As a student from Urbana, Ohio, majoring in Film at Ohio University, I am honored to submit this essay in response to the Mark Neiswander "110" Memorial Scholarship: What makes you proud to be an American? What is one change you want to see in our country and how will you effect this change? I feel incredibly proud to live in a country that upholds the freedom of speech and expression. This fundamental right is not just a constitutional principle—it is the very backbone of creativity, storytelling, and progress. In the United States, the ability to speak freely and share ideas, even those that challenge the norm, gives individuals like me the opportunity to explore, create, and connect through art and narrative. Without this freedom, the stories we tell would be filtered and stripped of their power to inspire change or convey truth. As a Film major, I view storytelling as a vital way to make sense of the world, raise awareness, and spark conversation. Film allows voices from all walks of life to be heard and understood. In many parts of the world, censorship and repression silence artists. I’m grateful that in the United States, the First Amendment protects my right to create and share my vision without fear of punishment or suppression. That freedom is essential to my growth as a filmmaker and as a person. However, with that freedom comes responsibility. The change I’d like to see most in the United States is more kindness and empathy toward one another. Freedom of expression should not be used to divide, but to build understanding. Throughout high school, I worked hard to be a well-rounded student, dedicating myself to academics, the arts, and athletics. I was a four-year varsity member of the marching band, cross country, swimming, and track teams. I took pride in pushing myself both mentally and physically, and am honored to have received many awards including the OHSAA Archie Griffin Sportsmanship Award, the Marine Corps Semper Fidelis Award for Musical Excellence, Central Buckeye Conference Sportsmanship Award in cross country, swimming, and track—recognitions that meant even more to me because they reflected my character and how I treated others. In marching band, I was deeply humbled to receive the Most Inspirational Senior Award, which represented the impact I had on my peers through encouragement, enthusiasm, and leadership. Academically, I challenged myself in the classroom taking several Honors, AP and CCP classes. I am a proud member of the Castle Chapter of the National Honor Society, a Senior member of the PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) mentoring group, and the French Club, balancing my time between studies, practices, meetings, and performances. These experiences taught me the value of perseverance, time management, and uplifting others. At Ohio University, I want to carry these lessons forward by serving as a peer leader. I strive to create a welcoming environment for others by promoting kindness, empathy, and inclusivity. Leadership isn’t just about taking charge—it’s about lifting others up, listening, and leading with heart. In both film and life, the stories we tell—and how we tell them—shape the world around us. I’m proud to study in a country that protects the right to speak, create, and imagine. But I’m even more hopeful about what we can become when we pair that freedom with kindness. Through my work as a storyteller and my role as a peer leader, I hope to honor Mark’s memory by building a more compassionate, understanding, and connected future. Thank you for your consideration for the Mark Neiswander 110 Memorial Scholarship. Go Bobcats!