Sustainability should be a priority in business because businesses have a major effect on the environment and the communities around them. Every day, companies make choices about how they use energy, water, materials, and other resources. Those decisions can either protect the environment or harm it. I believe sustainability is important because we only have one planet, and it is our responsibility to take care of it for future generations. Growing up in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina has made me appreciate nature and understand why protecting the environment matters so much. Living in a rural mountain community has shown me how connected people are to the land. The mountains, forests, rivers, and lakes are not only beautiful, but they also support local businesses, tourism, and outdoor activities. Many families in my area depend on the environment for their jobs and way of life. If the environment is damaged by pollution, waste, or careless development, it affects the entire community. Because I was raised surrounded by the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, I want to help protect them so future generations can enjoy the same environment that I grew up in. My own life experiences have taught me the value of responsibility and perseverance. I have faced several medical challenges, including Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), Hashimoto’s hyperthyroidism, and celiac disease. Managing these conditions has required discipline and taught me how important it is to take care of my health and make responsible choices. I also struggled with dyslexia and needed extra help in school when I was younger. Even though learning was difficult at times, I worked hard and learned how to overcome those challenges. Today, I am taking mostly college-level classes and expect to graduate with a 4.0 weighted GPA. These experiences taught me to stay determined and continue working toward my goals no matter how difficult things become. I have also gained responsibility through sports and work. I have played soccer and golf at Smoky Mountain High School, and sports taught me leadership, patience, and teamwork. Since I was 15 years old, I have worked part-time jobs, including running my own weed eating business, working at Kosta’s Express, and working at Mountain Top Golf and Lake Club as a valet and shuttle driver. Through these experiences, I learned about customer service, hard work, and business operations. Working around successful professionals at the golf club also inspired me to study Business Management and Marketing at Western Carolina University. In the future, I want to become an entrepreneur and own my own business. I believe businesses can succeed while also protecting the environment. I hope to use sustainable practices such as reducing waste, recycling, conserving energy, and supporting local products and services whenever possible. I also want to encourage environmentally friendly choices within my community and show others that businesses can make a positive impact. My goal is to build a successful business while also giving back to the rural community where I was raised and helping preserve the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains for many years to come.

My name is Matthew Thomas, and I am a high school senior who is passionate about business, leadership, and helping others. My goal is to study Business Management at Western Carolina University and eventually become an entrepreneur who builds a business that is successful while also giving back to the community. I am interested in entrepreneurship because I enjoy working hard, solving problems, and seeing the results of my effort. Through my work experience at a family-owned restaurant and as a valet and shuttle driver at Mountaintop Golf and Lake Club, I have learned how businesses operate and what it takes to serve customers well. These jobs taught me responsibility, teamwork, and professionalism. I have also had the opportunity to speak with business owners and professionals while working, and their stories about building and managing businesses inspired me to pursue entrepreneurship as a career. In the future, I plan to start a business that creates value for my community while also helping others grow. My goal is to build a company that provides job opportunities for local people and supports community programs that assist families in need. I want my business to do more than generate income,I want it to make a positive impact. I believe entrepreneurship is most meaningful when it is used to improve the lives of others and strengthen the community. I have already begun giving back to my community in several ways. One of the most meaningful experiences I had was volunteering with Mercy Chefs during hurricane relief efforts after Hurricane Helene in 2024. I helped prepare and serve meals to families who had lost homes, power, and access to food. This experience showed me how quickly people’s lives can change and how important it is to step up during times of need. It also helped me understand the importance of compassion and service. I have also volunteered for several years at the Future Mustangs Soccer Camp, where I helped coach younger athletes. I worked with kids to teach soccer skills, encourage teamwork, and build confidence. As a varsity soccer player and team captain, it was important for me to give back to a program that helped me grow as an athlete and leader. This experience taught me patience, communication, and leadership. In addition to volunteering, I have worked at Kostas Express, a local family-owned restaurant, where I developed strong customer service skills and learned how to work in a fast-paced environment. I also serve my community through long-term maintenance work with the Torwood Homeowners Association, helping keep roadsides clean and safe. My experiences have also shaped me through personal challenges. I have lived with medical conditions from a young age, which taught me resilience, patience, and the importance of not giving up when things are difficult. These challenges helped me develop a strong work ethic and a desire to help others who are facing struggles of their own. As I move forward, I want to use entrepreneurship as a way to give back. My goal is to build a career where I can create opportunities for others, support my community, and continue serving in meaningful ways. I believe success is not only about personal achievement, but also about the impact you have on the people around you. Thank you for your consideration.

My name is Matthew Thomas, and I’m a senior at Smoky Mountain High School. My journey has been shaped by hard work, determination, and never giving up, even when life got tough. Growing up, I faced challenges most people never see. I was diagnosed with several medical conditions, including Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), Hashimoto’s hyperthyroidism, and celiac disease. Managing them has meant years of doctor visits and strict routines, but they’ve taught me something powerful: how to stay strong, speak up for myself, and keep moving forward no matter what. Learning hasn’t always come easy for me either. Because of my reading struggles, I had to repeat kindergarten, and I received extra help through elementary and middle school. I have dyslexia, and while it made learning frustrating at times, it also taught me patience and resilience. By high school, I had found ways to work through those challenges on my own and no longer needed an IEP. Pushing through those early obstacles helped me become a problem solver who doesn’t quit when things get hard. Even with everything I’ve faced, I’ve kept my grades strong and challenged myself academically. I’m currently taking mostly college-level classes, and by the end of this school year, I expect to graduate with a 4.0 weighted GPA. Outside the classroom, I’ve stayed active in sports and other interests that have helped shape who I am. I’ve played soccer for Smoky Mountain for four years, spending two years on varsity and one year as Team Captain. I’ve also been on the Smoky Mountain golf team for two years. Along with school and sports, I’ve worked hard to be independent. I’ve been responsible for buying my own car and paying for all my own payments and maintenance. Since I was 15, I’ve worked part-time jobs to help support myself. My first job was running my own small weed-eating business for my homeowner’s association. That’s when I discovered how much I enjoy working for myself and seeing the results of my effort. Later, I spent three years working at Kosta’s Express, a local family-owned restaurant, where I learned what it takes to keep a business running smoothly and serve customers well. During the summer before my senior year, I worked full time as a valet and shuttle driver at Mountain Top Golf and Lake Club. I was responsible for safely driving resort members to and from airports in Atlanta, Greenville Spartanburg, and Asheville. On those long trips, I had the chance to talk with and learn from many successful business owners and CEOs. Hearing their stories and advice inspired me even more to follow my dream of becoming an entrepreneur. I plan to return to this job in May so I can continue building my skills, saving money, and learning from the professionals I meet. All of these experiences have shaped the person I am today and the goals I’m chasing for my future. I plan to study Business Management and Marketing at Western Carolina University, where I can continue building my leadership and entrepreneurial skills. Western stands out to me because of its strong business program, supportive professors, and hands-on learning opportunities. My long term goal is to start and run a business that is not only successful, but also creates opportunities for others. I want to build something that provides jobs, serves my community, and reflects the work ethic and resilience I have developed through my experiences. I’m excited to keep learning, growing, and using my education, along with my work experience and determination, to build a business that expands over time and makes a lasting positive impact. Thank you for considering me, Matthew Thomas

What drives me to be the best I can be is everything I’ve had to overcome and the goals I’ve set for my future. Growing up, I was diagnosed with several medical conditions, and I also struggled in school because of dyslexia. At times, it felt like I had to work twice as hard just to keep up. I had to go to many doctor appointments and follow strict routines, and school was often frustrating. But those challenges taught me an important lesson early on: I couldn’t give up on myself. Over time, I learned how to push through those struggles. I worked hard to improve in school and learned how to ask for help when I needed it. I began to advocate for myself and take responsibility for my learning. By high school, I was no longer relying on extra support and was taking mostly college-level classes. I’m proud to have stayed on honor roll and worked toward earning a 4.0 weighted GPA. To me, ambition means having goals and putting in the effort every day to reach them, even when things are difficult. It’s not just about success, but about staying consistent and never quitting. I’ve shown this by balancing many responsibilities at once. I’ve been involved in sports, including varsity soccer where I served as team captain, while also working since I was 15. At the same time, I’ve taken on financial responsibility for myself by paying for my own car, gas, and other expenses. Learning how to manage my time and money has helped me become more independent and disciplined. The challenges I’ve faced have shaped who I am today. Instead of holding me back, they have motivated me to keep improving and to build a better future for myself. They’ve also inspired my goal of becoming an entrepreneur, where I can create something meaningful and provide opportunities for others. I plan to attend Western Carolina University to study business, where I can continue building my skills and knowledge. One day, I hope to open my own business and create opportunities not just for myself, but for others in my community. In the end, what drives me is the belief that hard work pays off. I want to continue pushing myself, learning from my experiences, and becoming the best version of myself in everything I do. I know there will be more challenges ahead, but I feel prepared to face them with confidence and determination.

I have always been someone who enjoys thinking creatively and finding solutions to problems. One of my biggest goals in life is to become a successful entrepreneur. I believe entrepreneurship is about seeing opportunities where others see problems and creating something that improves people’s lives. One example of this happened in my neighborhood. Our neighborhood association needed someone to cut the grass for the entire neighborhood, but they were having trouble finding a company that would consistently take care of the work. Instead of waiting for someone else to solve the problem, I decided to start a small lawn care business myself. At first, it was just an idea, but I quickly realized that if I planned it out and worked hard, I could make it happen. I organized what equipment I would need, planned how I would manage the work, and spoke with members of the neighborhood about the opportunity. Eventually, I was able to start handling the mowing for the neighborhood. Starting this small business taught me a lot about responsibility, problem-solving, and leadership. It showed me that sometimes the best solutions come from people who are willing to step up and try something new. I also learned that running a business requires discipline, communication, and a strong work ethic. The experience made me even more excited about becoming an entrepreneur in the future. If I had the funding and resources to create a larger solution, I would develop a platform that connects neighborhoods with reliable local service providers for things like lawn care, snow removal, landscaping, and other maintenance services. Many neighborhoods struggle to find dependable companies that will take care of these responsibilities consistently. My idea would be to build an online platform where neighborhoods or homeowners associations could easily find and hire trusted local workers or small businesses in their area. The platform would allow service providers to create profiles, list their services, and receive reviews from customers. This would make it easier for neighborhoods to find dependable help while also giving local entrepreneurs opportunities to grow their businesses. The platform could also include scheduling tools, automatic payments, and communication features to make the process simple for both sides. By making it easier for neighborhoods and service providers to connect, this idea could help solve a common problem while also supporting small local businesses. Experiences like starting my lawn care service have helped me realize how much I enjoy creating solutions and building things from my ideas. In the future, I plan to study Business Management and Entrepreneurship so that I can continue developing the skills needed to turn ideas into successful businesses. I believe creativity is one of the most powerful tools for solving problems in the world. My goal is to continue using creativity, hard work, and determination to build businesses that improve communities and create opportunities for others.

One movie that has had a powerful impact on my life is Saving Private Ryan. The film tells the story of a group of soldiers during World War II who risk everything to find and bring home a single soldier whose brothers have all been killed in combat. While the movie is known for its intense battle scenes, the deeper message about sacrifice, leadership, and responsibility is what truly stayed with me. What impacted me most about the movie is the idea that every action we take can affect other people in ways we might not always realize. Captain Miller and his team were willing to risk their lives for someone they didn’t even know. That level of sacrifice shows how powerful duty, loyalty, and character can be. It made me think about the responsibility we have to honor the sacrifices that others have made before us. One of the most meaningful moments in the movie is when Captain Miller tells Private Ryan to “earn this.” That message really stuck with me. To me, it means that the opportunities we have in life come from the sacrifices of people before us, and it is our responsibility to make the most of them. Education is one of those opportunities. Many people fought, struggled, and sacrificed to create the freedoms and opportunities we have today, including the ability to pursue higher education. Watching Saving Private Ryan made me reflect on how important it is to live a life with purpose. It reminded me that success is not just about personal achievements, but also about the impact we have on others. Just like the soldiers in the film relied on teamwork and leadership, success in life often requires working together with others and supporting the people around us. The movie also reinforced the importance of resilience and courage. The soldiers in the film faced extremely difficult circumstances, yet they continued to push forward and complete their mission. That mindset has influenced the way I approach challenges in my own life. Whether it is balancing school, athletics, or running my own lawn care business that I started when I was fourteen, I try to approach every challenge with determination and a willingness to keep pushing forward. In the future, I want to use my education to build a successful career and make a positive impact on the people around me. Just as the soldiers in Saving Private Ryan demonstrated leadership and commitment to something greater than themselves, I hope to carry those same values into my own life. I want to build a future where I not only achieve my personal goals but also help others succeed and grow. Saving Private Ryan is more than just a war movie. It is a powerful reminder that sacrifice, leadership, and responsibility shape the world we live in today. The message to “earn this” continues to motivate me to work hard, take advantage of my opportunities, and strive to build a future that honors the sacrifices that came before me.

Being raised in a household where my parents constantly supported and believed in me has had a major impact on who I am today. Even though life can bring challenges, my parents always made sure I understood the value of hard work, responsibility, and perseverance. Their support and guidance shaped my goals and pushed me to become the motivated person I am today. My parents have always been huge supporters in my life, and I owe much of my work ethic and determination to them. My dad is the one who taught me the importance of giving 100 percent in everything I do. He always told me that if something is worth doing, it is worth doing the right way. Because of that mindset, I started working when I was fourteen years old. What started as a way to make some extra money quickly turned into something much bigger. At fourteen, I started my own lawn care business. I began by cutting a few lawns in my neighborhood, but over time the business grew. As I gained more experience and built relationships with people in the community, I expanded from small residential lawns to working with entire neighborhood associations. Running my own business at such a young age taught me valuable lessons about responsibility, communication, leadership, and problem-solving. It also showed me how much can be accomplished through consistency and hard work. My mom has also played an important role in helping guide me in the right direction. She encouraged me to set goals and take responsibility for my future. One of the best pieces of advice she gave me was to buy my own car and work toward paying for it myself. That advice motivated me even more. Since then, I have continued working and saving while balancing school, athletics, and my other responsibilities. Making my own car payment while maintaining good grades and staying involved in sports has pushed me to mature faster than many students my age. It has taught me how to manage my time, stay disciplined, and remain focused on my goals. Growing up with parents who constantly encouraged me to work hard has also shaped my vision for the future. I want to become a successful entrepreneur and continue building businesses that create opportunities for others. My lawn care business showed me how rewarding it can be to build something from the ground up, and it inspired me to think about other ventures in the future, including starting a transportation business. I have even taken steps toward that goal by discussing ideas with potential investors. In the future, I hope to use my talents and entrepreneurial mindset to build businesses that help people and strengthen communities. I want to create opportunities for others the same way my parents created opportunities for me through their support and encouragement. Their example has shown me that success is not just about personal achievement but about using your abilities to help others grow as well. Everything I have accomplished so far traces back to the lessons my parents taught me. Their belief in me, their guidance, and their example of hard work have motivated me to push myself every day. I hope to continue building on those lessons and create a future that not only makes them proud but also allows me to give back and help others succeed.

I admire Sabrina Carpenter not only because of her talent but also because of the way she has grown and evolved throughout her career. Watching her journey from a Disney Channel star on Girl Meets World to a successful artist in music and film shows how dedication, creativity, and confidence can help someone reach their goals. Her ability to grow as an artist while staying authentic has made her someone I respect and look up to. When I first became familiar with Sabrina Carpenter, it was through her role as Maya Hart on Girl Meets World. Her character stood out because Maya was confident, funny, and unafraid to be herself. That message stuck with me because it showed that being genuine and embracing who you are is something to be proud of. As Sabrina’s career continued to grow, I also started listening to her music. Songs like Espresso and Please Please Please show not only her talent as a performer but also her confidence and creativity as an artist. Her music has a unique style and personality that makes it stand out, and it reflects how she has continued to develop and find her voice. What inspires me most about Sabrina Carpenter is how she has continued to push herself and evolve throughout her career. She didn’t stay limited to one role or one type of success. Instead, she continued working, improving, and exploring new opportunities in music, acting, and entertainment. That level of ambition is something I admire and try to apply in my own life. As someone who hopes to become a successful entrepreneur in the future, I look at Sabrina Carpenter’s career as an example of how hard work, creativity, and confidence can lead to success. She built a career by believing in her abilities and continuing to grow, and that mindset is something I try to carry into my own goals. Her journey reminds me that success doesn’t happen overnight. It takes dedication, persistence, and the willingness to keep improving. Seeing how Sabrina Carpenter has grown throughout her career motivates me to keep working toward my own ambitions and believe that with effort and determination, anything is possible.

Faith has played an important role in shaping who I am and how I approach life. My belief in God has helped guide me through challenges, given me strength during difficult times, and reminded me to stay grounded in honesty and integrity. I believe my faith has helped shape not only the person I am today but also the person I hope to become in the future. One of the most important moments that strengthened my faith happened when I was very young. When I was three years old, I almost died from Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP), a condition that affects blood platelets and can cause severe bleeding. It was a very difficult time for my family, and looking back on it, I truly believe God played a major role in why I am still here today. Surviving that experience has always reminded me that life is a gift and that I have been given a purpose. Because of that, I feel motivated to work hard and make the most of every opportunity I am given. Growing up with ITP has required me to be careful about injuries and bruising, but it has also taught me resilience and discipline. In addition to that challenge, I also live with Celiac disease, which requires me to maintain a strict gluten-free diet to stay healthy. I have also worked through a reading disability that made certain parts of school more difficult. At times these challenges have been frustrating, but my faith has helped me stay positive and continue moving forward. I believe challenges can help us grow stronger and develop perseverance. My faith has also guided the way I approach my goals and my work ethic. When I was fourteen years old, I started my own lawn care business. What began as a small way to earn money turned into an experience that taught me responsibility, discipline, and the importance of treating people with respect. Over time, I expanded my business from mowing individual lawns to maintaining small properties and even working with neighborhood associations. Running my own business taught me that success is built on trust, honesty, and hard work. My faith reminds me that success should never come at the cost of integrity. Instead, I believe success should come from helping others and doing the right thing. In the future, I plan to study Business Management and Entrepreneurship in college so that I can continue building businesses and creating opportunities for others. I have even begun exploring ideas such as starting a transportation business and speaking with potential investors to learn more about what it takes to build a successful company. As I pursue my career, my faith will continue to guide my decisions. In business and in life, I want to remain honest, work hard, and treat others with fairness and respect. Surviving a life-threatening condition at a young age has always reminded me that my life has meaning and purpose, and I want to use the opportunities I have been given to make a positive difference in the world.

Education has played a major role in shaping my goals and giving me direction for my future. Over time, I have realized that education is much more than learning facts in a classroom. It is a tool that allows people to grow, overcome challenges, and create opportunities for themselves and others. Through my experiences in school, sports, and running my own small business, I have learned that education can help turn determination and creativity into real success. One of the biggest ways education has shaped my future goals is through my interest in entrepreneurship. From a young age, I have always enjoyed thinking creatively and finding ways to solve problems. I have always looked for opportunities where others might only see challenges. That mindset eventually led me to start my own small business when I was just fourteen years old. At fourteen, I started a lawn care business in my community. What originally began as a simple way to earn money quickly became a valuable learning experience. Running the business required me to take responsibility for my work, communicate with customers, manage my time, and make sure every job was completed properly. It also taught me that building something successful takes patience, consistency, and effort over time. As I continued working, my business slowly began to grow. I expanded from mowing individual lawns to maintaining small properties and eventually working with entire neighborhood associations. One example was when my neighborhood association needed someone to take care of the landscaping for the whole community. They were having trouble finding a reliable company that could consistently handle the work. Because I had already been running my business and building trust with people in my community, I stepped up and offered to take on the responsibility. Expanding my business to serve larger properties and neighborhood associations taught me even more about leadership, organization, and problem-solving. I had to manage larger workloads, communicate with more clients, and make sure everything was done efficiently. This experience showed me that entrepreneurship is not just about having an idea—it is about being willing to take action, work hard, and follow through on commitments. Because of these experiences, I have become passionate about pursuing entrepreneurship as a career. I plan to study Business Management and Entrepreneurship in college so that I can develop the skills needed to build successful businesses. Education will help me better understand important areas like leadership, finance, marketing, and strategy. Having this knowledge will allow me to turn creative ideas into sustainable businesses that create opportunities for others. Although I have had opportunities to learn and grow, my journey has also included challenges that required perseverance. One challenge I have faced is a reading disability that has made certain parts of school more difficult. At times, this meant I had to put in extra effort to understand material or complete assignments. However, instead of allowing that challenge to hold me back, I worked hard to improve and used the resources available to help me succeed. This experience taught me patience and determination, and it helped me develop a strong work ethic. In addition to academic challenges, I also live with Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP), a condition that affects blood platelets and requires me to be careful about bruising and injuries. I also have Celiac disease, which means I must follow a strict gluten-free diet to stay healthy. Managing these conditions has required discipline and responsibility. I have learned to pay close attention to my health and take care of myself so that I can continue pursuing my goals. While these challenges have not always been easy, they have made me stronger and more determined. They have taught me resilience and helped me understand the importance of staying focused even when obstacles appear. These lessons apply not only to school but also to business and life in general. In the future, I hope to use my education to create a better future not only for myself but also for others. My goal is to build businesses that solve real problems and create opportunities in the communities around me. One business idea I have already explored is starting a transportation company in the future. I have even begun discussing this idea with potential investors in order to better understand what it takes to build a company in that industry. These conversations have helped me learn more about planning, networking, and the level of commitment required to succeed in business. To me, creating a better future means more than achieving personal success. It means building something meaningful that provides opportunities for others and helps strengthen communities. Entrepreneurship allows people to create jobs, solve problems, and bring new ideas to life. I want to be someone who contributes to that kind of progress. Looking back on my journey so far, I realize that education has played an important role in shaping who I am becoming. It has helped guide my goals, given me the tools to overcome challenges, and inspired me to continue working toward a meaningful future. Through dedication, creativity, and hard work, I hope to use my education to build successful businesses and create opportunities that positively impact others. Education has given me direction, but my determination and experiences have given me purpose. By continuing to learn, grow, and pursue entrepreneurship, I hope to create a future where I can turn ideas into solutions and contribute to building a better tomorrow.

In college, I plan to study Business Management and Entrepreneurship because I want to gain the knowledge and skills needed to build and run successful businesses. I have always enjoyed thinking creatively and turning ideas into solutions. Studying business will help me understand leadership, finance, marketing, and strategy all essential for growing and sustaining a company. My interest in entrepreneurship began at the age of fourteen, when I started my own lawn care business. What began as a small way to earn money quickly became a real learning experience. Running the business taught me responsibility, time management, communication, and the value of hard work. I had to manage equipment, schedule jobs, and ensure every lawn was done correctly. The experience showed me that entrepreneurship is not just about ideas; it’s about action, follow-through, and consistently delivering results. Over time, I was able to expand my business beyond individual homes to serve small properties and entire neighborhood associations. One example of this came when a local neighborhood association needed a reliable company to maintain all their properties. Using the foundation I had built with my lawn care business, I stepped in and provided consistent service for the entire neighborhood. Expanding my business in this way taught me how to scale operations, manage more complex logistics, and communicate effectively with multiple clients at once. It also reinforced my passion for creating solutions that help others. In addition to lawn care, I have continued to explore new business ideas. One concept I am particularly excited about is starting a transportation business. I have even begun talking with potential investors to better understand what it takes to build a company in that industry. These experiences have taught me the importance of networking, planning, and learning from others who have experience in business. I believe I will be successful in business because I am willing to work hard, stay disciplined, and learn from both successes and failures. Many businesses fail because people give up when challenges arise or are unprepared for the responsibility that comes with entrepreneurship. Sports like soccer and golf have taught me the value of discipline, perseverance, and focus, and these lessons carry over directly to running a business. Higher education will provide the foundation I need to turn ideas into successful ventures. By studying Business Management and Entrepreneurship, I will gain the tools to understand markets, make informed decisions, and scale businesses effectively. To me, a successful life means more than financial success. It means building businesses that solve problems, create opportunities, and positively impact communities. Entrepreneurship requires creativity, dedication, and courage, and through expanding my lawn care business and developing new ideas, I have already started that journey. With education and continued effort, I am confident I can turn these ideas into meaningful success.

Golf has taught me many lessons over the years, but the most important lesson I have learned is patience and perseverance. Unlike many sports, golf constantly challenges you mentally and emotionally. Every round is different, and even when you practice hard, things do not always go the way you expect. Learning how to stay patient, focused, and committed to improvement has been the biggest lesson golf has taught me. I was first introduced to golf by my grandpa, who taught me how to play and helped me develop a love for the game. After every round, whether I played well or struggled, he is the first person I call to talk about how I did. My grandpa is retired Army, and through golf he has helped instill in me values like honor, honesty, and respect. He has always reminded me that golf is not just about playing well but also about the way you carry yourself and treat others on and off the course. Golf requires patience and discipline. There are days when everything feels right and my swing comes naturally, but there are also days when I have to work harder to stay focused and positive. Golf teaches you how to respond when things do not go your way. A bad shot cannot ruin your entire round unless you let it. Instead, you have to move forward, focus on the next shot, and keep improving. That mindset has helped me grow not only as a golfer but also as a person. Being on my high school golf team for the past two years has also helped shape my character. Even though golf is often seen as an individual sport, being part of a team has shown me the value of supporting others. Encouraging teammates, celebrating their successes, and helping each other improve has made the experience even more meaningful. Working at Mountaintop Golf & Lake Club has also given me a unique opportunity to grow. Because of my job there, I have been able to practice on a beautiful course and be around talented players. I have even received advice from golfers who have played at a very high level. Listening to their insights about practice habits, course management, and mental focus has helped me understand what it takes to keep improving. Golf has also helped me build resilience while facing personal challenges. I live with Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP), a condition that affects blood platelets, and I also have Celiac disease, which requires me to follow a strict gluten free diet. Managing these conditions has taught me to take responsibility for my health and stay disciplined in my daily life. In addition, I have worked through a reading disability that has made school more challenging at times. Just like in golf, these challenges have required patience and persistence. In the future, I plan to use the lessons golf has taught me as I continue my education and work toward my goals. The patience, discipline, and perseverance I have learned on the course will help me face challenges with confidence and determination. Golf has shown me that improvement takes time and effort, and that mindset will guide me throughout my life. The lessons I have learned through golf go far beyond the game itself. They have helped shape my character and prepared me for the future, teaching me that success comes from dedication, integrity, and the willingness to keep improving every day.

Soccer has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I started playing when I was three years old, and now at eighteen, the sport has helped shape who I am as a person. Over the years I have experienced both incredible highs and difficult lows, and each moment has taught me important lessons about discipline, perseverance, and teamwork. One of the hardest moments in my soccer career happened during my senior season. In the middle of the season, I suffered an injury that kept me off the field for three weeks. As a starting center attacking midfielder who had played varsity my entire career, it was extremely difficult to sit on the sidelines while my teammates continued to compete. Soccer had always been something I relied on every day, and suddenly I was unable to help my team the way I wanted to. Those weeks were frustrating, but they also taught me patience and resilience. Instead of letting the injury discourage me, I focused on recovery and staying positive for my teammates. I continued to support the team from the sidelines and worked hard to get back into playing shape as soon as possible. That experience reminded me that setbacks are a part of any journey, and what truly matters is how you respond to them. While that injury was a low point, one of the greatest moments of my soccer career came earlier in my senior season during our very first game. In the second half of that game, I scored a hat trick to help lead my team to victory. It was an unforgettable moment because all the hard work, training, and dedication I had put into the sport over the years came together in one game. Seeing my teammates celebrate and knowing I had helped the team win made it even more meaningful. Throughout my years playing soccer, I have also experienced success as a team. At our best, we won a soccer camp tournament that showed how strong we could be when everyone worked together. Moments like that reinforced the importance of teamwork and supporting each other both on and off the field. Soccer has taught me many lessons that go far beyond the game itself. It has taught me discipline, the value of hard work, and the importance of staying in shape both physically and mentally. It has also shown me how important it is to stay positive and encourage others, even during difficult times. These lessons will stay with me throughout my life. As I move on to college, I plan to continue playing club soccer while pursuing a double major in Business Management and Entrepreneurship. My goal is to build a successful career where I can apply the same dedication and work ethic that soccer has taught me. Receiving the Nasser Seconi Scholarship would help me achieve these goals by assisting with the cost of books and housing. College expenses can add up quickly, and this support would allow me to focus more on my education and continuing to grow both academically and athletically. Soccer has shaped my character and helped me become the person I am today. I hope to carry the lessons the game has taught me into my future and continue striving to improve myself while supporting those around me.

My favorite part of playing golf is the opportunity it gives me to challenge myself and improve. I was introduced to golf by my Grandpa, who taught me how to play and helped me develop a love for the game. He is the first person I call whenever I leave the course, on good days or bad, to talk about how I played and get his advice. My Grandpa is retired Army and has helped instill in me a sense of honor, honesty, and respect for the game. His guidance has shown me that golf is not just about skill, but also about character and how you carry yourself on and off the course. Golf requires patience, focus, and discipline. I enjoy working on my skills and seeing progress over time. Every round is different, and there is always something new to learn. Some days my swing feels great, and other days I have to work harder to stay focused. Golf has greatly shaped my character. It teaches honesty, perseverance, and responsibility, since you keep your own score and take penalties for mistakes. The game has shown me how to stay calm when things don’t go my way and to move on after a bad shot. Being on my high school golf team for the past two years has taught me the value of teamwork and supporting others, even in an individual sport. Working at Mountaintop Golf & Lake Club has given me an amazing opportunity to grow as a golfer and as a person. Through my job there, I have been able to practice on a beautiful course and be around talented players. I have even had the chance to receive advice from golfers who have played at a very high level. Listening to their advice about practice habits, course management, and staying mentally strong during a round has helped me better understand what it takes to improve and compete at a higher level. This semester I am taking three online college classes, which allows me to continue my education while keeping a flexible schedule. Because my classes are online, I am able to spend my mornings practicing at my local golf course almost every weekday. Having that time to practice regularly has helped me build discipline and stay committed to improving my game. Throughout my life, I have also faced several personal challenges. I live with Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP), a condition that affects blood platelets and causes my family and me to be very careful about bruises. If I get a bruise, I need to explain how it happened or my mom will want me to go to the doctor for lab work. I also have Celiac disease, which means I must follow a strict gluten free diet to stay healthy. Managing these conditions has taught me to pay close attention to my health and be responsible for taking care of myself. In addition, I have worked through a reading disability that has made some parts of school more challenging. I have learned to overcome this by putting in extra effort and using resources that help me succeed. These experiences have made me more determined and resilient. Golf has played an important role in building my confidence. It has taught me that improvement takes patience, hard work, and persistence. The lessons I have learned from golf, staying focused, learning from mistakes, and continuing to work toward my goals, are lessons that help me in every part of my life.

My ambition to own my own business comes from seeing a real need in the community where I live in rural Western North Carolina. Transportation options here are extremely limited. Unlike larger cities, we do not have services like Uber, Lyft, or even regular taxi companies available. Because of this, many people struggle to find reliable transportation to important places like airports, grocery stores, or medical appointments. Living in a rural area means people often have to travel long distances for everyday needs, and without dependable transportation, those trips can become very difficult. Through my job as a valet and shuttle driver at Mountaintop Golf & Lake Club, I gained valuable experience providing professional transportation services. In that role, I drove club members to regional airports such as Atlanta, Greenville–Spartanburg, and Asheville Regional Airport. These trips showed me how important reliable transportation can be, especially in rural areas where airports are often an hour or more away. Being responsible for transporting guests safely and on time also taught me the importance of professionalism, attention to detail, and excellent customer service. Another valuable part of this experience has been interacting with the club members themselves. Many of them are successful business owners and entrepreneurs. While driving them to airports or around the area, I've had the opportunity to hear about their businesses and how they built them. These conversations have given me valuable insights into what it takes to start and run a successful company. Some members have even offered advice and encouragement when I shared my own business ideas with them. One conversation that stood out was when I spoke with a club member about my idea to start a shuttle service in our area. He told me he thought it was a great idea and said he would personally be interested in supporting the business. He also mentioned that many other club members would likely use the service as well. Hearing that encouragement from someone with business experience gave me confidence that this idea could be successful. Living near Western Carolina University, where I will begin studying Business Management in the fall, I have also seen how many students struggle to get where they need to go. Many students do not have cars, and when they need to travel home, go to the airport, or even just get to the store, their options are very limited. Families visiting students often face the same problem when they arrive at regional airports and need transportation to campus. My goal is to start a shuttle and transportation service that would provide reliable rides between our community, nearby airports, Western Carolina University, and local shopping areas. The service would be modeled after the five-star hospitality and professionalism I experienced while working at Mountaintop. Drivers would focus on punctuality, safety, and excellent customer service so that every passenger feels valued and comfortable. While the transportation service at Mountaintop is designed primarily for club members, my goal would be to bring that same level of high-quality service to everyone in our community. Instead of being limited to extremely wealthy clients, this shuttle service would be accessible to students, families, and local residents who simply need dependable transportation. By creating this business, I hope to fill a gap that currently exists in rural Western North Carolina. My experience as a shuttle driver has already taught me the importance of professionalism, reliability, and customer service. I believe that providing a five-star transportation experience in an area that currently lacks transportation options would not only be a successful business but also a valuable service for the entire community.

When I first started school, reading was really hard for me. I struggled so much that I had to repeat kindergarten because I wasn’t reading at the level I needed to be. Watching my classmates, who were also my friends, move on while I stayed behind was discouraging. I felt embarrassed and wondered why learning seemed so easy for everyone else but so hard for me. That early setback taught me the value of hard work and determination, lessons I carry with me to this day. Later, I was diagnosed with a learning disability and put on an IEP, which gave me extra help in school. One of the most important people in my journey was my IEP teacher, Mrs. Mary Allison. She worked with me through elementary and middle school and helped me build reading skills, focus, and confidence. She believed in me even when I didn’t believe in myself. Because of her and my own effort, I slowly improved and learned to trust in my ability to succeed. Soccer has been a big part of that journey. I started playing in kindergarten, and even though school was hard, soccer gave me something fun to look forward to. It’s where I made my first real friends and learned how to be part of a team. On the field, no one cared that I struggled with reading. They cared that I worked hard and gave it my all. That sense of belonging helped me gain confidence that I could improve in other areas of life, including school. Sports have taught me important lessons about pushing through challenges and staying focused. I’ve played soccer all four years of high school and was team captain for one year. As I finish my senior season, I see how much soccer has shaped me. It has taught me that success is not about being better than anyone else, but about improving a little every day. It’s also taught me leadership, patience, and how to support others, lessons that have helped me both on the field and in the classroom. This spring, during my senior year of high school, I’ll be starting an internship with the Catamount Athletics Marketing Team at Western Carolina University. I’m excited to gain hands-on experience in sports marketing and learn more about how athletics and communication come together. Next year, as a college freshman, I plan to continue studying sports marketing and stay involved by playing intramural soccer. Receiving this scholarship would mean a lot to me because it would help me focus fully on my first year of college. With my learning disability, I know the transition to college will bring new challenges, especially with reading and time management. This scholarship would allow me to cut back on work hours so I can dedicate more time to studying and adjusting to college life. It would give me the support I need to start strong academically while still being involved in the sport I love. To me, this scholarship would be more than financial help. It would be a reminder of how far I’ve come and what I’m capable of. My journey has taught me that setbacks don’t define you; they prepare you. I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished and ready to keep proving that no challenge is too big if you stay determined. This scholarship would help me continue turning challenges into comebacks, reach my goals in the classroom and on the field, and keep showing that there are no limits to what I can achieve.

My name is Matthew Thomas, and I am a senior in high school planning to attend Western Carolina University to study Business. I have been involved in sports since I was four years old, including soccer all four years of high school, where I served as team captain. Playing sports has taught me important life lessons such as leadership, teamwork, discipline, and how to push through challenges. Being part of a team has helped me understand the value of supporting others, staying committed, and setting a strong example for those around me. I have also faced personal challenges that have shaped who I am. I was diagnosed with several medical conditions, including Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), Hashimoto’s hyperthyroidism, and celiac disease. I also grew up with dyslexia and received reading support in elementary and middle school. Managing these conditions while maintaining honors-level coursework and competing in sports has taught me resilience, perseverance, and determination. These experiences showed me that hard work and patience are essential to overcoming obstacles. Since I was fifteen, I have worked part-time jobs to support myself and gain experience. For the past six months, I have worked at a local golf course, where I have learned responsibility, time management, and how to work with a variety of people. Balancing work, school, and athletics has been challenging, but it has helped me build a strong work ethic and taught me how to stay focused and organized. These lessons have strengthened my ability to take on new challenges and manage multiple responsibilities, which I know will help me succeed in college and beyond. Giving back to my community is very important to me. I have volunteered with youth soccer programs, helping younger players develop teamwork and confidence, and I have participated in school and community service projects. These experiences have shown me that even small actions can have a positive impact and that helping others is both meaningful and rewarding. Receiving this scholarship would help me attend Western Carolina University and allow me to focus on my education, sports, work, and community service without worrying about financial challenges. I admire Kalia D. Davis’s dedication, work ethic, and kindness, and I hope to honor her legacy by living with the same ambition, drive, and commitment to excellence in everything I do. This scholarship would motivate me to continue striving for success while making a positive impact on my family, community, and those around me.

I believe I should be considered for the Samuel D. Hartley Memorial Scholarship because golf has played a very important role in my life, helping me overcome many challenges and shaping who I am today. Like Samuel D. Hartley, who dedicated much of his life to golf and his community, I am passionate about golf and committed to working hard to reach my goals both on the course and in my education. I have been a member of my high school golf team for several years. Playing golf has taught me patience, focus, and perseverance. It is a sport that requires a lot of practice and mental strength, and these valuable lessons have helped me in all areas of my life. My passion for golf also helped me get a job at Mountain Golf Resort as a valet and shuttle driver. This job has been a great opportunity because I get to meet golf professionals and play on the course twice a week for free. It has allowed me to improve my game and learn more about the golf world, which has inspired me to pursue a degree in Sports Marketing. I want to combine my love for golf with a career in the sports business industry. Along with my passion for golf, I have faced and overcome several academic and medical challenges. I was diagnosed with a rare blood disorder called Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura when I was young. Because of this, I had to stay home longer than other kids during the COVID-19 pandemic to protect my health, which made entering high school much more difficult. In school, I struggled with reading and had to repeat kindergarten. I was placed on an Individualized Education Program and worked closely with my IEP teacher, Mrs. Mary Allison, who helped me build the skills and confidence I needed to succeed. Thanks to her support and my hard work, I no longer need an IEP and have been successful in honors and college-level classes while maintaining good grades. I plan to attend Western Carolina University with hopes of joining the collegiate golf team. Golf has been a source of strength and joy for me, and I want to keep improving and representing my school. Receiving the Samuel D. Hartley Memorial Scholarship would help me continue pursuing my dreams and honor the legacy of someone who loved golf and worked hard throughout his life. Thank you for considering my application.

Playing golf has had a big impact on my life so far. I have been passionate about golf for several years, and it has taught me important lessons like patience, focus, and perseverance. I play on my high school golf team, and being part of the team has helped me grow not only as a player but also as a person. Golf challenges me to always improve, and I enjoy the quiet concentration it requires. It’s a sport that pushes me to be my best while also teaching me how to handle setbacks with grace and keep a positive attitude even when things don’t go as planned. My passion for golf has also opened doors for me outside of school. I recently landed a job at Mountain Golf Resort as a valet and shuttle driver. This job has been an amazing opportunity because it allows me to meet golf professionals and learn more about the sport and the industry. One of the best parts of the job is that I get to play on the course twice a week for free, which helps me practice and develop my skills without worrying about the cost. Being around the golf world every day has helped me understand how important business and marketing are in sports. This experience has inspired me to pursue a degree in Sports Marketing because I want to combine my love for golf with a career in the sports business world and help grow the game I love. Looking ahead, I plan to continue playing golf in college. I hope to join the collegiate golf team at Western Carolina University. Playing at the college level will help me improve my game and compete with other talented players. I am excited about the chance to be part of a team again and to represent my school with pride. I believe that college golf will not only help me grow as an athlete but also teach me valuable teamwork and leadership skills that will help me in all areas of my life. Overall, golf has been much more than a sport for me. It has helped shape who I am, given me great opportunities, and inspired my future goals. I look forward to continuing my journey in golf and making the most of every opportunity that comes my way.

When I started school, reading was very difficult for me. I struggled so much that I had to repeat kindergarten because I was not reading at the level I needed to be. I watched my classmates, my only friends, move forward while I stayed behind, and it made me feel discouraged, embarrassed, and different. At that time, I did not understand why learning came so easily to others but felt so hard for me. That early setback was the beginning of a long journey filled with hard work, growth, and determination. Later on, I was diagnosed with a learning disability and placed on an IEP, which stands for Individualized Education Program. From that point forward, I received extra support to help me catch up in reading and other areas. One of the most important people in my journey was my IEP teacher, Mrs. Mary Allison. She worked with me through elementary and middle school and helped me learn how to read better, stay focused, and stay confident. She was kind, patient, and always believed in me, even when I did not believe in myself. Because of her help and my own determination, I slowly began to improve. In May, I attended my school’s graduation ceremony and watched all of the friends I started kindergarten with walk across the stage. As I sat there, I felt proud of them, but also a little sad. That was supposed to be my graduating class. Even though I had to repeat a year, I realized how far I have come since then. That moment reminded me how hard I have worked to get to where I am now. By the time I got to high school, I had made so much progress that I no longer needed an IEP. That was a huge moment for me. I knew I would still have to work harder than many of my classmates, but I was ready. Since then, I have taken honors classes and even college courses while still in high school. I have kept up my grades and earned A’s and B’s. It has not been easy, but it feels good to know I am able to succeed on my own now. What motivates me to keep going is how far I have already come. I know I can face challenges and still be successful. I am excited to keep learning and reach my goals.

I didn’t know a dog could change my life until one actually did. During the COVID-19 lockdown, I felt incredibly lonely and bored. I wasn’t just stuck at home like everyone else, I had to stay home even longer than my classmates because of a rare blood disorder I was diagnosed with as a child called ITP (Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura). It affects my platelets and puts me at high risk if I get sick. So, when most kids returned to school, I stayed behind, isolated, anxious, and missing the normal social interactions that used to be part of my everyday life. That’s when I got the idea that would change everything: I needed a puppy. After doing tons of research (and giving my parents many presentations even with PowerPoint slides), I decided a beagle would be the perfect dog for me. Beagles are known for being loyal, loving, and great family pets, everything I was looking for in a companion. That’s how Maddie Rose, my first beagle, became my best friend. She didn’t just keep me company, she gave me comfort and purpose during a time when everything felt uncertain. She was always by my side, whether I was doing online school, resting, or just needing someone to cuddle. Her sweet, playful energy brought life back into our quiet house. But the story doesn’t end there. We loved Maddie Rose so much that we decided to add a second beagle to our family. That’s when Copper came into our lives, and soon after, they had a litter of adorable beagle puppies. Caring for them was an incredible learning experience. I helped with feeding, cleaning, and keeping them safe. Watching them grow, learn, and develop their personalities taught me responsibility, patience, and how to deal with unexpected challenges. We found loving homes for most of the puppies, but we couldn’t let go of one special little girl. We named her Violet, and she completed our beagle family. Today, Maddie Rose, Copper, and Violet are more than just pets. They’re my constant companions, my comfort, my joy, and my emotional support team. They’ve helped me through hard times and have shaped the person I am becoming. I’ve learned to care deeply, stay positive, and find joy in small things. Getting Maddie Rose was truly the best decision I ever made, and it gave me the beagle family I didn’t know I needed.

Most kids can show up with a bruise, and their parents barely notice. “Oh, they probably bumped into something,” they say, and life goes on. But in my house, bruises are a big deal. If I come home with one and can’t explain exactly how it happened, what time, what object, which foot was leading, it’s a full-blown emergency. My mom will have the car running before I finish my sentence, and the next thing I know, we’re at the doctor’s office getting blood work done. Honestly, it feels like we teleport, moving so fast it’s almost surreal. That’s life when you’ve had Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura, or ITP. I was diagnosed as a young child, and it completely changed how I saw the world around me. ITP is a rare autoimmune disorder where the body attacks its own platelets, which are what help your blood clot and stop bleeding. Without enough platelets, something as simple as a nosebleed or a fall could be dangerous. While most kids were learning to ride their bikes and play outside without worry, I was learning to stay calm during blood draws and explain every bump and scrape like a crime scene investigator. ITP meant I couldn’t always join in normal activities. There were no rough sports, no wild playground adventures, and constant check-ups to keep my health in check. I spent years being closely monitored, and even now that I’m in remission, the fear that it could come back never completely goes away. Any unexplained symptom sends a red flag, and that’s a feeling I’ve learned to live with and manage carefully. But as strange as it sounds, I’m thankful for what ITP has taught me. It gave me a sense of awareness and appreciation for my health that most people don’t develop until much later in life. It taught me to be resilient, cautious when needed, and confident in speaking up for myself. It even helped me build a great relationship with my doctors and nurses, who always treated me with kindness and made scary moments easier to face. Living with ITP has shaped how I see life. It made me realize that health isn’t guaranteed, and time shouldn’t be wasted. That’s why I work hard in school, stay involved in sports, and keep pushing myself toward my goals. I’ve already faced one major challenge and made it through. Now I know I can handle whatever comes next with strength, determination, and maybe even a little teleporting.