As a fictional reader and someone with a colorful imagination, reading has shaped me into the best version of myself, someone who refuses to give up and will stop at nothing to achieve her goals. Whether it’s leading an army into battle, training harder than thousands to survive a brutal quadrant, or pushing past the limits of comfort, I've come to understand that the most powerful weapon you can possess is your mind. Surprisingly, I used to despise reading and anyone who enjoyed it. Those reading logs from elementary school? Completely ignored. That is, until I discovered my genre. I’ve always loved rewatching movies like Divergent, The Maze Runner, and How to Train Your Dragon, and soon realized I was drawn to stories filled with fantasy, dystopian worlds, and just a touch of romance. One thing these stories all had in common? A main character who trained, fought, and persevered harder than anyone else. Everything changed when I picked up Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros at Target one day. From that moment on, I never looked back. Barnes & Noble and book aisles became my favorite places, and my bookshelf quickly filled with stories that mirrored the kind of strength I wanted to embody. Violet Sorrengail, the main character in Fourth Wing, left a lasting impact on me. She made me realize who I am at my core: someone who can defy the odds, prove that she belongs at the table, and rise even when the world tells her she shouldn’t. Violet taught me that life isn’t fair, and it doesn’t have to be. What matters is how you respond. Will you give up? Or will you stand up and fight mentally, physically, and emotionally? To her, survival was non-negotiable. Her resilience, independence, and fierce determination inspired me to apply that same mindset to real life. Sure, fantasy can be a far stretch from reality, but the lessons are not. Violet showed me that hard work beats talent and work ethic never goes unnoticed. Because of her, I’ve learned to shape my goals around effort, persistence, and growth. As I consider my own future, whether it's in business, nursing, or even with the FBI, what matters most is the version of me I choose to become each day. She taught me to chase independence, to develop both mental and physical strength, and to be patient with the process. Ultimately, I’ve realized that I get to choose whether or not I’ll push myself harder to become the person I want to be in the next few years.

I am a firm believer that with hard work, determination, and faith, anything is possible. These three values guide my daily life and have helped me overcome some of my biggest challenges. One of the most difficult decisions I’ve made was choosing to graduate high school early, earning all 24 required credits and beginning my college journey a year ahead of my peers. It was a mentally and emotionally demanding choice, but one that I am incredibly proud of. Not only did I walk across the stage with a diploma in hand, but I also earned a spot as a starter on my college softball team after walking on and trying out, which was another milestone I never thought possible. As the youngest of five siblings, I am determined to make it through college, no matter the path or obstacles I face. I’m currently pursuing a degree in Business Administration while living on a farm with a variety of animals, which means a wide range of daily responsibilities. My parents have always worked hard to allow me to focus on my education and part-time job, but a recent, unexpected hardship changed everything. My father suffered a severe injury that required emergency back surgery after a vertebra began pinching a nerve, causing him intense pain and limited mobility. By the grace of God, the surgery was successful, but he now faces a long recovery and is unable to work for several months. At the same time, I was enrolled in two summer classes, and I had to make the difficult decision to quit my job to manage both my academic workload and the responsibilities on the farm. As the new semester begins, I want to return to work, but with so much happening at once, it’s been hard to find balance. Receiving this scholarship would not only help ease the financial burden of paying out of pocket for tuition, books, or class materials, but it would also relieve the added stress of managing expenses now that my two years of softball eligibility and the aid that came with it have ended. Everything seems to be happening at once, but I continue to hold on to strong faith, knowing that God’s plan is greater than any challenge I face. This scholarship would give me the support I need to stay on track academically while helping my family through this difficult season. Thank you for your consideration, and may God bless you.

I will never forget the first time I slipped on my dad’s old glove, the first time I threw a softball, or the thrill of my first base hit with my Jennie Finch bat. I started playing softball when I was nine years old and continued for ten consecutive years. I’ve never been more grateful that this sport was introduced into my life. Now, at nineteen, after countless conditioning sessions, sleepless nights replaying tough games, and the sparkle of championship rings on my fingers, I carry with me lessons that are nothing short of empowering. I’ve been described as a hard-working, determined, and resilient athlete, and I wouldn’t be who I am today without the scars, the sweat, and the memories from the sport I love. Softball uncovered the person I was always meant to be, the one hidden beneath the mask I wore to fit in. For a long time, I was afraid to embrace my true self. I was the outspoken girl, the one roughhousing with the boys because she didn’t quite blend in with the girls, the one who met every challenge head-on without hesitation. But now, I stand with confidence, even when I’m not part of the crowd. This sport taught me to chase what I want with everything I have, no matter who doubts me. It showed me that with time and effort, any obstacle can be overcome. More than anything, softball taught me that my mistakes do not define me. Failure is inevitable; it’s how you rise after falling that truly matters. That lesson has stayed with me through every mental and physical setback I’ve faced. As Cat Osterman once said, "If you look back at yesterday and think it was a big deal, then you haven't done anything today." That mindset reminds me to keep pushing forward, to never settle, and to always keep becoming the best version of myself, whether that is on or off the field. Softball also helped me discover my love for the gym, which became a core part of my becoming. It taught me not to dwell on the past because no matter how much you wish you could, you can’t change it. It also taught me that change doesn’t happen overnight, and that it takes time. I’m lucky to have had the coaches I did over the years, both the ones who built me up and the ones who tried to tear me down. They helped me realize that life won’t always be on your side, but what matters most is whether you let it break you or shape you. I may have hung up my cleats, but the fire that softball lit in me still burns. The glove, the bat, the field, they were only the beginning. What I carry now is far greater: the strength to rise, the courage to stand out, and the belief that I can handle whatever life throws at me next.

My journey toward a healthcare career is deeply influenced by my older sister, whose path inspires me daily. I feel a strong calling to be there for those in need, especially our most vulnerable—newborns and children. The thought of stepping in to support and heal those who are sick or injured fills me with purpose and compassion. I aspire to make a meaningful difference during the toughest moments in their lives. My future career goals are rooted in my desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Achieving my associate in arts degree from my local college is just the beginning of this journey. With a deep commitment to helping those in need, I plan to apply to various universities and their nursing programs, with the ultimate goal of earning my BSN and becoming a registered nurse. My passion lies in caring for newborns and children, so I am eager to pursue a master's program that will enable me to specialize in this area. I hope to provide the compassion and care that every child deserves, making a meaningful difference in their lives. A pivotal moment in my life that deepened my resolve to work in the NICU occurred during an eighth-grade field trip to the hospital. There, I had the privilege of meeting an incredibly dedicated nurse from the NICU, whose heartfelt stories about caring for fragile newborns resonated deeply with me. Her passion and warmth illuminated the profound impact of her work, leaving an indelible mark on my heart. My commitment to this field grew even stronger when my niece spent her early days in the NICU due to her cleft palate. Witnessing her journey filled me with compassion and a sense of purpose as I came to understand the vulnerability of these precious lives. I recognize that there will be moments when newborns face critical challenges, yet I feel called to be the one to offer them the gentle care and love they so desperately need. I hope to help guide them toward a brighter future, ensuring they receive the support to embark on their beautiful journey ahead. My vision for the future is clear, yet I remain open to the unexpected moments life may bring. I carry with me a deep understanding of my purpose in pursuing a healthcare education, grounded in compassion and a desire to make a difference. I recognize that this journey will demand hard work and dedication, but I embrace it wholeheartedly. I look forward to collaborating with the inspiring professionals in the medical field whom I aspire to join, sharing in the common goal of healing and caring for others.

How many injuries would it take for you to stop doing what you love? How many surgeries would it take for you to finally say you’ve had enough? One? Three? How about four? I have had almost five surgeries just on one limb ranging from major to arthroscopic. My first major procedure on my knee was due to a birth defect when I was two years old as my knee would not stay in place in the socket. About eight years later I decided to play softball for my city's wreck-ball team as it was something I fell in love with. Weeks later during one of my games, I had a major collision with the opposing team’s catcher at home plate. With the adrenaline coursing throughout my body, I didn’t recognize the pain and swelling that erupted in that specific area. When my wreck-ball team won the state championship and was on our way to the World Series in Louisiana I realized there might be something seriously wrong with my knee. I always remembered frequently feeling something hard and quite big floating in my knee. My parents urged me to visit the doctor, but I wanted to wait until we were eliminated from the tournament. After we were eliminated, I went to my pediatrician, who then recommended an orthopedic surgeon to get a more professional diagnosis. A couple of tests indicated I needed surgery as there was a piece of bone from my knee floating freely with the fluid inside. During the procedure, they screwed the piece of bone back into my knee. I was then told I had no meniscus in my knee which makes me prone to injuries and constant discomfort. My doctors gave me the decision to either keep playing the sport I love or quit for good. After a year of therapy, I was finally released to participate in athletics fully. However, three years later I began having more severe pain, and another surgery was scheduled as they saw more loose debris, which appeared to be bone, in my latest MRI. My third surgery was completed arthroscopically which allowed me to heal sooner than previously. After only two months of therapy, I continued to strengthen the muscles around my knee on my own. Four years later, I underwent another surgery for the previous pain felt, which marked my fourth arthroscopic procedure. My doctor diagnosed me with degenerative joint disease, which can only be “cured” if a knee replacement is performed. Unfortunately, due to my age, this was not a possibility. I wanted to give up, but deep down I knew my goal. I knew I wanted to play at the collegiate level. Deep down I knew I wanted to prove everyone wrong and that I could push through these misfortunes to play the sport that I grew a passion for. This was my adversity growing up; playing the sport I love and taking it to a collegiate level even after four setbacks. Many athletes may quit their sport after one injury or maybe two injuries, but not me. I pushed through every therapy session to be back on the field. Today I stand over my adversities playing softball at Pasco-Hernando State College as I go into my second and final year. After this year, my cleats will be hung up, and I will continue to also work towards being a Neonatologist. Going through these obstacles helped me see what I can push through, and how not giving up easily can get you where you always wanted to be.

If you were to tell me last year that I would have a whole wall full of hundreds of books in my room in a year, I would simply laugh and call you delusional as I grew up hating to read. Anything I attempted to read was pushed to the side of my desk after it failed to grasp my attention in the first few chapters. However, after an evening of boredom and scrolling on the well-known social media platform, TikTok, I came across a content creator that was raving about a certain book. The book was written by Rebecca Yarros and titled “Fourth Wing”. The content creator described this book as “an enemies to lovers, forbidden love” trope. Twenty-five dollars and thirteen cents later I found myself at my local Target parking lot reading the first three pages of this BookTok book and was completely invested, so invested I had a whole movie playing in my head and the only thing that pulled me back to reality was a call from my mother to finding out I’ve been sitting in the target parking lot for over an hour. A laughable, and very eye-opening experience as I finally found a genre that interested me. A year later, I’ve filled up my wall full of books that were recommended by BookTok, consisting of Fantasy, Romance, some Thrillers, and Mysteries. If I were to recommend any books, I would say, “Fourth Wing” by Rebecca Yarros of course, “Iron Flame” which is the sequel to “Fourth Wing”, “Flawless” by Elsie Silver, “Twisted Game” by Ana Huang, “Lightlark” by Alex Aster, “Nightbane” which is also the sequel to “Lightlark, and the entire “A Court of Thorns and Roses” series written by Sara J. Maas. These books are so far all my five-star reads that were recommended to me by BookTok. BookTok has made me realize that I just need to find a genre and author who grabs my attention. And I have Rebecca Yarros to thank for helping me find my peace in reading books. As I have a huge “To Be Read” list on my wall, I still end up rereading the book that started it all. The book that made me realize words on paper are always going to be better than scenes played out on a screen. Fourth Wing will forever hold a special place in my heart. Years ago, I used to pass by book sections in any local store and not bat an eye, but now I find myself almost seeking out the book sections like a hound dog, ready to see what other books I can add to my huge collection.

As I scroll through social media, I realize being Pro-Life is seen by most as “selfish”, and “against women”. I’ve been Pro-Life for years because I believe it’s considered murder. I believe life begins at conception. I believe once there is a second heartbeat inside your body, you are carrying the life of your child. “You’re crazy…”, “You’re brainwashed…”, and “I hope you never conceive…”, are just a few comments people have said to me when I would stand up for my beliefs on any social media platforms. It made me almost believe I was the only one with this belief. However, the Lord always reminds me of a specific verse in the book of John, verse eighteen, “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first.” This verse speaks volumes and not only serves as a reminder that no love is greater than God’s, but I’m also doing the right thing by defending the defenseless lives that are taken every day. I was born on January 27th, 2006, to a drug-addicted and homeless mother. With these circumstances, I was immediately placed into the foster care system as my birth mother also had no desire to take care of me. By God’s grace, I was fortunate to be placed in a family's home. As I settled into the arms of this family’s mother, I would have never guessed she would never let me go. Six months later I finally became the youngest child of their family. I grew up knowing my adoption story as my mother always reminded me of how similar I look to my siblings who aren’t biologically my blood. I realize, my birth mother could have decided to end her pregnancy with me when she had every opportunity to. But she didn’t. She gave me the opportunity women are taking away from their babies. The opportunity to live. The opportunity to give families who are struggling with conception a chance to adopt. I believe every baby deserves the opportunity of life like I was given, no matter the circumstances of the conception. As I defended the lives of innocent babies, I realized even growing up around Christians I never understood what it meant to live as one. Recently, I took it upon myself to fully give my life to Christ as I was living as a lukewarm Christian. I’ve decided to take time out of my day to read my Bible every morning and reflect. Doing this has changed my life entirely. It has made me realize living for the Lord is something I will always stay a part of as it has changed my life from black to white. Darkness to light. I remind myself when life doesn’t seem fair that I am here for a reason. My motivation to continue college and pursue a higher degree comes from my story and the history behind it. It comes from the goal to make my parents proud as they loved me since I first landed on their doorstep. My motivation comes from Christ, himself. As I strive to become a Neonatologist, I always remind myself that I am here for a reason, not by mistake, but by precision from Him. I thank God every day for giving me the prospect of prospering in Him. As I study to become a Neonatologist, I will make it my personal goal to protect every baby in the NICU, whether premature and birth-defected newborns or healthy babies. Everyone, no matter the circumstances of conception or place in life deserves a chance to live. Every life has value.

Why does the nursing industry interest me as a career choice? Well, I had no interest in working in the medical field when I was younger. Just like the majority of elementary, middle and high schoolers, my dreams of becoming someone who I aspire to be varied throughout the years. However, watching my siblings grow up and become Registered nurses and Doctors made me question if my goal of becoming an author would best suit my intentions in the future. So I began pondering and started visioning myself assisting in a hospital. The image appeared vague, but as I matured, I realized I belong in the medical field. My ambition developed, quicker than anticipated, and unexpectedly, I met a specialist who toiled in the Neonatal unit. I first had no concept of what a Neonatal Nurse was, or even their purpose, but it fascinated me. Once I heard just the surface of their journey to becoming a doctor in the Neonatal unit, I knew exactly what I wanted to be, and who I wanted to become. With each passing school year, I could hardly wait to begin my journey, so I decided to graduate as a Junior with all 24 credits. Now, I plan to work towards obtaining my Associate in Arts degree at Pasco-Hernando State College. I intend to transfer to a university, with my heart being set on the University of Florida or Florida State University, after my two years are completed at PHSC. I am aware my chosen profession will not be easy and will require innumerable hours of study and devotion, but believe me when I say I am more than prepared to take on this challenge. I often daydream about my future, working and doctoring newborns in the NICU, and with every thought, I become more eager and excited than before. Once accepted to a four-year college, I plan to take the required courses to continue my journey to becoming a Nurse Practitioner in the Neonatal unit. I was determined when I would come of age to volunteer at my local hospital. However, Covid-19 had other plans. Due to the virus, volunteering at a hospital was no longer a possibility. Nevertheless, I received hours from volunteering in programs such as the National Honors Society, Future Florida Educators of America, and PIT Crew. Throughout my three years of high school, I acquired over 120 hours, even with my whole freshman year being online due to the virus. I am determined to accomplish my dreams, and I am passionate about working in the medical field, specifically in the Neonatal unit. I also would like to recognize I come from a low-income family, for both of my parents are currently retired. They both sacrificed so much for me, and I intend to repay them in the future. They claim seeing me succeed is their only wish of repayment, however, nothing could ever compensate for the love and support they always show me. I truly believe the Lord is in the authority of my future, and I know He is pushing me to labor in the medical field. One thing is certain, my desire to become a Nurse Practitioner working in the Neonatal unit grows every day, and I am willing to put forth the effort to attain my dream profession. Thank you for your consideration, have a blessed day.