Mental Health is extremely important to me because I seen firsthand how it can affect the people around you if you don't seek help. My father was the strongest man I know. He never believed in anxiety, in fact I heard him say on several occasions "That's all in your head." Little did we know he would soon find himself battling that same fight. One day on his way to work, he was driving and suddenly his hands went numb. He began unwillingly gripping the steering wheel and his head felt light and tingling. He described it as a fleeting feeling and his heart was racing. He was rushed to the emergency room where we met him. After three days of vigorous testing, the doctors had one conclusion. He was healthy as can be and had suffered with a panic attack. He didn't want to believe that. For the next two years he wouldn't drive and lived in constant fear and refused to get the help he needed. I watched the bravest, strongest man I'd ever known change. He never smiled anymore, didn't enjoy really anything and was never fully present. He was just there. He was short fused and anxious and it had began to take a huge toll on my mother and my three other siblings. Something had to give. My family was falling apart. One night while simply sitting in his recliner he grown tired of battling his anxiety, and asked my mother to lock the gun cabinet and please call my grandfather. My grandfather was a pillar of the family, a mighty man of faith. We were all kind of quiet about my fathers battle and my mother done a great job painting the perfect family portrait. We were tired, he was tired. My mother had an ultimatum, he had to talk to someone. My father eventually sought help. He is now able to talk about his battle and has helped so many others with their anxiety. He knows now it is a very real thing. Something that men just don't talk about but he can openly. He still battles his anxiety but was given the tools to help get him through those moments. His faith in God has been the biggest tool. Through prayer and just seeking brotherhood through people in similar situations has helped him so much. I am now able to go to him and speak about my feelings or struggles without judgment and him brushing them off like before. I watched my parents get in the floor together and hit their knees seeking God for help. I understand now he allowed my father to go through those trials, so that in turn he could help others. He came out on the other side, he made it through. There are so many that don't. We have to be willing to get in the trenches with our friends and family. To seek help or just listen when they need to talk. To check in on others when you feel something if off. Mental health doesn't always show its ugly like other illnesses. Its often times hidden like my fathers. Tucked away and brushed off like nothing. Until its almost too late. I almost lost my father and emotionally I did for some short time. Had my mother not made him seek the help he needed he may not be here today. My story would have been so different, had he lost his battle. I thank God everyday for my praying mother and grandparents and that my dad was able to seek help.

Hello My name is Mattison Granger, I’d like to take a few moments to introduce myself. I am 18 years old and currently enrolled in West Hardin high school as a 2026 graduating senior. During my high school years I have been involved in many extracurriculars. I was in FFA freshman and sophomore year, competing in area talent competition, as well as being part of the animal show teams placing in the top 20 two years in a row at YMBL. I earned swine exhibitor of the year as a freshman. I was the top yearbook photographer all 4 years for all activities and sporting events. I also competed at the state powerlifting meet and ended up placing 9th, then at a regional level the following year as a junior. In addition to that, I played multiple sports such as volleyball,basketball,track and golf. I volunteered every year for my church's nursery and vacation bible during the summer, as well as my schools field day for elementary and FFA adopt a highway cleanup. I also served on student council freshman year. Currently in dual credit courses at Lee College and will graduate with a cosmetology license in December of this year. I would consider myself a responsible young adult. In the past 3 years I've had the opportunity to aid in special education art class alongside my mother and I see a specific need there. It never ceases to amaze me when they are able to achieve their milestones in their own way. I also observed that some of these children may only receive love or support at school.This is what led me to pursue a degree in Early Childhood Education and become a teacher. I had never considered teaching before and I wasn't quite sure what I wanted to do after high school. However, something changed at the end of my junior year. I felt a shift in heart when I began to notice the need for special education inclusion. I watched my mother take on this role and it inspired me. She wasn't just helping to teach these students, she was nurturing them. Kids who often were overlooked by peers or excluded by their fellow students. It broke my heart and I decided then I wanted to advocate for them any way I could. No child should feel left out. I had to make a change. It begins with you and I, and I want to bring a light into the lives of every child and show them how truly important they are to the future. My family is large on today's scale. I have 3 siblings in which I am the oldest. With this burden of responsibility, I would like to lighten that financial load for my parents. My dad, who is the main breadwinner in my home, was hit with an unexpected health issue this year. He's set to have major back surgery at the end of April, which will have him down for 6 weeks or more. Given he just started his new job in September, he hasn't been with this company long enough to receive the benefits to help with these added costs. My mother, although passionate about her career, does not make enough to cover my college tuition alone. My hopes are to be the first in my family to graduate with a degree, to set an example for my siblings and any child I may encounter on my journey,who thinks they aren't capable. Lastly, I would like to thank you for your time and for considering me for this scholarship. Sincerely, Mattison Granger

Hello My name is Mattison Granger, I’d like to take a few moments to introduce myself. I am 18 years old and currently enrolled in West Hardin high school as a 2026 graduating senior. During my high school years I have been involved in many extracurriculars. I was in FFA freshman and sophomore year, competing in area talent competition, as well as being part of the animal show teams placing in the top 20 two years in a row at YMBL. I earned swine exhibitor of the year as a freshman. I was the top yearbook photographer all 4 years for all activities and sporting events. I also competed at the state powerlifting meet and ended up placing 9th, then at a regional level the following year as a junior. In addition to that, I played multiple sports such as volleyball,basketball,track and golf. I volunteered every year for my church's nursery and vacation bible during the summer, as well as my schools field day for elementary and FFA adopt a highway cleanup. I also served on student council freshman year. Currently in dual credit courses at Lee College and will graduate with a cosmetology license in December of this year. I would consider myself a responsible young adult. In the past 3 years I've had the opportunity to aid in special education art class alongside my mother and I see a specific need there. It never ceases to amaze me when they are able to achieve their milestones in their own way. I also observed that some of these children may only receive love or support at school.This is what led me to pursue a degree in Early Childhood Education and become a teacher. I had never considered teaching before and I wasn't quite sure what I wanted to do after high school. However, something changed at the end of my junior year. I felt a shift in heart when I began to notice the need for special education inclusion. I watched my mother take on this role and it inspired me. She wasn't just helping to teach these students, she was nurturing them. Kids who often were overlooked by peers or excluded by their fellow students. It broke my heart and I decided then I wanted to advocate for them any way I could. No child should feel left out. I had to make a change. It begins with you and I, and I want to bring a light into the lives of every child and show them how truly important they are to the future. My family is large on today's scale. I have 3 siblings in which I am the oldest. With this burden of responsibility, I would like to lighten that financial load for my parents. My dad, who is the main breadwinner in my home, was hit with an unexpected health issue this year. He's set to have major back surgery at the end of April, which will have him down for 6 weeks or more. Given he just started his new job in September, he hasn't been with this company long enough to receive the benefits to help with these added costs. My mother, although passionate about her career, does not make enough to cover my college tuition alone. My hopes are to be the first in my family to graduate with a degree, to set an example for my siblings and any child I may encounter on my journey,who thinks they aren't capable. Lastly, I would like to thank you for your time and for considering me for this scholarship. Sincerely, Mattison Granger

Hello My name is Mattison Granger, I’d like to take a few moments to introduce myself. I am 18 years old and currently enrolled in West Hardin high school as a 2026 graduating senior. During my high school years I have been involved in many extracurriculars. I was in FFA freshman and sophomore year, competing in area talent competition, as well as being part of the animal show teams placing in the top 20 two years in a row at YMBL. I earned swine exhibitor of the year as a freshman. I was the top yearbook photographer all 4 years for all activities and sporting events. I also competed at the state powerlifting meet and ended up placing 9th, then at a regional level the following year as a junior. In addition to that, I played multiple sports such as volleyball,basketball,track and golf. I volunteered every year for my church's nursery and vacation bible during the summer, as well as my schools field day for elementary and FFA adopt a highway cleanup. I also served on student council freshman year. Currently in dual credit courses at Lee College and will graduate with a cosmetology license in December of this year. I would consider myself a responsible young adult. In the past 3 years I've had the opportunity to aid in special education art class alongside my mother and I see a specific need there. It never ceases to amaze me when they are able to achieve their milestones in their own way. I also observed that some of these children may only receive love or support at school.This is what led me to pursue a degree in Early Childhood Education and become a teacher. I had never considered teaching before and I wasn't quite sure what I wanted to do after high school. However, something changed at the end of my junior year. I felt a shift in heart when I began to notice the need for special education inclusion. I watched my mother take on this role and it inspired me. She wasn't just helping to teach these students, she was nurturing them. Kids who often were overlooked by peers or excluded by their fellow students. It broke my heart and I decided then I wanted to advocate for them any way I could. No child should feel left out. I had to make a change. It begins with you and I, and I want to bring a light into the lives of every child and show them how truly important they are to the future. My family is large on today's scale. I have 3 siblings in which I am the oldest. With this burden of responsibility, I would like to lighten that financial load for my parents. My dad, who is the main breadwinner in my home, was hit with an unexpected health issue this year. He's set to have major back surgery at the end of April, which will have him down for 6 weeks or more. Given he just started his new job in September, he hasn't been with this company long enough to receive the benefits to help with these added costs. My mother, although passionate about her career, does not make enough to cover my college tuition alone. My hopes are to be the first in my family to graduate with a degree, to set an example for my siblings and any child I may encounter on my journey,who thinks they aren't capable. Lastly, I would like to thank you for your time and for considering me for this scholarship. Sincerely, Mattison Granger

he biggest lessons I have learned through golf is that you play the ball where it lies. I'll never forget my third high school golf tournament. My coach gave us a pep talk on our way to the course. We would be playing at Bayou Din. She warned that it was a wide open course, and that there may be gators. It didn't help that we had gotten five or more inches of rain the night before and the tournament wouldn't be called off. She wasn't kidding! My ball had literally landed inches from a four foot alligator. I had to play the ball where it lay. It's safe to say I didn't do well that day. I had tread through ankle deep water all day, and was sun burnt and exhausted. After analyzing my game the entire ride home, I was ready to put in the work the next day. I knew I wasn't the best golfer on my team, but that didn't stop me. If we give up because we aren't the best then that shows a lack of determination. Which is something you must possess in golf, and life in general. Resilience is a word I learned early in life. My parents taught me how to dig deep and keep going. I was never allowed to quit or give up, in my household that simply wasn't an option. Whatever we did, we did it to the best of our ability, no matter what the circumstances were. Golf has to be the most trying and challenging game there is. It takes an enormous amount of patience, which is something I was not born with. While in the game I've had to see past the hardships and learn and grow from them. Each time picking up my head and working harder. That's just how life is. No matter what gets thrown at you, you have to stay determined, always working towards the ultimate goal. You can have the worst game of your life and yet you have wake up wanting to try again. Things aren't always going to go well, but you have to finish strong. Taking the time given to play your best game and in the end you'll be nothing short of proud. Whether it be because you did amazing or just because you tried your hardest and wont give up easily. I plan to take these lessons and attributes I've gathered through my high school years in sports and apply them to this game of life. Always trying, always learning, always pushing through to the finish. My family is large on today's scale. I have 3 siblings in which I am the oldest. I would like to lighten that financial load for my parents. My dad, who is the main breadwinner in my home, was hit with an unexpected health issue this year. He's set to have major back surgery at the end of April, which will have him down for 6 weeks or more. Given he just started his new job in September, he hasn't been with this company long enough to receive the benefits or insurance to help with these added costs. My mother, although passionate about her career, does not make enough to cover my college tuition alone. My hopes are to be the first in my family to graduate with a degree, to set an example for my siblings and any child I may encounter on my journey,who thinks they aren't capable. Lastly, I would like to thank you for your time and for considering me for this scholarship. Sincerely, Mattison Granger

he biggest lessons I have learned through golf is that you play the ball where it lies. I'll never forget my third high school golf tournament. My coach gave us a pep talk on our way to the course. We would be playing at Bayou Din. She warned that it was a wide open course, and that there may be gators. It didn't help that we had gotten five or more inches of rain the night before and the tournament wouldn't be called off. She wasn't kidding! My ball had literally landed inches from a four foot alligator. I had to play the ball where it lay. It's safe to say I didn't do well that day. I had tread through ankle deep water all day, and was sun burnt and exhausted. After analyzing my game the entire ride home, I was ready to put in the work the next day. I knew I wasn't the best golfer on my team, but that didn't stop me. If we give up because we aren't the best then that shows a lack of determination. Which is something you must possess in golf, and life in general. Resilience is a word I learned early in life. My parents taught me how to dig deep and keep going. I was never allowed to quit or give up, in my household that simply wasn't an option. Whatever we did, we did it to the best of our ability, no matter what the circumstances were. Golf has to be the most trying and challenging game there is. It takes an enormous amount of patience, which is something I was not born with. While in the game I've had to see past the hardships and learn and grow from them. Each time picking up my head and working harder. That's just how life is. No matter what gets thrown at you, you have to stay determined, always working towards the ultimate goal. You can have the worst game of your life and yet you have wake up wanting to try again. Things aren't always going to go well, but you have to finish strong. Taking the time given to play your best game and in the end you'll be nothing short of proud. Whether it be because you did amazing or just because you tried your hardest and wont give up easily. I plan to take these lessons and attributes I've gathered through my high school years in sports and apply them to this game of life. Always trying, always learning, always pushing through to the finish. My family is large on today's scale. I have 3 siblings in which I am the oldest. I would like to lighten that financial load for my parents. My dad, who is the main breadwinner in my home, was hit with an unexpected health issue this year. He's set to have major back surgery at the end of April, which will have him down for 6 weeks or more. Given he just started his new job in September, he hasn't been with this company long enough to receive the benefits or insurance to help with these added costs. My mother, although passionate about her career, does not make enough to cover my college tuition alone. My hopes are to be the first in my family to graduate with a degree, to set an example for my siblings and any child I may encounter on my journey,who thinks they aren't capable. Lastly, I would like to thank you for your time and for considering me for this scholarship. Sincerely, Mattison Granger

My reasoning for choosing cosmetology/barbering is to help others feel good about themselves and to further my education. By continuing I will be able to say I'm the first in my household to finish trade school. By doing this I can set an example to my three younger siblings. I learned at an early age that I loved all things beauty related. I was always doing something creative with my hands. it didn't matter where I was or what I was doing I wanted to be busy creating beautiful things. On game days I was always the one that every girl asked to braid their hair. I even gave the boys box braids for basketball games. When it was picture days I'm the person they wanted to fix everyone's hair. Which usually meant I didn't have time to do my own. I found that I was proud of my work and I was always eager to learn new braids and hairstyles to try out. Luckily, God gave me two little sisters to practice on. For Christmas I asked my mother for a mannequin which she gladly bought to keep us all from going bald. I was given the opportunity my senior year to enroll in cosmetology through Lee College and I am set to graduate in December of this year. However after I graduate high school in one month I will be left with my final semester and the costs that come with it. My father whom is the main source of income in my household, will have major back surgery in May. That leaves us with a huge unexpected financial burden. He doesn't qualify for the benefits to cover his time off work that will be needed to recover. The last thing my parents need to worry about is how to come up with the money to cover my college. I hope to be the first in my family to graduate college. I want my parents to be proud of my hard work and dedication. During my senior year I have also worked around thirty hours a week as a waitress. I enjoy staying busy and being with the public. By doing this I've been able to buy my own fuel to drive to school and back which has helped my parents so much with the rising gas prices. I struggled with self confidence as an early teenager. I found that I enjoyed expressing my own styles through unique hair styles and makeup. It helped me to find my niche which then helped me slowly build my confidence over time. I want to be able to help others express themselves and be confident in who they are. I've found that if I'm feeling down or not ready to take on whatever the day may bring, I can make a huge difference on my outlook and mood by simply fixing my hair or doing my makeup. The way a person feels when leaving a hair, makeup or nail appointment is amazing. The difference isn't just physical its mental. A barber or hair dresser, nail person is also like a therapist. They listen when no one else does. They care and they understand that what they are doing for their client is going to have such a huge impact when they walk out the door. Its honestly one of the most underrated trades in my opinion. I don't know a single person that truly doesn't want to look better and feel better. Receiving this scholarship would be a true honor to go forth and change the lives of so many people.

My faith instilled in me by my parents has always been a driving force in every aspect of my life. I've been able to overcome every challenge I've been met with. Im so thankful for Gods race in my life and how he helps me each day to go and make a difference. In the past 3 years I've had the opportunity to aid in special education art class alongside my mother and I see a specific need there. It never ceases to amaze me when they are able to achieve their milestones in their own way. I also observed that some of these children may only receive love or support at school.This is what led me to pursue a degree in Early Childhood Education and become a teacher. I had never considered teaching before and I wasn't quite sure what I wanted to do after high school. However, something changed at the end of my junior year. I felt a shift in heart when I began to notice the need for special education inclusion. I watched my mother take on this role and it inspired me. She wasn't just helping to teach these students, she was nurturing them. Kids who often were overlooked by peers or excluded by their fellow students. It broke my heart and I decided then I wanted to advocate for them any way I could. No child should feel left out. I had to make a change. It begins with you and I, and I want to bring a light into the lives of every child and show them how truly important they are to the future. I hope that these children I meet will see God in me. That he will continue to use me as an instrument to minister to those I meet. The Bible tells us to go to the highways and the hedges and everyday we walk out our door we are a living ministry. I want my life to be a testimony to others and my faith to help build children up. So that they may see how precious they are to him.He makes each one of his children in his image. It will become my job to help them build on his word so that they in turn may go live a life that pleases him. That the impact I may make daily helps the kingdom of God grow. Not every child is brought to church, but we can bring church with us everywhere we go. In the Bible speaks of being the body of Christ. My family is large on today's scale. I have 3 siblings in which I am the oldest. With this burden of responsibility, I would like to lighten that financial load for my parents. My dad, who is the main breadwinner in my home, was hit with an unexpected health issue this year. He's set to have major back surgery at the end of April, which will have him down for 6 weeks or more. Given he just started his new job in September, he hasn't been with this company long enough to receive the benefits to help with these added costs. My mother, although passionate about her career, does not make enough to cover my college tuition alone. My hopes are to be the first in my family to graduate with a degree, to set an example for my siblings and any child I may encounter on my journey,who thinks they aren't capable. Lastly, I would like to thank you for your time and for considering me for this scholarship. Sincerely, Mattison Granger

In the past 3 years I've had the opportunity to aid in special education art class alongside my mother and I see a specific need there. It never ceases to amaze me when they are able to achieve their milestones in their own way. I also observed that some of these children may only receive love or support at school.This is what led me to pursue a degree in Early Childhood Education and become a teacher. I had never considered teaching before and I wasn't quite sure what I wanted to do after high school. However, something changed at the end of my junior year. I felt a shift in heart when I began to notice the need for special education inclusion. I watched my mother take on this role and it inspired me. She wasn't just helping to teach these students, she was nurturing them. Kids who often were overlooked by peers or excluded by their fellow students. It broke my heart and I decided then I wanted to advocate for them any way I could. No child should feel left out. I had to make a change. It begins with you and I, and I want to bring a light into the lives of every child and show them how truly important they are to the future. These children with learning challenges are no less impotant. My family is large on today's scale. I have 3 siblings in which I am the oldest. With this burden of responsibility, I would like to lighten that financial load for my parents. My dad, who is the main breadwinner in my home, was hit with an unexpected health issue this year. He's set to have major back surgery at the end of April, which will have him down for 6 weeks or more. Given he just started his new job in September, he hasn't been with this company long enough to receive the benefits to help with these added costs. My mother, although passionate about her career, does not make enough to cover my college tuition alone. My hopes are to be the first in my family to graduate with a degree, to set an example for my siblings and any child I may encounter on my journey,who thinks they aren't capable. Lastly, I would like to thank you for your time and for considering me for this scholarship. Sincerely, Mattison Granger

Hello My name is Mattison Granger, I’d like to take a few moments to introduce myself. I am 18 years old and currently enrolled in West Hardin high school as a 2026 graduating senior. During my high school years I have been involved in many extracurriculars. I was in FFA freshman and sophomore year, competing in area talent competition, as well as being part of the animal show teams placing in the top 20 two years in a row at YMBL. I earned swine exhibitor of the year as a freshman. I was the top yearbook photographer all 4 years for all activities and sporting events. I also competed at the state powerlifting meet and ended up placing 9th, then at a regional level the following year as a junior. In addition to that, I played multiple sports such as volleyball,basketball,track and golf. I volunteered every year for my church's nursery and vacation bible during the summer, as well as my schools field day for elementary and FFA adopt a highway cleanup. I also served on student council freshman year. Currently in dual credit courses at Lee College and will graduate with a cosmetology license in December of this year. I would consider myself a responsible young adult. In the past 3 years I've had the opportunity to aid in special education art class alongside my mother and I see a specific need there. It never ceases to amaze me when they are able to achieve their milestones in their own way. I also observed that some of these children may only receive love or support at school.This is what led me to pursue a degree in Early Childhood Education and become a teacher. I had never considered teaching before and I wasn't quite sure what I wanted to do after high school. However, something changed at the end of my junior year. I felt a shift in heart when I began to notice the need for special education inclusion. I watched my mother take on this role and it inspired me. She wasn't just helping to teach these students, she was nurturing them. Kids who often were overlooked by peers or excluded by their fellow students. It broke my heart and I decided then I wanted to advocate for them any way I could. No child should feel left out. I had to make a change. It begins with you and I, and I want to bring a light into the lives of every child and show them how truly important they are to the future. My family is large on today's scale. I have 3 siblings in which I am the oldest. With this burden of responsibility, I would like to lighten that financial load for my parents. My dad, who is the main breadwinner in my home, was hit with an unexpected health issue this year. He's set to have major back surgery at the end of April, which will have him down for 6 weeks or more. Given he just started his new job in September, he hasn't been with this company long enough to receive the benefits to help with these added costs. My mother, although passionate about her career, does not make enough to cover my college tuition alone. My hopes are to be the first in my family to graduate with a degree, to set an example for my siblings and any child I may encounter on my journey,who thinks they aren't capable. Lastly, I would like to thank you for your time and for considering me for this scholarship. Sincerely, Mattison Granger

Hello My name is Mattison Granger, I’d like to take a few moments to introduce myself. I am 18 years old and currently enrolled in West Hardin high school as a 2026 graduating senior. During my high school years I have been involved in many extracurriculars. I was in FFA freshman and sophomore year, competing in area talent competition, as well as being part of the animal show teams placing in the top 20 two years in a row at YMBL. I earned swine exhibitor of the year as a freshman. I was the top yearbook photographer all 4 years for all activities and sporting events. I also competed at the state powerlifting meet and ended up placing 9th, then at a regional level the following year as a junior. In addition to that, I played multiple sports such as volleyball,basketball,track and golf. I volunteered every year for my church's nursery and vacation bible during the summer, as well as my schools field day for elementary and FFA adopt a highway cleanup. I also served on student council freshman year. Currently in dual credit courses at Lee College and will graduate with a cosmetology license in December of this year. I would consider myself a responsible young adult. In the past 3 years I've had the opportunity to aid in special education art class alongside my mother and I see a specific need there. It never ceases to amaze me when they are able to achieve their milestones in their own way. I also observed that some of these children may only receive love or support at school.This is what led me to pursue a degree in Early Childhood Education and become a teacher. I had never considered teaching before and I wasn't quite sure what I wanted to do after high school. However, something changed at the end of my junior year. I felt a shift in heart when I began to notice the need for special education inclusion. I watched my mother take on this role and it inspired me. She wasn't just helping to teach these students, she was nurturing them. Kids who often were overlooked by peers or excluded by their fellow students. It broke my heart and I decided then I wanted to advocate for them any way I could. No child should feel left out. I had to make a change. It begins with you and I, and I want to bring a light into the lives of every child and show them how truly important they are to the future. My family is large on today's scale. I have 3 siblings in which I am the oldest. With this burden of responsibility, I would like to lighten that financial load for my parents. My dad, who is the main breadwinner in my home, was hit with an unexpected health issue this year. He's set to have major back surgery at the end of April, which will have him down for 6 weeks or more. Given he just started his new job in September, he hasn't been with this company long enough to receive the benefits to help with these added costs. My mother, although passionate about her career, does not make enough to cover my college tuition alone. My hopes are to be the first in my family to graduate with a degree, to set an example for my siblings and any child I may encounter on my journey,who thinks they aren't capable. Lastly, I would like to thank you for your time and for considering me for this scholarship. Sincerely, Mattison Granger

Hello My name is Mattison Granger, I’d like to take a few moments to introduce myself. I am 18 years old and currently enrolled in West Hardin high school as a 2026 graduating senior. During my high school years I have been involved in many extracurriculars. I was in FFA freshman and sophomore year, competing in area talent competition, as well as being part of the animal show teams placing in the top 20 two years in a row at YMBL. I earned swine exhibitor of the year as a freshman. I was the top yearbook photographer all 4 years for all activities and sporting events. I also competed at the state powerlifting meet and ended up placing 9th, then at a regional level the following year as a junior. In addition to that, I played multiple sports such as volleyball,basketball,track and golf. I volunteered every year for my church's nursery and vacation bible during the summer, as well as my schools field day for elementary and FFA adopt a highway cleanup. I also served on student council freshman year. Currently in dual credit courses at Lee College and will graduate with a cosmetology license in December of this year. I would consider myself a responsible young adult. In the past 3 years I've had the opportunity to aid in special education art class alongside my mother and I see a specific need there. It never ceases to amaze me when they are able to achieve their milestones in their own way. I also observed that some of these children may only receive love or support at school.This is what led me to pursue a degree in Early Childhood Education and become a teacher. I had never considered teaching before and I wasn't quite sure what I wanted to do after high school. However, something changed at the end of my junior year. I felt a shift in heart when I began to notice the need for special education inclusion. I watched my mother take on this role and it inspired me. She wasn't just helping to teach these students, she was nurturing them. Kids who often were overlooked by peers or excluded by their fellow students. It broke my heart and I decided then I wanted to advocate for them any way I could. No child should feel left out. I had to make a change. It begins with you and I, and I want to bring a light into the lives of every child and show them how truly important they are to the future. My family is large on today's scale. I have 3 siblings in which I am the oldest. With this burden of responsibility, I would like to lighten that financial load for my parents. My dad, who is the main breadwinner in my home, was hit with an unexpected health issue this year. He's set to have major back surgery at the end of April, which will have him down for 6 weeks or more. Given he just started his new job in September, he hasn't been with this company long enough to receive the benefits to help with these added costs. My mother, although passionate about her career, does not make enough to cover my college tuition alone. My hopes are to be the first in my family to graduate with a degree, to set an example for my siblings and any child I may encounter on my journey,who thinks they aren't capable. Lastly, I would like to thank you for your time and for considering me for this scholarship. Sincerely, Mattison Granger

Hello My name is Mattison Granger, I’d like to take a few moments to introduce myself. I am 18 years old and currently enrolled in West Hardin high school as a 2026 graduating senior. During my high school years I have been involved in many extracurriculars. I was in FFA freshman and sophomore year, competing in area talent competition, as well as being part of the animal show teams placing in the top 20 two years in a row at YMBL. I earned swine exhibitor of the year as a freshman. I was the top yearbook photographer all 4 years for all activities and sporting events. I also competed at the state powerlifting meet and ended up placing 9th, then at a regional level the following year as a junior. In addition to that, I played multiple sports such as volleyball,basketball,track and golf. I volunteered every year for my church's nursery and vacation bible during the summer, as well as my schools field day for elementary and FFA adopt a highway cleanup. I also served on student council freshman year. Currently in dual credit courses at Lee College and will graduate with a cosmetology license in December of this year. I would consider myself a responsible young adult. In the past 3 years I've had the opportunity to aid in special education art class alongside my mother and I see a specific need there. It never ceases to amaze me when they are able to achieve their milestones in their own way. I also observed that some of these children may only receive love or support at school.This is what led me to pursue a degree in Early Childhood Education and become a teacher. I had never considered teaching before and I wasn't quite sure what I wanted to do after high school. However, something changed at the end of my junior year. I felt a shift in heart when I began to notice the need for special education inclusion. I watched my mother take on this role and it inspired me. She wasn't just helping to teach these students, she was nurturing them. Kids who often were overlooked by peers or excluded by their fellow students. It broke my heart and I decided then I wanted to advocate for them any way I could. No child should feel left out. I had to make a change. It begins with you and I, and I want to bring a light into the lives of every child and show them how truly important they are to the future. My family is large on today's scale. I have 3 siblings in which I am the oldest. With this burden of responsibility, I would like to lighten that financial load for my parents. My dad, who is the main breadwinner in my home, was hit with an unexpected health issue this year. He's set to have major back surgery at the end of April, which will have him down for 6 weeks or more. Given he just started his new job in September, he hasn't been with this company long enough to receive the benefits to help with these added costs. My mother, although passionate about her career, does not make enough to cover my college tuition alone. My hopes are to be the first in my family to graduate with a degree, to set an example for my siblings and any child I may encounter on my journey,who thinks they aren't capable. Lastly, I would like to thank you for your time and for considering me for this scholarship. Sincerely, Mattison Granger

My reasoning for choosing cosmetology/barbering is to help others feel good about themselves and to further my education. By continuing I will be able to say I'm the first in my household to finish trade school. By doing this I can set an example to my three younger siblings. I learned at an early age that I loved all things beauty related. I was always doing something creative with my hands. it didn't matter where I was or what I was doing I wanted to be busy creating beautiful things. On game days I was always the one that every girl asked to braid their hair. I even gave the boys box braids for basketball games. When it was picture days I'm the person they wanted to fix everyone's hair. Which usually meant I didn't have time to do my own. I found that I was proud of my work and I was always eager to learn new braids and hairstyles to try out. Luckily, God gave me two little sisters to practice on. For Christmas I asked my mother for a mannequin which she gladly bought to keep us all from going bald. I was given the opportunity my senior year to enroll in cosmetology through Lee College and I am set to graduate in December of this year. However after I graduate high school in one month I will be left with my final semester and the costs that come with it. My father whom is the main source of income in my household, will have major back surgery in May. That leaves us with a huge unexpected financial burden. He doesn't qualify for the benefits to cover his time off work that will be needed to recover. The last thing my parents need to worry about is how to come up with the money to cover my college. I hope to be the first in my family to graduate college. I want my parents to be proud of my hard work and dedication. During my senior year I have also worked around thirty hours a week as a waitress. I enjoy staying busy and being with the public. By doing this I've been able to buy my own fuel to drive to school and back which has helped my parents so much with the rising gas prices. I struggled with self confidence as an early teenager. I found that I enjoyed expressing my own styles through unique hair styles and makeup. It helped me to find my niche which then helped me slowly build my confidence over time. I want to be able to help others express themselves and be confident in who they are. I've found that if I'm feeling down or not ready to take on whatever the day may bring, I can make a huge difference on my outlook and mood by simply fixing my hair or doing my makeup. The way a person feels when leaving a hair, makeup or nail appointment is amazing. The difference isn't just physical its mental. A barber or hair dresser, nail person is also like a therapist. They listen when no one else does. They care and they understand that what they are doing for their client is going to have such a huge impact when they walk out the door. Its honestly one of the most underrated trades in my opinion. I don't know a single person that truly doesn't want to look better and feel better. Receiving this scholarship would be a true honor to go forth and change the lives of so many people.

Hello My name is Mattison Granger, I hope this letter finds you well. I’d like to take a few moments to introduce myself. I am 18 years old and currently enrolled in West Hardin high school as a 2026 graduating senior. During my high school years I have been involved in various extracurriculars. I was in FFA freshman and sophomore year competing in area talent competition, as well as being part of the animal show teams placing in the top 20 two years in a row at YMBL. I earned swine exhibitor of the year as a freshman. I was the top yearbook photographer all 4 years for all activities and sporting events. I also competed at the state powerlifting meet and ended up placing 9th. I competed at a regional level the following year as a junior and got 2nd. In addition to that, I played multiple sports such as volleyball,basketball,track and golf. I volunteered every year for my church's nursery and vacation bible during the summer, as well as my schools field day for elementary and FFA adopt a highway cleanup. I also served on student council freshman year. Throughout my senior year I've been enrolled in dual credit courses at Lee College and will graduate with a cosmetology license in December of this year. I saw this opportunity as a way to be able to have a flexible schedule and steady income, while pursuing my teaching degree. I hope it will give me a head start in life., as well as lift some of the financial burden for my parents. I would consider myself a responsible young adult. With all the challenges of being a senior, I've been able to balance things better than I had imagined. I have always had a passion for helping people in general, especially children. In the past 3 years I've had the opportunity to aid in special education art class alongside my mother and I see a specific need there. I love watching the children grow and helping them meet their individual goals. It never ceases to amaze me when they are able to achieve their milestones in their own way. I also observed that some of these children may only receive love or support at school. That it should not only be a learning experience but a safe haven as well. We may very well be the only hug or kind word a child meets everyday.This is what led me to pursue a degree in Early Childhood Education and become a teacher. I had never considered teaching before and I wasn't quite sure what I wanted to do after high school. However, something changed at the end of my junior year. I felt a shift in heart when I began to notice the need for special education inclusion. I watched my mother take on this role and it inspired me. She wasn't just helping to teach these students, she was nurturing them. Kids who often were overlooked by peers or excluded by their fellow students. It broke my heart and I decided then I wanted to advocate for them any way I could. No child should feel left out or not given the same opportunities I had been given. Somehow, I knew I had to make a change. It begins with you and I, and I want to bring a light into the lives of every child and show them how truly important they are to the future. My family is large on today's scale. I have 3 siblings in which I am the oldest. With this burden of responsibility, I would like to lighten that financial load for my parents. My dad, who is the main breadwinner in my home, was hit with an unexpected health issue this year. He's set to have major back surgery at the end of April, which will have him down for 6 weeks or more. Given he just started his new job in September, he hasn't been with this company long enough to receive the benefits to help with these added costs. My mother, although passionate about her career, does not make enough to cover my college tuition alone. My hopes are to be the first in my family to graduate with a degree, to set an example for my siblings and any child I may encounter on my journey,who thinks they aren't capable. Lastly, I would like to thank you for your time and for considering me for this scholarship. Sincerely, Mattison Granger

Hello My name is Mattison Granger, I’d like to take a few moments to introduce myself. I am 18 years old and currently enrolled in West Hardin high school as a 2026 graduating senior. During my high school years I have been involved in various extracurriculars. I was in FFA freshman and sophomore year competing in area talent competition, as well as being part of the animal show teams placing in the top 20 two years in a row at YMBL. I earned swine exhibitor of the year as a freshman. I was the top yearbook photographer all 4 years for all activities and sporting events. I also competed at the state powerlifting meet and ended up placing 9th. I competed at a regional level the following year as a junior and got 2nd. In addition to that, I played multiple sports such as volleyball,basketball,track and golf. I volunteered every year for my church's nursery and vacation bible during the summer, as well as my schools field day for elementary and FFA adopt a highway cleanup. I also served on student council freshman year. Throughout my senior year I've been enrolled in dual credit courses at Lee College and will graduate with a cosmetology license in December of this year. I saw this opportunity as a way to be able to have a flexible schedule and steady income, while pursuing my teaching degree. I hope it will give me a head start in life,as well as lift some of the financial burden for my parents.With all the challenges of being a senior, I've been able to balance things well better than I had imagined. I love striving towards many different goals and staying motivated. In the past 3 years I've had the opportunity to aid in special education art class alongside my mother and I see a specific need there. I love watching the children grow and helping them meet their individual goals. I also had observed that some of these children may only receive love or support at school. That it should not only be a learning experience, but a safe haven as well.This is what led me to pursue a degree in Early Childhood Education and become a teacher. I felt a shift in heart when I began to notice the need for special education inclusion. I watched my mother and she wasn't just helping teach these students, she was nurturing them. Kids who often were overlooked by peers or excluded by their fellow students. I wanted to advocate for them any way I could. No child should feel left out or not given the same opportunities I had been given. Somehow, I had to make a change. I have 3 siblings in which I am the oldest. My dad, who is the main breadwinner in my home, was hit with an unexpected health issue this year. He's set to have major back surgery at the end of April, which will have him down for 6 weeks or more. Given he just started his new job in September, he hasn't been with this company long enough to receive the benefits to help with these added costs. My mother, although passionate about her career, does not make enough to cover my college tuition alone. My hopes are to be the first in my family to graduate with a degree, to set an example for my siblings and any child I may encounter on my journey,who thinks they aren't capable. Lastly, I would like to thank you for your time and for considering me for this scholarship. Sincerely, Mattison Granger

The biggest lessons I have learned through golf is that you play the ball where it lies. I'll never forget my third high school golf tournament. My coach gave us a pep talk on our way to the course. We would be playing at Bayou Din. She warned that it was a wide open course, and that there may be gators. It didn't help that we had gotten five or more inches of rain the night before and the tournament wouldn't be called off. She wasn't kidding! My ball had literally landed inches from a four foot alligator. I had to play the ball where it lay. It's safe to say I didn't do well that day. I had tread through ankle deep water all day, and was sun burnt and exhausted. After analyzing my game the entire ride home, I was ready to put in the work the next day. I knew I wasn't the best golfer on my team, but that didn't stop me. If we give up because we aren't the best then that shows a lack of determination. Which is something you must possess in golf, and life in general. Resilience is a word I learned early in life. My parents taught me how to dig deep and keep going. I was never allowed to quit or give up, in my household that simply wasn't an option. Whatever we did, we did it to the best of our ability, no matter what the circumstances were. Golf has to be the most trying and challenging game there is. It takes an enormous amount of patience, which is something I was not born with. While in the game I've had to see past the hardships and learn and grow from them. Each time picking up my head and working harder. That's just how life is. No matter what gets thrown at you, you have to stay determined, always working towards the ultimate goal. You can have the worst game of your life and yet you have wake up wanting to try again. Things aren't always going to go well, but you have to finish strong. Taking the time given to play your best game and in the end you'll be nothing short of proud. Whether it be because you did amazing or just because you tried your hardest and wont give up easily. I plan to take these lessons and attributes I've gathered through my high school years in sports and apply them to this game of life. Always trying, always learning, always pushing through to the finish. My family is large on today's scale. I have 3 siblings in which I am the oldest. I would like to lighten that financial load for my parents. My dad, who is the main breadwinner in my home, was hit with an unexpected health issue this year. He's set to have major back surgery at the end of April, which will have him down for 6 weeks or more. Given he just started his new job in September, he hasn't been with this company long enough to receive the benefits or insurance to help with these added costs. My mother, although passionate about her career, does not make enough to cover my college tuition alone. My hopes are to be the first in my family to graduate with a degree, to set an example for my siblings and any child I may encounter on my journey,who thinks they aren't capable. Lastly, I would like to thank you for your time and for considering me for this scholarship. Sincerely, Mattison Granger

Hello My name is Mattison Granger, I’d like to take a few moments to introduce myself. I am 18 years old and currently enrolled in West Hardin high school as a 2026 graduating senior. During my high school years I have been involved in various extracurriculars. I was in FFA freshman and sophomore year competing in area talent competition, as well as being part of the animal show teams placing in the top 20 two years in a row at YMBL. I earned swine exhibitor of the year as a freshman. I was the top yearbook photographer all 4 years for all activities and sporting events. I also competed at the state powerlifting meet and ended up placing 9th. I competed at a regional level the following year as a junior and got 2nd. I volunteered every year for my church's nursery and vacation bible during the summer, as well as my schools field day for elementary and FFA adopt a highway cleanup. Currently in dual credit courses at Lee College and will graduate with a cosmetology license in December. I would consider myself a responsible young adult. With all the challenges of being a senior, I've been able to balance things better than I had imagined. I have always had a passion for helping people in general, especially children. In the past 3 years I've had the opportunity to aid in special education art class alongside my mother and I see a specific need there. I love watching the children grow and helping them meet their individual goals. That it should not only be a learning experience but a safe haven as well.This is what led me to pursue a degree in Early Childhood Education and become a teacher. I wasn't quite sure what I wanted to do after high school. However, something changed at the end of my junior year. I felt a shift in heart when I began to notice the need for special education inclusion. I watched my mother take on this role and it inspired me. She wasn't just helping to teach these students, she was nurturing them. Kids who often were overlooked by peers or excluded by their fellow students. It broke my heart and I decided then I wanted to advocate for them any way I could. No child should feel left out. Somehow, I had to make a change. It begins with you and I, and I want to bring a light into the lives of every child and show them how truly important they are to the future. My family is large on today's scale. I have 3 siblings in which I am the oldest. With this burden of responsibility, I would like to lighten that financial load for my parents. My dad, who is the main breadwinner in my home, was hit with an unexpected health issue this year. He's set to have major back surgery at the end of April, which will have him down for 6 weeks or more. Given he just started his new job in September, he hasn't been with this company long enough to receive the benefits to help with these added costs. My mother, although passionate about her career, does not make enough to cover my college tuition alone. My hopes are to be the first in my family to graduate with a degree, to set an example for my siblings and any child I may encounter on my journey,who thinks they aren't capable. Lastly, I would like to thank you for your time and for considering me for this scholarship. Sincerely, Mattison Granger

Hello My name is Mattison Granger, I’d like to take a few moments to introduce myself. I am 18 years old and currently enrolled in West Hardin high school as a 2026 graduating senior. During my high school years I have been involved in many extracurriculars. I was in FFA freshman and sophomore year, competing in area talent competition, as well as being part of the animal show teams placing in the top 20 two years in a row at YMBL. I earned swine exhibitor of the year as a freshman. I was the top yearbook photographer all 4 years for all activities and sporting events. I also competed at the state powerlifting meet and ended up placing 9th, then at a regional level the following year as a junior. In addition to that, I played multiple sports such as volleyball,basketball,track and golf. I volunteered every year for my church's nursery and vacation bible during the summer, as well as my schools field day for elementary and FFA adopt a highway cleanup. I also served on student council freshman year. Currently in dual credit courses at Lee College and will graduate with a cosmetology license in December of this year. I would consider myself a responsible young adult. In the past 3 years I've had the opportunity to aid in special education art class alongside my mother and I see a specific need there. It never ceases to amaze me when they are able to achieve their milestones in their own way. I also observed that some of these children may only receive love or support at school.This is what led me to pursue a degree in Early Childhood Education and become a teacher. I had never considered teaching before and I wasn't quite sure what I wanted to do after high school. However, something changed at the end of my junior year. I felt a shift in heart when I began to notice the need for special education inclusion. I watched my mother take on this role and it inspired me. She wasn't just helping to teach these students, she was nurturing them. Kids who often were overlooked by peers or excluded by their fellow students. It broke my heart and I decided then I wanted to advocate for them any way I could. No child should feel left out. I had to make a change. It begins with you and I, and I want to bring a light into the lives of every child and show them how truly important they are to the future. My family is large on today's scale. I have 3 siblings in which I am the oldest. With this burden of responsibility, I would like to lighten that financial load for my parents. My dad, who is the main breadwinner in my home, was hit with an unexpected health issue this year. He's set to have major back surgery at the end of April, which will have him down for 6 weeks or more. Given he just started his new job in September, he hasn't been with this company long enough to receive the benefits to help with these added costs. My mother, although passionate about her career, does not make enough to cover my college tuition alone. My hopes are to be the first in my family to graduate with a degree, to set an example for my siblings and any child I may encounter on my journey,who thinks they aren't capable. Lastly, I would like to thank you for your time and for considering me for this scholarship. Sincerely, Mattison Granger

The biggest lessons I have learned through golf is that you play the ball where it lies. I'll never forget my third high school golf tournament. My coach gave us a pep talk on our way to the course. We would be playing at Bayou Din. She warned that it was a wide open course, and that there may be gators. It didn't help that we had gotten five or more inches of rain the night before and the tournament wouldn't be called off. She wasn't kidding! My ball had literally landed inches from a four foot alligator. I had to play the ball where it lay. It's safe to say I didn't do well that day. I had tread through ankle deep water all day, and was sun burnt and exhausted. After analyzing my game the entire ride home, I was ready to put in the work the next day. I knew I wasn't the best golfer on my team, but that didn't stop me. If we give up because we aren't the best then that shows a lack of determination. Which is something you must possess in golf, and life in general. Resilience is a word I learned early in life. My parents taught me how to dig deep and keep going. I was never allowed to quit or give up, in my household that simply wasn't an option. Whatever we did, we did it to the best of our ability, no matter what the circumstances were. Golf has to be the most trying and challenging game there is. It takes an enormous amount of patience, which is something I was not born with. While in the game I've had to see past the hardships and learn and grow from them. Each time picking up my head and working harder. That's just how life is. No matter what gets thrown at you, you have to stay determined, always working towards the ultimate goal. You can have the worst game of your life and yet you have wake up wanting to try again. Things aren't always going to go well, but you have to finish strong. Taking the time given to play your best game and in the end you'll be nothing short of proud. Whether it be because you did amazing or just because you tried your hardest and wont give up easily. I plan to take these lessons and attributes I've gathered through my high school years in sports and apply them to this game of life. Always trying, always learning, always pushing through to the finish.