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matthew blood

1,885

Bold Points

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Finalist

Bio

I am a determined individual who seeks to better my community. I lead to inspire people around me. I have always wanted to become an airline pilot. I always get so excited whenever my family and I go to the airport to travel on vacation. Airplanes are my passion; everything about them gives me butterflies. I would be a great candidate because I am a leader and want to achieve my lifelong dream of becoming an airline pilot. I am proud to have already earned my private pilot license at 17. My dream would come true if I were to win.

Education

St Dominic Savio Catholic Hs

High School
2020 - 2024

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Bachelor's degree program

  • Majors of interest:

    • Commercial Aviation
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Airlines/Aviation

    • Dream career goals:

      Pilot

    • Private Pilot (Earned)

      Pilot's Choice Aviation
      2020 – 20233 years
    • Front of House Team Member

      Chick-Fil-A
      2021 – Present3 years

    Sports

    Soccer

    Club
    2010 – 20177 years

    Track & Field

    Varsity
    2016 – 20204 years

    Awards

    • 3x gold medal, 5x silver medal, 4x bronze medal

    Basketball

    Varsity
    2020 – Present4 years

    Awards

    • 2nd team All District

    Water Polo

    Club
    2018 – 20202 years

    Awards

    • First Place Cowtown Stampede Tournament

    Research

    • Aviation

      Pilot's Choice Aviation — Student
      2019 – 2023

    Arts

    • school

      band
      Texas Catholic School Band and orchestra festival
      2017 – Present

    Public services

    • Volunteering

      St Dominic Savio High School — Lead my grade "house" in program and sub-leader development
      2021 – 2023
    • Volunteering

      Boy Scouts — Leadership - Patrol leader, Quartermaster, Bugler
      2017 – Present
    • Volunteering

      Scouts of America — Leader of a Small Group
      2021 – 2022

    Future Interests

    Volunteering

    Philanthropy

    Krewe de HOU Scholarship
    Aviation has always been a place where I find my best self. It gives me a feeling of freedom that I cannot find anywhere else in my life. My interest emerged ever since I can remember. The feeling of lifting off the ground was something that put me in awe. I immediately knew that I wanted to fly for the rest of my life. I plan on earning a degree in Professional Flight and/or Aviation Management. With these degrees, I plan to contribute my skills and knowledge of aviation to better the safety and prosperity of the aviation industry. I strive to expand my network by communicating with various aviation professionals at nearby airports. I have flown with fellow pilots to learn about their aviation journey. Making a positive impact in the lives of those I serve is an aspect that I want to bring to aviation. I desire to share my love and joy for aviation through the people I serve. Specifically, these people would be passengers that I fly. If I can make them enjoy their flight, then that is a success in my book. My inspiration to pursue aviation began when I was a boy in elementary school. I wanted to travel the world and explore what the world has to offer. I saw flying as a unique pathway to explore various opportunities in life. Additionally, I view aviation as a challenge that I am willing to take on. I want to challenge myself in life so that I can continuously learn in life. My community holds a high priority in where I spend my time. As an Eagle Scout, I am active in the outdoors seeking to improve the conservation of the Earth. Additionally, I have aided churches and other non-profit organizations by constructing fences, landscaping property, and packaging food bags for the homeless. When I think of how I make an impact in my community I look back on a mission trip I attended at the Texas-Mexico border. I spent a week down there helping restore the homes of an impoverished community. I left that week feeling accomplished and happy inside knowing that I helped someone in need. I have a sizeable number of service hours and experience in a leadership position with organizations such as my school and Scouts of America. Specifically, I have been a troop guide and a quartermaster in Scouting. Through these positions, I have guided younger Scouts in their Scouting journey and held the responsibility of managing my troop’s trailer and its equipment. I strive to continue my leadership in and out of the classroom. Whether it be in Scouting or my job as a delivery driver, spreading joy and going out of my way to serve others in a Christ-like manner is my highest priority. Teamwork plays such a vital role in building up people's spirits. It is when we all work together that we bring the best out of people. helping others gives me a feeling that I cannot find anywhere else. This feeling is the voice of God speaking and working through me. Without God, I would not know where to go. God is my biggest role model and it is through Him that I lead and serve my community. He is my leader and I am his follower. I learn from Him and teach His ways to those I encounter in my life.
    McClendon Leadership Award
    In my opinion, leadership plays a crucial role in determining how communities, organizations, and individuals develop. It stands for the skill of inspiring people to reach their highest potential while simultaneously pursuing a common goal. To begin with, leadership is significant because of its ability to establish direction. A leader offers direction and a feeling of purpose for the future. They act as a compass, pointing a team or organization in the direction of their goal. People are inspired and motivated by this vision, which gives them a sense of purpose and meaning in their work. There wouldn't be any direction without leadership, which would cause uncertainty, inertia, and wasted potential. The capacity to motivate and enable others is a vital component of leadership. Strong leaders have the ability to awaken their team members' potential and passion. They foster an atmosphere where people are inspired, motivated, and valued to achieve success. Leaders assist their followers in developing both personally and professionally by providing guidance and support. Individuals gain from this empowerment, but it also contributes to the team's or organization's overall success. Additionally, leadership plays a key role in encouraging cooperation and teamwork. A strong leader is aware of the value of cooperation and unity. They make sure that everyone has a voice, respect differences in opinion, and promote open communication. Leaders may leverage the group's combined intelligence and creativity to solve problems creatively and more effectively by encouraging a collaborative culture. Leaders are crucial in the decision-making process as well. They are in charge of making difficult decisions, frequently in the face of extreme uncertainty and pressure. The ability to assess situations, balance advantages and disadvantages, and make well-informed decisions that support the objectives and core values of the company are necessary for leadership. Proficient leaders demonstrate self-assurance and modesty at the same time, accepting accountability and being receptive to criticism so they can grow from their mistakes. Furthermore, the maintenance of morale and the cultivation of a positive work environment are contingent upon leadership. It is within the power of leaders to foster an inclusive, respectful, and trusting culture. They set an example for others by acting in ways that reflect the morals and values they hold dear. Increased productivity, well-being, and employee satisfaction are all benefits of a healthy work environment. Finally, the ability to lead change and adjust to changing conditions is essential. In a world that is constantly changing, leaders need to be adaptable and strong. They ought to be able to guide their group through difficulties, emergencies, and changes. Good leaders encourage others to adapt and flourish in changing environments by exuding confidence in their ability to handle uncertainty. To sum up, everything that has been stated thus far, leadership is a dynamic and important concept that includes a range of traits and duties. It is essential for establishing goals, motivating and empowering people, encouraging teamwork, making choices, upholding morale, and bringing about change. In addition to influencing the prosperity of communities and organizations, leadership has an effect on people's personal development. It is the driving force behind our progress, giving us direction and hope for a brighter future. Because of this, leadership is essential to progress and is seen in all facets of our lives.
    Sean Carroll's Mindscape Big Picture Scholarship
    One of the core and unending pursuits of human curiosity has been the effort to solve the universe's mysteries. The need to learn more about the nature of our cosmos is engrained in our collective consciousness, as evidenced by the wonder with which ancient civilizations looked up at the night sky and the fascination with which modern scientists probe the depths of space. In this article, I will explain why I think it is imperative to carry out this project, examining the importance of knowing the nature of the cosmos and going over the theories and concepts that can be used to do so. Fundamentally, curiosity is what drives the human spirit; it is a strong force that pushes us to look for the answers to important questions. Our world has changed as a result of the revolutionary discoveries, scientific breakthroughs, and inventions brought about by this natural curiosity. This unquenchable thirst for knowledge manifests itself in the quest to comprehend the universe. Great thinkers like Galileo, Kepler, and Einstein have advanced human progress and revolutionized our worldviews by enriching our understanding of the cosmos over the ages. This never-ending search for knowledge symbolizes our relentless effort to solve the mysteries of the cosmos, and it is precisely this pursuit that propels us forward as a species. We explore the depths of the cosmos in search of knowledge, not only for its own sake but also for the usefulness it may provide. The understanding of the cosmos has practical applications, ranging from technological innovations to astronomical advancements. One example is the development of GPS technology, which is now essential to our everyday existence and resulted from research into celestial bodies. In addition, space exploration has sparked advances in robotics, materials science, and medicine. Since problems in space can frequently be solved with applications to problems on Earth, the quest for understanding the universe serves as a catalyst for progress. The theory of cosmic evolution is one of the fundamental concepts that can be used in the search for an understanding of the universe. The processes that have molded the universe over billions of years—from the Big Bang to the creation of galaxies, stars, and planets—are all included in this idea. We can learn more about the past, present, and future of our universe by researching cosmic evolution. This concept is fundamental to cosmology and astrophysics, enabling us to understand the past and predict the future of the universe. The enigmatic phenomena of dark matter and dark energy are other fascinating ideas. These things are mysterious and elusive even though they make up most of the universe. Understanding the composition and evolution of the universe requires unraveling the mysteries surrounding dark matter and dark energy. Discovering the mysteries of these unseen forces could lead to groundbreaking understandings of the fate of our universe, from its beginnings to its final state. The quest for cosmic understanding has significant ramifications for society. It stimulates advancements in science and technology, motivates the next generation, and promotes global cooperation. For example, the space exploration process promotes peaceful diplomacy and international cooperation. It also acts as a strong incentive for young people to seek professions in STEM fields—science, technology, engineering, and mathematics—which eventually spurs innovation and economic expansion. Moreover, addressing existential issues on Earth can be aided by space exploration. It provides information about resource management, climate change, and environmental sustainability. For example, learning about other planets can teach us important lessons about protecting our own. Furthermore, telecommunication, healthcare, and disaster management are areas where space technologies are useful. We can ensure a sustainable future and raise the standard of living on Earth by learning more about the universe. Comprehending the universe is not solely a question of scientific inquiry but also a moral obligation. We have a moral obligation to protect the environment and guarantee the welfare of future generations as stewards of the planet. Our understanding of the fragility and singularity of our home planet is enhanced by space exploration, which promotes a stronger sense of civic duty and global citizenship. Furthermore, there are significant ethical ramifications to the search for extraterrestrial life in addition to its scientific significance. Finding extraterrestrial life may cause us to reevaluate our beliefs about intelligence, life, and the universe. It might also transcend national and cultural barriers and bring humanity together in the face of a common cosmic identity. In conclusion, our natural curiosity and thirst for knowledge drive us to embark on a quest to comprehend the nature of our universe, which is an integral part of what it means to be human. Investigating the universe expands our knowledge of the cosmos, encourages creativity, and offers useful benefits. Promising directions for research include the unification of general relativity and quantum mechanics, multiverse theory, cosmic evolution, and dark matter and dark energy. This project has a wide range of social and ethical ramifications, from addressing existential issues and encouraging global citizenship to motivating the next generations and promoting international cooperation. We can improve our own lives, guarantee a sustainable future, and accept our place as cosmic citizens in a universe that is still to be explored by gaining a deeper understanding of the cosmos. Exploration is ingrained in our nature, and it helps us understand ourselves and our place in the universe better.
    Spider-Man Showdown Scholarship
    Tobey Maguire's big-screen adaptation of Spider-Man is my favorite. Even though a number of gifted actors have played the famous part, I will never forget Maguire's performance in Sam Raimi's Spider-Man trilogy (2002–2007). Above all, Tobey Maguire did a fantastic job of capturing the spirit of Peter Parker's persona. His portrayal of Peter as a wise, if slightly geeky, high school student added to the drama of his metamorphosis into the web-swinging superhero. Maguire conveyed the emotional burden of being a young hero tasked with defending New York City by focusing on Peter's inner conflict in his portrayal. His portrayal gave the role more nuance and relatability, enabling viewers to identify with Peter's struggles—from financial strain to a personal bereavement. On top of that, Maguire's Spider-Man was the first movie version of the character that genuinely embraced the adage "with great power comes great responsibility." A key component of the Spider-Man mythos, Maguire's portrayal revolved around this moral lesson. His Spider-Man continually wrestled with the fallout from his deeds, emphasizing the ethical conundrums that arise in a superhero's life. This gave the persona additional nuance and authenticity, elevating him above the status of a costumed action hero. There was also a noticeable chemistry between Maguire and the supporting cast, especially with Kirsten Dunst's portrayal of Mary Jane Watson. Their on-screen romance seemed sincere, and their bond gave the movie more depth emotionally. The touching parts of the show were also enhanced by Maguire's exchanges with Rosemary Harris's Aunt May. Sam Raimi, the trilogy's director, expertly combined humor, action, and character development. They blended the excitement of Spider-Man's spectacular web-swinging stunts with moving tales of introspection. The success of this blend was largely down to Maguire's performance, which effectively captured Peter Parker's inner anguish and emotional development. Although other actors, like Tom Holland and Andrew Garfield, have given their own distinctive takes on the character, Tobey Maguire's portrayal of Spider-Man is still my favorite because it captures the spirit of the essence, focuses on Peter Parker's emotional journey, and plays a significant part in the early success of the superhero film genre. For fans like myself who grew up with Maguire's portrayal of the famous character, Spider-Man will always have a special place in our hearts.
    Reasons To Be - In Memory of Jimmy Watts
    From the moment I first gazed upon the boundless sky, I knew that my destiny was to become a pilot. Earning my private pilot's license was a significant step on this journey, but my life experiences beyond aviation have played an equally profound role in shaping my core values and aspirations. My active involvement in Scouting and dedication to volunteering have instilled within me a profound sense of compassion, teamwork, and responsibility that directly influence my career and life goals. One of the most striking influences of my volunteer experiences is the development of a strong sense of compassion. Volunteering to bag food and groceries for those in need, assisting the elderly, and participating in conservation-related projects have made me acutely aware of the struggles faced by different members of my community. It has honed my ability to empathize with their challenges, fostering a deep sense of compassion within me. In my pursuit of a career as an airline pilot, this compassion is a guiding light. My role as a pilot extends beyond the technical aspects of flying; it encompasses the responsibility of ensuring the well-being and comfort of my passengers. Understanding their needs and concerns, and responding to them with empathy, is a core value that my volunteer experiences have etched into my character. My involvement in Scouting has taught me the true meaning of teamwork and leadership. As a Scout, I've had the privilege of working with diverse groups of individuals on a range of projects and initiatives. Whether it was planning and executing camping trips, leading teams in community service activities, or collaborating on merit badge programs, teamwork has always been at the heart of our achievements. The aviation industry is no different; it thrives on the collective effort of multiple individuals, from the flight crew to the ground staff. Teamwork is an integral part of ensuring the safety and success of each flight. The leadership skills I've cultivated in Scouting, including effective communication, problem-solving, and decision-making, will serve me well in my aviation career. Responsibility and discipline have been two other crucial values instilled in me through my journey as a pilot and my volunteer experiences. Earning a private pilot's license requires rigorous training, meticulous planning, and unwavering attention to detail. This has ingrained in me a deep sense of responsibility. As I venture into my career, I recognize that the aviation industry is defined by strict safety protocols and adherence to regulations. My discipline and sense of responsibility will be vital in ensuring that I consistently prioritize the safety and well-being of passengers and crew members. My volunteer work in conservation projects has heightened my environmental awareness and concern. This sense of responsibility extends beyond my immediate community and embraces a commitment to safeguarding the planet. As the aviation industry increasingly emphasizes sustainability, I aspire to contribute by exploring and promoting eco-friendly practices. My commitment to environmental conservation aligns with this industry-wide focus on reducing the carbon footprint of air travel. In conclusion, my volunteer experiences, complemented by my involvement in Scouting, have played a profound role in shaping my core values and influencing my career and life goals. Compassion, teamwork, responsibility, and environmental awareness are qualities that I carry with me in my pursuit of becoming an airline pilot. These values are not just personal attributes but essential components of being a conscientious and empathetic pilot, dedicated to the safety and well-being of passengers, the efficiency of flights, and the sustainability of aviation. They are the wings that will carry me toward achieving my dreams and making a positive impact on the world.
    Harry Potter and the Sorting Hat Scholarship
    If I were a student at Hogwarts, I believe I would be sorted into Hufflepuff. It is within the cozy embrace of this warm and welcoming house that I would find the perfect fit for my character. Hufflepuff, known for its emphasis on hard work, loyalty, and fairness, is a house that reveres the qualities of compassion and service to others. This is where I would feel most at home, as I have always strived to be a determined and passionate individual, eager to make a positive impact on the world, especially through my love for aviation. Aviation, a field that has captured my heart and soul, epitomizes the qualities of determination and passion. To soar through the skies, to navigate complex machines, and to transport people safely from one place to another requires unwavering dedication and the spirit to chase dreams. These qualities, which have led me to pursue a career in aviation, align with Hufflepuff's emphasis on hard work. Hufflepuffs, much like aviation enthusiasts, understand the value of putting in the effort and striving for excellence in all that they do. However, it is not just the shared attributes of determination and passion that place me in Hufflepuff, but also my unceasing desire to help others and serve my community. In Hufflepuff, the value of loyalty is cherished, and loyalty to one's community is a fundamental aspect of my character. The aviation community, like Hufflepuff, fosters a sense of belonging and cooperation. We work together to ensure safety and to assist fellow pilots and passengers in times of need. Whether it's mentoring aspiring aviators or participating in community outreach programs related to aviation, I find great fulfillment in serving and supporting my fellow aviation enthusiasts and the broader community. Hufflepuff's commitment to fairness and justice resonates deeply with me. In the aviation industry, fairness is paramount as we strive to provide equitable access to the wonders of flight for people from all walks of life. This mirrors Hufflepuff's philosophy of embracing diversity and inclusiveness. In my aviation endeavors, I aim to create a more equitable and accessible aviation world, breaking down barriers and sharing the joy of flight with everyone. Beyond Aviation, my passion for serving the community aligns with Hufflepuff's core values. I have always been drawn to opportunities where I can contribute to the betterment of society. Whether it's volunteering at local charities or engaging in community service projects, the satisfaction of giving back to the community is a driving force in my life. This philanthropic spirit, combined with a dedication to hard work and the pursuit of my aviation dreams, makes Hufflepuff the house where I would undoubtedly belong. Hufflepuffs are often described as friendly and dependable individuals, traits I strive to embody daily. In the aviation world, being dependable is not just a quality; it's a necessity. Passengers and crew members rely on the pilot's unwavering commitment to safety and professionalism. The ability to maintain a friendly demeanor, even in the face of adversity, is a hallmark of a great aviator, much like a Hufflepuff striving to make lasting connections with their peers. In conclusion, it is within the loving and inclusive embrace of Hufflepuff that I would find my perfect fit at Hogwarts. My determination and passion for aviation and my desire to help others and serve my community align harmoniously with Hufflepuff's values of hard work, loyalty, and fairness. The aviation community and the Hufflepuff House share a common thread of unity, inclusiveness, and the pursuit of excellence.
    Spirit of Wenatchee Aviation Scholarship
    Aviation has always been a place where I find my best self. It gives me a feeling of freedom that I cannot find anywhere else in my life. My interest emerged ever since I can remember. The feeling of lifting off the ground was something that put me in awe. I immediately knew that I wanted to fly for the rest of my life. I plan on earning a degree in Professional Flight and/or Aviation Management. With these degrees, I plan to contribute my skills and knowledge of aviation to better the safety and prosperity of the aviation industry. Making a positive impact in the lives of those I serve is an aspect that I want to bring to aviation. I desire to share my love and joy for aviation through the people I serve. Specifically, these people would be passengers that I fly. If I can make them enjoy their flight, then that is a success in my book. My inspiration to pursue aviation began when I was a boy in elementary school. I wanted to travel the world and explore what the world has to offer. I saw flying as a unique pathway to explore various opportunities in life. Additionally, I view aviation as a challenge that I am willing to take on. I want to challenge myself in life so that I can continuously learn in life. My community holds a high priority in where I spend my time. As an Eagle Scout, I am active in the outdoors seeking to improve the conservation of the Earth. Additionally, I have aided churches and other non-profit organizations by constructing fences, landscaping property, and packaging food bags for the homeless. When I think of how I make an impact in my community I look back on a mission trip I attended at the Texas-Mexico border. I spent a week down there helping restore the homes of an impoverished community. I left that week feeling accomplished and happy inside knowing that I helped someone in need. I have a sizeable number of service hours and experience in a leadership position with organizations such as my school and Scouts of America. Specifically, I have been a troop guide and a quartermaster in Scouting. Through these positions, I have guided younger Scouts in their Scouting journey and held the responsibility of managing my troop’s trailer and its equipment. Pertaining to the aviation community, I strive to expand my network by communicating with various aviation professionals at nearby airports. I have flown with fellow pilots to learn about their aviation journey and to further expand my network.
    Craig Huffman Memorial Scholarship
    Aviation has always been a place where I find my best self. It gives me a feeling of freedom that I cannot find anywhere else in my life. My interest emerged ever since I can remember. The feeling of lifting off the ground was something that put me in awe. I immediately knew that I wanted to fly for the rest of my life. The sky feels like a safe place for me, free of worry and stress. It is a place where I can go to escape the stresses of the various aspects of my life. Additionally, I became attracted by the raw beauty that is portrayed in the sky. I wanted to travel the world and explore what the world has to offer. I saw flying as a unique pathway to explore various opportunities in life. Furthermore, I viewed aviation as a challenge that I was willing to take on. I wanted to challenge myself in life so that I could continuously learn in life. As far as the social life in aviation, everyone is inviting and loves to share their story about aviation. I truly could not find this anywhere else in any other industry. People in aviation love to share their love and passion for aviation. I wanted to have that same passion as them so that I could share it with people I meet. Through other pilots, I have seen the vast network of people they know and encounter. Aviation presents an opportunity to expand one's social circle, unlike any other job. My leadership qualities are exemplified in various ways and aspects. I thrive in social interactions by working with other people. As a leader in school and Scouts of America, I am an exceptional communicator who knows how to articulate ideas to peers and friends. Being intentional is a quality I exemplify specifically as a communicator. I have to make decisions thoroughly and think ahead about what the best possible outcome could be. I could very easily translate this to the aviation industry. I lead with an open mind, as well. Listening to the people I lead is important in order to maintain a good-standing reputation. I want to learn from those I lead because I will admit that I do not know it all. This way of thinking is an important quality that I exemplify. I hold an organized system of responsibility as a leader. I am capable of balancing a great deal of responsibility so that I can satisfy the needs of those that I lead. I have the capacity to prioritize my responsibilities and act upon them in an orderly fashion. This takes a great deal of skill, which I have acquired over my years of experience as a leader. My leadership qualities will help me better the aviation industry as a pilot.