Undoubtedly, my favorite athlete representing Team USA is Sha'Carri Richardson. The path to becoming an Olympian is about something so profound, clothed in a lionhearted and wildly driven spirit when it comes to her. Amidst the ongoing controversy surrounding her, Sha'Carri never fails to let the world know what it means to stand by oneself, forge ahead amidst any odds, and fight towards greatness, even in the view of impossible situations. Her unapologetic energy and unwavering drive make her an inspiration to me and so many other young black girls that one's past does not define one's future, and that there is plenty of room to evolve beyond it. To see Sha'Carri on the track is nothing less than exciting. Her speed, grace, and disposition in commanding every inch of the lane testify to that infrequent finding of passion and dedication at such a high level. She doesn't just run; she flies with the energy brought by a drive to victory and loves reaching out beyond the headlines. This assured attitude, how she values her quirkiness and nonconformity to the 'norm' makes her exceptionally human and agreeable. In a world that constantly beats the drum of 'shrink thyself, black woman, be less,' Sha'Carri exudes an entirely different spirit—she takes space with no apologies. That is such a powerful thing. Scandals and criticisms have easily derailed many, but Sha'Carri used them as fuel to return stronger. What I admired the most about her is her resilience in the face of adversity. She symbolizes that setbacks aren't the end; they are the time to grow and show how to defy expectations. I cheer for Sha'Carri not because she's talented; it is what she represents to me: a warrior, a trailblazer, a young Black woman who refuses to be anything but herself. Her journey to the Olympics means more than a race; the message sent to the world is that she is there to stay no matter what. In Sha'Carri, I see strength, resilience, and the carefree spirit I wish to reach. Her story keeps reminding me that anything can be attained with passion and determination, so I will forever be a supporter, cheering her on to victory.

As a child, I nearly always felt like an outcast, misunderstood, and misplaced. The bullying I experienced at school seemed endless, and it chipped away at my self-esteem and self-worth. I had difficulty concentrating so I was often perceived as unintelligent. Not many understood that my mind just processed differently. I would often forget things or get easily distracted by minute details. The combination of these external and internal conflicts made me feel insufficient, and I didn't know how to solve them. My parents and family were super loving, but struggling with their issues, so they lacked the psychological knowledge to provide the support I needed. Therapy was just out of the question since, well, for one thing, mental health wasn't a thing discussed much around my house and, for another, it was fairly expensive to treat. Therefore, I believed bottling my emotions would be the answer; if I could just suppress my distress long enough, it would disappear. By the time I was in the ninth grade, my self-esteem, focus, and emotional isolation had grown even heavier. I found myself slipping in and out of reality, feeling hopeless and worthless. The heartache manifested inside me until I almost took my own life. Thinking back on that moment brought me to a reevaluation. It made me recognize that I needed something bigger than myself-something to hold onto, a belief that could restore my sense of hope. I searched for meaning and developed an interest in Buddhism. My initial awareness of the religion was due to growing up with a continual interest in Japanese culture and animation. There is a character in the show called Yuyu Hakusho named Koenma, an animated version that represents Yama, the God of Death. This character persuaded my interest in learning more about the Deity- which brought me to scriptures from The Tripitaka. For the very first time, I found the deepest connection and, solace in spirituality. Buddhism taught me that suffering is but a part of life; simultaneously, there are ways to rise above suffering through mindfulness, compassion, and understanding. I started practicing meditation and prayer regularly, finding comfort in the quiet moments of introspection. I was able to forgive my emotions rather than repress them when they surfaced. This gave me inner peace that I have never known over time. Buddhism has positively changed how I view my life and close relationships. One of the primary things that I have taken from Buddhist teachings is self-compassion practices. Before I engaged in Buddhism, I perceived my neurological disorder as a weakness and something to be ashamed of. Not being able to concentrate somehow made me feel inadequate, but the spiritual journey taught me how one's weaknesses can be a strength. For example, not being able to focus allowed me to think more creatively and catch details that are often overlooked by others. I began to embrace those "liabilities," rather than being ashamed, as they were features that made me unique as an imperfect being. I feel that with this change in mindset, I have sought to be more kind to myself and much more empathetic toward others. As I matured with this thought process, my connections improved. I became notably more patient and understanding, and with that, a renewed self-compassion that advanced into other relationships in my life. I reconnected meaningfully with my family by including them in my practice of mindfulness and meditation with me. Much to my surprise, my dad became interested in meditation, and it worked its way into our daily routines. It made us closer, and we were able to discuss issues of mental health that we previously had avoided. As a result of being more open about my struggles, I inspired my family to be more conscious of their mental well-being and thus created a healthier and supportive atmosphere. Overcoming my experiences with mental health and seeking spirituality influenced me in the pursuit of a bachelor's in psychology. I know that my journey has a purpose, and a big part of it is understanding the human mind, whether for myself or others. I want to give that empathetic care that I did not while growing up, I want to help other people who, just like me, perhaps do not know how to explain what they feel or whose feelings may be misconstrued. What is most compelling about forensic psychology, however, is how it matches my passion for mental health through a drive to make broader impacts within the criminal justice system. More specifically, forensic psychology interests me in that it offers an unrivaled chance to bridge the gap between the mental health domain and that of the legal system. The bottom line is that it engenders awareness so that many people who are entangled in the criminal justice system are there not because of bad choices but because of unresolved mental health issues that lead to these behaviors. An approach is one of punishment without any consideration of the psychological motivators of criminal behavior. I seek to be part of the compassion in justice that uncovers the source of criminality associated with mental conditions and provides rehabilitation. In the long run, I view forensic psychology as a way to advocate for the voiceless, whether they are unable to represent themselves due to a lack of mental health resources or a lack of psychological resources to understand their behavior. I hope to be that empathetic voice within the justice system, bringing about psychological insights that might help individuals one day rehabilitate and reintegrate into society in a healthier, more stable method. I am currently studying at Southern Illinois University - Carbondale to pursue a bachelor's degree in Psychology followed by a Master's degree in Forensic Psychology and I am applying to be a Mental Health Tech to further forge a career. My ultimate goal is to use the expertise I've gotten from my education to help others navigate mental health challenges, particularly within the criminal justice system, where understanding the human mind can make a significant difference in people’s lives.

A lifestyle with anxiety is a constant struggle with my own body that has been expressed in unpredictable ways. From the miniature situations, like random sweaty hands, to the jittery sensations when I am attempting to sleep to the times when concentration eludes me due to some indefinable feeling of uncertainty, anxiety has operated my life. It is almost like an invisible force that would alter how I react to or feel emotions, overwhelming even when doing the simplest tasks. Yet, it has also been the driving force in my life—pushing me to ways of compromise, escape, and eventually to help others who may be afflicted in the same way. While undergoing these nerve-racking experiences, I'd have to give credit that gaming has been my sanctuary on this journey. While the world becomes unbearable and my thoughts spiral into a cycle of continuous overthinking and self-deprecation, video games would be my only escape. My strongest draws go to fast-paced or adventure games, for which I seem to have an intense fascination; I can submerge myself in fantasy worlds from which stress cannot concern me anymore. Whether fighting dark anomalies, exploring new lands, or deciphering tricky riddles—these are my forms of escapism from the deafening cacophony in my head. It makes me feel powerful and successful in ways I can seldom achieve in the real world. Gaming has become my way of coping with anxiety; it gives me peace amidst all the chaos. These experiences have encouraged me to pursue psychology, particularly forensic psychology. The importance of being able to accept and confront the suffering of mental health makes me want to be in a position to be able to provide for others from my own experiences. The lack of acknowledgment of mental health, particularly in overpowering situations, can be incredibly detrimental. It's a kind of negligence, leaving people to go through it alone in a world that most often wouldn't even try to understand. I want to be the person who listens. I want to be the one who takes her tools to cope with—and surmount—anxiety. I aim to use the skills and knowledge with my degree to make a positive transformation in an area of our contribution to humanity's forgotten sector. Forensic psychology is the wine of mental health and justice, where one can make a colossal difference. By helping people who are trying to deal with legal problems, I can ensure that people get their voices heard and their struggles in regards to their mental health are met. Anxiety, as we know, is a complex and often ill-understood condition as symptoms range from person to person, and it's a part of who I am. Although it's caused irritation and confusion, it's also helped shape my perspective on life and driven me towards a career where I can make a difference. I want to be the support to help people continue living with their anxiety and exhibit for them a way just like I have learned how to. I would rather see forensic psychology as a critical bridge between mental health and justice because it presents a space for people to get healed, grow, and live their lives.

I have been invested in the reciprocity between psychology and the law since I was a child watching true crime- in my neighborhood. The way these two areas influence each other in human behavior and community is what keeps me motivated toward my goal of becoming a forensic psychologist. This desire is sown from having an immense urge to reveal justice and belief in the potential of psychology to make a difference within the criminal justice system. In my mind, at times, the criminal justice system tends to present itself as an enormous monolithic entity where people, especially those from marginalized groups, are relatively powerless. The system is by no means perfect and has plenty of room for improvement, and further, the voices of many of those most affected are often lost or never heard. From this perspective, a forensic psychologist lends a voice and allows an opportunity for one within the system who is grasping for someone, anyone, to listen to them. I want to put the principles of psychology into action for all people, regardless of their background. I need justice to become an authentic experience, not just a shackling legal term. This passion has been fuelled by the belief that everyone has the right to be understood and recognized. That is to say, the criminal justice system might have been and ought to have been a place where everyone receives a second chance at redemption. Justice is executed with compassion, and the complexity of human conduct is acknowledged. As a forensic psychologist, I want to commit my knowledge and abilities to bring this vision of justice enthronement to those who have experienced underserved challenges in life.

Minecraft has been a significant part of my life since its earliest days when it was just simply known as Cave Game. My younger brothers and I would play it endlessly on our old, laggy laptops, and I was fascinated by the freedom it offered. I was nine years old when Minecraft was officially released, and the excitement I felt when it became available on more platforms was indescribable. I remember pleading with my mom for months to buy me the game for my Xbox 360, so when she finally did, it was like a dream come true. Over the years, Minecraft became more than just a game; it became a source of joy, creativity, and connection. I have made lifelong friends, and together, we have built entire worlds that felt as real to us as the one we lived in. Growing up with ADHD, Minecraft was my escape from reality and the indescribable emotions I couldn't manage. The game allowed me to express my imagination in ways that nothing else could. When the real world became overwhelming, with its bullies, stressful schoolwork, and the toxic relationships I witnessed among adults, Minecraft was truly my sanctuary. I could be anything I wanted in game: a witch brewing potions, a traveler trading ore, or a warrior battling a fierce Ender Dragon just to build a portal home to my ranch full of eager animals. I could create any world where I could be free to build without limits. Even now, as a "fully functioning adult" (cue the internal cry), Minecraft remains a cherished part of my life. After a long day of work, I enjoy turning on my Xbox Series X and immersing myself in the game's limitless possibilities. The mods, textures, and character creation options only enhance the experience, allowing me to continue fulfilling my inner child's creative desires. What I appreciate most about Minecraft, now more than ever, is how it has continuously permitted people like me to be unrestricted with our minds. It's a reminder that no matter how old I get, the creativity and inventiveness I've found in Minecraft as a child will always be a part of who I am.

I am well motivated to study psychology due to my background, both from within Black culture and through personal experiences with mental health, which has enabled me to be able to envision what mental health care could do to change lives. I experienced problems with critical mental health decline when I was growing up, which was often overlooked or dismissed by people who did not know how to handle it. In many Black communities, mental health struggles are frequently stigmatized and believed to be a sure sign of weakness. This stigma is built by historical and systematic oppression, wherein Black individuals were not allowed to express emotions or seek help for their trauma. Because of this reality, far too many Black men and women continue to repress their emotional and physical pain by silently suffering through them. There is a lack of acknowledgment and understanding of mental health in our communities, hence the devastating effects in most cases. It provides for the continuity of damage, where individuals cannot heal or break loose from the burdens of their past. More often than not, this unresolved trauma comes to the surface in various forms, such as substance abuse, violence, or other mental health disorders. Deep-seated scars from slavery, segregation, and systemic racism are in the historical account of Black communities—so much so that today, addressing such issues demands the highest degree of empathy and understanding. I am passionate about increasing mental health awareness within Black and Brown circles. We need to provide an environment where people feel comfortable coming out and seeking help without fear of stigma or judgment. This process includes education and open discussions about mental health—chipping away at the barriers to finding care. We must work to end the stigmatizing belief that asking for help is a sign of weakness; it takes courage and is, in fact, a prerequisite for healing. If we're genuinely willing to make a difference, we must set up culturally competent mental health services designed to understand what drives the unique challenges in Black and Brown lives. This action will include training mental health professionals on the impact of systemic racism and cultural factors on mental health, as well as boosting the number of Black and Brown therapists so that relatable care can be delivered with caring. We must fight for policies, too, that provide mental health funding and resources to the underserved, making sure everybody gets whatever support they may need. I want to make a difference with my degree in psychology so I can be a voice of the people and a listener who understands the struggle of the people. By telling my story and giving people in our communities a safe space to tell theirs, I encourage them to seek the help they need and deserve. I want to be an icon of hope, to show that it is possible to get through mental health struggles and to go on and have a meaningful life. With my interest in psychology, I wish to equip myself with the skills and information necessary to advocate for mental health awareness and offer much-needed help to our communities. In addition to helping individuals get better, I want to work toward tearing down the structures that support the gaps in mental health that exist between Black and Brown communities. For all of us to flourish, I visualize a time when getting mental health treatment is not only accessible but also welcomed and celebrated in our communities indefinitely.

My motivation to practice law by becoming a forensic psychologist is deeply rooted in my personal journey with mental health struggles and the transformative impact that compassionate care can have on individuals within my community. As a child obsessed with self-preservation, I sincerely believed that bottling my inconsistent emotions was the best protection against a world that would, at times, get overwhelmingly negligent. I did not feel safe enough to turn to anyone, nor did I know how to express the turmoil I felt within me; this maladaptive coping method eventually began to affect my perception of reality, sinking me deeper into isolation from those closest to me. The suppression of my emotions had become so much to bear that it eroded my rational thinking to the point where I lost all grasp of life as I nearly ended my own. Surviving that period in my life was a turning point for me. I had an emotional conversation with my brothers, who advised I that I receive help, while also disclosing to me their own battles with mental regression. The experience made me realize how critical the need is for approachable and empathetic mental health care, especially for those like me who have been conditioned to suffer in silence. I began realizing my experience wasn't unique; so many others have been combating mental gymnastics as I was—invisibly and voicelessly. This realization made me desire to use my experiences to help others, to be the voice of support that I so desperately needed. I am interested in the forensic psychologist role because it allows me to bridge the legal system and mental health care gap. Very often, the criminal justice system is uninformed about the psychological underpinnings of criminal behavior, reverting to punishment rather than rehabilitation. By providing professional psychological insight, I can ensure that people are held accountable and allowed to heal and reintegrate into society as healthier and more stable individuals. I aspire to use my expertise in advocating for those unable to represent themselves in court and give them an opportunity for redemption and a second chance. Personal struggles have forged my idea of the importance of mental health care and driven my resolve to make a difference. I am applying to be a Mental Health Tech in hopes of further forging a career as a forensic psychologist because mental health interventions can change lives. I only hope that, through this path, I can give others the support and exposure that I once could not afford and that, through these efforts, a more just and humane criminal justice system will one day be obtainable.

From an early age, my interest in the relationship between psychology and the law was due to the lack of acknowledgment of mental health struggles and education about the rights I'd witnessed people in my community lack. The reciprocity of these two areas in influencing human behavior and society has long inspired me to want to be a forensic psychologist. My interest in this career path was seeded by a solid commitment to justice and faith in the potential of psychology to make a real difference within the criminal justice system. In my mind, at times, the criminal justice system tends to present itself to people as an enormous monolith where individuals, especially those from marginalized societies, are pretty much powerless. The system is by no means perfect and has lots of room for improvement, and further, the voices of some of those most affected are often lost or never heard. From this perspective, a forensic psychologist lends a voice and allows an opportunity for someone within the system who is grasping for someone, anyone, to hear them. I want to put the principles of psychology into action so that for all people, regardless of their background, justice becomes an authentic experience and not just a legal term. Indeed, my interest in practicing law arose because of the need to advocate for those who may not have the tools or knowledge to help themselves. The psychological underpinnings of behavior are essential to fully understanding why people commit crimes and how they should be rehabilitated. This perspective is an indispensable locus to a system that tends to concentrate too much on punishment rather than a thorough understanding and reformation. Furthermore, I have a firm belief in making the criminal justice system a fair and equitable one. The law is supposed to safeguard the interest of the weak and vulnerable but sometimes falls short in the absence of a more sophisticated understanding of human behavior. I will bring compassion and knowledge into the legal process to ensure the system considers the psychological motivation that drives behaviors. This could provide more humane and just outcomes for everyone, not only for the two people concerned but also for society in general. This field is very close to my heart due to its potential for effecting change. Through my work, I want to contribute to a system that punishes but also understands, rehabilitates, and supports people. Mainly those who have been hit hard by life—whether dealing with mental health or the effects of trauma—to the point where, in some ways, their actions are reflective of their struggles. This career pursuit has been driven by the belief that everyone has an opportunity to be heard and understood. The criminal justice system should be, and could have been, a place where justice is tempered with compassion, complexity in human behavior is recognized, and everyone gets a second chance at redemption. I want to dedicate my skills and knowledge toward actualizing this vision as a forensic psychologist for the enthronement of justice in such communities who need me. I wish to put my education and acquired skills to work for the greater good, securing a more just, humane, and effective criminal justice system for all.

This challenge seems so fun, and I'm excited to participate. Words: Dog Cat Parrot Goldfish Apple Banana Carrot Spinach Tesla Ford Ferrari Toyota Rock Jazz Classical Hip-Hop Categories: Pets Fruits and Vegetables Car Brands Music Genres Groupings and Reasoning: Pets: Dog Cat Parrot Goldfish Reasoning: These words represent common household pets. Dogs and cats are the most traditional companions, parrots are famous for their ability to mimic sounds, and goldfish are favored for their low-maintenance care in aquariums. The idea of animals unifies this category, which is kept primarily for companionship. Fruits and Vegetables: Apple Banana Carrot Spinach Reasoning: These words include fruits and vegetables commonly consumed for their nutritional benefits. Apples and bananas are fruits known for their sweetness and convenience as snacks. Carrots and spinach, on the other hand, are vegetables often included in meals for their vitamins and minerals. This category is centered around food items in a healthy diet. Car Brands: Tesla Ford Ferrari Toyota Reasoning: This category includes well-known car manufacturers from around the world. Tesla is renowned for its electric vehicles, Ford for its long history and range of vehicles, Ferrari for its luxury sports cars, and Toyota for its reliability and global presence. These brands represent different aspects of the automotive industry but are grouped as makers of vehicles. Music Genres: Rock Jazz Classical Hip-Hop Reasoning: These words signify different music styles with distinct characteristics and cultural significance. Rock is known for its use of electric guitars and a strong beat. Its improvisation and swing rhythms characterize jazz. Classical music is noted for its structured compositions and orchestral arrangements. Hip-Hop is distinguished by its rhythmic speech and beats. The common thread of musical styles brings together this category. Explanation: The challenge of this puzzle lies in recognizing the underlying themes that group these seemingly unrelated words. Identifying that Dogs, Cats, Parrots, and Goldfish are all pets may come naturally to those familiar with common household animals. Similarly, linking Apples, Bananas, Carrots, and Spinach under the category of fruits and vegetables requires a focus on diet and nutrition. Tesla, Ford, Ferrari, and Toyota might initially seem like an odd mix, but understanding they are all car brands helps to categorize them correctly. This grouping requires some knowledge of the automotive industry, recognizing these names as manufacturers of vehicles. Lastly, Rock, Jazz, Classical, and Hip-Hop all fall under music genres, each representing a unique style and cultural backdrop. This category requires some awareness of different musical forms and their distinguishing features. By categorizing these words into Pets, Fruits and Vegetables, Car Brands, and Music Genres, this puzzle encourages the solver to draw connections based on shared knowledge and thematic similarities, highlighting the diverse ways we can classify information in our world.

Reflecting on my steps and goals, I am profoundly conscious of the interconnected forces shaping my values and objectives. My love of forensic psychology and my admiration for farming and agriculture have influenced my life. These unrelated professions have inspired my desire to impact the world by teaching me invaluable principles about perseverance, justice, and the immense value of hard effort. Growing up, agriculture and farming were not just activities but integral parts of my life. I spent numerous hours helping my grandfather on his farm, where I learned the importance of patience, perseverance, and dedication. The cyclical nature of farming—planting, nurturing, harvesting—taught me to appreciate the value of hard work and the rewards it brings. I was raised with a strong appreciation for the environment and the importance of agriculture to the survival of communities because of my connection to the land and its natural cycles. These early agricultural experiences also influenced my perception of interdependence and community. Farming is a team effort requiring cooperation, support, and a shared dedication to objectives. This feeling of community has served as a compass for me throughout my life, inspiring me to pursue a career in an area that advances justice and provides assistance to people in need. My interest in forensic psychology was sparked by a desire to address the injustices I witnessed in my community. I have seen firsthand the devastating effects of systemic inequalities, particularly within the criminal justice system. I've witnessed friends and family experience being unfairly targeted and subjected to harsh penalties, often due to biases and a lack of understanding about their circumstances. These experiences have fueled my determination to pursue forensic psychology to advocate for fair treatment and ensure that rectitude is served with empathy and understanding. Forensic psychology combines the concepts of psychology and law to address criminal conduct, legal procedures, and the treatment of persons within the justice system. My professional goals as a psychologist are to help people navigate the legal system by applying psychological insights to enhance legal results and advocate for reforms that address systemic biases. My career objective is to become a forensic psychologist who works to enact laws that support justice and equity while also offering professional assessments and testimony. My experience in agriculture has taught me resilience and devotion, which will come in handy in this field. Farming showed me that genuine change takes time, labor, and a readiness to overcome obstacles. The area of forensic psychology, where dealing with intricate matters of mental health and justice requires tenacity and a solid commitment to change, can benefit significantly from these insights. Moreover, my background in agriculture has given me a memorable perspective on the significance of mental health in all areas of life. As crops need the right conditions to thrive, people require support and understanding to reach their full potential. By integrating these principles into my work as a forensic psychologist, I want to create a more compassionate and just system that recognizes the humanity in everyone. In conclusion, two aspects of my identity that have greatly affected my ambitions and desires are my love of forensic psychology and my admiration of agriculture. Resilience, community, and devotion are similar skills I gained from farming, and they also serve as the foundation for my commitment to utilizing forensic psychology to change the world. In addition to helping me with my academic endeavors, this scholarship will allow me to make a meaningful contribution to the fight for justice and fairness in our society.