There have been two constants throughout my life, golf and the perseverance to succeed. I was diagnosed with a life-threatening autoimmune disease called Very Severe Idiopathic Aplastic Anemia when I was six years old. Because of the disease, I underwent chemotherapy, radiation treatments, blood transfusions, two bone marrow transplants, and a stem cell boost. Because of my illness and treatments, I matured quickly for my age to adapt to what was happening to me. This growth caused me to look for a deeper understanding of the circumstances around me, such as questioning, “Why is this happening?” and “How am I going to persevere through this?” That thought process of searching beyond the face value has stuck and helped develop my character. . . . . . The lesson from golf that I use in my life is determination. Since I was ten years old, I have dedicated myself to improving my golf talents and the life skills that come with it. Like my sickness, golf is a mental game requiring determination and concentration. No matter how talented I am, I will always have other obstacles to overcome, but with my perseverance, I can clear it. Whether sand traps or a blood disorder, golf has taught me that I must persevere through any challenge. My dedication to golf and determination to never give up have had the most significant impact on developing my character. . . . . . Determined to succeed in my academic career, I will work tirelessly to achieve my goals, no matter how challenging. I will graduate from Ringling College of Art with a distinguished portfolio and the knowledge to create an impact on my community. In the future, I plan to develop inspiring masterpieces by becoming a creative director for a leading entertainment studio. I will face any challenges I meet along the way with determination and find new innovative ways to inspire change in others. . . . . Using the perseverance I learned from golf, I will apply it to the aspects of my life in the future. Golf has taught me a valuable lesson in perseverance that I plan on utilizing throughout my future by applying it to all aspects of my life, especially in my academic career. Golf has taught me that no matter how challenging the obstacle is, I will overcome it with perseverance. Looking back, I realize that my illness was an impactful point in my life that taught me the value of perseverance and determination and remained a guiding point in my advancements toward golf and academics. With my determination and perseverance, I can achieve success.

There have been two constants throughout my life, golf and the perseverance to succeed. I was diagnosed with a life-threatening autoimmune disease called Very Severe Idiopathic Aplastic Anemia when I was six years old. Because of the disease, I underwent chemotherapy, radiation treatments, blood transfusions, two bone marrow transplants, and a stem cell boost. Because of my illness and treatments, I matured quickly for my age to adapt to what was happening to me. This growth caused me to look for a deeper understanding of the circumstances around me, such as questioning, “Why is this happening?” and “How am I going to persevere through this?” That thought process of searching beyond the face value has stuck and helped develop my character. The lesson from golf that I use in my life is determination. Since I was ten years old, I have dedicated myself to improving my golf talents and the life skills that come with it. Like my sickness, golf is a mental game requiring determination and concentration. No matter how talented I am, I will always have other obstacles to overcome, but with my perseverance, I can clear it. Whether sand traps or a blood disorder, golf has taught me that I must persevere through any challenge. My dedication to golf and determination to never give up have had the most significant impact on developing my character. Using the perseverance I learned from golf, I will apply it to the aspects of my life in the future. Determined to succeed in my academic career, I will work tirelessly to achieve my goals, no matter how challenging. I will graduate from Ringling College of Art with a distinguished portfolio and the knowledge to create an impact on my community. In the future, I plan to develop inspiring masterpieces by becoming a creative director for a leading entertainment studio. I will face any challenges I meet along the way with determination and find new innovative ways to inspire change in others. Golf has taught me a valuable lesson in perseverance that I plan on utilizing throughout my future by applying it to all aspects of my life, especially in my academic career. Golf has taught me that no matter how challenging the obstacle is, I will overcome it with perseverance. Looking back, I realize that my illness was an impactful point in my life that taught me the value of perseverance and determination and remained a guiding point in my advancements toward golf and academics. With my determination and perseverance, I can achieve success.

Sometimes the most challenging battles are the most rewarding. When I was six years old, I was diagnosed with a life-threatening autoimmune disease called Idiopathic Very Severe Aplastic Anemia. Chemotherapy, radiation treatments, transfusions, two bone marrow transplants, and a stem cell boost later, I now realize that my struggle was a blessing. During my time in treatment, I saw people of different backgrounds helping each other for the same cause. Doctors, nurses, and specialists worldwide came together to help me fight my battle. I learned that it’s not someone’s label that defines a person but their willingness to come together to help another human being. Because of my disease and treatments, I matured quickly for my age. This growth caused me to look for a deeper understanding of the circumstances occurring around me, such as questioning, “Why is this happening?” and “How can I help others going through this?” That thought process of searching beyond the face value has stuck and helped develop my character. After my treatment, I joined the Youth Advisory program for the Stony Brook Children’s Hospital. The Youth Advisory comprised a group of teens once diagnosed with deadly diseases who underwent treatment. We had the unique experience of having input while a new pediatric hospital was being designed. In this program, we created new ways to aid children undergoing treatment and devised ways to make hospital living spaces more comfortable based on our experiences. The Youth Advisory Board did this by putting together care boxes for families filled with hygiene products, toys, blankets, and special creams for children who were in pain because we knew what creams would work for them since we already went through that experience. One of the great things we did in the Youth Advisory Board was starting an annual children’s pediatric prom where kids could celebrate their prom in case they could not attend a prom of their own. The Youth Advisory also formed new programs, such as getting streaming services for families to be used in isolation rooms and at the hospital’s new Ronald McDonald House, where families can stay while their child is undergoing treatment. Working with the Youth Advisory, I am showing kids there is a light at the end of the tunnel by helping them fight the battle I have already won. Because of my battle with Very Severe Aplastic Anemia, I gained an understanding that having an “interesting life” gives me a new perspective on how we all relate to each other in the fabric of life. Growing stronger than my sickness, I found my way into the world of art. Art is a universal language that inspires curiosity and a new way of thinking. It pushes people to expand their communication beyond the status quo and can generate strong emotions without using words or actions. In the future, I hope to use my strength, gifts and talents to give back my using my skills to encourage others to be stronger. I want to do this through the beautiful power of art by creating inspiring masterpieces. By receiving this scholarship, I can go to Ringling College of Art and Design to sharpen my creative skill sets to bring a voice to my work. I plan to create inspiring masterpieces by becoming a creative director for a leading entertainment studio. I will face any challenges I meet along the way with determination and find new innovative ways to inspire change in others.

Sometimes the most challenging battles are the most rewarding. When I was six years old, I was diagnosed with a life-threatening autoimmune disease called Idiopathic Very Severe Aplastic Anemia. Chemotherapy, radiation treatments, transfusions, two bone marrow transplants, and a stem cell boost later, I now realize that my struggle was a blessing. During my time in treatment, I saw people of different backgrounds helping each other for the same cause. Doctors, nurses, and specialists worldwide came together to help me fight my battle. I learned that it’s not someone’s label that defines a person but their willingness to come together to help another human being. Because of my disease and treatments, I matured quickly for my age. This growth caused me to look for a deeper understanding of the circumstances occurring around me, such as questioning, “Why is this happening?” and “How can I help others going through this?” That thought process of searching beyond the face value has stuck and helped develop my character. After my treatment, I joined the Youth Advisory program for the Stony Brook Children’s Hospital. The Youth Advisory comprised a group of teens once diagnosed with deadly diseases who underwent treatment. We had the unique experience of having input while a new pediatric hospital was being designed. In this program, we created new ways to aid children undergoing treatment and devised ways to make hospital living spaces more comfortable based on our experiences. The Youth Advisory Board did this by putting together care boxes for families filled with hygiene products, toys, blankets, and special creams for children who were in pain because we knew what creams would work for them since we already went through that experience. One of the great things we did in the Youth Advisory Board was starting an annual children’s pediatric prom where kids could celebrate their prom in case they could not attend a prom of their own. The Youth Advisory also formed new programs, such as getting streaming services for families to be used in isolation rooms and at the hospital’s new Ronald McDonald House, where families can stay while their child is undergoing treatment. Working with the Youth Advisory, I am showing kids there is a light at the end of the tunnel by helping them fight the battle I have already won. Because of my battle with Very Severe Aplastic Anemia, I gained an understanding that having an “interesting life” gives me a new perspective on how we all relate to each other in the fabric of life. Growing stronger than my sickness, I found my way into the world of art. Art is a universal language that inspires curiosity and a new way of thinking. It pushes people to expand their communication beyond the status quo and can generate strong emotions without using words or actions. In the future, I hope to use my strength, gifts and talents to give back my using my skills to encourage others to be stronger. I want to do this through the beautiful power of art by creating inspiring masterpieces. By receiving this scholarship, I can go to Ringling College of Art and Design to sharpen my creative skill sets to bring a voice to my work. I plan to create inspiring masterpieces by becoming a creative director for a leading entertainment studio. I will face any challenges I meet along the way with determination and find new innovative ways to inspire change in others.

"The Lotus Twins" is my favorite piece of artwork that I have created. The inspiration for "The Lotus Twins" comes from my past. When I was younger, I was diagnosed with Very Severe Aplastic Anemia when I was only six years old. I had to go to New York City to receive treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation, a stem cell boost, and two bone marrow transplants. The deadly disease I would have to battle daily turned me into a warrior, hence the warrior knife-wielding girl towards the middle of the artwork. It was a challenging time for me, but my brother was always by my side and acted as a protector to guard me against any dangers. My brother, the main focus of "The Lotus Twins," kept me safe daily. With his aid, I got better. As I was recovering from my illness and treatments, there was a little cafe next to my hospital that we would visit. We made many memories together, including drinking coffee for the first time, eating pastries, and playing with the cafe's local cat. I loved the beautiful artwork that would hang on the cafe's wall. The painting that was hung up around the cafe was my first introduction to art. "The Lotus Twins" not only shows my journey towards recovery but also shows the relationship I have forged with my brother and my art. It serves as a reminder of the strength of the spirit and the beauty that emerges from hardship.

Sometimes the most challenging battles are the most rewarding. When I was six years old, I was diagnosed with a life-threatening autoimmune disease called Very Severe Aplastic Anemia. Chemotherapy, radiation treatments, transfusions, two bone marrow transplants, and a stem cell boost later, I now realize that my struggle was a blessing. During my time in treatment, I saw people of different backgrounds helping each other for the same cause. Doctors, nurses, and specialists worldwide came together to help me fight my battle. I learned that it’s not someone’s label that defines a person but their willingness to come together to help another human being. Because of my disease and treatments, I matured quickly for my age. This growth caused me to look for a deeper understanding of the circumstances occurring around me, such as questioning, “Why is this happening?” and “how can I help others going through this?” That thought process of searching beyond the face value has stuck and helped develop my character. After my treatment, I joined a Youth Advisory program for the Stony Brook Children’s Hospital. The Youth Advisory comprised a group of teens once diagnosed with deadly diseases and underwent treatment. We had the unique experience of having input while a new pediatric hospital was being designed. In this program, we created new ways to aid children undergoing treatment and devised ways to make hospital living spaces more comfortable based on our experiences. The Youth Advisory board did this by putting together care boxes for families filled with hygiene products, toys, blankets, and special creams for children who were in pain because we knew what creams would work for them since we already went through that experience. During my transplant, the specialists would come to the rooms of kids with a cart full of candy to give out since we could not leave our rooms, so at Stony Brook, we started a candy cart where children could collect bags full of candy to eat during treatment. I remember Bingo nights during my transplant when all the kids on the floor were given walkie-talkies, and we would play Bingo together. Nurses would then come and give us prizes for winning, and we would play until all of us got a toy, so we started Bingo nights at Stony Brook. Stony Brook also now has a live feed to the Long Island Aquarium broadcasted on a giant wall in the Pediatrics playroom. Working with the Youth Advisory, I am showing kids there is a light at the end of the tunnel by helping them fight the battle I have already won. Because of my battle with Very Severe Aplastic Anemia, I gained an understanding that having an “interesting life” gives me a new perspective on how we all relate to each other in the fabric of life. Growing up stronger than my sickness, I found my way into the world of art. I will graduate from Ringling College of Art with a distinguished portfolio and the knowledge to create an impact on my community. In the future, I plan to create inspiring masterpieces by becoming a creative director for a leading entertainment studio. I will face any challenges I meet along the way with determination and find new innovative ways to inspire change in others.

Sometimes the most challenging battles are the most rewarding. When I was six years old, I was diagnosed with a life-threatening autoimmune disease called Idiopathic Very Severe Aplastic Anemia. Chemotherapy, radiation treatments, transfusions, two bone marrow transplants, and a stem cell boost later, I now realize that my struggle was a blessing. Even though I was young and small when facing my illness, others saw my value and worked hard to help me get better. Doctors, nurses, and specialists worldwide came together to help me fight my battle. Because of my disease and treatments, I would look for a deeper understanding of the circumstances occurring around me, such as questioning, “Why is this happening?” That thought process of searching beyond face value has stuck and helped develop my character and pushed me to take action in helping others going through similar challenges. After my treatment, I joined the Youth Advisory program for the Stony Brook Children’s Hospital. The Youth Advisory comprised a group of teens once diagnosed with deadly diseases who underwent treatment. We had the unique experience of having input while a new pediatric hospital was being designed. In this program, we created new ways to aid children undergoing treatment and devised ways to make hospital living spaces more comfortable based on our experiences. The Youth Advisory Board did this by putting together care boxes for families filled with hygiene products, toys, blankets, and special creams for children who were in pain because we knew what creams would work for them since we already went through that experience. Working with the Youth Advisory, I am showing kids there is a light at the end of the tunnel by helping them fight the battle I have already won. Because of my battle with Very Severe Aplastic Anemia, I gained an understanding that having an “interesting life” gives me a new perspective on how we all relate to each other in the fabric of life. When I joined St. John the Baptist High School, I found a passion for fighting for the unborn in the Gianna Respect Life club where we would participate in prayer groups, debates, research and write reports, and learn how to advocate for the unborn through taking Apologetics classes. We would go to the “March for Life” pro-life march in Washington D.C. every year and pray with the bishops as well as speak with local politicians about abortion stances. After the lockdown was lifted, due Covid 19, I could not return to school and the Gianna club due to risking a relapse with my Immune Disorder. However, this did not stop me from advocating for the unborn. In place of the Gianna club, I would visit the Sisters of Life in New York City who used to visit me during my transplant. They taught me how I can advocate for the unborn while educating others on the destruction that abortion and contraception cause in a respectful and inspiring manner. Through my sickness, Youth Advisory Board, Gianna Club, my education and the Sisters of Life, I learned that it’s not someone’s size or age that defines a person but their willingness to come together to help another human being.

Sometimes the most challenging battles are the most rewarding. When I was six years old, I was diagnosed with a life-threatening autoimmune disease called Idiopathic Very Severe Aplastic Anemia. Chemotherapy, radiation treatments, transfusions, two bone marrow transplants, and a stem cell boost later, I now realize that my struggle was a blessing. As a result of my treatments, I suffer from childhood PTSD and insomnia. Using my experiences, I can make treatments easier for new patients. While going through my transplant, I learned the importance of self-care. Keeping my physical and mental strength was key to my healing. I had to exercise, take medicine, and drink lots of water, but the greatest form of self-care that I struggled with was getting enough sleep. My medicine would make me hyper, but the chemo would tire me out. The biggest obstacle to getting enough sleep would be the annoying beeping coming from the IV poles. Every time I would begin to fall asleep, the IV poles would go off and wake me up. This took a toll not only on my body but on my mind as well. To this day, the sound of beeping can trigger an anxiety attack and make me feel like I’m back in the hospital. This can make grocery shopping and baking very difficult. To solve this problem, I envisioned a Bluetooth alarm that would notify the nurse’s station that an IV pole was going off in a specific room. Usually, the IV pole would go off in the patient’s room, then they would contact the nurse’s station, but with the Bluetooth alarm, the nurses can still be notified of the IV pole while allowing the patient to rest. Because of this alarm, future patients would not associate the sound of beeping with trauma, eliminating a trigger that can cause an anxiety attack. Through this invention, I am showing kids that there is a light at the end of the tunnel by helping them fight the battle I have already won. After my treatment, I joined the Youth Advisory program for the Stony Brook Children’s Hospital. The Youth Advisory comprised a group of teens once diagnosed with deadly diseases who underwent treatment. We had the unique experience of having input while a new pediatric hospital was being designed. In this program, we created new ways to aid children undergoing treatment and devised ways to make hospital living spaces more comfortable based on our experiences. The Youth Advisory Board did this by putting together care boxes for families filled with hygiene products, toys, blankets, and special creams for children who were in pain because we knew what creams would work for them since we already went through that experience. One of the great things the Youth Advisory Board did for survivors was starting an annual children’s pediatric prom where kids could celebrate their prom in case they could not attend a prom of their own. The Youth Advisory also formed new programs, such as getting streaming services for families to be used in isolation rooms and at the hospital’s new Ronald McDonald House, where families can stay while their child is undergoing treatment. Working with the Youth Advisory, I am showing kids there is a light at the end of the tunnel by helping them fight the battle I have already won. Because of my battle with Very Severe Aplastic Anemia, I gained an understanding that having an “interesting life” gives me a new perspective on how we all relate to each other in the fabric of life.

Sometimes the most challenging battles are the most rewarding. When I was six years old, I was diagnosed with a life-threatening autoimmune disease called Idiopathic Very Severe Aplastic Anemia. Chemotherapy, radiation treatments, transfusions, two bone marrow transplants, and a stem cell boost later, I now realize that my struggle was a blessing. During my time in treatment, I saw people of different backgrounds helping each other for the same cause. Doctors, nurses, and specialists worldwide came together to help me fight my battle. I learned that it’s not someone’s label that defines a person but their willingness to come together to help another human being. Because of my disease and treatments, I matured quickly for my age. This growth caused me to look for a deeper understanding of the circumstances occurring around me, such as questioning, “Why is this happening?” and “How can I help others going through this?” That thought process of searching beyond the face value has stuck and helped develop my character. After my treatment, I joined the Youth Advisory program for the Stony Brook Children’s Hospital. The Youth Advisory comprised a group of teens once diagnosed with deadly diseases who underwent treatment. We had the unique experience of having input while a new pediatric hospital was being designed. In this program, we created new ways to aid children undergoing treatment and devised ways to make hospital living spaces more comfortable based on our experiences. The Youth Advisory Board did this by putting together care boxes for families filled with hygiene products, toys, blankets, and special creams for children who were in pain because we knew what creams would work for them since we already went through that experience. One of the great things the Youth Advisory Board did for survivors was starting an annual children’s pediatric prom where kids could celebrate their prom in case they could not attend a prom of their own. The Youth Advisory also formed new programs, such as getting streaming services for families to be used in isolation rooms and at the hospital’s new Ronald McDonald House, where families can stay while their child is undergoing treatment. Working with the Youth Advisory, I am showing kids there is a light at the end of the tunnel by helping them fight the battle I have already won. Because of my battle with Very Severe Aplastic Anemia, I gained an understanding that having an “interesting life” gives me a new perspective on how we all relate to each other in the fabric of life. Using sports as a learning curve, I have dedicated myself to improving my golf skills and the life skills that come with it. Like my sickness, golf is a mental game requiring determination and concentration. No matter how talented I am, I will always have other obstacles to overcome, but with my perseverance, I can clear it. Whether sand traps or a blood disorder, golf has taught me that I must persevere through any challenge. Using the perseverance I learned from golf, I will apply it to the aspects of my life in the future. Determined to succeed in my academic career, I will work tirelessly to achieve my goals, no matter how challenging. I will graduate from Ringling College of Art with a distinguished portfolio and the knowledge to create an impact on my community.

Sometimes the most challenging battles are the most rewarding. When I was six years old, I was diagnosed with a life-threatening autoimmune disease called Idiopathic Very Severe Aplastic Anemia. Chemotherapy, radiation treatments, transfusions, two bone marrow transplants, and a stem cell boost later, I now realize that my struggle was a blessing. The transplant took a toll not only on my body but on my mind as well. To keep my spirits high, I did crafts, learned breathing exercises, and maintained a daily schedule. I even created a “glitter shop” where I would make glitter bookmarks using glitter glue and scotch tape and give them to the nurses and specialists, which they wear with pride to this day. As a result of my treatments, I suffer from childhood PTSD and insomnia. Using my experiences, I can make treatments easier for new patients. After my treatment, I joined the Youth Advisory program for the Stony Brook Children’s Hospital. The Youth Advisory comprised a group of teens once diagnosed with deadly diseases who underwent treatment. We had the unique experience of having input while a new pediatric hospital was being designed. In this program, we created new ways to aid children undergoing treatment and devised ways to make hospital living spaces more comfortable based on our experiences. The Youth Advisory Board did this by putting together care boxes for families filled with hygiene products, toys, blankets, and special creams for children who were in pain because we knew what creams would work for them since we already went through that experience. One of the great things the Youth Advisory Board did for survivors was starting an annual children’s pediatric prom where kids could celebrate their prom in case they could not attend a prom of their own. The Youth Advisory also formed new programs, such as getting streaming services for families to be used in isolation rooms and at the hospital’s new Ronald McDonald House, where families can stay while their child is undergoing treatment. Working with the Youth Advisory, I am showing kids there is a light at the end of the tunnel by helping them fight the battle I have already won. Because of my battle with Very Severe Aplastic Anemia, I gained an understanding that having an “interesting life” gives me a new perspective on how we all relate to each other in the fabric of life. Other than my sickness there has been one great constant throughout my life; creating art. Combining technology with art will create a universal language that inspires curiosity and a new way of thinking. It pushes people to expand their communication beyond the status quo and can generate strong emotions without using words or actions. In the future, I hope to use my strength, gifts and talents to encourage others to be stronger. I want to do this through the beautiful power of art by creating inspiring masterpieces. By receiving this scholarship, I can go to Ringling College of Art and Design to sharpen my creative and technical skill sets to bring a voice to my work. I plan to create inspiring masterpieces by becoming a creative director for a leading entertainment studio. By bringing new ideas and concept designs to the industry, I can create new forms of entertainment and emotionally evoking stories through advanced entertainment programs such as Virtual Reality or other emerging technologies. I will face any challenges I meet along the way with determination and find new innovative ways to inspire change in others.

Sometimes the most challenging battles are the most rewarding. When I was six years old, I was diagnosed with a life-threatening autoimmune disease called Idiopathic Very Severe Aplastic Anemia. Chemotherapy, radiation treatments, transfusions, two bone marrow transplants, and a stem cell boost later, I now realize that my struggle was a blessing. As a result of my treatments, I suffer from childhood PTSD and insomnia. Using my experiences, I can make treatments easier for new patients. While going through my transplant, I learned the importance of self-care. Keeping my physical and mental strength was key to my healing. I had to exercise, take medicine, and drink lots of water, but the greatest form of self-care that I struggled with was getting enough sleep. My medicine would make me hyper, but the chemo would tire me out. The biggest obstacle to getting enough sleep would be the annoying beeping coming from the IV poles. Every time I would begin to fall asleep, the IV poles would go off and wake me up. This took a toll not only on my body but on my mind as well. To this day, the sound of beeping can trigger an anxiety attack and make me feel like I’m back in the hospital. This can make grocery shopping and baking very difficult. To solve this problem, I envisioned a Bluetooth alarm that would notify the nurse’s station that an IV pole was going off in a specific room. Usually, the IV pole would go off in the patient’s room, then they would contact the nurse’s station, but with the Bluetooth alarm, the nurses can still be notified of the IV pole while allowing the patient to rest. Because of this alarm, future patients would not associate the sound of beeping with trauma, eliminating a trigger that can cause an anxiety attack. Through this invention, I am showing kids that there is a light at the end of the tunnel by helping them fight the battle I have already won. After my treatment, I joined the Youth Advisory program for the Stony Brook Children’s Hospital. The Youth Advisory comprised a group of teens once diagnosed with deadly diseases who underwent treatment. We had the unique experience of having input while a new pediatric hospital was being designed. In this program, we created new ways to aid children undergoing treatment and devised ways to make hospital living spaces more comfortable based on our experiences. The Youth Advisory Board did this by putting together care boxes for families filled with hygiene products, toys, blankets, and special creams for children who were in pain because we knew what creams would work for them since we already went through that experience. One of the great things the Youth Advisory Board did for survivors was starting an annual children’s pediatric prom where kids could celebrate their prom in case they could not attend a prom of their own. The Youth Advisory also formed new programs, such as getting streaming services for families to be used in isolation rooms and at the hospital’s new Ronald McDonald House, where families can stay while their child is undergoing treatment. Working with the Youth Advisory, I am showing kids there is a light at the end of the tunnel by helping them fight the battle I have already won. Because of my battle with Very Severe Aplastic Anemia, I gained an understanding that having an “interesting life” gives me a new perspective on how we all relate to each other in the fabric of life.

Sometimes the most challenging battles are the most rewarding. When I was six years old, I was diagnosed with a life-threatening autoimmune disease called Idiopathic Very Severe Aplastic Anemia. Chemotherapy, radiation treatments, transfusions, two bone marrow transplants, and a stem cell boost later, I now realize that my struggle was a blessing. As a result of my treatments, I suffer from childhood PTSD and insomnia. Using my experiences, I can make treatments easier for new patients. While going through my transplant, I learned the importance of self-care. Keeping my physical and mental strength was key to my healing. I had to exercise, eat special food with my medicine, and drink lots of water, yet the greatest form of self-care that I struggled with was getting enough sleep. My medicine would make me hyper, but the chemo would tire me out. The biggest obstacle to getting enough sleep would be the annoying beeping coming from the IV poles. Every time I would begin to fall asleep, the IV poles would go off and wake me up. This took a toll not only on my body but on my mind as well. To this day, the sound of beeping can trigger an anxiety attack and make me feel like I’m back in the hospital. This can make grocery shopping and baking very difficult. To solve this problem, I envisioned a Bluetooth alarm that would notify the nurse’s station that an IV pole was going off in a specific room. Usually, the IV pole would go off in the patient’s room, then they would contact the nurse’s station, but with the Bluetooth alarm, the nurses can still be notified of the IV pole while allowing the patient to rest. Because of this alarm, future patients would not associate the sound of beeping with trauma, eliminating a trigger that can cause an anxiety attack. Through this invention, I am showing kids that there is a light at the end of the tunnel by helping them fight the battle I have already won. Other than my sickness there has been one great constant throughout my life; creating art. Combining technology with art will create a universal language that inspires curiosity and a new way of thinking. It pushes people to expand their communication beyond the status quo and can generate strong emotions without using words or actions. In the future, I hope to use my strength, gifts and talents to encourage others to be stronger. I want to do this through the beautiful power of art by creating inspiring masterpieces. By receiving this scholarship, I can go to Ringling College of Art and Design to sharpen my creative and technical skill sets to bring a voice to my work. I plan to create inspiring masterpieces by becoming a creative director for a leading entertainment studio. By bringing new ideas and concept designs to the industry, I can create new forms of entertainment and emotionally evoking stories through advanced entertainment programs such as Virtual Reality or other emerging technologies. I will face any challenges I meet along the way with determination and find new innovative ways to inspire change in others.

In the future, I will use my creative skill sets to bring a voice to my work and create emotionally evoking masterpieces through movies, tv-series and video games by becoming a creative director for a leading entertainment studio.

Sometimes the most challenging battles are the most rewarding. When I was six years old, I was diagnosed with a life-threatening autoimmune disease called Idiopathic Very Severe Aplastic Anemia. Chemotherapy, radiation treatments, transfusions, two bone marrow transplants, and a stem cell boost later, I now realize that my struggle was a blessing. As a result of my treatments, I suffer from childhood PTSD and insomnia. Using my experiences, I can make treatments easier for new patients. While going through my transplant, I learned the importance of self-care. Keeping my physical and mental strength was key to my healing. I had to exercise, eat special food with my medicine, and drink lots of water. The transplant took a toll not only on my body but on my mind as well. To keep my spirits high, I did crafts, learned breathing exercises, and maintained a daily schedule. I even created a “glitter shop” where I would make glitter bookmarks using glitter glue and scotch-tape and give them to the nurses and specialists, which they wear with pride to this day. The greatest form of self-care that I struggled with was getting enough sleep. My medicine would make me hyper, but the chemo would tire me out. The biggest obstacle to getting enough sleep would be the annoying beeping coming from the IV poles. Every time I would begin to fall asleep, the IV poles would go off and wake me up. This took a toll not only on my body but on my mind as well. To this day, the sound of beeping can trigger an anxiety attack and make me feel like I’m back in the hospital. This can make grocery shopping and baking very difficult. To solve this problem, I envisioned a Bluetooth alarm that would notify the nurse’s station that an IV pole was going off in a specific room. Usually, the IV pole would go off in the patient’s room, then they would contact the nurse’s station, but with the Bluetooth alarm, the nurses can still be notified of the IV pole while allowing the patient to rest. Because of this alarm, future patients would not associate the sound of beeping with trauma, eliminating a trigger that can cause an anxiety attack. Through this invention, I am showing kids that there is a light at the end of the tunnel by helping them fight the battle I have already won. During my time in treatment, I saw people of different backgrounds helping each other for the same cause. Doctors, nurses, and specialists worldwide came together to help me fight my battle. I learned that it’s not someone’s label that defines a person but their willingness to come together to help another human being. Because of my disease and treatments, I matured quickly for my age. This growth caused me to look for a deeper understanding of the circumstances occurring around me, such as questioning, “Why is this happening?” and “How can I help others going through this?” That thought process of searching beyond the face value has stuck and helped develop my character. After my treatment, I joined the Youth Advisory program for the Stony Brook Children’s Hospital. The Youth Advisory comprised a group of teens once diagnosed with deadly diseases who underwent treatment. We had the unique experience of having input while a new pediatric hospital was being designed. In this program, we created new ways to aid children undergoing treatment and devised ways to make hospital living spaces more comfortable based on our experiences. The Youth Advisory Board did this by putting together care boxes for families filled with hygiene products, toys, blankets, and special creams for children who were in pain because we knew what creams would work for them since we already went through that experience. One of the great things the Youth Advisory Board did for survivors was starting an annual children’s pediatric prom where kids could celebrate their prom in case they could not attend a prom of their own. The Youth Advisory also formed new programs, such as getting streaming services for families to be used in isolation rooms and at the hospital’s new Ronald McDonald House, where families can stay while their child is undergoing treatment. Working with the Youth Advisory, I am showing kids there is a light at the end of the tunnel by helping them fight the battle I have already won. Because of my battle with Very Severe Aplastic Anemia, I gained an understanding that having an “interesting life” gives me a new perspective on how we all relate to each other in the fabric of life. Other than my sickness there has been one great constant throughout my life; creating art. I would use art as a coping mechanism in the hospital when I was a child and even to this day. Art is a universal language that inspires curiosity and a new way of thinking. It pushes people to expand their communication beyond the status quo and can generate strong emotions without using words or actions. In the future, I hope to use my strength, gifts and talents to encourage others to be stronger. I want to do this through the beautiful power of art by creating inspiring masterpieces. By receiving this scholarship, I can go to Ringling College of Art and Design to sharpen my creative skill sets to bring a voice to my work. I plan to create inspiring masterpieces by becoming a creative director for a leading entertainment studio. By bringing new ideas and concept designs to the industry, I can create new forms of entertainment and emotionally evoking stories through movies, tv-series and video games. I will face any challenges I meet along the way with determination and find new innovative ways to inspire change in others.

Sometimes the most challenging battles are the most rewarding. When I was six years old, I was diagnosed with a life-threatening autoimmune disease called Idiopathic Very Severe Aplastic Anemia. Chemotherapy, radiation treatments, transfusions, two bone marrow transplants, and a stem cell boost later, I now realize that my struggle was a blessing. As a result of my treatments, I suffer from childhood PTSD and insomnia. Using my experiences, I can make treatments easier for new patients. While going through my transplant, I learned the importance of self-care. Keeping my physical and mental strength was key to my healing. I had to exercise, eat special food with my medicine, and drink lots of water. The transplant took a toll not only on my body but on my mind as well. To keep my spirits high, I did crafts, learned breathing exercises, and maintained a daily schedule. I even created a “glitter shop” where I would make glitter bookmarks using glitter glue and scotch tape and give them to the nurses and specialists, which they wear with pride to this day. The greatest form of self-care that I struggled with was getting enough sleep. My medicine would make me hyper, but the chemo would tire me out. The biggest obstacle to getting enough sleep would be the annoying beeping coming from the IV poles. Every time I would begin to fall asleep, the IV poles would go off and wake me up. This took a toll not only on my body but on my mind as well. To this day, the sound of beeping can trigger an anxiety attack and make me feel like I’m back in the hospital. This can make grocery shopping and baking very difficult. To solve this problem, I envisioned a Bluetooth alarm that would notify the nurse’s station that an IV pole was going off in a specific room. Usually, the IV pole would go off in the patient’s room, then they would contact the nurse’s station, but with the Bluetooth alarm, the nurses can still be notified of the IV pole while allowing the patient to rest. Because of this alarm, future patients would not associate the sound of beeping with trauma, eliminating a trigger that can cause an anxiety attack. Through this invention, I am showing kids that there is a light at the end of the tunnel by helping them fight the battle I have already won. Other than my sickness there has been one great constant throughout my life; creating art. I would use art as a coping mechanism in the hospital when I was a child and even to this day. Art is a universal language that inspires curiosity and a new way of thinking. It pushes people to expand their communication beyond the status quo and can generate strong emotions without using words or actions. In the future, I hope to use my strength, gifts and talents to encourage others to be stronger. I want to do this through the beautiful power of art by creating inspiring masterpieces. By receiving this scholarship, I can go to Ringling College of Art and Design to sharpen my creative skill sets to bring a voice to my work. I plan to create inspiring masterpieces by becoming a creative director for a leading entertainment studio. By bringing new ideas and concept designs to the industry, I can create new forms of entertainment and emotionally evoking stories through movies, tv-series and video games. I will face any challenges I meet along the way with determination and find new innovative ways to inspire change in others.

Sometimes the most challenging battles are the most rewarding. When I was six years old, I was diagnosed with a life-threatening autoimmune disease called Idiopathic Very Severe Aplastic Anemia. Chemotherapy, radiation treatments, transfusions, two bone marrow transplants, and a stem cell boost later, I now realize that my struggle was a blessing. As a result of my treatments, I suffer from childhood PTSD and insomnia. Using my experiences, I can make treatments easier for new patients. While going through my transplant, I learned the importance of self-care. Keeping my physical and mental strength was key to my healing. I had to exercise, take medicine, and drink lots of water, but the greatest form of self-care that I struggled with was getting enough sleep. My medicine would make me hyper, but the chemo would tire me out. The biggest obstacle to getting enough sleep would be the annoying beeping coming from the IV poles. Every time I would begin to fall asleep, the IV poles would go off and wake me up. This took a toll not only on my body but on my mind as well. To this day, the sound of beeping can trigger an anxiety attack and make me feel like I’m back in the hospital. This can make grocery shopping and baking very difficult. To solve this problem, I envisioned a Bluetooth alarm that would notify the nurse’s station that an IV pole was going off in a specific room. Usually, the IV pole would go off in the patient’s room, then they would contact the nurse’s station, but with the Bluetooth alarm, the nurses can still be notified of the IV pole while allowing the patient to rest. Because of this alarm, future patients would not associate the sound of beeping with trauma, eliminating a trigger that can cause an anxiety attack. Through this invention, I am showing kids that there is a light at the end of the tunnel by helping them fight the battle I have already won. After my treatment, I joined the Youth Advisory program for the Stony Brook Children’s Hospital. The Youth Advisory comprised a group of teens once diagnosed with deadly diseases who underwent treatment. We had the unique experience of having input while a new pediatric hospital was being designed. In this program, we created new ways to aid children undergoing treatment and devised ways to make hospital living spaces more comfortable based on our experiences. The Youth Advisory Board did this by putting together care boxes for families filled with hygiene products, toys, blankets, and special creams for children who were in pain because we knew what creams would work for them since we already went through that experience. One of the great things the Youth Advisory Board did for survivors was starting an annual children’s pediatric prom where kids could celebrate their prom in case they could not attend a prom of their own. The Youth Advisory also formed new programs, such as getting streaming services for families to be used in isolation rooms and at the hospital’s new Ronald McDonald House, where families can stay while their child is undergoing treatment. Working with the Youth Advisory, I am showing kids there is a light at the end of the tunnel by helping them fight the battle I have already won. Because of my battle with Very Severe Aplastic Anemia, I gained an understanding that having an “interesting life” gives me a new perspective on how we all relate to each other in the fabric of life.

Sometimes the most challenging battles are the most rewarding. When I was six years old, I was diagnosed with a life-threatening autoimmune disease called Idiopathic Very Severe Aplastic Anemia. Chemotherapy, radiation treatments, transfusions, two bone marrow transplants, and a stem cell boost later, I now realize that my struggle was a blessing. As a result of my treatments, I suffer from childhood PTSD and insomnia. Using my experiences, I can make treatments easier for new patients. While going through my transplant, I learned the importance of self-care. Keeping my physical and mental strength was key to my healing. I had to exercise, take medicine, and drink lots of water, but the greatest form of self-care that I struggled with was getting enough sleep. My medicine would make me hyper, but the chemo would tire me out. The biggest obstacle to getting enough sleep would be the annoying beeping coming from the IV poles. Every time I would begin to fall asleep, the IV poles would go off and wake me up. This took a toll not only on my body but on my mind as well. To this day, the sound of beeping can trigger an anxiety attack and make me feel like I’m back in the hospital. This can make grocery shopping and baking very difficult. To solve this problem, I envisioned a Bluetooth alarm that would notify the nurse’s station that an IV pole was going off in a specific room. Usually, the IV pole would go off in the patient’s room, then they would contact the nurse’s station, but with the Bluetooth alarm, the nurses can still be notified of the IV pole while allowing the patient to rest. Because of this alarm, future patients would not associate the sound of beeping with trauma, eliminating a trigger that can cause an anxiety attack. Through this invention, I am showing kids that there is a light at the end of the tunnel by helping them fight the battle I have already won. After my treatment, I joined the Youth Advisory program for the Stony Brook Children’s Hospital. The Youth Advisory comprised a group of teens once diagnosed with deadly diseases who underwent treatment. We had the unique experience of having input while a new pediatric hospital was being designed. In this program, we created new ways to aid children undergoing treatment and devised ways to make hospital living spaces more comfortable based on our experiences. The Youth Advisory Board did this by putting together care boxes for families filled with hygiene products, toys, blankets, and special creams for children who were in pain because we knew what creams would work for them since we already went through that experience. One of the great things the Youth Advisory Board did for survivors was starting an annual children’s pediatric prom where kids could celebrate their prom in case they could not attend a prom of their own. The Youth Advisory also formed new programs, such as getting streaming services for families to be used in isolation rooms and at the hospital’s new Ronald McDonald House, where families can stay while their child is undergoing treatment. Working with the Youth Advisory, I am showing kids there is a light at the end of the tunnel by helping them fight the battle I have already won. Because of my battle with Very Severe Aplastic Anemia, I gained an understanding that having an “interesting life” gives me a new perspective on how we all relate to each other in the fabric of life.

Sometimes the most challenging battles are the most rewarding. When I was six years old, I was diagnosed with a life-threatening autoimmune disease called Idiopathic Very Severe Aplastic Anemia. Chemotherapy, radiation treatments, transfusions, two bone marrow transplants, and a stem cell boost later, I now realize that my struggle was a blessing. While going through my transplant, I learned the importance of self-care. Keeping my physical and mental strength was key to my healing. I had to exercise, eat special food with my medicine, and drink lots of water. The transplant took a toll not only on my body but on my mind as well. To keep my spirits high, I did crafts, learned breathing exercises, and maintained a daily schedule. I even created a “glitter shop” where I would make glitter bookmarks using glitter glue and scotch tape and give them to the nurses and specialists, which they wear with pride to this day. The greatest form of self-care that I struggled with was getting enough sleep. My medicine would make me hyper, but the chemo would tire me out. The biggest obstacle to getting enough sleep would be the annoying beeping coming from the IV poles. Every time I would begin to fall asleep, the IV poles would go off and wake me up. This took a toll not only on my body but on my mind as well. To this day, the sound of beeping can trigger an anxiety attack and make me feel like I’m back in the hospital. This can make grocery shopping and baking very difficult. To solve this problem, I envisioned a Bluetooth alarm that would notify the nurse’s station that an IV pole was going off in a specific room. Usually, the IV pole would go off in the patient’s room, then they would contact the nurse’s station, but with the Bluetooth alarm, the nurses can still be notified of the IV pole while allowing the patient to rest. Because of this alarm, future patients would not associate the sound of beeping with trauma, eliminating a trigger that can cause an anxiety attack. Through this invention, I am showing kids that there is a light at the end of the tunnel by helping them fight the battle I have already won. Other than my sickness there has been one great constant throughout my life; creating art. I would use art as a coping mechanism in the hospital when I was a child and even to this day. Art is a universal language that inspires curiosity and a new way of thinking. It pushes people to expand their communication beyond the status quo and can generate strong emotions without using words or actions. In the future, I hope to use my strength, gifts and talents to encourage others to be stronger. I want to do this through the beautiful power of art by creating inspiring masterpieces. By receiving this scholarship, I can go to Ringling College of Art and Design to sharpen my creative skill sets to bring a voice to my work. I plan to create inspiring masterpieces by becoming a creative director for a leading entertainment studio. By bringing new ideas and concept designs to the industry, I can create new forms of entertainment and emotionally evoking stories through movies, tv-series and video games. I will face any challenges I meet along the way with determination and find new innovative ways to inspire change in others.

Sometimes the most challenging battles are the most rewarding. When I was six years old, I was diagnosed with a life-threatening autoimmune disease called Idiopathic Very Severe Aplastic Anemia. Chemotherapy, radiation treatments, transfusions, two bone marrow transplants, and a stem cell boost later, I now realize that my struggle was a blessing. While going through my transplant, I learned the importance of self-care. Keeping my physical and mental strength was key to my healing. I had to exercise, eat special food with my medicine, and drink lots of water. The transplant took a toll not only on my body but on my mind as well. To keep my spirits high, I did crafts, learned breathing exercises, and maintained a daily schedule. I even created a “glitter shop” where I would make glitter bookmarks using glitter glue and scotch tape and give them to the nurses and specialists, which they wear with pride to this day. The greatest form of self-care that I struggled with was getting enough sleep. My medicine would make me hyper, but the chemo would tire me out. The biggest obstacle to getting enough sleep would be the annoying beeping coming from the IV poles. Every time I would begin to fall asleep, the IV poles would go off and wake me up. This took a toll not only on my body but on my mind as well. To this day, the sound of beeping can trigger an anxiety attack and make me feel like I’m back in the hospital. This can make grocery shopping and baking very difficult. To solve this problem, I envisioned a Bluetooth alarm that would notify the nurse’s station that an IV pole was going off in a specific room. Usually, the IV pole would go off in the patient’s room, then they would contact the nurse’s station, but with the Bluetooth alarm, the nurses can still be notified of the IV pole while allowing the patient to rest. Because of this alarm, future patients would not associate the sound of beeping with trauma, eliminating a trigger that can cause an anxiety attack. Through this invention, I am showing kids that there is a light at the end of the tunnel by helping them fight the battle I have already won. Other than my sickness there has been one great constant throughout my life; creating art. I would use art as a coping mechanism in the hospital when I was a child and even to this day. Art is a universal language that inspires curiosity and a new way of thinking. It pushes people to expand their communication beyond the status quo and can generate strong emotions without using words or actions. In the future, I hope to use my strength, gifts and talents to encourage others to be stronger. I want to do this through the beautiful power of art by creating inspiring masterpieces. By receiving this scholarship, I can go to Ringling College of Art and Design to sharpen my creative skill sets to bring a voice to my work. I plan to create inspiring masterpieces by becoming a creative director for a leading entertainment studio. By bringing new ideas and concept designs to the industry, I can create new forms of entertainment and emotionally evoking stories through movies, tv-series and video games. I will face any challenges I meet along the way with determination and find new innovative ways to inspire change in others.

Sometimes the most challenging battles are the most rewarding. When I was six years old, I was diagnosed with a life-threatening autoimmune disease called Idiopathic Very Severe Aplastic Anemia. Because of my disease and treatments, I matured quickly for my age. This growth caused me to look for a deeper understanding of the circumstances occurring around me, such as questioning, “Why is this happening?” and “How can I help others going through this?” That thought process of searching beyond the face value has stuck and helped develop my character. Chemotherapy, radiation treatments, transfusions, two bone marrow transplants, and a stem cell boost later, I now realize that my struggle was a blessing. While going through my transplant, I learned the importance of self-care. Keeping my physical and mental strength was key to my healing. I had to exercise, take medicine, and drink lots of water, but the greatest form of self-care that I struggled with was getting enough sleep. My medicine would make me hyper, but the chemo would tire me out. The biggest obstacle to getting enough sleep would be the annoying beeping coming from the IV poles. Every time I would begin to fall asleep, the IV poles would go off and wake me up. This took a toll not only on my body but on my mind as well. To this day, the sound of beeping can trigger an anxiety attack and make me feel like I’m back in the hospital. This can make grocery shopping and baking very difficult. To solve this problem, I envisioned a Bluetooth alarm that would notify the nurse’s station that an IV pole was going off in a specific room. Usually, the IV pole would go off in the patient’s room, then they would contact the nurse’s station, but with the Bluetooth alarm, the nurses can still be notified of the IV pole while allowing the patient to rest. Because of this alarm, future patients would not associate the sound of beeping with trauma, eliminating a trigger that can cause an anxiety attack. Through this invention, I am showing kids that there is a light at the end of the tunnel by helping them fight the battle I have already won. Other than my sickness there has been one great constant throughout my life; creating art. Combining technology with art will create a universal language that inspires curiosity and a new way of thinking. It pushes people to expand their communication beyond the status quo and can generate strong emotions without using words or actions. In the future, I hope to use my strength, gifts and talents to encourage others to be stronger. I want to do this through the beautiful power of art by creating inspiring masterpieces. By receiving this scholarship, I can go to Ringling College of Art and Design to sharpen my creative and technical skill sets to bring a voice to my work. I plan to create inspiring masterpieces by becoming a creative director for a leading entertainment studio. By bringing new ideas and concept designs to the industry, I can create new forms of entertainment and emotionally evoking stories through advanced entertainment programs such as Virtual Reality or other emerging technologies. I will face any challenges I meet along the way with determination and find new innovative ways to inspire change in others.

There has been one constant throughout my life, creating art. Art is a universal language that inspires curiosity and pushes people to expand their communication beyond the status quo. It generates strong emotions without using words or actions. In the future, I hope to use my strength, gifts and talents to encourage others to be stronger. I want to do this through the beautiful power of art by creating inspiring masterpieces. By receiving this scholarship, I can go to Ringling College of Art and Design to sharpen my creative skill sets to bring a voice to my work. Ringling College of Art is a very diverse college that welcomes everyone of different backgrounds and identities which was very important to me when choosing this school. As a homeschooled catholic yet an aromantic asexual, much pressure is put on me by my parents to find a catholic husband and start a family, much to my resistance. Before learning about my sexuality I felt like a "late bloomer" and felt pressured by my Church to remain chaste so I can be used later as a wife. Asexual Aromantics are often overlooked in the LGBTQ community and are often dismissed by society and the media calling it a "phase." I have encountered members of the LGBTQ+ community that do not support asexuality as a valid sexual orientation or have never even heard this sexuality. I have even been privately offered medication by doctors that would make me more "sexually inclined" which I refused because I knew my identity is not a medical condition. While the LGBTQ community focuses on sexual identity and attraction, the lack of representation in media and culture made me feel like an outcast even in a community that welcomes all identities. In the classroom, I have been pressured to be intimate by strangers and friends alike to engage in sexual activity, leading to discomfort and shame. By going to a diverse and open school, I hope to discover more about myself and research more about my identity. Even in the face of adversity, I know that my sexuality is a blessing that I am proud to have. My lack of sexual interest will leave an opening for me to focus completely on my studies and advance my career in art and technology. Combining technology with art will create a universal language that inspires curiosity and a new way of thinking. By bringing new ideas and concept designs to the industry, I can create new forms of entertainment and emotionally evoking stories through advanced entertainment programs such as Virtual Reality or other emerging technologies. I will face any challenges I meet along the way with determination and find new innovative ways to inspire change in others. Through reflection, I learned that it’s not someone’s label that defines a person but their willingness to come together to help each other. This growth caused me to look for a deeper understanding of the circumstances occurring around me, such as questioning, “Why am I different?” and “How can I help others going through this?” That thought process of searching beyond the face value has stuck and helped develop my character.

There has been one constant throughout my life, creating art. Art is a universal language that inspires curiosity and pushes people to expand their communication beyond the status quo. It generates strong emotions without using words or actions. In the future, I hope to use my strength, gifts and talents to encourage others to be stronger. I want to do this through the beautiful power of art by creating inspiring masterpieces. By receiving this scholarship, I can go to Ringling College of Art and Design to sharpen my creative skill sets to bring a voice to my work. Ringling College of Art is a very diverse college that welcomes everyone of different backgrounds and identities which was very important to me when choosing this school. As a homeschooled catholic yet an aromantic asexual, much pressure is put on me by my parents to find a catholic husband and start a family, much to my resistance. Before learning about my sexuality I felt like a "late bloomer" and felt pressured by my Church to remain chaste so I can be used later as a wife. Asexual Aromantics are often overlooked in the LGBTQ community and are often dismissed by society and the media calling it a "phase." I have encountered members of the LGBTQ+ community that do not support asexuality as a valid sexual orientation or have never even heard this sexuality. I have even been privately offered medication by doctors that would make me more "sexually inclined" which I refused because I knew my identity is not a medical condition. While the LGBTQ community focuses on sexual identity and attraction, the lack of representation in media and culture made me feel like an outcast even in a community that welcomes all identities. In the classroom, I have been pressured to be intimate by strangers and friends alike to engage in sexual activity, leading to discomfort and shame. By going to a diverse and open school, I hope to discover more about myself and research more about my identity. Even in the face of adversity, I know that my sexuality is a blessing that I am proud to have. My lack of sexual interest will leave an opening for me to focus completely on my studies and advance my career in art and technology. Combining technology with art will create a universal language that inspires curiosity and a new way of thinking. By bringing new ideas and concept designs to the industry, I can create new forms of entertainment and emotionally evoking stories through advanced entertainment programs such as Virtual Reality or other emerging technologies. I will face any challenges I meet along the way with determination and find new innovative ways to inspire change in others. Through reflection, I learned that it’s not someone’s label that defines a person but their willingness to come together to help each other. This growth caused me to look for a deeper understanding of the circumstances occurring around me, such as questioning, “Why am I different?” and “How can I help others going through this?” That thought process of searching beyond the face value has stuck and helped develop my character.

Sometimes the most challenging battles are the most rewarding. When I was six years old, I was diagnosed with a life-threatening autoimmune disease called Idiopathic Very Severe Aplastic Anemia. Chemotherapy, radiation treatments, transfusions, two bone marrow transplants, and a stem cell boost later, I now realize that my struggle was a blessing. While going through my transplant, I learned the importance of self-care. Keeping my physical and mental strength was key to my healing. I had to exercise, take medicine, and drink lots of water, but the greatest form of self-care that I struggled with was getting enough sleep. My medicine would make me hyper, but the chemo would tire me out. The biggest obstacle to getting enough sleep would be the annoying beeping coming from the IV poles. Every time I would begin to fall asleep, the IV poles would go off and wake me up. This took a toll not only on my body but on my mind as well. To this day, the sound of beeping can trigger an anxiety attack and make me feel like I’m back in the hospital. This can make grocery shopping and baking very difficult. To solve this problem, I envisioned a Bluetooth alarm that would notify the nurse’s station that an IV pole was going off in a specific room. Usually, the IV pole would go off in the patient’s room, then they would contact the nurse’s station, but with the Bluetooth alarm, the nurses can still be notified of the IV pole while allowing the patient to rest. Because of this alarm, future patients would not associate the sound of beeping with trauma, eliminating a trigger that can cause an anxiety attack. Through this invention, I am showing kids that there is a light at the end of the tunnel by helping them fight the battle I have already won. Other than my sickness there has been one great constant throughout my life; creating art. Combining technology with art will create a universal language that inspires curiosity and a new way of thinking. By bringing new ideas and concept designs to the industry, I can create new forms of entertainment and emotionally evoking stories through advanced entertainment programs such as Virtual Reality or other emerging technologies. I will face any challenges I meet along the way with determination and find new innovative ways to inspire change in others.

Sometimes the most challenging battles are the most rewarding. When I was six years old, I was diagnosed with a life-threatening autoimmune disease called Idiopathic Very Severe Aplastic Anemia. Chemotherapy, radiation treatments, transfusions, two bone marrow transplants, and a stem cell boost later, I now realize that my struggle was a blessing. During my time in treatment, I saw people of different backgrounds helping each other for the same cause. Doctors, nurses, and specialists worldwide came together to help me fight my battle. I learned that it’s not someone’s label that defines a person but their willingness to come together to help another human being. Because of my disease and treatments, I matured quickly for my age. This growth caused me to look for a deeper understanding of the circumstances occurring around me, such as questioning, “Why is this happening?” and “How can I help others going through this?” That thought process of searching beyond the face value has stuck and helped develop my character. After my treatment, I joined the Youth Advisory program for the Stony Brook Children’s Hospital. The Youth Advisory comprised a group of teens once diagnosed with deadly diseases who underwent treatment. We had the unique experience of having input while a new pediatric hospital was being designed. In this program, we created new ways to aid children undergoing treatment and devised ways to make hospital living spaces more comfortable based on our experiences. The Youth Advisory Board did this by putting together care boxes for families filled with hygiene products, toys, blankets, and special creams for children who were in pain because we knew what creams would work for them since we already went through that experience. One of the great things the Youth Advisory Board did for survivors was starting an annual children’s pediatric prom where kids could celebrate their prom in case they could not attend a prom of their own. The Youth Advisory also formed new programs, such as getting streaming services for families to be used in isolation rooms and at the hospital’s new Ronald McDonald House, where families can stay while their child is undergoing treatment. Working with the Youth Advisory, I am showing kids there is a light at the end of the tunnel by helping them fight the battle I have already won. Because of my battle with Very Severe Aplastic Anemia, I gained an understanding that having an “interesting life” gives me a new perspective on how we all relate to each other in the fabric of life. Other than my sickness there has been one great constant throughout my life; creating art. Art is a universal language that inspires curiosity and a new way of thinking. It pushes people to expand their communication beyond the status quo and can generate strong emotions without using words or actions. In the future, I hope to use my strength, gifts and talents to encourage others to be stronger. I want to do this through the beautiful power of art by creating inspiring masterpieces. By receiving this scholarship, I can go to Ringling College of Art and Design to sharpen my creative skill sets to bring a voice to my work. I plan to create inspiring masterpieces by becoming a creative director for a leading entertainment studio. By bringing new ideas and concept designs to the industry, I can create new forms of entertainment and emotionally evoking stories through movies, tv-series and video games. I will face any challenges I meet along the way with determination and find new innovative ways to inspire change in others.

Sometimes the most challenging battles are the most rewarding. When I was six years old, I was diagnosed with a life-threatening autoimmune disease called Idiopathic Very Severe Aplastic Anemia. Chemotherapy, radiation treatments, transfusions, two bone marrow transplants, and a stem cell boost later, I now realize that my struggle was a blessing. During my time in treatment, I saw people of different backgrounds helping each other for the same cause. Doctors, nurses, and specialists worldwide came together to help me fight my battle. I learned that it’s not someone’s label that defines a person but their willingness to come together to help another human being. Because of my disease and treatments, I matured quickly for my age. This growth caused me to look for a deeper understanding of the circumstances occurring around me, such as questioning, “Why is this happening?” and “How can I help others going through this?” That thought process of searching beyond the face value has stuck and helped develop my character. After my treatment, I joined the Youth Advisory program for the Stony Brook Children’s Hospital. The Youth Advisory comprised a group of teens once diagnosed with deadly diseases who underwent treatment. We had the unique experience of having input while a new pediatric hospital was being designed. In this program, we created new ways to aid children undergoing treatment and devised ways to make hospital living spaces more comfortable based on our experiences. The Youth Advisory Board did this by putting together care boxes for families filled with hygiene products, toys, blankets, and special creams for children who were in pain because we knew what creams would work for them since we already went through that experience. One of the great things the Youth Advisory Board did for survivors was starting an annual children’s pediatric prom where kids could celebrate their prom in case they could not attend a prom of their own. The Youth Advisory also formed new programs, such as getting streaming services for families to be used in isolation rooms and at the hospital’s new Ronald McDonald House, where families can stay while their child is undergoing treatment. Working with the Youth Advisory, I am showing kids there is a light at the end of the tunnel by helping them fight the battle I have already won. Because of my battle with Very Severe Aplastic Anemia, I gained an understanding that having an “interesting life” gives me a new perspective on how we all relate to each other in the fabric of life. Other than my sickness there has been one great constant throughout my life; creating art. Art is a universal language that inspires curiosity and a new way of thinking. It pushes people to expand their communication beyond the status quo and can generate strong emotions without using words or actions. In the future, I hope to use my strength, gifts and talents to encourage others to be stronger. I want to do this through the beautiful power of art by creating inspiring masterpieces. By receiving this scholarship, I can go to Ringling College of Art and Design to sharpen my creative skill sets to bring a voice to my work. I plan to create inspiring masterpieces by becoming a creative director for a leading entertainment studio. By bringing new ideas and concept designs to the industry, I can create new forms of entertainment and emotionally evoking stories through movies, tv-series and video games. I will face any challenges I meet along the way with determination and find new innovative ways to inspire change in others.

Sometimes the most challenging battles are the most rewarding. When I was six years old, I was diagnosed with a life-threatening autoimmune disease called Idiopathic Very Severe Aplastic Anemia. Chemotherapy, radiation treatments, transfusions, two bone marrow transplants, and a stem cell boost later, I now realize that my struggle was a blessing. While going through my transplant, I learned the importance of self-care. Keeping my physical and mental strength was key to my healing. I had to exercise, eat special food with my medicine, and drink lots of water. The transplant took a toll not only on my body but on my mind as well. To keep my spirits high, I did crafts, learned breathing exercises, and maintained a daily schedule. I even created a “glitter shop” where I would make glitter bookmarks using glitter glue and scotch tape and give them to the nurses and specialists, which they wear with pride to this day. During my time in treatment, I saw people of different backgrounds helping each other for the same cause. Doctors, nurses, and specialists worldwide came together to help me fight my battle. I learned that it’s not someone’s label that defines a person but their willingness to come together to help another human being. Because of my disease and treatments, I matured quickly for my age. This growth caused me to look for a deeper understanding of the circumstances occurring around me, such as questioning, “Why is this happening?” and “How can I help others going through this?” That thought process of searching beyond the face value has stuck and helped develop my character. After my treatment, I joined the Youth Advisory program for the Stony Brook Children’s Hospital. The Youth Advisory comprised a group of teens once diagnosed with deadly diseases who underwent treatment. We had the unique experience of having input while a new pediatric hospital was being designed. In this program, we created new ways to aid children undergoing treatment and devised ways to make hospital living spaces more comfortable based on our experiences. The Youth Advisory Board did this by putting together care boxes for families filled with hygiene products, toys, blankets, and special creams for children who were in pain because we knew what creams would work for them since we already went through that experience. One of the great things the Youth Advisory Board did for survivors was starting an annual children’s pediatric prom where kids could celebrate their prom in case they could not attend a prom of their own. The Youth Advisory also formed new programs, such as getting streaming services for families to be used in isolation rooms and at the hospital’s new Ronald McDonald House, where families can stay while their child is undergoing treatment. Working with the Youth Advisory, I am showing kids there is a light at the end of the tunnel by helping them fight the battle I have already won. Because of my battle with Very Severe Aplastic Anemia, I gained an understanding that having an “interesting life” gives me a new perspective on how we all relate to each other in the fabric of life.

There have been two constants throughout my life, golf and the perseverance to succeed. I was diagnosed with a life-threatening autoimmune disease called Very Severe Idiopathic Aplastic Anemia when I was six years old. Because of the disease, I underwent chemotherapy, radiation treatments, blood transfusions, two bone marrow transplants, and a stem cell boost. Because of my illness and treatments, I matured quickly for my age to adapt to what was happening to me. This growth caused me to look for a deeper understanding of the circumstances around me, such as questioning, “Why is this happening?” and “How am I going to persevere through this?” That thought process of searching beyond the face value has stuck and helped develop my character. The lesson from golf that I use in my life is determination. Since I was ten years old, I have dedicated myself to improving my golf talents and the life skills that come with it. Like my sickness, golf is a mental game requiring determination and concentration. No matter how talented I am, I will always have other obstacles to overcome, but with my perseverance, I can clear it. Whether sand traps or a blood disorder, golf has taught me that I must persevere through any challenge. My dedication to golf and determination to never give up have had the most significant impact on developing my character. Using the perseverance I learned from golf, I will apply it to the aspects of my life in the future. Determined to succeed in my academic career, I will work tirelessly to achieve my goals, no matter how challenging. I will graduate from Ringling College of Art with a distinguished portfolio and the knowledge to create an impact on my community. In the future, I plan to develop inspiring masterpieces by becoming a creative director for a leading entertainment studio. I will face any challenges I meet along the way with determination and find new innovative ways to inspire change in others. Golf has taught me a valuable lesson in perseverance that I plan on utilizing throughout my future by applying it to all aspects of my life, especially in my academic career. Golf has taught me that no matter how challenging the obstacle is, I will overcome it with perseverance. Looking back, I realize that my illness was an impactful point in my life that taught me the value of perseverance and determination and remained a guiding point in my advancements toward golf and academics. With my determination and perseverance, I can achieve success.

There have been two constants throughout my life, golf and the perseverance to succeed. I was diagnosed with a life-threatening autoimmune disease called Very Severe Idiopathic Aplastic Anemia when I was six years old. Because of the disease, I underwent chemotherapy, radiation treatments, blood transfusions, two bone marrow transplants, and a stem cell boost. Because of my illness and treatments, I matured quickly for my age to adapt to what was happening to me. This growth caused me to look for a deeper understanding of the circumstances around me, such as questioning, “Why is this happening?” and “How am I going to persevere through this?” That thought process of searching beyond the face value has stuck and helped develop my character. The lesson from golf that I use in my life is determination. Since I was ten years old, I have dedicated myself to improving my golf talents and the life skills that come with it. Like my sickness, golf is a mental game requiring determination and concentration. No matter how talented I am, I will always have other obstacles to overcome, but with my perseverance, I can clear it. Whether sand traps or a blood disorder, golf has taught me that I must persevere through any challenge. My dedication to golf and determination to never give up have had the most significant impact on developing my character. Using the perseverance I learned from golf, I will apply it to the aspects of my life in the future. Determined to succeed in my academic career, I will work tirelessly to achieve my goals, no matter how challenging. I will graduate from Ringling College of Art with a distinguished portfolio and the knowledge to create an impact on my community. In the future, I plan to develop inspiring masterpieces by becoming a creative director for a leading entertainment studio. I will face any challenges I meet along the way with determination and find new innovative ways to inspire change in others. Golf has taught me a valuable lesson in perseverance that I plan on utilizing throughout my future by applying it to all aspects of my life, especially in my academic career. Golf has taught me that no matter how challenging the obstacle is, I will overcome it with perseverance. Looking back, I realize that my illness was an impactful point in my life that taught me the value of perseverance and determination and remained a guiding point in my advancements toward golf and academics. With my determination and perseverance, I can achieve success.

There have been two constants throughout my life, golf and the perseverance to succeed. I was diagnosed with a life-threatening autoimmune disease called Very Severe Idiopathic Aplastic Anemia when I was six years old. Because of the disease, I underwent chemotherapy, radiation treatments, blood transfusions, two bone marrow transplants, and a stem cell boost. Because of my illness and treatments, I matured quickly for my age to adapt to what was happening to me. This growth caused me to look for a deeper understanding of the circumstances around me, such as questioning, “Why is this happening?” and “How am I going to persevere through this?” That thought process of searching beyond the face value has stuck and helped develop my character. The lesson from golf that I use in my life is determination. Since I was ten years old, I have dedicated myself to improving my golf talents and the life skills that come with it. Like my sickness, golf is a mental game requiring determination and concentration. No matter how talented I am, I will always have other obstacles to overcome, but with my perseverance, I can clear it. Whether sand traps or a blood disorder, golf has taught me that I must persevere through any challenge. My dedication to golf and determination to never give up have had the most significant impact on developing my character. Using the perseverance I learned from golf, I will apply it to the aspects of my life in the future. Determined to succeed in my academic career, I will work tirelessly to achieve my goals, no matter how challenging. I will graduate from Ringling College of Art with a distinguished portfolio and the knowledge to create an impact on my community. In the future, I plan to develop inspiring masterpieces by becoming a creative director for a leading entertainment studio. I will face any challenges I meet along the way with determination and find new innovative ways to inspire change in others. Golf has taught me a valuable lesson in perseverance that I plan on utilizing throughout my future by applying it to all aspects of my life, especially in my academic career. Golf has taught me that no matter how challenging the obstacle is, I will overcome it with perseverance. Looking back, I realize that my illness was an impactful point in my life that taught me the value of perseverance and determination and remained a guiding point in my advancements toward golf and academics. With my determination and perseverance, I can achieve success.

There have been two constants throughout my life, golf and the perseverance to succeed. I was diagnosed with a life-threatening autoimmune disease called Very Severe Idiopathic Aplastic Anemia when I was six years old. Because of the disease, I underwent chemotherapy, radiation treatments, blood transfusions, two bone marrow transplants, and a stem cell boost. Because of my illness and treatments, I matured quickly for my age to adapt to what was happening to me. This growth caused me to look for a deeper understanding of the circumstances around me, such as questioning, “Why is this happening?” and “How am I going to persevere through this?” That thought process of searching beyond the face value has stuck and helped develop my character. The lesson from golf that I use in my life is determination. Since I was ten years old, I have dedicated myself to improving my golf talents and the life skills that come with it. Like my sickness, golf is a mental game requiring determination and concentration. No matter how talented I am, I will always have other obstacles to overcome, but with my perseverance, I can clear it. Whether sand traps or a blood disorder, golf has taught me that I must persevere through any challenge. My dedication to golf and determination to never give up have had the most significant impact on developing my character. Using the perseverance I learned from golf, I will apply it to the aspects of my life in the future. Determined to succeed in my academic career, I will work tirelessly to achieve my goals, no matter how challenging. I will graduate from Ringling College of Art with a distinguished portfolio and the knowledge to create an impact on my community. In the future, I plan to develop inspiring masterpieces by becoming a creative director for a leading entertainment studio. I will face any challenges I meet along the way with determination and find new innovative ways to inspire change in others. Golf has taught me a valuable lesson in perseverance that I plan on utilizing throughout my future by applying it to all aspects of my life, especially in my academic career. Golf has taught me that no matter how challenging the obstacle is, I will overcome it with perseverance. Looking back, I realize that my illness was an impactful point in my life that taught me the value of perseverance and determination and remained a guiding point in my advancements toward golf and academics. With my determination and perseverance, I can achieve success.

Sometimes the most challenging battles are the most rewarding. When I was six years old, I was diagnosed with a life-threatening autoimmune disease called Idiopathic Very Severe Aplastic Anemia. Chemotherapy, radiation treatments, transfusions, two bone marrow transplants, and a stem cell boost later, I now realize that my struggle was a blessing. During my time in treatment, I saw people of different backgrounds helping each other for the same cause. Doctors, nurses, and specialists worldwide came together to help me fight my battle. I learned that it’s not someone’s label that defines a person but their willingness to come together to help another human being. Because of my disease and treatments, I matured quickly for my age. This growth caused me to look for a deeper understanding of the circumstances occurring around me, such as questioning, “Why is this happening?” and “How can I help others going through this?” That thought process of searching beyond the face value has stuck and helped develop my character. After my treatment, I joined the Youth Advisory program for the Stony Brook Children’s Hospital. The Youth Advisory comprised a group of teens once diagnosed with deadly diseases who underwent treatment. We had the unique experience of having input while a new pediatric hospital was being designed. In this program, we created new ways to aid children undergoing treatment and devised ways to make hospital living spaces more comfortable based on our experiences. The Youth Advisory Board did this by putting together care boxes for families filled with hygiene products, toys, blankets, and special creams for children who were in pain because we knew what creams would work for them since we already went through that experience. One of the great things the Youth Advisory Board did for survivors was starting an annual children’s pediatric prom where kids could celebrate their prom in case they could not attend a prom of their own. The Youth Advisory also formed new programs, such as getting streaming services for families to be used in isolation rooms and at the hospital’s new Ronald McDonald House, where families can stay while their child is undergoing treatment. Working with the Youth Advisory, I am showing kids there is a light at the end of the tunnel by helping them fight the battle I have already won. Because of my battle with Very Severe Aplastic Anemia, I gained an understanding that having an “interesting life” gives me a new perspective on how we all relate to each other in the fabric of life. There has been one constant throughout my life, creating art. Art is a universal language that inspires curiosity and a new way of thinking. It pushes people to expand their communication beyond the status quo and can generate strong emotions without using words or actions. In the future, I hope to use my strength, gifts and talents to encourage others to be stronger. I want to do this through the beautiful power of art by creating inspiring masterpieces. By receiving this scholarship, I can go to Ringling College of Art and Design to sharpen my creative skill sets to bring a voice to my work. I plan to create inspiring masterpieces by becoming a creative director for a leading entertainment studio. I will face any challenges I meet along the way with determination and find new innovative ways to inspire change in others.

Sometimes the most challenging battles are the most rewarding. When I was six years old, I was diagnosed with a life-threatening autoimmune disease called Idiopathic Very Severe Aplastic Anemia. Chemotherapy, radiation treatments, transfusions, two bone marrow transplants, and a stem cell boost later, I now realize that my struggle was a blessing. While going through my transplant, I learned the importance of self-care. Keeping my physical and mental strength was key to my healing. I had to exercise, eat special food with my medicine, and drink lots of water. The transplant took a toll not only on my body but on my mind as well. To keep my spirits high, I did crafts, learned breathing exercises, and maintained a daily schedule. I even created a “glitter shop” where I would make glitter bookmarks using glitter glue and scotch tape and give them to the nurses and specialists, which they wear with pride to this day. During my time in treatment, I saw people of different backgrounds helping each other for the same cause. Doctors, nurses, and specialists worldwide came together to help me fight my battle. I learned that it’s not someone’s label that defines a person but their willingness to come together to help another human being. Because of my disease and treatments, I matured quickly for my age. This growth caused me to look for a deeper understanding of the circumstances occurring around me, such as questioning, “Why is this happening?” and “How can I help others going through this?” That thought process of searching beyond the face value has stuck and helped develop my character. Other than my sickness there has been one great constant throughout my life; creating art. Art is a universal language that inspires curiosity and a new way of thinking. It pushes people to expand their communication beyond the status quo and can generate strong emotions without using words or actions. In the future, I hope to use my strength, gifts and talents to encourage others to be stronger. I want to do this through the beautiful power of art by creating inspiring masterpieces. By receiving this scholarship, I can go to Ringling College of Art and Design to sharpen my creative skill sets to bring a voice to my work. I plan to create inspiring masterpieces by becoming a creative director for a leading entertainment studio. By bringing new ideas and concept designs to the industry, I can create new forms of entertainment and emotionally evoking stories through movies, tv-series and video games. I will face any challenges I meet along the way with determination and find new innovative ways to inspire change in others.

Sometimes the most challenging battles are the most rewarding. When I was six years old, I was diagnosed with a life-threatening autoimmune disease called Idiopathic Very Severe Aplastic Anemia. Chemotherapy, radiation treatments, transfusions, two bone marrow transplants, and a stem cell boost later, I now realize that my struggle was a blessing. Because of my disease and treatments, I matured quickly for my age. This growth caused me to look for a deeper understanding of the circumstances occurring around me, such as questioning, “Why is this happening?” and “How can I help others going through this?” That thought process of searching beyond the face value has stuck and helped develop my character. The transplant took a toll not only on my body but on my mind as well. To keep my spirits high, I did crafts, learned breathing exercises, and maintained a daily schedule. I even created a “glitter shop” where I would make glitter bookmarks using glitter glue and scotch tape and give them to the nurses and specialists, which they wear with pride to this day. After my treatment, I joined the Youth Advisory program for the Stony Brook Children’s Hospital. The Youth Advisory comprised a group of teens once diagnosed with deadly diseases who underwent treatment. We had the unique experience of having input while a new pediatric hospital was being designed. In this program, we created new ways to aid children undergoing treatment and devised ways to make hospital living spaces more comfortable based on our experiences. The Youth Advisory Board did this by putting together care boxes for families filled with hygiene products, toys, blankets, and special creams for children who were in pain because we knew what creams would work for them since we already went through that experience. One of the great things the Youth Advisory Board did for survivors was starting an annual children’s pediatric prom where kids could celebrate their prom in case they could not attend a prom of their own. The Youth Advisory also formed new programs, such as getting streaming services for families to be used in isolation rooms and at the hospital’s new Ronald McDonald House, where families can stay while their child is undergoing treatment. Working with the Youth Advisory, I am showing kids there is a light at the end of the tunnel by helping them fight the battle I have already won. Because of my battle with Very Severe Aplastic Anemia, I gained an understanding that having an “interesting life” gives me a new perspective on how we all relate to each other in the fabric of life. There has been one constant throughout my life, creating art. Art is a universal language that inspires curiosity and a new way of thinking. It pushes people to expand their communication beyond the status quo and can generate strong emotions without using words or actions. In the future, I hope to use my strength, gifts and talents to encourage others to be stronger. I want to do this through the beautiful power of art by creating inspiring masterpieces. By receiving this scholarship, I can go to Ringling College of Art and Design to sharpen my creative skill sets to bring a voice to my work. I plan to create inspiring masterpieces by becoming a creative director for a leading entertainment studio. I will face any challenges I meet along the way with determination and find new innovative ways to inspire change in others.

Sometimes the most challenging battles are the most rewarding. When I was six years old, I was diagnosed with a life-threatening autoimmune disease called Idiopathic Very Severe Aplastic Anemia. I went through chemotherapy, radiation treatments, transfusions, two bone marrow transplants, and a stem cell boost. Even with my anemic disability and poor immune system, I now realize that my struggle was a blessing. While going through my transplant, I learned the importance of self-care. Keeping my physical and mental strength was key to my healing. I had to exercise, eat special food with my medicine, and drink lots of water. The transplant took a toll not only on my body but on my mind as well. To keep my spirits high, I did crafts, learned breathing exercises, and maintained a daily schedule. I even created a “glitter shop” where I would make glitter bookmarks using glitter glue and scotch-tape and give them to the nurses and specialists, which they wear with pride to this day. After my treatment, I joined the Youth Advisory program for the Stony Brook Children’s Hospital. The Youth Advisory comprised a group of teens once diagnosed with deadly diseases who underwent treatment. We had the unique experience of having input while a new pediatric hospital was being designed. In this program, we created new ways to aid children undergoing treatment and devised ways to make hospital living spaces more comfortable based on our experiences. The Youth Advisory Board did this by putting together care boxes for families filled with hygiene products, toys, blankets, and special creams for children who were in pain because we knew what creams would work for them since we already went through that experience. One of the great things the Youth Advisory Board did for survivors was starting an annual children’s pediatric prom where kids could celebrate their prom in case they could not attend a prom of their own. The Youth Advisory also formed new programs, such as getting streaming services for families to be used in isolation rooms and at the hospital’s new Ronald McDonald House, where families can stay while their child is undergoing treatment. Working with the Youth Advisory, I am showing kids there is a light at the end of the tunnel by helping them fight the battle I have already won. Because of my battle with Very Severe Aplastic Anemia, I gained an understanding that having an “interesting life” gives me a new perspective on how we all relate to each other in the fabric of life. There has been one constant throughout my life, creating art. Art is a universal language that inspires curiosity and a new way of thinking. It pushes people to expand their communication beyond the status quo and can generate strong emotions without using words or actions. In the future, I hope to use my strength, gifts and talents to encourage others to be stronger. I want to do this through the beautiful power of art by creating inspiring masterpieces. By receiving this scholarship, I can go to Ringling College of Art and Design to sharpen my creative skill sets to bring a voice to my work. I plan to create inspiring masterpieces by becoming a creative director for a leading entertainment studio. I will face any challenges I meet along the way with determination and find new innovative ways to inspire change in others.

On Sunday, July 26th, 2009, Diane Schuler was driving in a 2003 Ford Windstar Northbound on the Southbound Taconic State Parkway in Westchester County, New York, going 70 miles per hour when she collided head-on with another car, killing the three people inside that car. Inside Diane's car before the crash were her son, Bryan, her daughter Erin, and her three nieces, Emma, Alyson, and Kate, who were the children of Warren Schuler, Diane's brother, and Jackie Schuler, who trusted Diane to drive their kids safely home. The only survivor of the crash was her son Bryan. It was reported in an autopsy after the collision that Diane had a BAC of 0.19% in addition to amounts of THC maruajahna in her system. While many find this case very hard to explain, some theories can be gathered based on the facts of this case and inconsistencies in facts given by family members. Inconsistencies and cover-ups were given by Danny and Jay Schuler, who defended Diane even after she murdered her daughter, nieces, and the three other passengers of the car Diane collided with. They said the autopsy report was false and that Diane was not under the influence, showing they were in denial. Diane may not have been an alcoholic, but she was drunk when she crashed. The clouded judgment and inability to face reality because of trauma make all their statements unreliable and have no credibility. Diane was driving home from a camping trip with her family. Warren and Jackie Schuler trusted her and arranged for her to drive their kids home while Danny drove the dog home. They did not know how their lives would change after that afternoon. What should have been a thirty-minute drive ended up being four hours. A McDonald's security camera revealed that Diane went to McDonald's around 10:00 and showed no signs of intoxication. She made a few more stops looking for pain medicine, one being at a gas station where a security camera showed her wearing an oversized winter coat even though it was July. My theory is that Diane was hiding vodka and maruajahna under her jacket and then went to the bathroom to get intoxicated. Diane left the gas station intoxicated and began speeding, trying to make it home before the alcohol kicked in. Never once did she call someone to drive her and the kids home. Instead of continuing home, Diane took an exit to go upstate. It will never be confirmed why she did this, but I believe that due to the intoxication, Diane's emotions took control of her, and in her midst of blindness, she forgot about the children in the car. It was also reported that before the camping trip, Diane wrote Jay a letter that read like a suicide note, so I believe that due to the intoxication, forgetting about the kids, and the loss of clear consciousness and suicidal tendencies; Diane decided to drive her car against traffic until it killed her. A way local municipalities and states take to prevent a tragedy like this from happening again is to have a faster emergency response time. Calls were sent to the police station, yet the police did not arrive on time to intervene until after the accident occurred. The police should also have specialized training for drivers going the wrong way and erratic drivers in general.

Sometimes the most challenging battles are the most rewarding. When I was six years old, I was diagnosed with a life-threatening autoimmune disease called Very Severe Aplastic Anemia. Chemotherapy, radiation treatments, transfusions, two bone marrow transplants, and a stem cell boost later, I now realize that my struggle was a blessing. While going through my transplant, I learned the importance of self-care. Keeping my physical and mental strength was key to my healing. I had to exercise, eat special food with my medicine, and drink lots of water. The transplant took a toll not only on my body but on my mind as well. To keep my spirits high, I did crafts, learned breathing exercises, and maintained a daily schedule. I even created a “glitter shop” where I would make glitter bookmarks using glitter glue and scotch tape and give them to the nurses and specialists, which they wear with pride to this day. During my time in treatment, I saw people of different backgrounds helping each other for the same cause. Doctors, nurses, and specialists worldwide came together to help me fight my battle. I learned that it’s not someone’s label that defines a person but their willingness to come together to help another human being. Because of my disease and treatments, I matured quickly for my age. This growth caused me to look for a deeper understanding of the circumstances occurring around me, such as questioning, “Why is this happening?” and “how can I help others going through this?” That thought process of searching beyond the face value has stuck and helped develop my character. After my treatment, I joined the Youth Advisory program for the Stony Brook Children’s Hospital. The Youth Advisory comprised a group of teens once diagnosed with deadly diseases who underwent treatment. We had the unique experience of having input while a new pediatric hospital was being designed. In this program, we created new ways to aid children undergoing treatment and devised ways to make hospital living spaces more comfortable based on our experiences. The Youth Advisory Board did this by putting together care boxes for families filled with hygiene products, toys, blankets, and special creams for children who were in pain because we knew what creams would work for them since we already went through that experience. One of the great things the Youth Advisory Board did for survivors was starting an annual children’s pediatric prom where kids could celebrate their prom in case they could not attend a prom of their own. The Youth Advisory also formed new programs, such as getting streaming services for families to be used in isolation rooms and at the hospital’s new Ronald McDonald House, where families can stay while their child is undergoing treatment. Working with the Youth Advisory, I am showing kids there is a light at the end of the tunnel by helping them fight the battle I have already won. Because of my battle with Very Severe Aplastic Anemia, I gained an understanding that having an “interesting life” gives me a new perspective on how we all relate to each other in the fabric of life.

"The Lotus Twins" is my favorite piece of artwork that I have ever created. It was created using mixed media that range from traditional and digital mediums. I began this piece of art using a sketch in my sketchbook to get the perspective and ideas down onto paper. It was finished with shading and rendering using a computer and drawing software. I usually create most of my art using references to past memories and experiences, and "The Lotus Twins" is no exception to that. I used bright colors and an aesthetically precise color pallet to give off a warm environment since the atmosphere in my art represents an optimistic time in my life. Even in "The Lotus Twins" background, the city that I grew up in can be seen drawn with aesthetic colors. Even though I was very optimistic as a child, growing up was not all that easy, and I had to face many challenges that most children should not have to face. I was very sick as a child and was diagnosed with a deadly disease that I would have to battle every day. In doing this, I was turned into a warrior, hence the warrior knife-wielding girl towards the middle of the artwork. Although I fought a battle every day, I had a guardian to look to after me. My brother, the main focus of "The Lotus Twins," kept me safe every day. The inspiration for "The Lotus Twins" comes from my past. When I was younger, I was diagnosed with Very Severe Aplastic Anemia when I was only six years old. I had to go to New York City to receive treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation, a stem cell boost, and two bone marrow transplants. It was a challenging time for me, but through it all, my brother was always there for me. He was always by my side and acted as a protector to guard me against any dangers. With his aid, I got better. I have always idolized my brother so drawing him in the form of a divine being with rich colors seemed very fitting, even though it contrasted with his humble and kind nature. As I was recovering from my illness and treatments, there was a little cafe next to my hospital that we would visit. We made many memories there together including memories like drinking coffee for the first time, eating pastries, and playing with the cafe's local cat. I loved the beautiful artwork that would hang on the cafe's wall. I might even add that the artwork that was hung up around the cafe was my first introduction to art. From my brother's protection to the inspiration my past experiences granted me, I became to aspiring the artist I am today.

My name is Nora Getchell. I am a junior in High School that is looking to go to an art college to pursue my dreams of being an art director. Unfortunate I grew up in a low income family home so finding a college that is right for me is very hard since I must put the cost of the College before anything else in my college search. With your scholarship I hope to find a college without the burden of needing to put cost before my interests and goals.

The lesson from martial arts that I use in my life is self-control. With martial arts, I learned that having self-control in my fighting is just as crucial as having self-control in my behavior outside of the dojo. With the self-control I have acquired from martial arts, I have learned to become more patient, respectful, and open with myself and the people around me.