I still remember the first time I put on my Explorers uniform. I was fifteen, nervous but excited, standing in formation with others who, like me, felt a calling toward something bigger than themselves. That night marked the beginning of a journey I’ve been chasing ever since—a path of service, discipline, and commitment to my community. From that moment forward, I’ve immersed myself in everything I can to prepare for a future in emergency services. I’ve served in my local Police Cadet Explorers Academy, dedicating hours each week to training sessions, scenario-based learning, and volunteering at community events. I’ve learned the basics of patrol procedures, radio codes, traffic stops, and first aid—but more importantly, I’ve learned the power of showing up when it matters most. Whether it’s directing traffic at a holiday parade, volunteering at a food drive, or helping guide people to safety during a crowded public event, I’ve come to realize that being present and reliable is often more powerful than anything you can say. My passion for emergency services runs deep. It’s not just about the adrenaline or the uniform—it’s about protecting the vulnerable, stepping up in moments of chaos, and being a steady presence when others are scared or hurting. There’s something sacred about that responsibility. I believe in serving people with compassion and strength, and I believe in doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. These values are at the heart of the emergency services field, and they are the core of who I am becoming. Educationally, I plan to major in Criminal Justice with a focus on law enforcement and public safety. I also hope to study psychology to better understand trauma, human behavior, and how to de-escalate situations with empathy and care. After earning my degree, I want to attend a police academy and eventually serve as a patrol officer, with the long-term goal of working in specialized units such as crisis intervention or even federal service with the FBI or SWAT. I’m determined to be more than just a badge—I want to be a force for healing and hope. I’ve also taken time to explore how to contribute to my community in creative ways. Through the Explorers Club and other volunteer programs, I’ve organized clean-up days, participated in youth outreach programs, and even mentored younger cadets. I know that being part of emergency services doesn’t start or stop with responding to 911 calls. It’s about connection. It's about earning the trust of your neighbors, learning their names, and being a person they know they can depend on—even when there's no emergency. Receiving the Gregory A. DeCanio Memorial Scholarship would be more than financial support—it would be a reminder that I’m not alone in this journey. Gregory’s legacy is one of compassion, courage, and unwavering service. To carry even a fraction of that legacy forward would be an incredible honor. I want to spend my life making communities safer, more united, and more resilient. This scholarship would help me continue my education, obtain the training I need, and step more fully into the role I know I was meant to fill. I understand that emergency services is not a career you choose for the praise—it’s one you choose because you’re wired to protect and serve, no matter the cost. My goal is to be the kind of person who runs toward the crisis, who listens carefully, who takes action with clarity and heart. I want to be the calm voice when someone calls for help, the steady hands in chaos, and the strength behind the scenes that makes a difference. My pursuit of this path will always be rooted in community. Whether I’m serving in my hometown or beyond, I want to be someone who makes people feel seen, safe, and supported. With the help of this scholarship, I can move closer to becoming the kind of leader—and public servant—my community deserves. Thank you for believing in students like me who are ready to step up and serve.

Ever since I can remember, I’ve been driven by a deep desire to understand people, protect the vulnerable, and stand up for what’s right—even when it’s hard. That desire has shaped every part of my educational journey and inspired the goals I now chase with everything I have. Academically, I’ve always been a high-achiever, not just in terms of grades, but in the way I apply myself to learning. I’m a strong, curious student who loves digging into subjects like psychology and criminal justice. I’ve taken the initiative to join programs beyond the classroom, like the Police Academy Explorers Program, which has introduced me to real-world training, structure, and the kind of teamwork that law enforcement requires. Through the Explorers Club, I’ve developed leadership skills and been given the opportunity to learn from professionals who do this work every day. These programs have been life-changing—they’ve confirmed for me that this path is more than a dream; it’s a calling. Career-wise, I’m aiming to work in law enforcement, either as a police officer or eventually with the FBI or SWAT. I want to be on the front lines—not just fighting crime, but helping people, building trust in communities, and being someone others can count on when it matters most. What inspires me the most is the power of empathy and integrity in positions of authority. I want to bring both of those to the table in everything I do. In my community, I’ve always tried to give back however I can. Whether it’s volunteering locally, helping with community clean-ups, or simply being someone who listens and shows up for others—I take pride in being dependable and kind. I believe real change starts with small actions, and I try to live that every day. I also help take care of my younger siblings, support my parents around the house, and contribute where I can to ease the load—it’s part of what makes me who I am. Financially, my family qualifies for free and reduced meals, and we live on a modest income between $40,000 and $60,000 a year. My parents work incredibly hard, but affording higher education is still a real challenge. A scholarship like this would mean more than just financial relief—it would mean opportunity. It would give me the chance to focus on building a future without the constant fear of how we’ll afford it. It would allow me to keep showing up in my community, pursuing my goals, and being an example for others like me. As for why I deserve this scholarship—I would say this: I’m not perfect, but I’m determined. I’ve worked through personal challenges, kept my eyes on the future, and built a strong foundation from the ground up. I’ve learned how to adapt, how to lead, and how to fight for the life I want. What sets me apart is my heart. I care deeply about people, and I want to use my life to protect them, support them, and stand in the gap when no one else will. This scholarship would help me not just continue my education—but turn my vision into action. Thank you for considering me.