Big Heart is the perfect name for the Mr. Gentile scholarship because it accurately describes his persona. My name is Nick Perdziola. I am a current senior at Bethel Park High School. I had Mr. Gentile in my junior year. His class was always one to look forward to no matter what kind of day you were having. The best part of knowing Mr. Gentile was his kindness and support in class. He always had a way to let you know things would work out and be okay. The most important lesson I learned from Mr. Gentile was to accept people for who they are. I will forever practice his philosophy wherever I go in life. His presence will always be with me and so many other students that were touched by his kindness. My life started in a different country, and I was adopted into my family as a toddler. There were many struggles including speech, math, reading, and motor skills. My parents did all they could to help me overcome these struggles, but more importantly to help me become the person I am today. I have an easygoing personality and a kind heart. At least that is what I am told by others. I like to say hello or ask teachers how their day is going. It is a small gesture on my part, and I have been doing this for as long as I can remember. I have a first cousin with autism and have seen her grow up with a limited vocabulary and frustration to communicate. My older brother was bullied throughout his school years because of his adoption and dyslexia. These personal experiences have helped me develop empathy towards others and have a better understanding of how to be kind and make someone’s day just a little better. As I get older, I understand the responsibilities of adults to look out for those who need that extra support or guidance. Starting at a young age, I participated in sports where I learned the value of encouraging others to create a positive environment. Now in high school, I belong to the Interact Club, Environmental Club, Jazz Ensemble, Symphonic Band, and DECA. I have made new friends in these activities, which have allowed me to spread more kindness by giving them my full support. I have a part-time job and cut my elderly neighbor’s grass. My job at a local pharmacy has made me more patient and taught me a new set of skills while dealing with the public. I have seen customers come in at their best and their worst, but I still greet everyone with a smile. I have learned more about being kind and giving back to others in my life from family, friends, teachers, co-workers, and employers. It is not always about the big volunteer events to say you are doing something good, but more importantly, just doing good on a day-to-day basis without the recognition or trophy to show your worth. I am human and have good and bad days. I help my friends with their bad days, even if it’s just a small piece of advice to help them through a tough time. Keeping a positive attitude can be hard, but having good people and friends in your life can ease rough days. I am greatly appreciative of the consideration of this scholarship to help pay for college.