As someone who was raised to love and treat others the way that I would love to be treated. I believe that it is my duty to give that same amount of care and kindness that I have received all of my life. In my mission of giving back, I believe that by encouraging others I can give them hope in times that it is most needed. Throughout my childhood, I have always been heavily involved: I did sports, dance, I sang in the choir at church and learned how to play the Viola and Cello. I always had my hand in more than one pot. I have been an active member of my community. Helping in the best ways that I could. I've always enjoyed being busy. Having things to do kept me going, it opened my mind and helped me gain skills that will carry me through in the future. Being involved in all of these activities taught me life lessons that have prepared me for what is to come. Although doing all of these things at the same time wasn't very easy. It was important that I obtained the ability to sustain while living my life to the fullest. At times I felt like I was doing a lot. I eventually learned a valuable lesson, and that was to pace myself in order to maintain an equilibrium in my life. In the second semester of my sophomore year of high school. I had a really bad knee injury, that required a knee reconstruction surgery. Immediately after, I went through intense physical therapy for nearly two years. I was limited to what I could do as far as capability, and it put me in a sad place. I was in a lot of pain and had little trust in how my physical therapy would help me. Though with a lot of faith and encouragement from my therapist, I improved a lot sooner than I believed that I could. The same way that my therapist helped me, I want to help people find their next step in life. My plan is to pursue an education majoring in kinesiology then going on to grad school to become a licensed physical therapist. By studying bone structure and the way that muscles and tendons work together to mobilize our bodies. I can create exercises that will strengthen my patients' bodies, and build their confidence in their movement. Physical therapy is training the body to do what it is meant to do. It isn't easy, and it can be physically and emotionally draining. The transition can be overwhelming and takes time to get used to. But having someone who understands, and that can help you beyond the training aspect. Makes everything so much clearer and motivating. After experiencing what it is like to go through that process. I can relate to those patients as they go through their treatment. As someone that has been a part of the STEM and P-TECH academy since the seventh grade. I have learned numerous ways that STEM impacts the world. To work in STEM, you have to have the passion for wanting to change the world and lives. STEM is all around us, and through research, innovation, and creativity. Those who work in STEM-related fields are tasked to find innovative ways to improve the quality of life. Just as my physical therapist encouraged me to Improve my quality of life, I would like to do the same.

Volunteering with MKIAO (My Kid Is an Overcomer) has had a profound impact on my life, shaping my perspective on service, communication, and advocacy within the autism community. What began as an opportunity to give back quickly became a meaningful experience that taught me the importance of embracing individuals with unique abilities and ensuring they feel seen, valued, and supported. Through my involvement with MKIAO, I have learned that true service goes beyond simply showing up, it requires understanding, patience, and a willingness to connect with others in meaningful ways. One of the most important lessons I have gained is how to communicate effectively with individuals on the autism spectrum. Each interaction is unique, and I have learned to be more mindful, attentive, and adaptable in my approach. These experiences have helped me grow not only as a volunteer but also as a person who is more compassionate and inclusive in everyday life. My volunteer work has allowed me to engage with the community in a variety of ways. From distributing flyers to raise awareness about MKIAO and its mission, to actively participating in events, I have seen firsthand how outreach can bring people together and create a stronger, more informed community. One of my most memorable experiences was attending the annual MKIAO Sneaker Ball fundraiser. Taking to the dance floor alongside families and individuals in the autism community was a powerful reminder that joy, connection, and celebration are universal. It was not just an event, it was an experience that highlighted the importance of inclusion and acceptance. Another impactful moment was volunteering at the Valentine’s Family & Fun Day event at MOD Pizza. Serving pizza may seem like a simple task, but it became an opportunity to interact with families, share smiles, and create a welcoming environment. It reinforced the idea that small acts of kindness can make a significant difference in someone’s day. Being part of these moments has strengthened my belief in the power of community and the importance of creating spaces where everyone feels they belong. Through MKIAO, I have also grown into an advocate for individuals with autism and other unique abilities. I have learned that advocacy is about using your voice to promote awareness, acceptance, and understanding. It is about recognizing that everyone deserves equal opportunities, respect, and support. This experience has inspired me to continue advocating for inclusivity, both within my community and in my future career. Volunteering with MKIAO has not only impacted how I see others, but it has also shaped who I am. It has taught me to lead with empathy, to communicate with intention, and to embrace differences as strengths rather than limitations. These lessons will stay with me as I pursue my goals and continue to serve others. In conclusion, my experience with MKIAO has been both meaningful and transformative. It has allowed me to grow as a volunteer, a leader, and an advocate. Most importantly, it has reinforced my commitment to creating a more inclusive and supportive world for individuals with unique abilities. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve this community and will carry these experiences with me as I continue my journey of making a positive impact in the lives of others.

I believe I should be considered for this scholarship because my commitment to healthcare is not only rooted in academic preparation, but also shaped by resilience, leadership, and a deeply personal experience that transformed my perspective on service. As a senior at C.E. King High School enrolled in the STEM Academy’s Biomedical pathway, I have intentionally prepared myself for a future in healthcare. However, it was a life-changing moment during my sophomore year that solidified my goal of becoming a pediatric physical therapist and gave purpose to everything I am working toward today. During my sophomore year, I suffered a leg injury while playing basketball that required nearly two years of physical therapy. At the time, the injury felt overwhelming. I faced physical limitations, slow progress, and moments of frustration that tested both my strength and my mindset. What I did not realize then was that this challenge would become the very experience that defined my future. Instead of allowing the setback to discourage me, I chose to embrace the process and learn from it. Throughout my rehabilitation, I worked closely with an exceptional team at Memorial Hermann Sports Medicine in Humble, Texas. Their dedication, patience, and encouragement played a critical role in my recovery. They pushed me when I needed motivation and reminded me of my progress when I felt discouraged. More importantly, they showed me that healthcare is about more than treatment—it is about building trust, restoring confidence, and inspiring hope. Because my recovery lasted nearly two years, I had the opportunity to fully immerse myself in the experience. I asked questions, observed therapy techniques, and gained a deeper understanding of how science and human connection work together to heal. This experience not only strengthened my interest in healthcare but also shaped my mindset. I learned that progress is not always immediate or visible, but every small step forward matters. I would tell anyone facing adversity to keep their head up and continue striving toward their goals, no matter how small the progress may seem. That lesson has stayed with me and continues to guide my academic and personal journey. It is the same mindset I plan to instill in my future patients as they work to overcome their own challenges. In addition to my personal experience, my academic and leadership involvement has prepared me for a career in healthcare. As a student in the Biomedical pathway, I have developed a strong foundation in science, critical thinking, and problem-solving. As a six-year AVID student, I have strengthened my organizational skills, discipline, and college readiness. I have also challenged myself academically through the San Jacinto College dual credit program and the University of Texas OnRamps program, gaining valuable experience with college-level coursework. Beyond the classroom, I have actively sought opportunities to grow as a leader and serve my community. I am a member of the C-STEM Robotics Team, where I have developed collaboration and analytical skills. As a Student Council Representative and Girls’ Basketball Manager, I have learned responsibility, teamwork, and the importance of supporting others. Outside of school, I am a five-year member and executive officer of Top Teens of America, Baytown Chapter, where I have contributed to service initiatives that address community needs. I also serve as a mentee with Delta Gems under Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, and volunteer with MKIAO, supporting autism awareness. Additionally, I organized fundraising for “Meme’s Strollers” for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s in honor of my grandmother, Marjorie Frank. These experiences have strengthened my compassion, leadership, and commitment to making a difference. I am proud to have been accepted to Prairie View A&M University, where I plan to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology. This will provide the foundation I need to continue to graduate school and earn my Doctorate in Physical Therapy. I am fully committed to the years of dedication and hard work required because I understand the impact I hope to make in the lives of others. My goal is to become a pediatric physical therapist who not only helps children regain mobility but also empowers them to believe in themselves. I want to create an environment where young patients feel encouraged, supported, and capable of overcoming their challenges. I know firsthand how important it is to have someone who believes in you, and I am determined to be that person for others. This scholarship represents more than financial support, it is an investment in my purpose. My journey has been shaped by resilience, strengthened through education, and driven by a desire to serve. I am committed to using my experiences, leadership, and passion to make a meaningful impact in healthcare. With your support, I will continue working toward my goal of becoming a pediatric physical therapist and helping others take their own steps toward healing, growth, and success.

My commitment to pursuing a career in STEM is rooted in both my academic experiences and a life-changing personal journey that confirmed my passion for healthcare. As a senior at C.E. King High School in Sheldon ISD, I am enrolled in the STEM Academy, following the Biomedical pathway. Through this program, I have gained valuable knowledge in science, medicine, and critical thinking, all of which have prepared me for the next step in my journey. While I have always envisioned working in the medical field, an unexpected experience during my sophomore year solidified my goal of becoming a pediatric physical therapist. During my sophomore year, I suffered a leg injury while playing basketball that required nearly two years of physical therapy. What initially felt like a devastating setback became a defining moment in my life. Throughout my rehabilitation, I worked closely with an exceptional team at Memorial Hermann Sports Medicine in Humble, Texas. Their dedication, patience, and encouragement not only helped me recover physically but also inspired me in ways I never anticipated. Because of the length of my recovery, I had the unique opportunity to truly engage with the field of physical therapy. I asked questions, observed treatment techniques, and developed a deeper understanding of how science and human connection work together in healthcare. I witnessed how physical therapists use their knowledge of anatomy, movement, and rehabilitation strategies to restore mobility and improve quality of life. More importantly, I experienced how they uplift their patients emotionally, helping them stay motivated even during the most challenging moments. This experience allowed me to see STEM beyond textbooks and classrooms. It showed me how science can directly impact lives, restore confidence, and create hope. I became especially interested in working with children, as they require not only specialized care but also compassion, patience, and creativity. As a future pediatric physical therapist, I want to create a positive and encouraging environment where young patients feel supported as they work to overcome physical challenges. I have been accepted to Prairie View A&M University, where I plan to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology. This field of study will provide me with a strong foundation in human movement, anatomy, and rehabilitation science. After completing my undergraduate degree, I plan to attend graduate school to earn my Doctorate in Physical Therapy. I am fully committed to the academic rigor and dedication required to achieve this goal because I understand the impact I hope to make in the lives of others. My journey into STEM is driven by purpose, resilience, and a desire to serve. What began as a personal challenge has transformed into a lifelong passion to help others heal and grow. I am determined to use my education and experiences to make a meaningful difference, particularly in the lives of children. Receiving this scholarship will not only support my academic goals but also bring me one step closer to fulfilling my commitment to a career in STEM as a pediatric physical therapist.

Growing up, representation mattered more than I fully understood at the time. When I watched The Princess and the Frog, I saw something I had rarely seen before, a princess who looked like me. Princess Tiana was not only beautiful, but she was hardworking, determined, and focused on achieving her dreams. What stood out most to me was that even when she faced setbacks, she never gave up or compromised her values. That message stayed with me, and over time, it became a reflection of my own journey. My sophomore year of high school brought an unexpected challenge that tested my strength and resilience. I suffered a leg injury while playing basketball that required nearly two years of physical therapy. What initially seemed like a temporary setback quickly became one of the most difficult periods of my life. There were moments filled with frustration, pain, and uncertainty. I struggled not only physically, but mentally, as I had to adjust to a slower pace and a new reality. Like Tiana, I faced moments where giving up would have been easier. There were days when progress felt slow, and the road to recovery seemed overwhelming. However, I refused to let my setback define me. Instead, I leaned into the process, trusting that every small step forward was progress. My experience in physical therapy became more than just recovery, it became a turning point. During those long months of rehabilitation, I found inspiration in the very people helping me heal. My physical therapy team showed patience, encouragement, and dedication that left a lasting impression on me. They didn’t just focus on my injury; they supported me as a person. Watching their impact sparked a new passion within me. I realized that I wanted to do for others what they had done for me, help people regain strength, confidence, and hope. That experience gave me a renewed sense of purpose. Much like Princess Tiana worked tirelessly toward opening her restaurant, I became determined to pursue a career that allows me to serve others. I now plan to attend Prairie View A&M University, where I will earn my bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology and continue my education to become a pediatric physical therapist. My goal is to work with children, helping them overcome physical challenges and reach milestones that once seemed out of reach. What connects my story to The Princess and the Frog is not just representation, but resilience. Tiana’s journey reminded me that setbacks are not the end, they are part of the process. She never lost sight of her goals, and she stayed true to who she was. In the same way, my injury did not stop my journey; it redirected it toward something even greater. Today, I carry both my experiences and my inspiration with me. I have learned that determination, faith, and perseverance can turn obstacles into opportunities. Like Tiana, I am committed to working hard, staying true to my values, and achieving my dreams, no matter the challenges along the way.

For the past eight years, my commitment to service has been deeply personal, rooted in my grandmother’s journey with Alzheimer’s disease. Watching someone I love experience memory loss was difficult, but it inspired me to take action. Participating in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s became more than just an event, it became my way of honoring her, raising awareness, and supporting families facing similar challenges. In 2025, I rekindled my Walk to End Alzheimer’s team, “MeMe Strollers,” in honor of my grandmother. With determination and the support of my community, I raised over $1,300 for the Alzheimer’s Association. This experience strengthened my leadership, communication, and organizational skills, while also reminding me of the impact one person can make when they are passionate about a cause. Every step I take during the walk represents not only my grandmother, but also hope for a future without Alzheimer’s disease. My passion for service extends beyond this cause. I have been a dedicated member of Top Teens of America for the past five years, where I have grown as both a leader and a servant. I have held executive leadership positions, including Vice President, and currently serve as the Director of Operations. Through these roles, I have helped organize and participate in meaningful service initiatives, including food drives, hygiene product collections for a boys’ home in Baytown, and visits to residents in local assisted living facilities. These experiences have taught me the importance of compassion, consistency, and using my time and talents to uplift others. Additionally, I have been a mentee in the East Harris, Chambers, and Liberty County (East HCLC) Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated’s Delta GEMS Program since 2023. Through this mentorship program, I have gained valuable guidance while actively serving my community. One impactful experience was participating in a baby essentials and feminine hygiene drive for a women’s shelter in the Houston area. Opportunities like this have expanded my perspective and strengthened my commitment to serving those in need. Service is also a major part of my faith and daily life. As an active member of Unity Missionary Baptist Church, I sing in the Voices of Praise choir, assist with Children’s Church, and participate in the Living in Truth Young Adult (LIT) Ministry. These experiences have allowed me to serve others while growing spiritually and reinforcing the importance of humility and compassion. I am currently a senior at C. E. King High School, enrolled in the STEM Academy’s Biomedical Pathway. I have been accepted to Prairie View A&M University, where I plan to earn my bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology and continue my education to become a pediatric physical therapist. My goal is to help children improve their quality of life, just as others have helped members of my own family. Through every service opportunity, I have learned that true leadership is rooted in serving others. My journey has shaped me into a compassionate, driven individual, and I am committed to continuing to lead, serve, and make a meaningful impact in my community and beyond.

For the past eight years, my commitment to service has been deeply personal, rooted in my grandmother’s journey with Alzheimer’s disease. Watching someone I love experience memory loss was difficult, but it inspired me to take action. Participating in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s became more than just an event, it became my way of honoring her, raising awareness, and supporting families facing similar challenges. In 2025, I rekindled my Walk to End Alzheimer’s team, “MeMe's Strollers,” in honor of my grandmother. With determination and the support of my community, I raised over $1,300 for the Alzheimer’s Association. This experience strengthened my leadership, communication, and organizational skills, while also reminding me of the impact one person can make when they are passionate about a cause. Every step I take during the walk represents not only my grandmother, but also hope for a future without Alzheimer’s disease. My passion for service extends beyond this cause. I have been a dedicated member of Top Teens of America for the past five years, where I have grown as both a leader and a servant. I have held executive leadership positions, including Vice President, and currently serve as the Director of Operations. Through these roles, I have helped organize and participate in meaningful service initiatives, including food drives, hygiene product collections for a boys’ home in Baytown, and visits to residents in local assisted living facilities. These experiences have taught me the importance of compassion, consistency, and using my time and talents to uplift others. Additionally, I have been a mentee in the East Harris, Chambers, and Liberty County (East HCLC) Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated’s Delta GEMS Program since 2023. Through this mentorship program, I have gained valuable guidance while actively serving my community. One impactful experience was participating in a baby essentials and feminine hygiene drive for a women’s shelter in the Houston area. Opportunities like this have expanded my perspective and strengthened my commitment to serving those in need. Service is also a major part of my faith and daily life. As an active member of Unity Missionary Baptist Church, I sing in the Voices of Praise choir, assist with Children’s Church, and participate in the Living in Truth Young Adult (LIT) Ministry. These experiences have allowed me to serve others while growing spiritually and reinforcing the importance of humility and compassion. I am currently a senior at C. E. King High School, enrolled in the STEM Academy’s Biomedical Pathway. I have been accepted to Prairie View A&M University, where I plan to earn my bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology and continue my education to become a pediatric physical therapist. My goal is to help children improve their quality of life, just as others have helped members of my own family. Through every service opportunity, I have learned that true leadership is rooted in serving others. My journey has shaped me into a compassionate, driven individual, and I am committed to continuing to lead, serve, and make a meaningful impact in my community and beyond.

My commitment to healthcare is deeply rooted in both my academic journey and a life changing personal experience that shaped my future. As a senior at C.E. King High School in Sheldon ISD, I am enrolled in the STEM Academy, where I follow the Biomedical pathway. Through this program, I have developed a strong foundation in science, critical thinking, and problem-solving, all of which have prepared me for a future in the medical field. While I have always envisioned myself pursuing a career in healthcare, it was a pivotal moment during my sophomore year that solidified my passion for becoming a pediatric physical therapist. During my sophomore year, I suffered a leg injury while playing basketball that required nearly two years of physical therapy. What initially felt like a setback became a defining experience in my life. Throughout my rehabilitation, I had the opportunity to work closely with an incredible team of physical therapists who not only helped me regain my strength and mobility but also inspired me through their dedication, compassion, and expertise. Their ability to encourage me during difficult moments and celebrate my progress left a lasting impression on me. Spending so much time in therapy allowed me to ask questions, observe techniques, and truly understand the impact physical therapists have on their patients’ lives. I saw firsthand how they restored not only physical ability but also confidence and hope. This experience opened my eyes to the profound difference healthcare professionals can make, especially when working with young patients who may feel discouraged or limited by their circumstances. From that point forward, I knew I wanted to be in a position to provide that same level of care and encouragement to others. My goal is to become a pediatric physical therapist so I can help children overcome physical challenges and reach their full potential. I am especially passionate about working with young patients because I understand how important it is to build trust, create a positive environment, and make therapy both effective and engaging. Children deserve healthcare providers who are not only knowledgeable but also patient, compassionate, and motivating. I have been accepted to Prairie View A&M University, where I plan to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology. This will provide me with the essential knowledge of human movement and physical function needed to succeed in my field. Following my undergraduate studies, I intend to continue my education by enrolling in a graduate program to earn my Doctorate in Physical Therapy. I am fully committed to the years of education and training required because I know it will equip me to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others. My journey into healthcare is not just a career choice, it is a calling shaped by personal experience, academic preparation, and a desire to give back. I am determined to use my education and experiences to serve others, particularly children, by helping them heal, grow, and thrive. Receiving this scholarship will support me in continuing my education and bringing me one step closer to achieving my goal of becoming a pediatric physical therapist.

My commitment to healthcare is deeply rooted in both my academic journey and a life changing personal experience that shaped my future. As a senior at C.E. King High School in Sheldon ISD, I am enrolled in the STEM Academy, where I follow the Biomedical pathway. Through this program, I have developed a strong foundation in science, critical thinking, and problem-solving, all of which have prepared me for a future in the medical field. While I have always envisioned myself pursuing a career in healthcare, it was a pivotal moment during my sophomore year that solidified my passion for becoming a pediatric physical therapist. During my sophomore year, I suffered a leg injury while playing basketball that required nearly two years of physical therapy. What initially felt like a setback became a defining experience in my life. Throughout my rehabilitation, I had the opportunity to work closely with an incredible team of physical therapists who not only helped me regain my strength and mobility but also inspired me through their dedication, compassion, and expertise. Their ability to encourage me during difficult moments and celebrate my progress left a lasting impression on me. Spending so much time in therapy allowed me to ask questions, observe techniques, and truly understand the impact physical therapists have on their patients’ lives. I saw firsthand how they restored not only physical ability but also confidence and hope. This experience opened my eyes to the profound difference healthcare professionals can make, especially when working with young patients who may feel discouraged or limited by their circumstances. From that point forward, I knew I wanted to be in a position to provide that same level of care and encouragement to others. My goal is to become a pediatric physical therapist so I can help children overcome physical challenges and reach their full potential. I am especially passionate about working with young patients because I understand how important it is to build trust, create a positive environment, and make therapy both effective and engaging. Children deserve healthcare providers who are not only knowledgeable but also patient, compassionate, and motivating. I have been accepted to Prairie View A&M University, where I plan to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology. This will provide me with the essential knowledge of human movement and physical function needed to succeed in my field. Following my undergraduate studies, I intend to continue my education by enrolling in a graduate program to earn my Doctorate in Physical Therapy. I am fully committed to the years of education and training required because I know it will equip me to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others. My journey into healthcare is not just a career choice, it is a calling shaped by personal experience, academic preparation, and a desire to give back. I am determined to use my education and experiences to serve others, particularly children, by helping them heal, grow, and thrive. Receiving this scholarship will support me in continuing my education and bringing me one step closer to achieving my goal of becoming a pediatric physical therapist.

All of my life I have been told that I am meant to do something special. I knew that I wanted to go to college, but I didn't know what for. I knew that I always wanted to help someone, that’s all. When I was 11 I told everyone that I wanted to be a neurosurgeon, then I realized how precise I had to be to handle a human brain: it just wasn’t for me anymore. When I was in the sixth grade I wanted to be an OBGYN, until I saw a live birth. In that year, I fractured my hip and had to have a surgery. On the day of my diagnosis, I remember sitting in the waiting room and seeing all of the posters of the different bones and muscles— they intrigued me. I became interested in structural anatomy. I wanted to know how all of these things work and function. At the time, what I knew was that I wanted to study bones, organs, and muscles. After doing some research I concluded that I can’t do too much blood, surgery, or cutting on people. So with that, I came up with sports medicine. I didn’t know what I wanted to do in sports medicine. All I knew was I wanted to be a helping hand, work in sports, and that it was medicine My focus and motivation for what I wanted to be has never changed but evolved. For the past four years, every time I was asked the question of what I wanted to be or what my plans after high school were. I could answer with sports medicine but the answer was still blank. To me I knew what I wanted to do, but I had no clue. At that time in high school I was kind of lost. I had my family backing me one-hundred percent. To me, I was doing all of the right things, but I wasn’t getting the results I was looking for. I was losing hope. In the first semester of my tenth-grade year I felt like I was driving and kept hitting dead ends. By the second semester I felt like giving up on myself. I was trying to keep it together until I hit a period of time that changed me forever. In the beginning of that second semester I had a serious knee injury that has altered my life in so many ways. I shut down physically and mentally. I was missing a lot of school and class. This injury affected my education ruined opportunities. I was depressed but soon realized that it wasn't the end. College was approaching and I wanted to go. Instead of harping on the should haves and would haves. I got to see what I can do. The bright side of this traumatic experience was that it put me in a deeper funk to see that my situation before couldn't have been as bad as what my current situation was. Being in a runt motivated me to see the brighter side and grow from it. Going through my physical therapy process was long but it was worth it because it showed me what I was meant to do. I enjoy meeting new people and helping in whatever way I can. I loved the way my therapist interacted with me and the longer I was there I found myself interacting with other patients. Helping and talking to them. I am glad to say that I was able to make my pain my purpose. Now I want to help others find theirs.