In the summer of 2021, when I was just 19, I got a shot at my first big break in the culinary world. Three friends hooked me up with an internship, and I was over the moon thinking about diving into professional cooking. But, my excitement hit a snag when my college chef pointed out that I was pretty green in the kitchen. I wasn't about to let his doubts stop me, though. I grabbed this once-in-a-lifetime chance to jumpstart my chef career. Walking into that fancy 5-star restaurant for my internship, I was a bundle of nerves and excitement. The kitchen was a hive of activity, packed with gear I'd never seen before. It was my dream playground, but also super intimidating. I really wanted to impress the experienced chefs there, but I kept second-guessing myself. I started wondering if I was cut out for this chef life. Then, during a tough day, something unexpected happened. I was taking a breather outside the kitchen, near the pool, and ended up chatting with a woman who was chilling there, music playing in her ears. She used to work in kitchens, too, and had her fair share of tough times and bad treatment. I didn't take her seriously at first – she seemed a bit tipsy – but her advice stuck with me. She told me to never let anyone make me feel small at work and to always stand up for myself. Her words were exactly what I needed to hear. It was like she was meant to be there, just to give me that push. I never caught her name, but she left a lasting mark on me. I soaked up her advice, ready to face any challenge head-on. Fast forward to now, and here I am, a chef in a busy restaurant, living the dream I once doubted. I often wish I could go back and thank that woman by the pool. Her casual chat was a game-changer for me. She might not have realized it, but she helped me navigate through my uncertainties. Even though she's not around, her influence stays with me. It's a reminder that sometimes the best advice comes from the most unexpected conversations, in the most unlikely places. I bet she'd be proud to see me thriving in the kitchen; her words have been the guiding force in my culinary journey. It's a special feeling, knowing that the foundation she laid has led me to where I am today.

Hello, my name is Maryana Gallow. I currently go to school at Nicholls State University. During school, I go to this club called the BCM, which is a baptist church ministry. One year ago, hurricane Ida came, which destroyed many homes, and took away many jobs, and even lives. As a member of the bcm, we volunteer for an organization called disaster relief. Our group was supposed to go to different churches and help them with many tasks, such as picking up trash or wood, that has been placed all over the area. We do this almost every weekend cleaning and helping out the church. I was very satisfied to be part of the community and help people who suffered from the hurricane. Although that was only a year ago, to this day, the bcm still does volunteer work to help improve our community. I hope that I can stay persistent, and help make a good impact on our community. I love my school, and the people in it, and would continue to help with all my power.