The dream version of myself is happy despite everything she went through, she is successful because she accomplished everything she said she would by becoming a pediatric nurse, she is still beautiful inside and out because no one will change who she is, and she continues to have her relationship with God, family, and friends because she knows they are important.

Throughout my high school years, the sport of volleyball has been an invaluable teacher, imparting life lessons that extend far beyond the court. These lessons have not only shaped my athletic journey but have also shaped my life journey that I intend to carry forward into college. Playing sports all my life, I never got injured, but coming into my freshman year I had dealt with a foot contusion. It was a significant setback to my volleyball career. I tried out for the team and made it but would sadly become sidelined for the majority of the season. Despite this setback, I refused to let my spirit waver. In the last game of the season, I was playing against my childhood friends. I was subbed in to serve and play. After all the practicing and physical therapy, it was time to shine. Going up to the line to serve, I had gotten an ace. The whole gym erupted in cheers which made my whole season worth it. This freshman obstacle taught me to keep going no matter what comes your way. The following year (sophomore year), I made the JV1 team. However, I encountered another challenge: being overlooked. I was only given the chance to play in the third set when the important two sets were already over. Even though I felt down because it seemed like I didn’t matter, I played with all my heart. Even others such as the coach's mom saw my efforts, but yet again, I was ignored. This experience taught me the essence of seizing opportunities and proving my capabilities, even in seemingly unfavorable circumstances. It also taught me that recognition isn’t always immediate or guaranteed. Another issue regarding my sophomore year was finding my position on the court. Being a year behind I didn’t truly have a set position on the court. Finding the rhythm and understanding the mechanics of the left-side position was a difficult journey. Also, being short made it hard to spike. So my coach taught me Libero transitions as well. I made sure to use the skills she taught me on the court. Having to adjust to unfamiliar situations requires patience, a keen sense of observation, and a willingness to learn from my mistakes. During the last tournament of sophomore year, I got to play in almost every set/game. Even though it was all coming to a close, I got to show what I could do as Libero. We played hard and won one game. I learned to appreciate my growth and to stop solely looking for external validation. Junior year brought an unexpected turn when I didn’t make the varsity team. I was disappointed but at peace. I knew I did my best because I was slightly behind and still dealing with my injury. This disappointment redirected my focus. I turned towards my academics and employment, highlighting the importance of balance and adaptability in the face of sadness. However, perhaps the most meaningful aspect of my volleyball journey has been the friendships I have forged. Meeting teammates who have become my friends and shared countless memories reinforced the significance of collaboration, communication, and support. These connections taught me the value of fostering relationships. The sport of volleyball has provided me with a wealth of life lessons that have shaped my character and outlook. It has shown me that volleyball is more than a game, it is a tutorial for the real world. I intend to utilize these volleyball lessons/skills that were instilled in me so they can be translated into a fruitful college experience.

Creating a world where mental health care is both affordable and accessible to all is crucial. There are several strategies for that to become a reality. Establishing cost-free mental health/health clinics would be the first step. Providing those essential services without any financial barriers would allow individuals to want to learn and take care of their mental health. Supplementing this approach means there needs to be community engagement. Organizing events centered around mental health would be huge. Having discussions, signing people up to be checked, doing the evaluations on sight, playing games, food, and more allows for a positive outreach. Diversity in mental health providers is also key. The Black community has had a generational fear of healthcare providers because we have not been treated as if we are not human. It’s scary to trust someone who has historically hurt us. When there are doctors, therapists, and more that look like you it allows for one to be comfortable. Furthermore, channeling positivity within communities aids in holistic well-being. Everyone in the world should have the same access to everything. It’s hard when you live in a low-income area. It’s time for legislation to change redlining and start positive transformations within our communities. All of these approaches can be fundamental when reshaping the landscape of mental health care. This vision encompasses many ideas but all that are capable of being accomplished. By embracing these strategies, we can pave the way for an equitable and attainable mental health care system for all.

From the time I was in diapers, I’ve always been a Disney kid. My mom would turn on Disney Junior whenever she needed me to be still, and I would eagerly enter Mickey’s Clubhouse. Along with Mickey Mouse, I had a fondness for other shows such as Higglytown Heroes, Handy Manny, and Imagination Movers. As I grew older, my attention shifted to Disney Channel, though I still found myself occasionally going back to watch Disney Junior. I fell in love with shows like Hannah Montana, The Wizards of Waverly Place, and Good Luck Charlie, among many others. The array of possibilities seemed endless. I could spend hours watching Disney Channel without getting bored, even if they aired, repeat episodes. It didn’t matter to me; I was lost in my own world, imagining what it would be like to be a famous singer, or possessing magical wizard powers like the characters I admired. Disney Channel allowed me a place to escape from reality and so did Disney XD. Disney XD even brought out an edgier side of me with shoes like Phineas and Ferb, Fish Hooks, and Pair of Kings. Fish Hooks, in particular, turned me into a night owl as it often aired past my bedtime. I would find myself canceling my TV timer just to finish that episode. Shellsea, one of the characters from Fish Hooks, never failed to make me laugh. But, one of the most enchanting moments for me was the intro to Disney movies that appeared on the screen. Singing along with Troy and Gabriella or The Cheetah Girls always brought joy to my heart. Nothing could beat the cinematography and effort that was put into the movies. My eyes and ears could never draw away from the tv. Whenever it was Friday it was my time and no one could take that away from me besides an occasional snack. But best, believe me, I ran straight back. When Disney+ first launched, I played it with my parents to get it for me, and they knew they had to. It warmed my heart that I can relive my childhood over again. It’s still truly impossible for me to pick my favorite part of Disney. But, Disney still continues to provide me an escape, and the cheesy smile on my face. For over 16 1/2 years, Disney has been my best friend, and I refuse to let go of that bond. It has become an integral part of my identity, invoking a sense of nostalgia. Disney has overall shaped my life in numerous ways, nurturing my comedic side, fostering my love for singing, igniting my creativity, and so much more. Disney will forever hold a special place within me.