I plan to improve the lives of others through a career in healthcare by combining compassion, education, and dedication to lifelong learning. My goal is to become an anesthesiologist, a role that places me at the center of patient care during some of the most vulnerable and critical moments of their lives. In those moments, patients rely on trust, precision, and empathy, and I want to be someone who provides all three. For me, healthcare is not just a profession it is a responsibility to serve, protect, and advocate for people when they need it most. My passion for healthcare comes from my upbringing and the example set by my mother, who works at Atrium Health as a phlebotomist. Watching her care for patients showed me how powerful compassion and dedication can be in medicine. It taught me that every patient has a story, and that quality care begins with truly seeing and understanding the person behind the diagnosis. That perspective will guide how I treat all patients, regardless of their condition or background. Although I plan to specialize in anesthesiology, my desire to help does not stop at one role or specialty. I carry a genuine love for helping all people, and I promise to fully apply myself to improving patient outcomes through continuous research, study, and learning. Medicine is constantly evolving, especially in areas involving lung disease and rare medical conditions, and I am committed to staying informed so I can provide the safest and most effective care possible. As an anesthesiologist, understanding respiratory health is essential, particularly for patients with chronic lung diseases such as asthma, COPD, or pulmonary fibrosis. These patients face higher risks during surgical procedures, and careful anesthetic management can significantly improve their safety and recovery. I also want to support individuals living with rare medical conditions, who are often overlooked or misunderstood due to the limited availability of research and resources. Many patients with rare diseases struggle to receive timely diagnoses and appropriate care. I hope to contribute to a healthcare environment that values research, collaboration, and advocacy for these patients. By engaging in ongoing education and supporting medical research, I want to help advance understanding and treatment options for conditions that lack widespread attention. Beyond clinical care, I envision making an impact through education and advocacy, especially in underserved communities. I want to help patients better understand their conditions, treatment options, and preventative care strategies. Empowering people with knowledge allows them to take an active role in their health and improves long-term outcomes. Ultimately, my goal is to be a healthcare professional who leads with empathy, curiosity, and commitment. Whether caring for patients with lung disease, rare medical conditions, or routine surgical needs, I will always approach my work with purpose and compassion. Through dedication to research, study, and service, I hope to improve lives, restore trust in healthcare, and contribute to a future where all patients feel seen, supported, and cared for.

Education has given my life direction at a time when the future once felt uncertain. Growing up in a single-parent household with two brothers, survival often came before long term planning. My mother worked tirelessly to provide for us, making sure we always had food on the table, clothes on our backs, and a safe place to come home to. While she never had the opportunity to attend college herself, she instilled in us the belief that education was the key to breaking cycles and creating opportunities beyond our circumstances. From an early age, I understood that education was more than just schoolwork it was a pathway to a better life. As a child, I did not always fully understand the sacrifices my mother was making. I only knew that she worked long hours, came home exhausted, and still found the strength to support us emotionally and mentally. Over time, I realized that her determination and resilience were rooted in her desire to give us a future she never had. Watching her push through challenges without complaint taught me the value of perseverance and discipline. Those lessons became the foundation of my approach to education and life. Being a first-generation college student has shaped my goals in powerful ways. Entering college without family guidance meant learning everything on my own from navigating financial aid to understanding course requirements and academic expectations. At times, the process felt overwhelming, but it also forced me to become independent, resourceful, and confident in my ability to adapt. Attending Fayetteville State University gave me something I did not know I needed: a sense of belonging. As an HBCU, FSU provided an environment where I felt seen, supported, and encouraged to succeed. It truly lives up to its name as a Family State University, and that sense of community has played a major role in shaping my sense of purpose. Education helped me turn vague hopes into clear goals. Being exposed to science, mentorship, and healthcare-related opportunities made me realize that I wanted to pursue a career where I could help people during their most vulnerable moments. My interest in healthcare was deeply influenced by my mother, who works at Atrium Health as a phlebotomist. Watching her care for patients with compassion and professionalism showed me the impact one person can have through service. Education gave me the knowledge and confidence to believe that I could follow a similar path on a larger scale. However, this journey has not been without challenges. One of the most difficult obstacles I continue to face is financial hardship. I work to help my mother and me pay for my tuition, often through DoorDash, which requires long hours and constant driving. Even with both of us contributing, we sometimes pay tuition late, which delays my ability to register for classes. By the time I am allowed to enroll, many required courses are already full, causing setbacks in my academic progress. Balancing work, school, and family responsibilities is exhausting, both mentally and physically, but it has taught me resilience and time management at a level that cannot be learned in a classroom. There have been moments when the stress felt overwhelming, when I questioned how much longer I could keep pushing. Yet, every challenge has reinforced why education matters so much to me. Education represents stability, opportunity, and the chance to change not only my life but the lives of those around me. It reminds me that my current struggles are temporary, and that persistence will lead to progress. Through my education, I have gained more than academic knowledge. I have learned how to think critically, communicate effectively, and approach complex problems with confidence. I have learned how to advocate for myself and seek help when needed. Most importantly, I have learned how to uplift others while continuing to push myself forward. These skills have shaped the kind of person I want to be and the impact I hope to make. Looking toward the future, I hope to use my education to create a better life for myself and meaningful change for others. My long-term goal is to work in healthcare, where I can combine science, empathy, and service to help people in need. I want to be part of the solution in communities that face limited access to quality healthcare and preventative resources. I also want to serve as a role model for younger students, especially those from similar backgrounds, showing them that higher education is possible despite obstacles. Beyond career aspirations, education has given me a sense of responsibility. I want to repay my mother’s sacrifices and ensure that she never has to work as hard again. Everything I do academically is fueled by the desire to provide her with the security and comfort she deserves after years of putting others before herself. I also want to be a source of pride and motivation for my brothers, showing them that dedication and persistence lead to opportunity. Education has shaped my identity, my goals, and my vision for the future. It has given me direction when life felt uncertain and strength when challenges felt overwhelming. I do not view education as a personal achievement alone, but as a tool for service, leadership, and transformation. By continuing my education, I am building a future rooted in purpose, stability, and impact one where I can uplift my family, serve my community, and create lasting change for generations to come.

Being raised in a single-parent household shaped who I am in ways I did not fully understand until I got older. I was raised by my mother alongside my two brothers, and from a young age, I learned the meaning of responsibility, sacrifice, and perseverance. My mom carried the weight of our household on her shoulders, working tirelessly to make sure we had food on the table, clothes on our backs, and a safe place to come home to. Watching her give everything she had for us taught me the value of hard work and the importance of never giving up, even when life feels overwhelming. Growing up without much beyond the necessities forced me to mature early. There were no shortcuts or handouts if I wanted something, I had to earn it. That environment shaped my work ethic and my mindset. It also taught me empathy. I learned how to recognize struggle in others, even when it is not spoken, because I lived it myself. Being raised in a single-parent household made me more patient, understanding, and driven to help people who may feel overlooked or unsupported. These experiences have strongly influenced my future goals. While I am working toward a career in healthcare, what matters most to me is using my talents to do good and help people, no matter what path I ultimately take. I want to be in a position where I can give back to my community, uplift others, and create opportunities for people who feel stuck or discouraged. Whether through medicine, education, mentorship, or advocacy, my goal is to serve others with compassion and purpose. One of my biggest motivations is my mother. One day, I want to be able to support her in the same way she supported me. I want to repay her sacrifices so she never has to work as hard again. Everything I do every late night studying, every challenge I push through is fueled by the desire to give her the comfort and security she deserves after years of putting everyone else first. I imagine a future where I am financially stable, fulfilled, and using my skills to make a positive impact. A future where I can help families, mentor young people, and be a source of strength for others facing adversity. Being raised in a single-parent household taught me that success is not just about personal achievement, but about lifting others as you rise. I carry that lesson with me as I continue building a future rooted in service, gratitude, and purpose.

I chose to pursue a degree in biology because it allows me to understand the human body at its core and use that knowledge to directly improve people’s lives. Biology connects science to service, and for me, it represents a pathway to healing, education, and advocacy. I have always been drawn to medicine, not just because of the science behind it, but because of the impact it can have on individuals, families, and entire communities. My interest in biology is deeply personal. I was raised by a single mother who works at Atrium Health as a phlebotomist. Watching her care for patients with compassion and dedication sparked my interest in healthcare at an early age. Even though she did not attend college, she raised me to aim higher, open doors she never had access to, and use education as a tool for change. Her example inspired me to pursue biology as the foundation for my goal of becoming an anesthesiologist. As a first-generation college student, studying biology has not been easy. The coursework is rigorous, and balancing academics with work responsibilities adds another layer of challenge. I work to help pay my tuition, which means long hours and constant time management. These challenges have strengthened my discipline, resilience, and commitment to my goals. They have also prepared me for the demands of medical school and a career in medicine. As a person of color in biology, I want to be a voice for health advocacy in African American communities. Health disparities, lack of access to quality care, and medical mistrust continue to affect Black communities at higher rates. I want to use my education to educate, advocate, and empower individuals to take control of their health through preventative care and informed decision making. Representation matters in healthcare, and I want to be a physician who patients can trust and feel understood by. My long term goal is to become an anesthesiologist and use my biology background to serve underserved populations. Beyond providing care in the operating room, I plan to engage in community outreach, health education, and mentorship for students of color interested in medicine. I want to show young people that their background does not limit their potential. By pursuing a degree in biology, I am not only investing in my future, but also committing to improving health outcomes in African American communities. I hope to use my knowledge, compassion, and advocacy to help close healthcare gaps and build a more equitable future for generations to come.

Being a first-generation college student means carrying both pride and pressure at the same time. It means walking a path that no one in my family has walked before, without a map to guide me. I am the first in my family to attend college, and while that is something I am incredibly proud of, it also comes with challenges that many people never see. I am learning everything as I go financial aid, course registration, and balancing school with work while also trying to set an example for my family. I was raised by a single mother alongside my two brothers. Growing up, we lived with only the necessities. My mom worked tirelessly to make sure we had food on the table and clothes on our backs, even when life was difficult. She never had the opportunity to attend college herself, but she raised us to believe that we could be more, do more, and go further than she ever had the chance to. Watching her sacrifice for us shaped my work ethic, my resilience, and my determination to succeed. The challenges I have faced have not been easy. I currently work DoorDash to help my mother and me pay for my tuition. Even with both of us contributing, we often pay late, which causes me to register for classes after they are already full. Balancing long work hours with academics is exhausting, and the financial stress can be overwhelming. Still, I push forward because I know what I am working toward. My dream is to become an anesthesiologist. I want to work in healthcare to help people during their most vulnerable moments and to serve communities like the one I come from. I have seen how expensive medical care can devastate families, and I want to be part of the solution not just inside the hospital, but through education and preventative care that helps people live healthier lives. This scholarship would be life changing. It would relieve the constant financial pressure that pulls me away from my studies and allow me to focus fully on my education. More importantly, it would move me closer to my dream of becoming a doctor and honoring my mother’s sacrifices. I am not perfect, but I am determined. I am driven by my family, my community, and the belief that my success can open doors for others. This scholarship would help me continue my journey and turn years of hard work, resilience, and hope into lasting impact.

My unique talents and skills were shaped by my upbringing, my responsibilities at a young age, and my commitment to helping others. Growing up in a single parent household with two brothers taught me resilience, adaptability, and empathy. From an early age, I learned how to communicate with people from different backgrounds, work under pressure, and remain composed in challenging situations. These skills have guided how I move through the world and how I plan to build a more empathetic and understanding global community. One of my strongest skills is my ability to connect with people. Whether in school, at work, or in everyday life, I make an effort to listen before I speak. Growing up with limited resources made me sensitive to the struggles of others, even when they go unspoken. I understand what it feels like to need support and not know where to turn. That understanding allows me to approach people with patience, compassion, and respect. In healthcare, these qualities are essential. Patients are often afraid, confused, or overwhelmed, and being able to reassure them through clear communication and empathy can make a meaningful difference in their experience. My work ethic is another talent I bring to building a more understanding community. I have balanced academics, work, and family responsibilities throughout my college journey, including working to help pay my tuition. These experiences taught me accountability, perseverance, and leadership. I do not take shortcuts, and I hold myself to high standards. In a global community, leadership rooted in responsibility and integrity helps create trust, which is the foundation of empathy and understanding. As a future anesthesiologist, I plan to use my medical training to serve people from diverse backgrounds. Healthcare is a universal need, and medicine provides a powerful platform to connect across cultures, languages, and socioeconomic barriers. I want to advocate for patient-centered care that recognizes the whole person, not just their condition. Beyond the hospital, I aim to promote health education and preventative care, helping communities make informed decisions that improve quality of life. My identity as a Black student at an HBCU has also shaped my perspective. Attending Fayetteville State University, a true Family State University, has shown me the importance of collective success and uplifting others. I have learned that progress happens when people feel seen, supported, and valued. I plan to carry this mindset into every environment I enter, encouraging collaboration and mutual respect. By combining empathy, communication, and service through medicine, I hope to contribute to a global community that leads with understanding. My goal is to use my skills not only to heal bodies, but also to build trust, dignity, and compassion across communities.

My name is Messiah Fields, and I am a student at Fayetteville State University. I am a first generation college student, raised by a single mother alongside my two brothers. Growing up, our family lived with only the basics food on the table, clothes on our backs, and a roof over our heads. There were no extras, and every accomplishment had to be earned through hard work and perseverance. Watching my mother navigate life’s challenges while providing for us left a lasting impression. Her determination, resilience, and compassion taught me what it means to push forward, no matter the circumstances. She is my hero, and she inspires everything I do. My mother works at Atrium Health as a phlebotomist. Watching her care for patients with dedication and kindness sparked my interest in healthcare. Even though she never attended college, she raised us to dream bigger, to push further, and to open doors that she never had the chance to walk through. Her sacrifices and example inspired me to pursue higher education and a career that allows me to make a difference in the lives of others. I plan to become an anesthesiologist because it allows me to care for patients during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. I am drawn to this profession not only for the technical expertise it requires but also for the trust and compassion involved in helping people through difficult situations. Beyond the operating room, I hope to focus on preventative care and health education, especially in underserved communities like the one I come from. I have seen firsthand how expensive and inaccessible healthcare can devastate families, and I want to help close that gap. My personal experiences give me empathy and understanding, allowing me to connect with patients on a deeper level and advocate for their needs. Attending Fayetteville State University, my HBCU, has reinforced my desire to make a positive impact. FSU is more than just a school it is a Family State University, where students, faculty, and staff support one another like a family. The sense of community, pride, and collaboration motivates me to give my best every day and to inspire others to reach their full potential. My journey has not been easy. I DoorDash to help pay tuition, and balancing work, school, and family responsibilities is challenging. Yet, these obstacles have strengthened my determination and taught me resilience. I want to use my education, skills, and experiences to leave a lasting impact on the world by helping people live healthier lives, providing care when they need it most, and inspiring others to overcome their own challenges. I am committed to honoring my mother’s sacrifices, serving my community, and creating meaningful change through my career. Medicine is not just a profession for me it is a way to make the world better, one life at a time.

My name is Messiah Fields, and my journey toward a career in medicine has been shaped by personal challenges, resilience, and the example set by my mother. Growing up in a single-parent household with two brothers, I learned early that life would not hand me opportunities; I had to earn them. Our family lived with only the basic necessities—food on the table, clothes on our backs, and a roof over our heads. Every achievement required effort and persistence. Watching my mother navigate life’s challenges while working tirelessly to provide for us left a lasting impression. Her determination, compassion, and perseverance became the blueprint for how I approach challenges in my own life. My mother is my hero. She works at Atrium Health as a phlebotomist, and witnessing her care for patients sparked my interest in healthcare. Even though she never attended college, she raised us to dream bigger, to push further, and to open doors that she never had the chance to walk through. Her life taught me that the impact we make is measured by service and the difference we create in the lives of others. Her example inspired me to pursue higher education and ultimately a career in medicine, with a desire to help people and save lives. I am the first in my family to attend college, and balancing work with school has not been easy. I DoorDash to help my mother and me pay tuition, yet we often face late payments that delay class registration and add stress to my academic journey. Coming from a background of limited resources has taught me resilience, problem-solving, and the importance of perseverance. These experiences have prepared me to face the rigorous demands of medical school and the responsibilities of a healthcare career. I plan to become an anesthesiologist, a role that allows me to care for patients during moments of vulnerability. Beyond the operating room, I want to focus on preventative care and education, especially in underserved communities like the one I come from. My personal challenges have given me empathy and insight into the difficulties patients face, enabling me to provide care that addresses both medical and social needs. Attending Fayetteville State University, my HBCU, has reinforced these lessons. FSU truly lives up to its name as a Family State University, where students, faculty, and staff support one another. The sense of family motivates me to succeed and to contribute meaningfully to every environment I enter. The challenges I have faced financial, personal, and academic have shaped my commitment to medicine. They have given me empathy, resilience, and determination, qualities that I will carry into my career. My goal is to honor my mother’s sacrifices, serve my community, and provide care that transforms lives, both inside and outside the hospital.

In the future, I plan to become an anesthesiologist and use my career to help people during their most vulnerable moments. I want to work in medicine not only inside the hospital but also outside of it by educating people on preventative care. Growing up, I saw how expensive medical care can be and how one hospital visit can financially damage a family. Because of that, my goal is to give back to communities like the one I come from and help people avoid unnecessary medical emergencies while still providing high-quality care when it is needed. Being Black, to me, means resilience, strength, and the ability to make something out of nothing. It means carrying the weight of history while still pushing forward with determination and pride. Being Black has shaped my work ethic, my mindset, and my desire to uplift those around me. I move through life knowing that my success is not just for me, but for everyone who comes after me. I chose to attend an HBCU, specifically Fayetteville State University, because it truly feels like home. From the moment I stepped on campus, I felt supported, seen, and valued. Coming from a public high school where chaos was normal, the sense of unity at FSU stood out immediately. Even though we are a smaller school, we represent our school with pride. Fayetteville State University is truly a Family State University, and that sense of family motivates me to succeed and give back to my community.

If I was given the opportunity to improve my community I would create close and accessible recreation centers for the kids that focuses on improving the well being of the kids and helping provide with the basic needs. I grew up without a father and a single mother who birthed all boys while my mom did the best she could it was very hard for her to teach us how to be a man. While yes she can teach us the essence of how to be a man and how to treat woman but theres a lot of things that she couldnt teach us. Luckily for me she put me and my brother in a group called Strength in Brothers. Strength in Brothers was a foundation that helped me and my brother become men there I learned how to change a tire and tie a tie. They also told us how a man should act. While I was lucky to have a place to go to learn about real life things outside of school there are a lot of young men who dont have this type of guidance and If I had the money I would make Strength in brothers world wide similar to how the boys and girls club is international. I believe that with a strong foundation based off of god and a two parent household can improve the well being of all children while also bringing violence down. This was proven in Baltimore, Maryland as they opened up more recreational places for the youth and violence went down a significant amount. This is so important to me because im tired of seeing kids in the news younger than me go to jail getting wrapped into things they have no business being in. Nobody knows how to truly raise a child so I believe that it takes a village to raise a child and without the proper resources it makes it more difficult allowing the youth to be influenced by dangerous things that leads to fast money. There aren't many resources in a lot of African American communities that truly benefit the youth as it should and putting money directly in African American communities will help. I believe our future beings with our youth and if we don't cater more to the youth we won't be able to influence the future. That is why I truly believe that helping our youth and providing a fun place for our youth to go will benefit not only the community but the world.

As a first-generation college student, I have always looked up to my mom. I see her go to work tirelessly every day. She often tells me that she regrets not going to college, as it would have given her the chance to get a better-paying job. Growing up in a low-income family has not been easy, but it has made me mentally stronger and more determined to pursue higher education and a better career. Throughout my academic career, I have faced many struggles. I have had to finish my schoolwork no matter what was happening around me. I have also had to make sacrifices to make time for my future. My biggest challenge was getting ready for college. Nobody in my family knew what they were doing, and it was all new to us. Thankfully, we received some outside help, and now I am more ready than ever for college. The person who inspires me the most is my Lord, Jesus Christ. Through Him, I have found the strength to overcome all the challenges that have come my way. His teachings have guided me and given me the power to keep moving forward, no matter how difficult the path may seem. After college, I plan to go straight into the medical field and become an anesthesiologist. My goal is to help people every day. I want to make a difference in the lives of others, just as many people have helped me along my journey. My community has played a big role in shaping who I am today. Growing up in a close-knit neighborhood, I have seen how people come together to support each other in times of need. This sense of community has taught me the importance of giving back and helping others. It has also fueled my desire to pursue a career in medicine, where I can make a positive impact on people's lives. My educational journey has been filled with challenges, but it has also been incredibly rewarding. I have worked hard to maintain a high GPA of 3.45, and I am proud of what I have achieved so far. Attending Fayetteville State University as a Pre-Med major is a dream come true for me. I am excited to learn and grow in this new environment, and I am determined to make the most of this opportunity. In conclusion, my background, family, community, and educational experiences have all played a significant role in shaping my desire to pursue higher education in the United States. I have faced many challenges along the way, but with the support of my family, community, and faith, I have been able to overcome them. I am inspired by my Lord, Jesus Christ, and I am determined to make a difference in the world as an anesthesiologist. Thank you for considering my application for the Pierson Family Scholarship for U.S. Studies.

This summer, I gave my life to God, and in doing so, my whole world turned upside down. Every day before I start my day and before I lay down, I get on my knees and thank Him for everything He has done. I also speak to God throughout my day, giving Him praise while I walk into work or drive home. Recently, through the Lord's love, He has uncircumcised my heart and given me the tools to give to others. One specific time I put Jesus first, others second, and myself third was when I volunteered at a local shelter. I felt a strong calling to serve those in need. I spent my weekends helping to prepare meals, clean the facility, and provide comfort to the residents. I did not do this for recognition or personal gain, but because I felt it was what Jesus would want me to do. This experience humbled me and made me realize how blessed I am. It also showed me the power of selfless service and the impact it can have on others. This experience has had a profound impact on me. It has strengthened my faith and commitment to living a life of service. I have learned that true happiness comes from putting others before myself and following the teachings of Jesus. As I continue my studies at Fayetteville State University as a Pre-Med major, I plan to keep living by these principles. The Lord has called me to be a doctor, and I am dedicated to using my education and skills to help others. In my future career, I will strive to serve my patients with compassion and humility. There will not be a day where I do not help someone. I will continue to thank God for His guidance and seek His wisdom in all that I do. By putting Jesus first, others second, and myself third, I believe I can make a positive difference in the world. In conclusion, my faith has shaped who I am and who I aspire to be. I am committed to living a life of service, guided by the principles of putting Jesus first, others second, and myself third. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my story and for the chance to continue my education with the support of The Ascent and Mos Class of 2024 Scholarship. Thank you for considering my application.

As someone who struggles with their mental health, I think mental health is the most important thing. It affects your daily life, the way you look, act, and the way you treat others. Maintaining mental wellness is crucial for me, especially as a rising college freshman at Fayetteville State University, majoring in Pre-Med. I know that my mental state will play a significant role in my academic success and future career in the medical field. One of the best things I do to maintain my mental health is to read my Bible or take a moment to speak to God. My faith has brought me out of very deep holes. When I feel overwhelmed or anxious, turning to my faith gives me a sense of peace and direction. It reminds me that I am not alone and that there is a greater purpose for my struggles. In addition to my faith, I find that physical activity helps me a lot. Sometimes I go on walks or exercise to clear my mind. One memorable experience was when I walked up Crowders Mountain. Being surrounded by nature and the beauty of the world made me feel connected and grounded. More recently, I went to the boardwalk, sat down, and enjoyed being in the presence of God. These moments of solitude and reflection are vital for my mental health. As a Black man, I am aware of the unique challenges my community faces regarding mental health. There is often a stigma attached to seeking help, and it can be hard to find resources that understand our specific needs. This makes it even more important for me to prioritize my mental wellness and set an example for others. My high school GPA of 3.45 reflects my dedication to my studies, but it was not always easy. There were times when stress and anxiety made it hard to focus. By maintaining my mental health through faith and physical activity, I was able to push through and succeed. I know that college will bring new challenges, but I am committed to continuing these practices to stay balanced and healthy. In conclusion, mental health is the foundation of everything I do. It affects how I interact with others, how I perform academically, and how I envision my future. By relying on my faith and staying active, I have found effective ways to maintain my mental wellness. As I embark on my college journey at Fayetteville State University, I will continue to prioritize my mental health, knowing it is the key to achieving my goals and becoming the best version of myself.

My name is Messiah Fields, and I am a rising freshman at Fayetteville State University, majoring in Pre-Med. I come from a single-parent household where we do not have much, but I have learned to make a lot out of the little I am given. This has become one of my greatest strengths. I am a hard worker and always strive to do my best, no matter the circumstances. Growing up, my mother worked tirelessly to provide for us, and her dedication inspired me to work hard in my studies. Despite the challenges we faced, I maintained a 3.45 GPA in high school. This is something I am proud of, as it reflects my commitment to my education and my determination to succeed. One area where I have struggled is public speaking. I used to be very nervous when speaking in front of others. However, as I have grown older, I have worked hard to improve this skill. I have taken every opportunity to speak in class and participate in group projects, and I have seen significant improvement. I know that being able to communicate effectively is important, especially in the medical field, and I am committed to continuing to improve in this area. My dream is to become a doctor and make medical care more affordable and accessible to those in need. I have always been passionate about helping others, and I believe that a career in medicine will allow me to make a meaningful impact on my community and the world. I want to be a doctor who not only treats patients but also advocates for better healthcare policies and works to reduce the disparities in healthcare access. This scholarship will be a significant help in achieving my dreams. The cost of medical school is high, and this scholarship will help ease the financial burden on my family. It will allow me to focus more on my studies and less on how I will pay for my education. Additionally, it will enable me to take advantage of opportunities such as internships and volunteer work, which are crucial for gaining experience in the medical field. In the future, I see myself working in underserved communities, providing quality healthcare to those who need it most. I want to be a role model for other young people who come from similar backgrounds and show them that it is possible to achieve their dreams, no matter the obstacles they face. I also hope to be involved in initiatives that promote health education and preventive care, as I believe that educating people about their health is key to improving overall health outcomes. In conclusion, I am a hardworking and determined individual who is passionate about pursuing a career in medicine. This scholarship will help me achieve my dreams by making education more affordable and allowing me to focus on my studies and gaining experience in the medical field. I am committed to using my education and skills to make a positive impact on my community and the world. Thank you for considering my application for the Treye Knorr Memorial Scholarship.

As long as I can remember, my life has been surrounded by fake grass, clashing helmets, shoulder pads, and cleats. To me, football is one of the world's greatest gifts that I am able to be a part of, and I hold it close to my heart. Watching football is great, but being able to be hands-on is what I love the most. Football is where I find my peace. It is where I go to strengthen myself physically, mentally, and emotionally. I was the one that always challenged upperclassmen and became known as “the guy nobody wanted to go against” in practice. I always gave my all and never gave up on a drill. So, imagine my dismay when I suffered a silent injury during my junior year of high school. I had to stand out and watch a less experienced player take over my position while I stood on the sidelines. The summer of my junior year was one of the hardest times of my life. I was coming off two injuries that I was too scared to tell anyone about because I didn’t want to risk sitting out of practice. I was trying to self-rehab by watching YouTube videos in order to save money and time. I was trying to run and make sharp turns on a sprained ankle instead of giving my ankle a rest because I thought I could push myself to be back practicing at one hundred and ten percent. I did not factor in that I was only making my ankle worse, extending my healing time. The thought of missing practice was more painful than my injured ankle. It wasn’t as painful as the reality I had to face, which led me to end up missing more days of practice anyway. My failure to speak up and heal led to the coaches giving away my position. My uncle, whom I look up to for personal and football advice, told me countless times to give my body a rest. I did not listen; after all, I had a very important position to play on the football team, right? At the time, I felt like missing practice was the worst thing I could do. I am a true student of the game who understands that it is not always about winning the game. It’s about reliability. It is not just about showing up and performing well. It’s about having good attendance and improving my skills. I had to miss practices! Practice means a lot to me. Missing practice means I am missing out on a whole lot. Not only was I missing practice, I was missing countless new plays, weight room practice, and team bonding. I was missing out on learning and developing new skills for my position. I am grateful for that experience because it allowed me to experience a setback and realize the importance of always having a contingency plan because things don’t always go the way we intend for them to. Football is a passion. Becoming an anesthesiologist is a career choice. I have to be as dedicated in school as I am on the field. Listening to individuals with wisdom and experience is crucial. Healing time is critical. If I had listened to my uncle, I would’ve taken the necessary time to heal, and I would’ve been on the field sooner. The lessons I have learned from it will propel me forward into the future.

As long as I can remember, my life has been surrounded by fake grass, clashing helmets, shoulder pads, and cleats. To me, football is one of the world's greatest gifts that I am able to be a part of, and I hold it close to my heart. Watching football is great, but being able to be hands-on is what I love the most. Football is where I find my peace. It is where I go to strengthen myself physically, mentally, and emotionally. I was the one that always challenged upperclassmen and became known as “the guy nobody wanted to go against” in practice. I always gave my all and never gave up on a drill. So, imagine my dismay when I suffered a silent injury during my junior year of high school. I had to stand out and watch a less experienced player take over my position while I stood on the sidelines.   The summer of my junior year was one of the hardest times of my life. I was coming off two injuries that I was too scared to tell anyone about because I didn’t want to risk sitting out of practice. I was trying to self-rehab by watching YouTube videos in order to save money and time. I was trying to run and make sharp turns on a sprained ankle instead of giving my ankle a rest because I thought I could push myself to be back practicing at one hundred and ten percent. I did not factor in that I was only making my ankle worse, extending my healing time.  The thought of missing practice was more painful than my injured ankle. It wasn’t as painful as the reality I had to face, which led me to end up missing more days of practice anyway. My failure to speak up and heal led to the coaches giving away my position.  My uncle, whom I look up to for personal and football advice, told me countless times to give my body a rest. I did not listen; after all, I had a very important position to play on the football team, right? At the time, I felt like missing practice was the worst thing I could do. I am a true student of the game who understands that it is not always about winning the game. It’s about reliability. It is not just about showing up and performing well. It’s about having good attendance and improving my skills. I had to miss practices! Practice means a lot to me. Missing practice means I am missing out on a whole lot. Not only was I missing practice, I was missing countless new plays, weight room practice, and team bonding. I was missing out on learning and developing new skills for my position.  I am grateful for that experience because it allowed me to experience a setback and realize the importance of always having a contingency plan because things don’t always go the way we intend for them to. Football is a passion. Becoming an anesthesiologist is a career choice. I have to be as dedicated in school as I am on the field. Listening to individuals with wisdom and experience is crucial. Healing time is critical. If I had listened to my uncle, I would’ve taken the necessary time to heal, and I would’ve been on the field sooner. The lessons I have learned from it will propel me forward into the future.