our relationships, actions, and future. The command to "guard accordingly" introduces another important layer of meaning. The word "guard" is often associated with protecting something valuable from harm. Marcus Aurelius could have simply advised readers to think carefully, yet he intentionally chooses stronger language that suggests constant vigilance. This reveals his belief that the mind is one of the most valuable possessions a person has. Just as someone protects their home or treasured belongings from damage, Marcus Aurelius argues that people should protect their thoughts from destructive influences. Negative emotions, impulsive judgments, and irrational fears are presented as threats that can quietly erode both peace of mind and moral character if left unchecked. The final portion of the passage, "take care that you entertain no notions unsuitable to virtue and reasonable nature," expands the discussion beyond happiness alone. Marcus Aurelius does not separate happiness from morality. Instead, he argues that genuine happiness naturally follows a life guided by virtue and reason. This reflects the central belief of Stoic philosophy that living well is inseparable from living ethically. In modern society, happiness is often associated with comfort, wealth, recognition, or personal achievement. Marcus Aurelius challenges that assumption by suggesting that external success is unreliable because it can disappear at any moment. Virtue, however, remains within a person's control regardless of changing circumstances. By emphasizing reason and virtue, he encourages readers to evaluate success based on their character rather than on temporary achievements. Another underlying meaning is that Marcus Aurelius views emotional resilience as something that must be intentionally developed. The passage does not promise an easy life free from disappointment or hardship. Instead, it teaches that difficult circumstances become more manageable when people refuse to allow negative thinking to dominate their minds. This does not mean ignoring pain or pretending suffering does not exist. Rather, Marcus Aurelius encourages individuals to acknowledge hardship without allowing it to define their identity or determine their future. In doing so, he presents resilience as a product of disciplined thinking rather than favorable conditions. The passage also highlights the importance of personal responsibility. Marcus Aurelius never suggests that other people are responsible for an individual's happiness. Instead, he places responsibility entirely on the person who chooses how to think and respond. This perspective can feel demanding because it removes many common excuses for unhappiness. While people cannot control injustice, disappointment, illness, or loss, they can choose whether those experiences produce bitterness or wisdom. Marcus Aurelius believes that true freedom begins when individuals recognize that their responses remain within their control even when their circumstances do not. Although this passage was written nearly two thousand years ago, its message remains remarkably relevant today. Modern life constantly encourages comparison through social media, competition, and unrealistic expectations of success. People often measure happiness by possessions, popularity, or achievements that can quickly change. Marcus Aurelius offers a timeless alternative by reminding readers that lasting peace cannot be built on external circumstances alone. Instead, it is created through disciplined thinking, moral integrity, and the daily practice of examining one's own mind. His words encourage readers to focus less on controlling the world around them and more on strengthening the character within them. Ultimately, this short passage contains a profound lesson about the human condition. Marcus Aurelius teaches that happiness is not something people discover by chance but something they cultivate through careful attention to their thoughts. By guarding the mind, choosing virtue over impulse, and allowing reason to guide every decision, individuals develop a lasting sense of peace that cannot easily be taken away. His underlying message is that the greatest power any person possesses is not the ability to control life itself, but the ability to control how they think about it.

My background has shaped me into a person who is determined, hardworking, and committed to creating a better future for myself and my family. I grew up in a household led by my single mother, who raised six children while doing everything she could to provide for us. Life was not always easy, and there were many times when we had to share what we had and make the most out of difficult situations. However, my mother taught me the importance of perseverance, responsibility, and never giving up, no matter what challenges we faced. My mother was an incredible woman who worked hard to make sure her children were taken care of. She showed me what strength looked like through her sacrifices, love, and dedication. Unfortunately, I lost my mother, and that changed my life in many ways. After her passing, I had to learn how to become even more independent and continue moving forward while also helping support and care for my younger siblings. With my father being incarcerated and no longer having the same support system I once had, I learned how to rely on my own determination and work ethic. At 25 years old, I have continued to pursue my education because I believe building a successful career is one of the best ways to create stability for myself and help those around me. I attended school for esthetics, where I developed skills in skincare, beauty services, and helping others feel confident. Through that experience, I discovered how much I enjoy working with people and using my skills to make a positive impact. My passion for learning and helping others has motivated me to continue my education by pursuing a career as an ultrasound technician. I am interested in entering a field where I can provide care, support, and comfort to people during important moments in their lives. I believe a career in the trades and skilled professions provides an opportunity to build a meaningful future while making a difference in my community. One of the biggest challenges I currently face is paying for my education. I have had to take responsibility for my own expenses, including tuition and everyday necessities, while continuing to work toward my goals. Trying to find ways to afford school has been stressful, but it has also strengthened my determination. I know that receiving support would help relieve some of the financial pressure and allow me to focus more on completing my education. What motivates me most is knowing where I came from and remembering the sacrifices my mother made for me. I want to honor her by continuing to push forward, achieving my goals, and creating a future that reflects the strength she showed every day. My journey has taught me that challenges do not define me; they have prepared me to become resilient, compassionate, and determined. I am committed to continuing my education and building a career where I can provide for my family, serve others, and make my mother proud.

Growing up with a single mother shaped me into the person I am today. My mother was more than just a parent; she was my biggest supporter, my role model, and the person who taught me what strength, love, and perseverance truly meant. Raising a family as a single mother was not easy, especially while raising five other children, but she never allowed the challenges of life to stop her from showing up for us. My mother worked two jobs to provide for our family. There were times when things were difficult, but she always found a way to make sure her children were cared for. She sacrificed so much of herself to give us opportunities and experiences that she may not have had herself. Even while carrying the responsibility of taking care of her own children, she still found room in her heart to help others. She allowed people to stay with us when they needed somewhere to go and showed me that kindness does not depend on how much you have. She taught me that helping others and showing compassion is one of the greatest things a person can do. My mother made sure I never questioned whether I was loved or supported. She celebrated every birthday, every graduation, and every accomplishment, no matter how big or small. She was always there cheering me on and reminding me that I was capable of achieving my goals. Her love and encouragement gave me confidence and motivated me to keep going, even when life became challenging. Watching my mother navigate life as a single parent taught me some of my most valuable lessons. She showed me the importance of hard work, determination, patience, and resilience. She never gave up, even when she faced obstacles. Instead, she continued to move forward and create a better life for her children. Her actions taught me that success is not only measured by what you achieve for yourself, but also by the positive impact you have on the people around you. Unfortunately, I lost my mother, and losing her was one of the hardest experiences of my life. However, the lessons she taught me continue to guide me every day. Her strength lives through me, and I carry the sacrifices she made as motivation to continue pursuing my education, reaching my goals, and becoming someone who helps others the way she did. Growing up with a single mother showed me that challenges do not define a person; the way they respond to those challenges does. My mother’s life was an example of love, courage, and selflessness. She taught me that even in difficult circumstances, you can still create hope, support others, and make a lasting difference. I am proud to carry her values with me as I continue building my future and honoring the incredible woman who raised me.

The trade I am passionate about pursuing is esthetics and beauty services. I have developed a strong passion for helping people feel confident in themselves through self-care, beauty, and personal grooming services. What started as a simple interest eventually became something much deeper for me because I realized beauty services are not only about appearance, but also about helping people feel comfortable, confident, and cared for. I have especially grown interested in services such as eyebrow waxing and beauty treatments because I enjoy seeing the confidence people gain after a service is completed. Even small changes can make someone feel better about themselves, and I love being able to contribute to that feeling. I have already started building experience through practicing services and promoting my work, and I hope to continue growing my business and skills over time. My inspiration comes from both my personal experiences and my family background. As a first-generation student, I grew up understanding the importance of creating opportunities that were not always available to the people before me. Neither of my parents graduated high school, although they later worked toward earning their GEDs. Even without traditional educational experience, they always encouraged me to pursue school and create a better future for myself. Their support motivated me to keep pushing toward my goals even during difficult times. Over the past few years, I have faced significant personal hardships, including the loss of my mother and my father’s incarceration. Balancing grief, work, and school has not been easy, but those experiences taught me resilience and determination. They also deepened my passion for the beauty industry because I understand how important confidence, care, and feeling good about yourself can be during hard times. Sometimes something as simple as self-care can help people feel more like themselves again. I am passionate about turning my trade into both a career and a way to positively impact others. My goal is to continue learning, growing my business, and creating an environment where clients feel comfortable, valued, and confident. Pursuing this trade is not only about building a stable future for myself, but also about proving that difficult circumstances do not prevent someone from achieving success. In addition to pursuing my education, I hope to use my trade to inspire other young women, especially those who come from difficult backgrounds or feel uncertain about their future. I want people to see that success is still possible even when life has been challenging. Through hard work, creativity, and determination, I plan to continue building my skills and eventually expand my business so I can create opportunities not only for myself, but for others as well. My passion for the beauty industry comes from wanting to help people feel confident while also building a future that my family can be proud of.

Incarceration has had a major impact on my life, not because I was incarcerated myself, but because the people I loved most were taken away from me during some of the hardest moments of my life. After my mother passed away due to gun violence, my world already felt shattered. Losing her was one of the most painful experiences I have ever gone through. While I was still grieving and trying to cope with that loss, my father went to jail shortly afterward. Not long after that, my little brothers were also incarcerated. It felt like one heartbreak after another, and at times I felt completely alone. Watching so many people I love become incarcerated changed the way I viewed life. I saw how quickly families can be separated and how deeply incarceration affects not only the person behind bars, but everyone connected to them. It created emotional pain, stress, and instability in my life. There were moments when I felt angry, confused, hurt, and overwhelmed. I struggled with the feeling that the people who were supposed to be around me were suddenly gone when I needed them the most. At the same time, these experiences forced me to grow up emotionally and mentally. I learned how important it is to stay focused and make positive decisions even when life becomes difficult. Seeing my loved ones lose their freedom taught me how valuable opportunities truly are. It also showed me how important it is to break cycles and create a better future for myself and the people around m Although incarceration affected my family deeply, it also motivated me to pursue my academic and career goals with even more determination. I want to build a stable and successful future for myself because I know what it feels like to experience instability and loss. My experiences have pushed me to stay focused on school, my career ambitions, and creating a life that my mother would be proud of. I want to succeed not only for myself, but also to inspire my younger siblings and show them that difficult circumstances do not have to determine the direction of our lives. These experiences also taught me empathy and compassion. I now understand that many people dealing with incarceration come from environments filled with pain, trauma, and loss. Despite everything my family has been through, I continue to push forward. Losing my mother, watching my father go to jail, and seeing my brothers incarcerated could have caused me to give up on myself. Instead, those experiences made me stronger and more determined to create a different future. They taught me that even in the middle of pain, it is still possible to dream, work hard, and build a better life. My hardships have become part of the reason I am motivated to succeed academically and professionally, because I want to turn my pain into purpose and create a future filled with stability, success, and hope.

Living with physical challenges has influenced who I am by teaching me resilience, patience, and determination. I have to wear glasses every day because my vision affects my ability to see clearly, which has made me understand the importance of taking care of myself and adapting to challenges. Although wearing glasses may seem small to some people, it has impacted my confidence at times and reminded me that everyone has things they must overcome. Over time, I learned to accept myself and not allow insecurities to stop me from achieving my goals. In addition to my vision problems, I also struggle with severe menstrual cramps and symptoms that can become so painful they send me to the emergency room. There have been times when the pain made it difficult for me to focus, work, or complete everyday tasks. Experiencing this has been physically and emotionally exhausting, but it has also made me stronger. I have learned how to push through difficult moments and continue trying even when my body is working against me. These experiences have shaped the way I approach school and life. They taught me not to take opportunities for granted and to appreciate the moments when I am able to fully participate in school, work, and activities. Even when I face pain or discomfort, I continue working toward my goals because I want to build a successful future for myself. My challenges have motivated me to become more independent and determined to create a better life despite obstacles. My physical difficulties have also increased my compassion for others. I understand what it feels like to struggle silently while still trying to keep up with responsibilities. Because of this, I try to be supportive and understanding toward people who may also be dealing with challenges that are not always visible. I believe these experiences have helped me grow into a stronger and more empathetic person. In school and beyond, I hope to continue pursuing my goals in the beauty and wellness field while also inspiring others not to give up because of personal struggles. I want to show that challenges do not define a person’s future or limit their ability to succeed. Instead of allowing my physical difficulties to stop me, I use them as motivation to work harder and prove to myself that I can accomplish great things. Overall, my experiences with my vision and severe menstrual pain have influenced me by teaching me strength, perseverance, and empathy. Although these challenges are difficult, they have shaped me into someone who is determined to overcome obstacles and continue striving for success in school, my career, and my personal life.

I chose the esthetics and beauty field because I enjoy helping people feel more confident and better about themselves. Ever since I became interested in beauty services like brows, facials, waxing, and massages, I realized this career is about much more than appearance. It is also about self-care, comfort, and helping people feel good mentally and emotionally. Seeing how happy and confident someone can become after a service made me realize this is what I truly want to do in life. I am more of an introverted person, so choosing a field where I work closely with people has also helped me grow personally. At first, putting myself out there was not easy for me. I was shy and stayed to myself most of the time. As I started learning more about esthetics and practicing services, I slowly became more comfortable communicating with others and building confidence in myself. This field has helped me come out of my shell and believe in my abilities more. I learned that even though I may not be the loudest person, I can still connect with people in a calm and caring way. Another reason I chose this field is because I enjoy making people feel relaxed and cared for. Many people deal with stress, insecurity, or low confidence, and beauty services can help them feel refreshed and happier. Something as simple as a facial, brow appointment, or massage can completely change someone’s mood and make them feel more comfortable in their own skin. I love being able to give people that feeling. When clients leave feeling confident and smiling, it reminds me why I chose this path. I also enjoy the creativity that comes with esthetics and beauty. Every client is different, and I like being able to personalize services to fit each person’s needs. I am especially interested in skincare and wellness because I believe self-care is important for both physical and mental health. This career allows me to combine creativity, care, and professionalism all in one field. I have already started working toward my goals by creating my own business, Martiana’s Beauty Bar. Building my business while still learning has shown me how dedicated I am to this career. I want to continue improving my skills, growing my business, and learning as much as possible through education and experience. My goal is to create a welcoming environment where people feel comfortable, respected, and confident. In the future, I hope to use my career not only to become successful, but also to help others. I would like to give back to my community by offering services to people who may not always have access to self-care. I also hope to inspire other young women, especially introverts like me, to chase their goals even if they are shy or unsure of themselves. This field has already helped me grow into a more confident person, and I want to continue using my passion and education to positively impact others.

My name is Martiana Lumbus, I’m 24 years old, and I am currently in beauty school working toward becoming a licensed esthetician. This path is something I chose with purpose because it connects directly to who I am as a person. I’ve always been someone who cares about how people feel, not just how they look on the outside, but how they see themselves on the inside too. For me, esthetics is not just a career, it’s a form of care and confidence building. I’m passionate about helping people feel comfortable in their own skin. A lot of people struggle silently with insecurity, especially when it comes to their appearance, and I want to be someone who helps ease that. When someone sits in my chair, I want them to feel safe, respected, and not judged at all. I want my space to feel peaceful and welcoming, where people can relax and trust that they are being cared for. I’m especially passionate about working with women, and even more specifically, women of color. Growing up, I noticed that the beauty industry doesn’t always fully represent us or understand our experiences. That can affect how we see ourselves and what we feel like we are “allowed” to be. I want to help change that by making sure my clients feel seen, understood, and appreciated exactly as they are. Beauty should not feel exclusive or one size fit all it should be personal, intentional, and inclusive. I also understand the emotional side of beauty. Things like skin concerns, waxing, or self-care routines are not just physical services they can deeply affect someone’s confidence and mental health. I take that seriously. My goal is always to make people feel better leaving my space than when they walked in, even if it’s just a little boost in confidence or peace of mind. Through my career, I plan to make a positive impact by building real connections with my clients. I don’t want my work to ever feel rushed or impersonal. I want people to feel like they matter when they are with me. Over time, I also plan to grow my career into something bigger by opening my own beauty business. I want to create a space that reflects care, quality, and comfort, and also gives opportunities to other women who are trying to enter the beauty industry but may not have the support or resources. Education is very important to me, but it has not always been easy financially. Being in beauty school while trying to plan for my future comes with a lot of responsibility and pressure. This scholarship would mean a lot because it would ease some of that financial stress and allow me to focus more fully on my training and perfecting my skills. It would help me continue moving forward without feeling held back by financial barriers. In the future, my goal is to use my career not only to support myself, but to uplift others as well. I want to create a space where people feel confident, cared for, and respected. I also want to be an example to other young women that it is possible to build something meaningful from your passion, even when the journey is not easy. For me, becoming an esthetician is about more than beauty it’s about impact, confidence, and helping people feel good about who they are.

Cancer didn’t come into my family loudly—it came quietly, layered on top of pain we were already trying to survive. We found out my grandma had cancer after she had already been through multiple strokes. It felt like one thing after another, like life wasn’t giving her—or us—a moment to breathe. I remember thinking how unfair it was. She had already been fighting so hard just to recover pieces of herself, and now she was being asked to fight something even bigger. Watching her go through surgery and treatment has been one of the hardest things I’ve ever experienced. The strongest part of it isn’t just the illness itself—it’s seeing the difference. Seeing someone you love not be who they used to be is a kind of heartbreak that doesn’t really have words. There are moments when I look at her and remember how she used to laugh, how she used to move, how things felt normal—and then I’m brought back to reality. But at the same time, I can still see her. She’s still here. And that’s what keeps me going. Even on the hardest days, when everything feels heavy and overwhelming, just being able to sit with her, talk to her, or even just see her reminds me that there’s still something to hold onto. It may not be the same as before, but it’s something real. And sometimes, that’s enough to keep pushing forward. This experience has taught me how fragile life really is, but also how strong people can be. My grandma’s fight isn’t just about surviving cancer—it’s about enduring everything that came before it too. She shows me what resilience looks like in the most honest way. It’s also changed the way I see time. I don’t take moments for granted anymore. I’ve learned to appreciate presence over perfection—to value simply being there, even when things aren’t okay. Through all of this, I’ve realized that strength doesn’t always look loud or powerful. Sometimes it looks like showing up every day, even when your body is tired and your spirit is worn down. Sometimes it looks like continuing to fight, even when you don’t have the same strength you once did. My grandma has taught me that. And because of her, I’ve learned that even in the middle of pain, there can still be love, connection, and a reason to keep going. Have to be the reason.

1. I found Tomorrow X Together during one of the hardest times in my life. After losing my mom, with my dad being in jail, and trying to stay strong for my little brother and my other siblings, everything felt heavy all the time. I didn’t go looking for them—I just remember hearing their music and feeling understood in a way I hadn’t felt in a long time. It was like, for a moment, I could breathe again. 2. One of the most important characteristics of a MOA is empathy. Being a MOA means caring—not just about TXT, but about other people too. It means understanding that everyone is going through something, even if you can’t see it. 3. My TXT bias is Yeonjun. I chose him because of his strength and how hard he works, even when things aren’t easy. Watching him reminds me that even when life feels overwhelming, you can keep pushing forward. 4. My ult bias is still Yeonjun. He represents growth to me. He shows that you don’t have to be perfect—you just have to keep going, and that’s something I hold onto in my own life. 5. My favorite TXT song is “0X1=LOVESONG (I Know I Love You)” because it feels real. It sounds like what it feels like when your world is falling apart but you’re still holding onto something to survive. That’s how I’ve felt in my own life, especially after everything I’ve been through. 6. I haven’t had the chance to see TXT live in concert yet, but it’s something I really hope to experience one day. I feel like being surrounded by people who understand that kind of love and connection would mean everything to me. 7. My favorite album concept is *The Chaos Chapter* because it shows how confusing and painful growing up can be. It doesn’t try to hide the hard parts, and that made me feel less alone in my own struggles. 8. Right now, paying for school is really difficult. After losing my mom and with my dad not being there, finances have been unstable. A lot of responsibility has fallen on me, and sometimes it feels like I’m trying to build a future while still healing from the past. 9. This scholarship would help fill that gap. It would take away some of the stress of figuring out how to afford school and allow me to focus on becoming who I want to be. It would mean more than just financial support—it would mean someone believes in me. 10. TXT has influenced me for good in ways I can’t fully explain. Their music was there for me when I felt like I had nothing. After being in the house when my mom was shot, after feeling like I couldn’t save her, and after having to face the people who did it, my mental health was something I struggled with every day. There were moments I felt lost, numb, and overwhelmed. But their music reminded me that I wasn’t alone in those feelings. It gave me strength to keep going, not just for myself, but for my little brother and my siblings who look up to me. 11. I want to become an ultrasound technician because I want to be part of healthcare and be there for people in their most vulnerable moments. I know what it feels like to be in a situation where everything is uncertain and you just want answers or comfort. I want to be someone who can provide that, even in a small way. Being part of healthcare means being part of people’s lives when it matters most. At the same time, I also want to become an esthetician—working in beauty like lashes, brows, waxing, facials, and massages. To me, that’s not just about appearance. It’s about helping people feel good about themselves, especially when they might be struggling inside. I’ve learned how much confidence can be affected by what we go through, and I want to create a space where people can feel cared for and safe. TXT helped me understand that even through pain, you can still grow into something strong.

There are moments in life that divide everything into before and after. For me, that moment came the night my mom was killed. I was there. I remember the sound, the confusion, the fear that didn’t feel real at first. I remember waiting, hoping somehow things would change, that I could do something—anything—to save her. But I couldn’t. And that helplessness didn’t leave when the moment ended; it stayed, settling into every part of me. Later, having to face the teenagers responsible only deepened that pain. It forced me to see how fragile life is, and how quickly it can be taken. Around the same time, my dad was gone too—taken by the system and placed in jail. Just like that, everything I knew as stability disappeared. What was left was grief, anger, and responsibility. I wasn’t just dealing with my own emotions; I was watching my younger brother try to understand a world that no longer made sense, while also staying connected to my other siblings who were feeling that same loss in their own ways. My mental health became something I had to fight for every day. There were times I felt numb, like I was just moving through life without really being in it. Other times, everything hit at once—the memories, the guilt of not being able to save my mom, the weight of growing up too fast. But through all of it, I started to understand something important: pain can either close you off or open you up. For me, it slowly began to open me up. It changed my beliefs about people. I no longer assume you can tell what someone is going through just by looking at them. Everyone carries something unseen. That belief has made me more patient, more compassionate, and more aware of how deeply words and actions can affect others. It also changed my relationships. I value connection in a way I never did before. I try to be present, to listen, to support—especially for my siblings, because I know what it feels like to need someone and not have the right words to ask for help. Most importantly, my experiences have shaped my career aspirations. I want to become an ultrasound technician because I’ve seen how powerful it is to be part of someone’s most vulnerable moments. Whether it’s bringing reassurance, clarity, or even hope, I want to be someone who provides comfort in times of uncertainty—something I wish I had more of during my own hardest moments. At the same time, I’m passionate about becoming an esthetician—working in beauty through lashes, brows, waxing, facials, and massage. To some, that may seem like just appearance, but to me, it’s deeper than that. I’ve learned how much confidence and self-worth can be affected by how we feel about ourselves. I want to create a space where people can feel cared for, relaxed, and seen—a place where healing can happen in quiet, simple ways. My mental health journey didn’t make me who I am overnight. It’s something I’m still working through every day. But it has given me purpose. It has taught me strength I didn’t know I had, and compassion I wouldn’t trade for anything. I carry my mom with me in everything I do. And through the pain, I’ve found a reason to keep going—not just for myself, but for the life I know she would want me to build.

The first time I saw a welding torch spark, it didn’t look like work—it looked like possibility. I didn’t grow up thinking about careers in a traditional sense. For a long time, school felt like something I had to get through rather than something that reflected who I was. Sitting at a desk, trying to fit into a system that measured success one way, I often felt like I was falling behind. But everything changed the day I stepped into a workshop. There’s a certain silence before a weld begins—a moment where everything holds still. Then the spark ignites, bright and alive, and suddenly you’re not just watching something happen—you’re creating it. That moment stayed with me. It wasn’t just about metal or tools; it was about seeing something take shape because of my own hands. For the first time, I felt capable in a way I hadn’t before. Welding gave me something I didn’t know I was missing: confidence. It taught me patience, precision, and resilience. If a weld isn’t right, you don’t give up—you grind it down and try again. That lesson has followed me beyond the workshop. Life doesn’t always come together perfectly the first time, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be rebuilt stronger. When I think about Kevin, I don’t just think about loss—I think about that spark. The same kind of spark that lights up when someone discovers something they truly love. I imagine the pride he felt bringing home his first project, knowing he created something real, something lasting. That feeling is something I’ve come to understand deeply. It’s not just about welding—it’s about finding purpose. I want to pursue a future in welding because it allows me to build more than structures; it allows me to build a life defined by skill, hard work, and passion. Welding is honest work. It doesn’t pretend. What you create speaks for itself, and there’s something powerful about that. This path isn’t always easy, and it may not look like the traditional road to success, but it’s mine. And every time I strike an arc, I’m reminded why I chose it. Because in that brief, brilliant spark, I see not just what I’m making—but who I’m becoming.Who it can make anyone become something important. Not just important but to be there escape like it is an escape for me. Welding is a happy place for me.

My love for *Wicked* didn’t begin on a Broadway stage—it began with a voice I had grown up with. Long before the announcement of the film adaptation, Ariana Grande was already a constant in my life. I listened to her music through different phases of growing up, watched her evolve from a Nickelodeon star into a global artist, and saw in her someone who refused to be boxed into just one identity. So when I learned she would become Glinda, it felt personal—like two worlds I loved were finally colliding. *Wicked* itself is a story about being misunderstood, about choosing courage over acceptance, and about redefining what it means to be “good.” Elphaba’s journey has always resonated deeply with me, especially as portrayed by Cynthia Erivo in the upcoming film. There’s something raw and honest about her story—feeling different, standing alone, yet still rising. Songs like *Defying Gravity* don’t just sound powerful; they feel like a declaration of self-worth. But what makes my connection to *Wicked* unique is how Ariana Grande’s journey mirrors the themes of the story itself. Watching her step into Glinda’s role isn’t just about casting—it’s about growth. She’s spent years proving herself as more than what people initially labeled her as, just like Glinda learns to move beyond superficial charm into something deeper and more meaningful. Seeing Ariana take on this role feels like witnessing her “For Good” moment—where everything she’s learned comes together. The magic of *Wicked* also lies in its relationships. The dynamic between Glinda and Elphaba reminds me that friendship isn’t always simple—it can be complicated, transformative, and sometimes painful. Yet, it’s those relationships that shape who we become. The cast, including actors like Jonathan Bailey and Michelle Yeoh, brings new life to these connections, making the story feel both timeless and refreshingly new. For me, *Wicked* is more than a musical. It’s a reminder that growth often comes from discomfort, that being different can be your greatest strength, and that the people we admire—whether fictional or real—can inspire us to become more fully ourselves. Ariana Grande’s journey into this role makes that message even more meaningful, because I’ve grown alongside her in my own way. Loving *Wicked* isn’t just about the music or the story—it’s about seeing pieces of your own life reflected in it. And for me, that reflection feels stronger than ever.

My name is Martiana Lumbus, and I am a 24-year-old student pursuing education in ultrasound technology and esthetics. My journey has been shaped by determination, compassion for others, and a deep desire to create positive change in people’s lives. Growing up in a low-income household taught me the value of hard work, perseverance, and gratitude. While my family faced financial challenges, they always supported my dreams and encouraged me to keep pushing forward. Because of that support, becoming the first person in my family to graduate from college is more than just a personal achievement—it represents hope, progress, and a new path for my family’s future. From a young age, I discovered that I naturally care about helping others feel better about themselves. I have always been someone who enjoys giving, uplifting, and supporting people. This mindset has played a huge role in shaping the path I chose for my career. My passion for ultrasound technology comes from my love for babies and the joy that comes with pregnancy and new life. Being able to help families see their baby for the first time is something truly special. Ultrasound technicians play an important role in healthcare by helping doctors monitor pregnancies and ensure the health and development of unborn babies. Knowing that I could be part of such meaningful moments and help provide reassurance to parents inspires me every day. At the same time, my interest in esthetics comes from my passion for beauty, wellness, and self-confidence. I believe that when people feel good about how they look, it can positively impact their self-esteem and mental well-being. Through skincare treatments, beauty services, and self-care practices, estheticians help people feel refreshed, confident, and empowered. I want to be someone who helps others recognize their beauty and feel proud of themselves. Whether it is helping a client improve their skin, relax after a stressful day, or simply feel more confident walking out the door, I believe those small moments can have a powerful impact on someone’s life. The values that guide me most are kindness, generosity, and resilience. Growing up with limited resources taught me how important it is to help others when you can. I have always tried to be a supportive person in my community and among my friends and family. Even when challenges arise, I believe in staying focused on my goals and pushing forward. Being the first in my family to pursue higher education motivates me to work even harder because I know that my success can inspire others around me to believe in themselves as well. The programs I am pursuing in ultrasound technology and esthetics will help me gain the knowledge, technical skills, and professional training necessary to turn my passions into meaningful careers. Education is giving me the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals, understand the science behind my work, and develop the confidence needed to succeed in these industries. With the proper training, I will be able to provide high-quality care and services to the people I work with. In the future, I hope to use my education not only to build a successful career but also to uplift others in my community. I want to create a life where I can give back, whether that means helping families during important medical moments, boosting someone’s confidence through beauty services, or mentoring young people who come from similar backgrounds as me. I want to show others that where you start in life does not determine where you can go.

My name is Martiana Lumbus. I am 24 years old and I am from Cleveland, Ohio. I am currently pursuing a career in esthetics, a path that reflects both my passion for beauty and my desire to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Ever since I was young, I have been deeply interested in skincare and self-care. I would practice routines on myself, research products, and study different techniques. What began as a personal interest slowly became a calling. I realized that esthetics is not just about enhancing appearance—it is about restoring confidence, promoting wellness, and helping people feel comfortable in their own skin. As I continue my education, I have discovered that I am not only passionate about this field but also naturally skilled in it. Being in school has confirmed that I am exactly where I am meant to be. I am excelling in my training and gaining hands-on experience that strengthens both my technical abilities and my confidence. I truly believe that anything I put my mind to, I can accomplish. That mindset pushes me to work hard and continuously improve. Through my career, I plan to make a positive impact on the world by addressing the connection between skin health and self-esteem. Many people struggle with skin concerns such as acne, scarring, hyperpigmentation, or other conditions that deeply affect their confidence. In today’s world, where social media often promotes unrealistic beauty standards, it is easy for individuals to feel insecure or not “good enough.” I want to be someone who changes that narrative. I want my clients to understand that beauty is not about perfection—it is about health, self-care, and self-acceptance. As an esthetician, I will not only provide treatments but also education. I plan to teach my clients how to properly care for their skin and make informed decisions about products and routines. Education empowers people. When individuals understand their skin and how to maintain it, they feel more in control and more confident. I also aim to create a safe and welcoming environment where clients feel heard, supported, and valued. In the future, I hope to open my own spa or skincare business in my community. My goal is to build a brand that represents healing, professionalism, and empowerment. I want my business to be known as a place where people can relax, recharge, and leave feeling better than when they arrived—both physically and emotionally. Ultimately, I plan to make a positive impact by helping people heal inside and out. By combining skill, compassion, and dedication, I want to uplift others, boost their confidence, and contribute to a world where beauty is defined by self-love and authenticity.

One important social issue I am working to address is self-esteem and mental health challenges that are deeply connected to skin health and beauty standards. In today’s society, especially with the influence of social media, many women and young girls feel pressure to meet unrealistic standards of beauty. Filters, editing, and constant comparison can make normal skin concerns like acne, scarring, hyperpigmentation, and texture feel like flaws instead of natural human experiences. This often leads to low self-confidence, anxiety, and even depression. I believe that by working in esthetics, I can help combat this issue in a meaningful and hands-on way. As a 24-year-old esthetics student from Cleveland, Ohio, my passion for skincare started at a young age. I would practice routines on myself, research products, and learn how to properly care for my skin. Over time, I realized that esthetics is not just about appearance—it is about healing, education, and empowerment. Choosing to pursue this trade is my way of combining my passion with public service. I see skincare as a powerful tool to help people feel better about themselves, both inside and out. Through my education and training, I am learning how to analyze skin conditions, perform treatments safely and effectively, and recommend routines that promote long-term skin health. But beyond the technical skills, I am also learning the importance of compassion and communication. Many clients carry insecurities about their skin that affect how they show up in their daily lives. During services, people often open up about how their skin has impacted their confidence. I make it a priority to listen without judgment, provide encouragement, and create a safe space where they feel comfortable. That emotional support is just as important as the treatment itself. I also work to address misinformation about skincare. There are many harmful trends and false claims online that can damage skin and lower self-esteem when results are not instant or “perfect.” By educating clients, friends, and family about realistic expectations and healthy skincare habits, I help people make informed decisions. Knowledge empowers individuals to take control of their skin health instead of feeling defeated by it. In the future, I plan to become a licensed esthetician and continue advancing my education through certifications and specialized training. My long-term goal is to open my own spa in my community, where I can provide high-quality services in an environment centered on healing and empowerment. I want my business to be a place where people feel valued, respected, and supported. By addressing confidence, mental wellness, and education through esthetics, I am contributing to a larger social change. I am working to redefine beauty as something that includes health, authenticity, and self-love. Through my career, I hope to make the world a more beautiful place—not just on the surface, but in the hearts and minds of the people I serve.

After graduation, I am going to pursue the beauty trade, specifically esthetics. My focus is on skincare, facials, and advanced skin treatments. I am passionate about helping people improve their skin health while also boosting their confidence. Esthetics is a hands-on trade that requires skill, knowledge, and dedication, and it is the career path I see myself committed to long term. I am interested in esthetics because I have had a passion for skincare and beauty since I was young. Growing up, I would practice skincare routines on myself and study different products and techniques. Over time, I realized that this was more than just an interest—it was something I truly loved. Esthetics allows me to combine creativity, science, and care. It also gives me the opportunity to help people feel better about themselves. Many individuals struggle with skin concerns that affect their self-esteem, and I want to be someone who helps them heal inside and out. Seeing the confidence someone gains after a treatment is what motivates me the most. In school, I have developed strong problem-solving and creative skills through hands-on training. During practical sessions, I have worked on different skin types and conditions, which requires me to think critically about which products and techniques to use. Not every client’s skin is the same, so I must analyze, adjust, and customize treatments to get the best results. I have also practiced performing facials, extractions, and other skincare services where precision and focus are very important. Outside of school, I have experimented with skincare routines on myself, adjusting products when something did not work and researching better alternatives. This shows my ability to think outside the box and find solutions. My plan is to complete my esthetics program, pass my state board exam, and become a licensed esthetician. I am currently enrolled in school and actively gaining hands-on experience. I plan to continue my education by taking advanced courses and certifications after I graduate. I am also researching local spas and skincare businesses where I can apply for positions once I receive my license. Eventually, I want to open my own spa. An adult who knows me well would recommend me because I am dedicated, hardworking, and serious about my goals. They would say that once I set my mind to something, I stay focused and committed. I am passionate about esthetics and truly want to build a successful career in this trade.

My name is Martiana Lumbus. I am 24 years old and I am from Cleveland, Ohio. Ever since I was a little girl, I have had a strong passion for beauty, skincare, and self-care. Growing up, I would spend hours practicing different skincare routines on myself, watching tutorials, and learning about products and techniques. It was more than just something fun to do—it was something that made me feel confident and creative. Over time, I realized that esthetics was not just a hobby for me, but something I truly wanted to turn into a career. My interest in pursuing the trades, specifically esthetics, comes from my desire to work hands-on in a field where I can directly impact people’s lives. I have always been someone who learns best by doing, and I enjoy seeing the results of my hard work right in front of me. Being in school has confirmed that I made the right choice. I am doing everything I imagined myself doing, from performing facials to learning advanced techniques and understanding skin conditions. I am very good at almost everything we are learning, which honestly surprised me a little. However, it also showed me that when I put my mind to something and stay focused, I can truly excel. Esthetics is important to me because it goes deeper than appearance. Many people struggle with skin concerns that affect their confidence and how they feel about themselves. I want to be someone who helps heal not only their skin but also their self-esteem. Whether someone is dealing with acne, dark spots, scarring, or just stress from everyday life, I want to create a safe and relaxing space where they feel cared for and understood. I believe that skincare is a form of therapy and self-love. My goals for my future career are to become one of the best estheticians I can be. I plan to continue my education, earn advanced certifications, and stay updated on new trends and treatments in the industry. Eventually, I would love to open my own spa or skincare business in my community. I want to build a brand that represents professionalism, passion, and healing. Most importantly, I want my career to be about helping people inside and out, making a real difference in their lives through beauty and care. Helping people feel great about themselves everyday and night that they look in the mirror.

Growing up, I learned early that strength is not something you are born with—it is something life demands of you. After the loss of my mother, my world changed in ways I could never have prepared for. Along with the grief came responsibility. I stepped into a role that required maturity, resilience, and selflessness as I worked to help provide for my siblings while still trying to build a future for myself. These experiences shaped my determination to pursue a meaningful career in the healthcare field, specifically in diagnostic medical sonography.I am passionate about healthcare because it combines compassion with science. Sonography is a STEM-based profession that often goes unnoticed, yet it plays a critical role in diagnosing and monitoring patients. Ultrasound technicians are frequently part of life’s most important moments—detecting illness, monitoring pregnancies, and providing answers when patients are scared and uncertain. I am drawn to this field because it allows me to help others during vulnerable times, just as healthcare professionals once supported my family during ours. As a woman pursuing a STEM career, I am motivated to break barriers and challenge expectations. Careers like sonography are not always talked about or encouraged, yet they are essential and require advanced technical knowledge, precision, and critical thinking. I want to represent women in healthcare who work behind the scenes using science and technology to make a real difference. My goal is not only to succeed in this field but to inspire other young women to consider careers in STEM that may not receive enough recognition. Balancing school, financial responsibility, and family obligations has not been easy. Supporting my siblings while coping with the emotional loss of our mother has been one of the hardest challenges of my life. There were moments when giving up would have been the easiest option, but I refused to let my circumstances define my future. Instead, they became my motivation. Every obstacle strengthened my work ethic and reinforced my commitment to building a stable, meaningful career that will allow me to support my family and give back to my community. Receiving this scholarship would not only ease my financial burden but also bring me one step closer to achieving my dream of working in diagnostic medical sonography. More importantly, it would validate the perseverance it has taken to continue moving forward despite hardship. I am determined to succeed—not only for myself, but for my siblings, my mother’s memory, and the patients I hope to serve in the future.

🌙 “The Soul Sync Ceremony” 🌙 A Love Island Challenge About Energy, Intuition, and Emotional Connection Challenge Concept “The Soul Sync Ceremony” is a guided, spiritual-inspired experience where Islanders explore emotional intimacy, intuition, and unseen connection rather than physical attraction alone. The challenge focuses on vulnerability, energy, and intention—asking Islanders to connect on a deeper, more meaningful level. Setting & Atmosphere The villa transforms at sunset into a candlelit sanctuary: Soft lanterns floating in the pool Crystals and flowers arranged around a circular platform Calm instrumental music playing in the background Islanders dressed in white or neutral tones A calm narrator (not the usual cheeky host voice) welcomes them and explains that “attraction begins with energy before touch.” Phase 1: The Energy Exchange Islanders are separated and blindfolded. Each Islander sits across from three different people (chosen secretly by producers), without knowing who is who. They are not allowed to speak. Instead, each pair places their palms near each other—without touching—for 30 seconds. During this time, they focus on breathing and intention. After each pairing, Islanders write down: One word describing how the interaction felt Whether the energy felt calming, exciting, safe, or confusing Phase 2: The Soul Questions Blindfolds come off, but Islanders still don’t know who they connected with. Each Islander answers one deep but PG-13 question, such as: “What part of yourself do you hide in relationships?” “What does emotional safety mean to you?” “What kind of love are you searching for right now?” Their answers are recorded privately. Phase 3: The Reveal Islanders are reunited in a circle. One by one, the narrator reveals: Which Islanders felt the strongest mutual energy Which pairs chose the same emotional words Which two Islanders unknowingly described each other’s answers during These pairs are invited to sit together and finally talk—often realizing their connection started before they even saw each other. Phase 4: The Intention Token Each Islander is given one crystal token. They must place it into the bowl of: Someone they feel drawn to Someone they want to explore emotionally Or someone who surprised them This can be romantic or exploratory—no pressure. The Islanders who receive the most mutual tokens win: A private moonlight date And a handwritten “reflection letter” from their partner, guided by prompts about emotional connection Why It’s Special No kissing, dares, or physical challenges Builds tension through emotional intimacy Allows unexpected connections to form Encourages vulnerability without embarrassment Creates moments that feel magical, not messy Host Closing Line “Tonight, you didn’t choose with your eyes… you chose with your energy.”

I plan to build a career as an esthetician because it aligns with both my interests and my personal experiences. Before attending school, I used to practice beauty services such as makeup, lashes, and brows on my mother. Beauty was something we shared, and it brought her joy. After my mother was unexpectedly killed by gun violence in 2023, continuing in this field became even more meaningful to me. Becoming an esthetician allows me to honor her memory by doing something she loved and would be proud of me for pursuing. I am currently studying to become an esthetician in trade school. I chose this skilled trade because I have a genuine passion for beauty, skincare, and helping people feel confident in themselves. Esthetics allows me to be creative while also learning hands-on, practical skills that can lead directly to a career. Since starting school, I have truly enjoyed the learning process and feel motivated every day to improve my skills. I believe I will be successful as an esthetician because I am dedicated, disciplined, and passionate about my education. I am currently earning grades between 90% and 100% on my tests, which shows my strong work ethic and commitment to learning. I take pride in doing my best, staying focused, and constantly improving my skills. My passion for beauty, combined with my determination and consistency, gives me confidence that I will succeed in this trade. To me, a successful life means being mentally stable, financially secure, and free from student loans or debt. It also means being able to take care of my family in sickness and in health and being someone they can rely on. I believe I will be successful because I have clear goals, strong motivation, and a deep reason behind what I do. I am driven not only by personal success but also by the desire to build a better future and make my family proud. I would be extremely grateful to receive this scholarship, as it would help relieve financial stress and allow me to stay fully focused on my education and career goals. This support would bring me one step closer to completing trade school without taking on unnecessary debt and building a stable future for myself. Being awarded this scholarship would not only support my journey to becoming a licensed esthetician, but it would also serve as encouragement and reassurance that my hard work, dedication, and passion are being recognized. I would carry that support with me throughout my career and use it as motivation to continue striving for success.

I’ve been a Taylor Swift fan for as long as I can remember, but her twelfth studio album, *The Life of a Showgirl*, feels like a whole new level of magic. From the first track, it’s clear that this isn’t just another collection of songs—it’s a story, a mood, a journey. The album captures her as a performer and as a person, blending vulnerability, glamour, and unapologetic confidence. Each song is like a glittering snapshot of life on and off stage, full of honesty and emotion that I can’t stop thinking about. One performance, in particular, completely blew me away. When Taylor performed the title track live, I felt the energy pulse through me like I was right there in the crowd. She didn’t just sing the words; she embodied them. Her movements, her expressions, even the subtle way she engaged with the audience made every lyric feel personal. Watching her, I realized that being a “showgirl” isn’t just about sparkle and spectacle—it’s about strength, resilience, and the courage to be seen. That performance made me feel everything: joy, sadness, excitement, and awe, all at once. What I love most about *The Life of a Showgirl* is how it balances glamour with honesty. The songs are catchy and fun, yet they also explore deeper emotions—loneliness behind the spotlight, the pressures of fame, and the bittersweet moments of life. It’s an album that makes me want to dance and cry at the same time. Taylor has a way of making every listener feel understood, like she’s singing directly to us, sharing a piece of her own story while inviting us to reflect on ours. As a fan, I admire how fearless she is. She embraces both her vulnerability and her strength, showing that being a performer doesn’t mean being perfect—it means being real, raw, and unapologetically yourself. That is what makes her performances so incredible. She connects with every single person in the audience, not just through music but through presence, authenticity, and emotion. *The Life of a Showgirl* isn’t just an album; it’s an experience. It’s the kind of music that stays with you long after the last note, reminding you that it’s okay to be complex, to shine brightly, and to show the world exactly who you are. Taylor Swift doesn’t just perform—she inspires, and that’s why I will always be her fan.

Growing up, my life was shaped by challenges I could never have prepared for. Losing my mom unexpectedly was one of the most devastating experiences I’ve ever faced. She was my anchor, my guide, and my protector. Just a month later, my dad went to jail, leaving me and my siblings to navigate life without the two people who were supposed to guide and support us. I had to figure out where we would live, how to care for my siblings, and how to survive emotionally and financially. These hardships left deep emotional scars and contributed to mental health struggles I continue to manage today. Though I have never turned to drugs, I have faced anxiety, sadness, and the heavy responsibility of taking care of my family at a young age. I won’t judge people who do turn to drugs but that’s not for me. Everybody handle things differently and do whatever helps you. Through it all, my grandmother became my anchor. She has always been my greatest source of strength, stepping in with love, guidance, and unwavering support. Watching her struggle with heart problems and undergo heart surgery was terrifying. Seeing her in pain made me realize just how fragile life is and how important it is to dedicate my future to helping others. Her resilience and care inspire me every day and fuel my desire to build a career that combines compassion, healing, and service. Cooking became another way I coped with grief and stress. My mom, dad, and grandmother all loved to cook, and preparing meals helps me feel connected to them while processing my emotions. Cooking allows me to channel my feelings into something tangible, creative, and nurturing—a quiet way to honor their love and lessons while finding a sense of peace during difficult times. These personal experiences inspired my career goals. I plan to become both an aesthetician and an ultrasound technician. As an aesthetician, I want to help people feel confident, comfortable, and cared for in their own skin. I understand how important small acts of self-care can be, especially in turbulent times. As an ultrasound technician, I want to support patients and families during vulnerable, uncertain moments, offering reassurance, guidance, and compassion—just as I wish I could have had during my family’s struggles. Both careers will allow me to combine technical skill with empathy, giving people the care they need while providing emotional support in ways that can truly make a difference. However, pursuing these careers requires financial resources that I currently do not have. Tuition, certification programs, supplies, and living expenses are overwhelming, and I cannot achieve my goals without assistance. This scholarship would allow me to continue my education without constant financial worry. It would give me the foundation I need to complete my training, build stability for myself and my family, and pursue a career dedicated to helping others. Through my journey, I have learned resilience, empathy, and the importance of giving back. This scholarship will allow me to honor my family, support my grandmother, and transform the pain I have endured into hope, healing, and service for others. My past has shaped me, but my future will be defined by purpose, compassion, and the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of others.

My journey has been shaped by loss, resilience, and a deep desire to create a better future for myself and those I love. Losing my mother unexpectedly and watching my father go to jail soon after forced me to grow up faster than I ever imagined. I had to find a place to live, support myself, and navigate life with very little guidance. During those difficult years, my grandmother became my greatest support, even while facing serious heart issues and undergoing heart surgery. Watching her suffer made me realize how fragile and precious life is—and it pushed me toward choosing career paths with purpose. My goals are to become both an aesthetician and an ultrasound technician. These fields may seem different, but to me, they represent the same mission: **healing, helping, and giving others the comfort and support I once needed**. As an aesthetician, I want to help people feel confident and cared for. I know how powerful it is to have something that makes you feel grounded and at peace, especially when life feels overwhelming. Through skincare and wellness, I hope to create safe spaces for people to relax, heal, and rebuild their self-esteem. As an ultrasound technician, I want to be there for patients during moments of fear, uncertainty, or hope. After seeing my grandmother struggle with heart pain, I realized how important early detection and emotional reassurance are. I want to be the person who provides clarity, compassion, and support to families going through medical challenges. However, pursuing these careers requires education, training, and financial resources I do not currently have. Because I had to support myself at a young age—with no parents to rely on and limited family assistance—financial stability has always been a challenge. I am determined to complete my schooling, but the cost of tuition, supplies, certification exams, and transportation is overwhelming. **This scholarship would make a tremendous difference in my life.** It would allow me to stay focused on my education instead of worrying about how I will pay for classes or whether I can continue my program. It would give me the chance to build the future I have fought so hard to reach—a future where I am financially stable, emotionally grounded, and able to give back to my community. My objectives are clear: finish school, enter both fields with dedication, and use my personal experiences to uplift others. With the help of this scholarship, I will be able to turn my goals into reality and transform my hardships into a career built on purpose, compassion, and strength.

My life has been shaped by hardships that forced me to grow up quickly, but those same hardships also gave me a sense of purpose. Losing my mother unexpectedly and watching my family fall apart left me searching for stability in a world that suddenly felt unsafe. When my dad went to jail shortly after, I had to navigate life on my own, finding a home, supporting my siblings, and learning to survive without the two people who were supposed to guide me. In the middle of that pain, I found peace in stamp collecting—something small, steady, and meaningful during a time when everything else felt chaotic. It taught me that healing doesn’t always come loud; sometimes it arrives quietly, through the things that bring us comfort. That lesson became even more important when my grandmother, the person who stepped in when I had no one else, began experiencing heart problems and eventually underwent heart surgery. Watching her struggle was a pain I can’t fully describe. She has always been my anchor, and seeing her in that condition made me realize how deeply I want to work in a field where I can help people the way she has helped me. Her strength—and my fear of losing her—sparked the fire behind my future goals. My career plan is to become both an aesthetician and an ultrasound technician. These may seem like different paths, but to me, they are connected by one purpose: **helping people feel better, heal better, and trust their bodies again**. As an aesthetician, I want to help people build confidence, feel comfortable in their own skin, and find moments of peace in a world that often feels overwhelming. I know firsthand how important it is to find something that brings you calm, and I want to provide that experience to others. As an ultrasound technician, I want to support patients during some of their most vulnerable moments—whether they are worried about their health, facing uncertainty, or seeking reassurance. After watching my grandmother fight through her heart issues, I understand how powerful it can be to have someone who cares during those moments. This scholarship will give me the opportunity to continue my education, complete my training, and move closer to these goals. It will allow me to build a stable future not just for myself, but for my family and for the people I hope to serve. My past has shaped me, but my future is driven by purpose—and with this scholarship, I will be able to turn that purpose into a career that truly gives back.

Throughout my life, I have had to face challenges that shaped me long before I understood their impact. Growing up in a single-parent household taught me early on what strength and sacrifice look like. My mom raised six children by herself, working two jobs and running a business just to keep us afloat. As a child, I didn’t see how heavy that burden was—but as an adult, I understand now that every tear she hid, every long night, and every moment she pushed through exhaustion was an act of love. Losing her unexpectedly shattered me, and a month later, when my dad went to jail, my world fell apart again. I had to learn how to survive, find a place to live, and support myself and my siblings with very little guidance. Those experiences could have broken me completely, but instead, they became the foundation of my determination. In the middle of all this pain, I found an unexpected form of healing through stamp collecting. What started as a simple hobby became a source of peace—something steady, something I could control when life felt overwhelming. Sorting through stamps, each with its own story, helped me cope with things I couldn’t explain. It was proof that beauty and meaning can still exist even in moments of deep hurt. Then came another emotional challenge: watching my grandmother, the woman who stepped in with love and support when I had no one else, suffer from heart problems and undergo heart surgery. Seeing her in pain was something I could barely process. She has always been my everything—my safe place—and the fear of losing her pushed me to think seriously about my future, my education, and the career I want to build. All these experiences—loss, survival, healing, and love—are what drive me to pursue my education and career with purpose. I want to use my future in ultrasound and aesthetics to help others the way people have helped me. With ultrasound, I can provide reassurance, early detection, and hope to families facing medical uncertainty. With aesthetics, I can help people feel confident and comfortable in their own skin. This scholarship would not only help me continue my education—it would help me give back. I want to share my story with others who have faced loss, instability, or fear, and show them that healing is possible. My journey has taught me resilience, empathy, and the power of giving back—and I plan to carry those lessons into every part of my future career.

The pain I have had to experience while watching my grandmother struggle with heart problems and undergo heart surgery is something I still struggle to put into words. It is a feeling that sits heavy in my chest, a fear that follows me everywhere, and a sadness so deep that some days I don’t want to believe it’s real. My grandmother is not just a family member—she is my foundation, my comfort, and the one person who has been there for me through every hardship I’ve faced. She has guided me, protected me, and loved me in ways that have shaped who I am. The thought of losing her feels unbearable, and seeing her in pain reminded me just how fragile life can be. During some of the hardest moments of my life—losing my mom unexpectedly, my dad going to jail shortly after, and having to build my life from the ground up—my grandmother’s presence was one of the few things that gave me strength. When I felt alone, she gave me a place to land. When I didn’t know what direction to go, she gave me guidance. And even when she was hurting, she still tried to be strong for me. Watching her fight through her own health battles made me realize how strong she truly is, and it pushed me to want to become stronger myself. That is why this scholarship means more to me than just financial help. It represents hope—hope for my future, hope for my grandmother’s well-being, and hope that I can someday support her the same way she has always supported me. Education is my path to stability, to a career, and to building a life where I can give back to her. I want to be able to help her manage medical needs, reduce her stress, and provide her with the peace she deserves after everything she’s done for me. This scholarship would allow me to continue my education with purpose and determination. It would help me step into a future where I am not just surviving the challenges life has thrown at me but rising above them. Most of all, it would help me honor my grandmother’s strength by becoming someone she can be proud of—someone who uses their pain, their resilience, and their love to create something better, not just for themselves, but for the people who carried them through it.

Stamp collecting may seem like a small or unusual hobby, but for me, it has become a source of comfort, stability, and deep personal meaning. I’ve been collecting stamps for a long time, and each one feels like a tiny window into a story, a place, or a moment in history. Whenever I sit down and sort through my collection, I feel a peace that is hard to explain. It helps me cope with things I can’t control and emotions I sometimes struggle to express. While others may not fully understand the joy I find in it, stamp collecting has been one of the most powerful tools in helping me heal. My love for stamps became even more important during one of the hardest chapters of my life. Losing my mom unexpectedly was a pain I was not prepared for. She was killed, and with her gone, my entire world fell apart. Just a month later, my dad went to jail, leaving me and my siblings suddenly without the two people who were supposed to guide and support us. I had to figure out my life almost overnight. I struggled to find a place to live and had to learn how to survive emotionally and financially with very little help. I felt broken, abandoned, and overwhelmed. It was as if life had forced me to grow up faster than anyone should ever have to. During this time, stamp collecting became more than a hobby—it became a grounding force. In moments when I felt lost, sorting through my stamps helped me slow down and breathe. Each stamp reminded me that the world was bigger than my pain, that there was still beauty, history, and meaning out there. It gave me something steady to hold onto when everything else felt unstable. It was a small but powerful reminder that healing can come from unexpected places. This scholarship represents more than financial support for my education; it represents an opportunity to turn my pain into purpose. I want to use my experiences to give back to the community and connect with people who have gone through similar hardships. By sharing my story, I hope to let others know that they are not alone, that even after life breaks you, you can find strength again. I want to inspire others to find their coping mechanisms and to believe in their ability to overcome. Through my journey, I’ve learned resilience, independence, and compassion. With the help of this scholarship, I plan to continue growing, rebuilding, and giving back—one story, one act of support, and one life at a time.

Growing up in a single-parent household is something I didn’t fully understand until years later, when I finally had the maturity to look back and see my childhood through a clearer, more honest lens. My parents weren’t together when I was young, and although I saw my dad sometimes, my real home—my heart—was wherever my mom was. She carried the weight of raising six kids on her own, and at the time, I didn’t realize how heavy that weight truly was. As a child, you don’t always see the sacrifices. You just see the results: the food on the table, the clothes that somehow appear when you outgrow the old ones, the lights that stay on even when money is tight. Back then, I didn’t recognize that every one of those things came from my mother’s exhaustion, her long nights, and her refusal to give up. She worked two jobs and still managed to run a business—not because she had extra time or energy, but because she wanted her children to feel secure, to feel loved, to feel like they had a chance. There were moments that stick with me now in ways they didn’t before. Quiet nights when the house felt too still, and I would see her sitting alone, her shoulders heavy and her eyes tired. Sometimes I’d catch her crying softly, the kind of crying a mother hides because she doesn’t want her kids to worry. It wasn’t weakness—now I realize it was strength. It was the release of a woman who had the whole world on her shoulders but still woke up the next morning ready to carry it again. She never complained. She never asked for anyone to feel sorry for her. Even in her frustration, even when life pushed her to her limits, she kept showing up—working late, waking up early, pushing through pain, stress, and fear. She made sure we had what we needed, even if it meant she went without. And no matter how hard things got, she stayed present for us. She loved us fiercely. It wasn’t until I became older that I could see all of this clearly—the sacrifices, the love, the silent battles she fought every day. Losing her, especially in the way we did, only deepened that understanding. I lived with her up until she was killed, and that loss cut deep. But even now, her strength is something I carry with me. It’s a part of who I am, a part of how I face the world. Growing up with her taught me that real strength isn’t about never breaking—it’s about breaking, and still choosing to keep going anyway. She showed me love not through words, but through actions that spoke louder than anything. She showed me what it means to fight for your family. She showed me what it means to love so deeply that your children never truly understand the depth of it until they look back as adults. My mom did the best she could—and her best was powerful, inspiring, and filled with a love that continues to guide me even now. She may be gone, but the imprint she left on my life will never fade. I can use my ultrasound and aesthetician skills to help people feel healthier, more confident, and more informed about their bodies. Through ultrasound, I can support early detection and reassurance, while my aesthetic work can help clients feel comfortable in their own skin. Together, these paths let me empower others and make a positive impact on their well-being.

**1. Favorite EDM Experience** I’ve been to so many EDM concerts and festivals that it’s almost impossible to choose just one favorite. Each event has its own energy, its own story, and its own moments that stay with me long after the music stops. What stands out most is the feeling—this overwhelming mix of excitement, connection, and pure joy that hits the second I walk into a venue or step foot onto a festival ground. It genuinely feels like a lifetime experience every single time. Going to these events has shaped my outlook in a big way. They’ve shown me how powerful music can be in bringing people together, no matter where they come from or what they’re going through. EDM has pushed me to be more open-minded, more expressive, and more connected to the people around me. It reminds me that life is meant to be lived fully, and that passion—whether in music, community, or creativity—is something worth chasing. I truly believe everyone should experience an EDM festival at least once in their life; the energy, the people, and the atmosphere are something you can’t really explain until you’re there. --- **2. Inspiration From EDM and the Community** EDM has inspired me in ways I never expected. The community itself is one of the biggest reasons I fell so deeply in love with the culture. At shows and festivals, I’ve met strangers who felt like friends instantly—people who share the same passion, who hype each other up, who look out for each other, and who celebrate every moment like it matters. Being surrounded by that kind of positivity and acceptance is something really special. The music has also impacted me personally. It’s been a constant source of motivation, comfort, and release. Whether I’m in a great mood or going through something difficult, there’s always a track, a drop, or a set that matches exactly what I need. The creativity in EDM pushes me to be bold with my own goals and reminds me that passion can drive incredible things. --- **3. What PLUR Means to You** To me, PLUR—Peace, Love, Unity, and Respect—is more than a slogan. It’s the foundation of what makes the EDM community so meaningful. **Peace** means bringing calm and positivity wherever I go. **Love** is about spreading kindness, even in small ways. **Unity** is the feeling of connection I share with everyone on a dance floor. **Respect** means valuing people for exactly who they are. I try to embody PLUR in my everyday life, not just at festivals. I make an effort to be supportive, inclusive, and understanding of the people around me. Whether it’s helping someone who needs it, being a positive force in my friend group, or simply treating people with kindness and openness, I want others to feel the same warmth and acceptance that the EDM community has given me.

I’m a Sabrina Carpenter fan because I grew up watching her on Disney Channel, and in many ways, I feel like we grew up together. She was on *Girl Meets World* during a time when I was still figuring out who I was, and it meant so much to see someone close to my age on TV achieving her dreams. I’m 24, and she’s only about two years older than me—she’s 26, with a birthday on May 11th, just a little over a month after mine on March 31st. That small age difference always made her feel relatable, like her accomplishments were something I could reach for too. Watching her grow from a Disney actress into a worldwide touring artist is so inspiring. She went from being known for a TV character to owning stages, writing songs, and building her own identity in the music industry. Her evolution shows that you don’t have to limit yourself to one dream—you can have multiple careers, expand into new creative spaces, and continue growing throughout your life. That’s something that really connects to me personally. I have a Film and Media Arts degree, but I’m also striving to become an esthetician and eventually an ultrasound technician. Seeing Sabrina succeed in acting, singing, performing, and songwriting reminds me that it’s okay to want more than one path for your life. It’s okay to reinvent yourself, explore new passions, and chase every dream that matters to you. She makes me feel like my goals are possible. Her music has also deeply touched my heart. My favorite song of hers is **“Eyes Wide Open.”** Every time I listen to it, I feel emotional. It’s a song that makes me think about growth, loss, and the journey of becoming the person you’re meant to be. It makes me cry sometimes, especially when I think about my mother’s passing. The lyrics hit differently when you’ve experienced real pain and change. That song holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me to keep pushing forward, even when life feels heavy. Sabrina’s journey inspires me to believe in myself, to stay ambitious, and to trust that I can create a life with multiple passions just like she has. She reminds me that growth is beautiful, reinvention is powerful, and dreams are worth fighting for. That’s why I’m such a big fan—not just because of her talent, but because of how she makes me believe in my own possibilities.

Mental health shapes every part of a person’s life—how they think, how they move through the world, how they love, and how they hope. For me, mental health is not just an abstract idea; it is something I live with, struggle with, and work through every single day. The challenges I have faced in my life—especially losing my mother to gun violence and watching my father enter the jail system only a month later—have changed me in ways I am still trying to understand. These experiences have affected my goals, my relationships, and my entire view of the world. On October 9th, 2023, my life broke in a way I never expected. Losing my mom to gun violence is a pain I carry constantly. There are moments when the memory of her hits me so hard it steals my breath. She was taken from me and my siblings too soon, too violently, and too unfairly. Grief like that settles into your bones; it becomes part of your everyday life. It changes the way you think about safety, love, and the fragility of life. And just as I was trying to understand how to live without her, my father went into the jail system a month later. It bad felt like losing both of my parents at once, being left to stand in a world. These experiences have taken a toll on me and my siblings. We think about it every day—sometimes silently, sometimes out loud, but always with a heaviness that is hard to describe. Mental health challenges often come when you are trying to survive the unimaginable, and that has been my reality. The grief, the anger, the confusion, the loneliness—it all affects me deeply. My goals are not untouched by what happened. In fact, my mental health has made my goals feel both harder and more important. Some days, the weight of everything makes it difficult to focus or believe in myself. I worry about how my past will shape my future and whether I will ever fully heal. But at the same time, losing my parents in such painful ways has made me want to fight even harder for a better life. I want stability. I want peace. I want to prove to myself that trauma doesn’t define me. These experiences have made me more determined, even if the path forward feels uncertain and heavy at times. My relationships have also been shaped by what I have gone through. Losing the two people who were supposed to guide me through life changed the way I connect with others. Sometimes I struggle with opening up or trusting that people will stay. Other times, I cling to the people I care about because I know how quickly life can change. I think more deeply about the people I love now. I appreciate them in ways I never used to. My trauma has made me more sensitive, more understanding, and more aware of what others might be going through beneath the surface. And when it comes to how I see the world, everything is different. I have seen how violence destroys families. I have seen how the justice system can take people away just as quickly as tragedy can. These experiences have shown me how unfair and unpredictable the world can be. But they have also shown me strength—my own and my siblings’. They have shown me resilience in moments where giving up felt easier. They have shown me how important mental health is and how much people need support, compassion, and healing.

Being a first-generation college student means everything in the world to me. My name is Martiana Lumbus, and even my name reminds me of who I am—unique, uncommon, and someone who stands out in her own way. My name gives me confidence, and being the first in my family to pursue higher education gives me purpose. It means breaking cycles, opening doors, and building a future that the generations before me didn’t have the chance to create. My journey has not been easy. Losing my mother to gun violence and having my father go to jail a month later changed my life forever. Those moments were traumatic and painful, but they also lit a fire in me. They taught me that I have to work twice as hard, not only for myself but for the family members who still depend on me. My motivation comes from wanting more—more stability, more opportunity, and more success than the circumstances I was born into. I want to be someone my future children can look up to, someone my siblings can lean on, and someone who turns hurt into strength. Being a first-generation student means I am willing to dream bigger than my challenges. I have many dreams because I refuse to limit myself. I already hold a Film and Media Arts degree, and at 24 years old, I am proud of how far I’ve come. But I also know I want to build stability for my future, so I am studying cosmetology and esthetics to create businesses I can eventually pass down to my kids one day. I want to set up a strong foundation with an LLC, business insurance, and a business 401(k) plan so my work can grow even when I’m no longer physically able to do hair or skincare services. I also dream of becoming an ultrasound technician. It is a career that would give me consistent income, something to rely on as I get older, while my business investments and retirement plans build in the background. I want a life that allows me to take care of myself, my future family, and the family I have now who are struggling. I want to break generational patterns and create generational wealth. This scholarship would help me move closer to those goals. It would allow me to pay for school, invest in my education, and get the proper training I need to build the future I’m working so hard for. Winning this award would not solve everything, but it would give me a real start—a chance to breathe, focus, and invest in the dreams I’ve laid out for myself. I am not perfect, and my life has been far from easy, but I have heart, determination, and a clear sense of purpose. I want more for myself and my family, and being a first-generation student is my first step toward rewriting my future. This scholarship would help me continue that journey.

Being a first-generation college student means everything in the world to me. My name is Martiana Lumbus, and even my name reminds me of who I am—unique, uncommon, and someone who stands out in her own way. My name gives me confidence, and being the first in my family to pursue higher education gives me purpose. It means breaking cycles, opening doors, and building a future that the generations before me didn’t have the chance to create. My journey has not been easy. Losing my mother to gun violence and having my father go to jail a month later changed my life forever. Those moments were traumatic and painful, but they also lit a fire in me. They taught me that I have to work twice as hard, not only for myself but for the family members who still depend on me. My motivation comes from wanting more—more stability, more opportunity, and more success than the circumstances I was born into. I want to be someone my future children can look up to, someone my siblings can lean on, and someone who turns hurt into strength. Being a first-generation student means I am willing to dream bigger than my challenges. I have many dreams because I refuse to limit myself. I already hold a Film and Media Arts degree, and at 24 years old, I am proud of how far I’ve come. But I also know I want to build stability for my future, so I am studying cosmetology and esthetics to create businesses I can eventually pass down to my kids one day. I want to set up a strong foundation with an LLC, business insurance, and a business 401(k) plan so my work can grow even when I’m no longer physically able to do lashes, brows or waxing services. I also dream of becoming an ultrasound technician. It is a career that would give me consistent income, something to rely on as I get older, while my business investments and retirement plans build in the background. I want a life that allows me to take care of myself, my future family, and the family I have now who are struggling. I want to break generational patterns and create generational wealth. This scholarship would help me move closer to those goals. It would allow me to pay for school, invest in my education, and get the proper training I need to build the future I’m working so hard for. Winning this award would not solve everything, but it would give me a real start—a chance to breathe, focus, and invest in the dreams I’ve laid out for myself. I am not perfect, and my life has been far from easy, but I have heart, determination, and a clear sense of purpose. I want more for myself and my family, and being a first-generation student is my first step toward rewriting my future. This scholarship would help me continue that journey for me and my current family and future family.

Choosing cosmetology and esthetics as my career path is not just a professional decision—it is a personal calling shaped by love, memories, and the desire to make every woman feel confident, beautiful, and valued. Beauty, to me, is not just about outward appearance; it is about helping people discover their inner light, their confidence, and the parts of themselves they may have forgotten or doubted. I want to help women see the beauty they already carry within, because I know how powerful it is when someone believes in you, supports you, and helps you feel like the best version of yourself. My passion for this field began long before I ever realized it could be a career. It began in my home, with my mother. She was the first person who introduced me to the world of hair, makeup, and self-expression. Growing up, she always did my hair, and she taught me so much about taking care of it, styling it, and embracing my natural beauty. My mother used to tell me, “You are beautiful within and out,” and those words stayed with me. They shaped the way I see myself—and the way I want to help other women see themselves. Some of my favorite memories with her were the YouTube videos we made together. We would do fun challenges, like me doing her makeup and hair blindfolded, laughing at the results and enjoying the time we spent creating something together. Those moments were more than just videos; they were lessons in love, creativity, and connection. They showed me that beauty can be joyful, healing, and a way to bond with the people you care about. Losing my mother to gun violence in our own home changed my life in ways I am still learning to understand. Her passing was a trauma that shook my world, but it also taught me something powerful: life is fragile, and the things we love—our passions, our talents, our dreams—should be honored. Cosmetology and esthetics help me stay connected to her. When I do hair, when I apply makeup, when I make another woman feel beautiful, I feel like I am continuing the bond we shared. I feel like I am carrying a piece of her with me into my future. My decision to pursue this field is also fueled by the impact I hope to make. I want every woman who sits in my chair to feel seen, valued, and uplifted. I want to create a space where they can rediscover their confidence, express who they are, and celebrate their beauty inside and out. Whether it’s through skincare, makeup, or hairstyling, I want to help women embrace the parts of themselves they may hide or doubt. Beauty is not about transforming someone into something new—it’s about bringing forward the beauty they already have within. Cosmetology and esthetics allow me to blend creativity, healing, and personal connection. It allows me to honor my mother’s memory, continue the traditions she passed down to me, and do something meaningful for others. My career choice is a reflection of my heart, my experiences, and my desire to make a positive difference in women’s lives. This path is more than a job; it is a part of who I am. And through it, I hope to carry my mother’s love, lessons, and strength with me—helping others feel beautiful, confident, and empowered, just as she taught me.

Breast cancer is more than a medical challenge to me—it is a deeply personal issue that has shaped my passions, my goals, and the future I imagine for myself. As a woman, I cannot help but feel a profound connection to the millions of women who have faced or will face this diagnosis. The thought of experiencing breast cancer myself is terrifying, and the idea of watching another woman endure that pain is equally heartbreaking. Women carry an incredible amount of strength, but no one should have to fight a battle as heavy and life-changing as breast cancer. This understanding is one of the biggest reasons why I want to be part of the effort to cure this disease. I believe every woman deserves a future where breast cancer is no longer something to fear. My determination is also deeply rooted in my family history. Cancer runs in my family, leaving behind a path of loss, struggle, and emotional scars. It has taken lives far too soon and has caused pain that continues to affect us today. Growing up, I learned early on that cancer is not just a medical term or a statistic—it is something that can change an entire family’s life in an instant. The anxiety, the uncertainty, the feeling of helplessness when someone you love is fighting for their life—these experiences are impossible to forget. They have shaped my understanding of how urgently we need better treatments, better support, and ultimately, a cure. But my family’s story with breast cancer holds both tragedy and triumph. My auntie is one of the strongest people I know, and she survived her battle with breast cancer. Watching her fight was both painful and inspiring. I saw her strength on days when she felt weak, and her determination when the odds seemed stacked against her. Her ability to overcome such a frightening diagnosis showed me the power of resilience, the importance of medical advancements, and the real difference that research and treatment can make. Her survival is a reminder that progress is possible and that every step forward in cancer research truly matters. On the other hand, my great-grandmother’s experience represents the heartbreaking reality that many families still face. She lost her life to breast cancer, and although I never had the chance to know her personally, her story has always been present in my family. The pain of losing her was passed down through stories, memories, and the emotions that my family still carries. Her death is a reminder of what happens when the disease wins, and it strengthens my desire to help create a world where fewer families have to experience that kind of loss. These personal experiences—both the victories and the losses—are what motivate me to pursue a path that contributes to curing breast cancer. It is not just a scientific curiosity or a career choice; it is a mission that comes from my heart. I want to help protect women everywhere—from mothers and daughters to sisters, friends, and future generations. I want to honor the strength of survivors like my auntie and the memory of women like my great-grandmother who fought as long as they could. Most of all, I want to make sure that no woman has to face this disease alone or live in fear of it. A world without breast cancer may feel distant, but it is not impossible. Every breakthrough, every new treatment, and every life saved brings us closer to that reality. My passion to help cure breast cancer comes from a deep place of empathy, family history, and hope.

Mental health shapes every part of a person’s life—how they think, how they move through the world, how they love, and how they hope. For me, mental health is not just an abstract idea; it is something I live with, struggle with, and work through every single day. The challenges I have faced in my life—especially losing my mother to gun violence and watching my father enter the jail system only a month later—have changed me in ways I am still trying to understand. These experiences have affected my goals, my relationships, and my entire view of the world, leaving a lasting impact on who I am and who I am becoming. On October 9th, 2023, my life broke in a way I never expected. Losing my mom to gun violence is a pain I carry constantly. There are moments when the memory of her hits me so hard it steals my breath. She was taken from me and my siblings too soon, too violently, and too unfairly. Grief like that settles into your bones; it becomes part of your everyday life. It changes the way you think about safety, love, and the fragility of life. And just as I was trying to understand how to live without her, my father went into the jail system a month later. It felt like losing both of my parents at once, being left to stand in a world that suddenly felt much colder and more confusing. These experiences have taken a toll on me and my siblings. We think about it every day—sometimes silently, sometimes out loud, but always with a heaviness that is hard to describe. Mental health challenges often come when you are trying to survive the unimaginable, and that has been my reality. The grief, the anger, the confusion, the loneliness—it all affects me deeply. It affects how I wake up in the morning, how I talk to people, how I trust, and how I dream about the future. My goals are not untouched by what happened. In fact, my mental health has made my goals feel both harder and more important. Some days, the weight of everything makes it difficult to focus or believe in myself. I worry about how my past will shape my future and whether I will ever fully heal. But at the same time, losing my parents in such painful ways has made me want to fight even harder for a better life. I want stability. I want peace. I want to prove to myself that trauma doesn’t define me. These experiences have made me more determined, even if the path forward feels uncertain and heavy at times. My relationships have also been shaped by what I have gone through. Losing the two people who were supposed to guide me through life changed the way I connect with others. Sometimes I struggle with opening up or trusting that people will stay. Other times, I cling to the people I care about because I know how quickly life can change. I think more deeply about the people I love now. I appreciate them in ways I never used to. My trauma has made me more sensitive, more understanding, and more aware of what others might be going through beneath the surface. And when it comes to how I see the world, everything is different. I have seen how violence destroys families. I have seen how the justice system can take people away just as quickly as tragedy can. These experiences have shown me how unfair and unpredictable the world can be. But they have also shown me strength—my own and my siblings’. They have shown me resilience in moments where giving up felt easier. They have shown me how important mental health is and how much people need support, compassion, and healing. I think about my future every day—how my past affects it, how my pain shapes it, and how my strength will carry me through it. Mental health is a journey I am still navigating, but everything I have survived has taught me that I am capable of moving forward, even when life tries to break me. My story may be filled with loss, but it is also filled with determination, hope, and the belief that I can build a future that honors the people I have lost and the person I am becoming.