I want to be wise and self-sacrificing, I want to work hard to be successful yet still help others along the way.

My desire to pursue a degree in accounting comes from my fascination with numbers and my eagerness to use my math skills in real-world scenarios. When I was younger I loved math. It has been my favorite subject for as long as I can remember. As I have grown older, I realized that I can apply this passion in a professional setting and make a meaningful contribution to my community. Accounting will offer me the opportunity to do just that. My parents and grandparents heavily influenced my decision to attend college. Growing up, they instilled a strong work ethic into me. Both of my parents have worked two jobs to support my siblings and me. My dad is a P.E. teacher and also works for the Bureau of Land Management during the summer, while my mom works as a high school counselor and also works in the community as a mental health counselor. I have seen what it means to work hard and sacrifice for the people you love. They have worked hard to save to put my older brother, my twin sister, and me through college. My grandpa has also shown me the value of hard work and perseverance. He is 83 and owns a farm in Kansas. He works hard to maintain the land mostly by himself. I see all the hard work he puts into it and the result that it produces. These three have encouraged me to take my education seriously and work hard in everything I do. I want to make them proud. I believe that a career in accounting will give me the tools and knowledge to positively impact the lives of others just like my family has impacted me. My desire is to support and strengthen the local economy, mainly small businesses. This is driven by my love of my hometown. Downtown Idaho Falls is home to many charming small businesses, each with its unique story and contribution to the community. For example, Carstens Bakery is a popular local bakery that specializes in German sweets. Winnie and Moe's, a family-owned bookstore, offer a cozy atmosphere and a vast collection of books for all ages. These businesses contribute to the town's character and provide vital services that are essential to the community. As an accountant, I can help small businesses like Carstens Bakery and Winnie and Moe's navigate complex financial regulations and maximize profits. I aim to provide personalized assistance to each business, considering its needs and goals. By offering my experience and knowledge of financial services, bookkeeping, tax preparation, and financial planning, I can help these businesses achieve long-term success. Small businesses face many challenges in today's world, and financial management is one of them. By providing reliable and affordable accounting services, I can help small businesses overcome these challenges and remain family-owned and secure for years to come. In turn, these businesses will continue to contribute to the local economy and enhance the character of our community. In conclusion, my dream is to become an accountant and offer tax and financial assistance to small businesses in Idaho Falls. I am determined to help these businesses thrive by providing personalized, comprehensive financial services. By doing so, I hope to make a meaningful contribution to the local economy and support the community's character and vitality.

Raising my sister and I was no easy task. As twins, we caused a lot of trouble. We would run in opposite directions and torment each other for fun. When my grandparent moved from Kansas City to Idaho Falls, it helped my parents greatly. As teachers, they worked long hours, and both worked to support me, my sister, and my brother. My grandparents were lifesavers to our family. They came over every morning to help Claire and me get ready for school and took us there. They cared for me when I was sick and would buy us a lot of presents. As we got older, they set an example to me of how to act toward others. They taught me how to serve others and to sacrifice for others. They were my whole childhood. As we got older, we would travel to Kansas, where our farm is located. My great, great grandparents, William and Bethena Conger, homesteaded the farmland in 1880. The farm has been in our family ever since. Before my grandparents inherited it, the 950 acres sat neglected and fallen in disrepair. When I was little, we slept in a hotel 30 miles away because the farmhouse was uninhabitable. It was my grandma's dream to restore it. So each summer we drove 930 miles to the farm and worked to refurbish the house and land as best my family could. I saw how much love and effort they put into something that most people would just abandon. They fixed what seemed unfixable. Now for generations, my children and my children's children will be able to see their efforts. When my Grandma died in December 2019, she was buried in the family graveyard on a hilltop a quarter of a mile from our farm. It was hard for me to deal with it. She was just a big part of my childhood. It gave me comfort that she was buried in the place she loved the most. My grandma passed her love and attachment down to my whole family. Growing up, it seemed that all the work to restore the farm was in vain. It seemed it was never going to get cleaned up and we would never be done. But with her death, the tasks turned from hard chores into something I wanted to do to make her proud. I wanted to tell my children of all she accomplished and envisioned for the land. My Grandpa is 82 years old and continuously works hard to maintain the farm in my grandmother’s memory. He constantly makes the long trip to Kansas to work by himself to maintain the land. He cuts down trees and does fencing to keep the farm functional. He has taught me how good and satisfying self-sacrifice and hard work can be. I am a part of the land now. My family history is in my heart. These tough lessons have taught me that it is satisfying to work and serve others. My grandma and grandpa have instilled a strong work ethic in me that I use every day. I have learned how to move on even when it may seem hard. I have learned what it means to leave a legacy and positively impact those around me. I have seen unconditional love from them and understand that life may not always be easy but I can work hard to overcome them. I know My grandma would be proud as I work hard to make a positive impact in my community and maybe even the world.

As a resident of Idaho Falls, I have witnessed firsthand the struggles small businesses face in today's world. With the advancement of online shopping and inflation, many small businesses struggle to keep their doors open. However, I believe that with the right financial guidance, these businesses can continue to thrive and provide much-needed services to our community. This is why I am passionate about becoming an accountant and offering tax and financial assistance to small businesses in my hometown. I have always had a knack for numbers and a keen interest in helping others. After completing my high school education, I will go to the University of Wyoming to seek an accounting degree. Throughout my studies, I will learn about the various aspects of accounting, including financial statements, taxation, and auditing. My education has provided me with the necessary skills to assist small businesses in managing their finances effectively. My desire is to support and strengthen the local economy, mainly small businesses. This is driven by my love of my hometown. Downtown Idaho Falls is home to many charming small businesses, each with its unique story and contribution to the community. For example, Carstens Bakery is a popular local bakery that specializes in German sweets. Winnie and Moe's, a family-owned bookstore, offer a cozy atmosphere and a vast collection of books for all ages. These businesses contribute to the town's character and provide vital services that are essential to the community. As an accountant, I can help small businesses like Carstens Bakery and Winnie and Moe's navigate complex financial regulations and maximize profits. I aim to provide personalized assistance to each business, considering its needs and goals. By offering my experience and knowledge of financial services, bookkeeping, tax preparation, and financial planning, I can help these businesses achieve long-term success. Small businesses face many challenges in today's world, and financial management is one of them. By providing reliable and affordable accounting services, I can help small businesses overcome these challenges and remain family-owned and secure for years to come. In turn, these businesses will continue to contribute to the local economy and enhance the character of our community. In conclusion, my dream is to become an accountant and offer tax and financial assistance to small businesses in Idaho Falls. I am determined to help these businesses thrive by providing personalized, comprehensive financial services. By doing so, I hope to make a meaningful contribution to the local economy and support the community's character and vitality.

When one thinks of teachers some think of adults as portrayed in Charlie Brown. All they say is Mwa-Mwa-Mwa. Sometimes it seems one is forced to sit there so we can move to the next grade. Some say teachers only care about the subject they teach, not the students they teach. However, teachers are much more than that to their students. Teachers are role models, who provide essential encouragement and a window into a wider world. My calculus teacher, Mrs. Oliver, is the reason I love learning and challenging myself. Although one may see calculus as a hard and boring class, she makes it come to life. She does not use the complexity of the class as an excuse not to teach well. She goes out of her way to help us understand the topic and relate it to real life. For every new unit, she explains real-life situations where we might need to use it. For the first time, it wasn't learning math for a grade, but using it for my future. She explained that we learned this material to understand the concept even if we would one day use computer programs. Furthermore, Mrs. Oliver makes learning complicated topics seem easy, plus she makes learning fun. We used M&M's to help us comprehend chain rule derivatives. Mrs. Olvier also used Playdough and bread to understand the area between curves. She takes time out of her day to assist students who are struggling and seems to put herself in our shoes easily. She knows that it can take some time to grasp complex topics. She makes learning a delight while she shares her passion for math with us. Her attitude toward math is contagious. Additionally, Mrs. Oliver also understands her students well. She knows so much about the subjects she teaches that she can answer any question in a way the whole class can understand. She understands that her students have other hard classes and activities yet doesn't use that as an excuse not to hold us to a high standard. She also understands us. Although she is older, she knows how to make us laugh which makes the subject even more enjoyable. She always has a genuinely positive attitude that makes the room light up. Finally, Mrs. Oliver is also my Honor Society advisor, and through her leadership, the student body helps serve the community in my hometown. This past Christmas we went to a nursing home to give gifts to residents. When the bond for our school was up for a vote she selflessly stood outside in the snow holding a sign to ask people to vote yes to improve our school for the students. Not only is she an amazing teacher, but she is also an amazing person to know. Mrs. Oliver is kind, caring, and self-sacrificing. She is the person I want to become. In closing, Mrs. Oliver is a role model to all of her students. She has given me meaning and purpose in my education. She has shown me that I am not just a test-taking statistic but a valuable person who is capable of excelling in hard situations. She shows me every day what passion looks like. I can see that Mrs. Oliver taught me not only the content I need for college, but she has taught me the joy of learning and how to treat others, and for that, I am forever grateful.

I want to work as a Certified Public Accountant in a town, where I can help ranchers and other hard-working people manage their finances. They work hard to make a living, and I want to help them continue their livelihood. I also want to offer tax and financial assistance to small businesses. Unfortunately, with the rise of online shopping, these businesses face more challenges than ever. I am determined to help them thrive so they can continue to serve our community. My goal is to help these small businesses succeed financially so they can remain family-owned and secure for years to come. Jorian Kuran Harris (Shugg) Helping Heart Foundation Scholarship would aid me in getting through college debt free. My parents and grandparents have lovingly instilled a strong work ethic into me. Both of my parents have worked two jobs to support my siblings and me. My dad is a P.E. teacher and works for the Bureau of Land Management during the summer. My mom works as a high school counselor and also works in the community as a mental health counselor. I have seen what it means to work hard and sacrifice for the people you love. I also have been working to save up money to pay for my education. My goal is it graduate college with minimal dept so I can focus on helping others with their finances and not worry about myself. Any amount of money will help with this goal. I am determined to work hard to achieve it. The work I have done has instilled a strong work ethic in me. Ever since I was little, we journeyed to my grandparent's farm in Kansas. When I was eight, it was not an enjoyable vacation. I wanted to go to Disneyland, but year after year our vacations were based on service and work. My great, great grandparents, William and Bethena Conger homesteaded the farmland in 1880. Before my grandparents inherited it, the 950 acres had fallen in disrepair. Each summer we drove 930 miles to the farm and worked to fix it as best my family could. Every summer we worked hard to make it functional and livable. It seemed like all the work was in vain and I was often overwhelmed with the never-ending tasks. In the summer of 2021, we cut down trees. We worked daily, in temperatures over 100 degrees. The branches had three-inch thorns, which constantly harassed and scratched us. Between the heat, bugs, and constant pain, I wanted to quit. Tree after tree - it seemed never-ending. It felt like no matter what we did, it never made a difference. But we finally finished. Looking behind me, I saw how many trees we had cleared. Although it seemed minuscule at the moment, it made a huge difference. We had accomplished so much during that blistering, hot, and sweaty week. In June of 2022, we tackled a bigger project. We needed to replace the fencing that was destroyed. Seeing the progress that we made each day, encouraged me that this would make a difference. I worked harder than I ever did and it felt so good. Those long days in the sun taught me that hard work is rewarding and the little things we do for others can make a major impact. In a time when the world is so divided, it is important to be mindful and help others wherever and whenever possible. I know I will work hard and make a positive impact in my community and maybe even the world.

As a resident of Idaho Falls, I have witnessed firsthand the struggles small businesses face in today's world. With the advancement of online shopping and inflation, many small businesses are struggling to keep their doors open. However, I believe that with the right financial guidance, these businesses can continue to thrive and provide much-needed services to our community. This is why I am passionate about becoming an accountant and offering tax and financial assistance to small businesses in my hometown. I have always had a knack for numbers and a keen interest in helping others. After completing my high school education, I will seek an accounting degree at the University of Wyoming. Throughout my studies, I will learn about the various aspects of accounting, including financial statements, taxation, and auditing. I will work hard to make sure I understand these concepts and can apply them in my professional life. My education will provide me with the necessary skills to assist small businesses in managing their finances effectively. My desire is to support and strengthen the local economy mainly small businesses driven by downtown Idaho Falls. Idaho Falls is home to many charming small businesses, each with its unique story and contribution to the community. For example, Carstens Bakery is a local bakery that specializes in German sweets and bread. Winnie and Moe's, a family-owned bookstore, offer a cozy atmosphere and an extensive collection of books for all ages. These businesses contribute to the town's character and provide vital services that are critical to the community. As an accountant, I can help small businesses like Carstens Bakery and Winnie and Moe's navigate complex financial regulations and maximize their profits. My goal is to provide personalized assistance to each business, considering its unique needs and goals. By offering my experience and knowledge of financial services, including bookkeeping, tax preparation, and financial planning, I can help these businesses achieve long-term success. Small businesses face many challenges in today's world, and financial management is one of them. By providing reliable and affordable accounting services, I can help small businesses overcome these challenges and remain family-owned and secure for years to come. In turn, these businesses will continue to contribute to the local economy and enhance the character of our community. In conclusion, my dream is to become an accountant and offer tax and financial assistance to small businesses in Idaho Falls. I am determined to help these businesses thrive by providing personalized, comprehensive financial services. By doing so, I hope to make a meaningful contribution to the local economy and support the community's character and needs.

“How dare you?” This phrase brings to mind Greta Thumbug, the young, famed climate activist. While I applaud her for her passion, she does not understand the reasons her opponents disagree. We need to make climate change a bi-partisan issue. We need to let both sides win. Everyone wants a better world-- but at what cost. We as a country need to unite to find a reliable and sustainable form of energy. Most people in Idaho love the outdoors and nature. We are close to Yellowstone National Park and other incredible, beautiful natural landscapes. I have had great experiences in a state that loves its natural land. In northern Idaho, there are 2,366,757 acres of protected land called the Frank Church Wilderness. It is protected from the development of the outside world. Inside the area is the Middle Fork of the Salmon River. My family and friends have been lucky enough to get permits to go on the seven-day whitewater rafting trip. There one can see the incredible landscape and one can help but cherish and value the environment we have. This trip has made me appreciate the world we have. I want to preserve it and protect it as much as I can. The basic solution to climate change is to remove oil and gas dependence and replace them with solar panels and windmills. We need to be careful when it comes to such a complex question. Getting rid of fossil fuels will only solve some of our problems, but not overnight. Look at Germany. Russia reduced flows via the Nord Stream 1 natural gas pipeline, which is causing an energy crisis as we speak. Although our reliance on oil needs to change, it is not possible at the moment. We cannot stop our energy sources suddenly and hope to catch up with new ones. We should focus on making reliable and sustainable sources that can replace fossil fuels in the long term. We need to keep utilizing what we have momentarily, so we can build solar panels and windmills and find a way to store that energy. Those are not our only options, however. While they are a good start, fields of windmills and solar panels can ruin landscapes, kill wildlife, kill plants, and be unreliable. In Idaho, we have the Idaho National Laboratory. It conducts nuclear research on how to make nuclear energy safer and more sustainable. Nuclear energy is considered clean energy and seems to be a promising solution. Similar to solar and wind power, more research is needed. It seems nuclear energy could be one of the most reliable forms of energy yet to come. In the end, we need to focus on further advancing research in solar, wind, and nuclear energy. We can not stop the use of fossil fuels now; we can slowly over time. We can eventually replace what we have with more affordable, sustainable, researched based technology to care for our environment.

The characteristic that best describes me is perseverance. I am persistent in accomplishing tasks despite them being difficult or tedious. I have set my mind towards perseverance and strive for it constantly. First, I see perseverance when I play tennis. I used to not like tennis, but over time I found peace and joy in it. Due to my perseverance, I love the valuable lessons tennis has taught me over the years. Playing on my varsity high school team taught me the value of supporting others. It has shown me the importance of being mentally tough and controlling my emotions when I am not playing well. I have learned patience to overcome difficulties and to keep going even though I want to give up. Looking back I cannot fathom that I used to take tennis for granted for it has instilled great grit and determination in me. Another way I have learned perseverance is by working on my grandpa's farm. Every summer, my family and I make a long trip to Kansas to help my grandpa maintain his family farm. During 100-degree days, my grandpa and father chainsawed dead trees while my sister, mom, and I loaded the thorny, locust tree limbs onto a trailer to haul to a wood pile to be safely burned later in the winter. Between the heat and the constant pokes and scratches, I wanted to quit and give up. I felt like no matter how long we worked it never made a difference. Then suddenly we were finished. When I looked back behind me, I saw how many trees we cleared The next year we needed to replace some of the fences that were destroyed by a prairie fire. Seeing the small progress that was made each day, gave me encouragement to work harder, and it felt so good. Moment by moment what we did seemed so minuscule, but just doing it made a huge difference. I want to work as a Certified Public Accountant in a town, where I can help ranchers and other hard-working people manage their finances. They work so hard to make a living, and I want to help them continue their livelihood. I also want to offer tax and financial assistance to small businesses, particularly in my hometown of Idaho Falls. Downtown Idaho Falls is home to many charming small businesses and restaurants, such as Carstens Bakery, which serves delicious German sweets, and Winnie and Moe's, a lovely family-owned bookstore. Unfortunately, with the rise of online shopping, these businesses are facing more challenges than ever. I am determined to help them thrive so they can continue to serve our community. My goal is to help these small businesses succeed financially so they can remain family-owned and secure for years to come. I have learned the value of working hard and I want to help the people who are working hard to make a living as well. I want to keep family-owned farms, ranches, and small businesses out of debt. When I become a CPA I want to give back to my community.

Helping others drives me. Throughout my life, I have seen the value of hard work and serving others. My parents and grandparents have heavily influenced me growing up. They have lovingly instilled a strong work ethic into me and they have shown me that it is rewarding. Both of my parents have worked two jobs to support my siblings and me. My dad is a P.E. teacher and works for the Bureau of Land Management during the summer. My mom works as a high school counselor and also works in the community as a mental health counselor. I have seen what it means to work hard and sacrifice for the people you love. They have worked hard in order to put my older brother, my twin sister, and me through college with minimal debt. They have demonstrated what sacrificial love looks like, and I will remember that forever. My grandpa has also shown me the value of hard work and perseverance. He is 83 and owns a farm in Kansas that has been in our family for generations. He works hard to maintain the land by himself. I see all the hard work he puts into it. Every year my family travels to Kansas and helps him cut down dead trees, maintain the buildings, or install barbed wire fences. I see how much love and care he puts into his land, and I want to help others like him. My family has also encouraged me to take my education seriously and work hard in everything I do. I want to make them proud. I believe that a career in accounting will help me to positively impact the lives of others just like my family has impacted me. I want to work as a Certified Public Accountant in a town, where I can help ranchers and other hard-working people manage their finances. They work so hard to make a living, and I want to help them continue their livelihood. I also want to offer tax and financial assistance to small businesses, particularly in my hometown of Idaho Falls. Downtown Idaho Falls is home to many charming small businesses and restaurants, such as Carstens Bakery, which serves delicious German sweets, and Winnie and Moe's, a lovely family-owned bookstore. Unfortunately, with the rise of online shopping, these businesses are facing more challenges than ever. I am determined to help them thrive so they can continue to serve our community. My goal is to help these small businesses succeed financially so they can remain family-owned and secure for years to come. I have learned the value of working hard and I want to help the people who are working hard to make a living as well. I want to keep family-owned farms, ranches, and small businesses out of debt. When I become a CPA I want to give back to my community.

When I step onto the tennis court, I am reminded of the value of perseverance. It is a quality ingrained in me through my experience playing the sport. At first, I did not enjoy playing tennis. I hated it in fact. However, I stuck with it, and over time, I grew to love it. The lessons that I have learned through tennis have shaped me into the person I am today. One of the most important lessons I learned from playing varsity on my high school tennis team is the value of supporting others. When playing doubles, I rely on my partner to play her best. I have learned to trust her and rely on her to beat the other team. I saw that I became close to my doubles partner over the season. When I had an off day my partner is there to encourage me. When she has an off day I am there to offer the same patience and encouragement. We have learned to kindly push one another to do better. This skill translates beyond the tennis court. I find that I am more understanding of others and give others more grace on and off the court. Tennis has helped me to be a better friend and teammate in all aspects of my life. Tennis has also taught me the importance of being mentally tough. It is easy to become frustrated and lose focus when I need to play better. I instantly feel this flame of anger and irritation. However, with practice, I have learned to control my emotions and stay focused on the moment. When I feel like giving up, I keep going. Tennis is a wonderful sport full of comebacks and underdogs. I see that while I'm playing and watching players like Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray they never give up. That encourages me constantly. This skill has helped me to remain calm in difficult situations and not give up when faced with challenges. Another important lesson that I have learned through tennis is patience. Tennis is a sport that requires a lot of practice and dedication. It takes time to master the different techniques and strategies. Through my experience, I have learned that it is important to be patient and not get discouraged when progress is slow. Even though I may start a match off badly, if I have patience I always believe I can come back and win it. I have to remind myself that tennis can be a long, drawn-out game. It is a tough and tedious game. One must master patience to keep calm and outlast their opponent. I know with perseverance and hard work, success will eventually come. Looking back on my journey, I cannot believe that I used to take tennis for granted. This is my senior year, and it's going to be difficult when it ends. It has instilled great grit and determination in me. The skills and lessons that I have learned through playing tennis have helped me to become a better person in all aspects of my life. Through my many hours of playing tennis, I have learned the value of supporting others, being mentally tough, and having patience. These skills have helped me to become a better person and have taught me to never give up on my goals. I am grateful for the lessons that tennis has taught me and I will continue to carry these skills with me throughout my life.

When I step onto the tennis court, I am reminded of the value of perseverance. It is a quality ingrained in me through my experience playing the sport. At first, I did not enjoy playing tennis. I hated it in fact. However, I stuck with it, and over time, I grew to love it. The lessons that I have learned through tennis have shaped me into the person I am today. One of the most important lessons I learned from playing varsity on my high school tennis team is the value of supporting others. When playing doubles, I rely on my partner to play her best. I have learned to trust her and rely on her to beat the other team. I saw that I became close to my doubles partner over the season. When I had an off day my partner is there to encourage me. When she has an off day I am there to offer the same patience and encouragement. We have learned to kindly push one another to do better. This skill translates beyond the tennis court. I find that I am more understanding of others and give others more grace on and off the court. Tennis has helped me to be a better friend and teammate in all aspects of my life. Tennis has also taught me the importance of being mentally tough. It is easy to become frustrated and lose focus when I need to play better. I instantly feel this flame of anger and irritation. However, with practice, I have learned to control my emotions and stay focused on the moment. When I feel like giving up, I keep going. Tennis is a wonderful sport full of comebacks and underdogs. I see that while I'm playing and watching players like Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray they never give up. That encourages me constantly. This skill has helped me to remain calm in difficult situations and not give up when faced with challenges. Another important lesson that I have learned through tennis is patience. Tennis is a sport that requires a lot of practice and dedication. It takes time to master the different techniques and strategies. Through my experience, I have learned that it is important to be patient and not get discouraged when progress is slow. Even though I may start a match off badly, if I have patience I always believe I can come back and win it. I have to remind myself that tennis can be a long, drawn-out game. It is a tough and tedious game. One must master patience to keep calm and outlast their opponent. I know with perseverance and hard work, success will eventually come. Looking back on my journey, I cannot believe that I used to take tennis for granted. This is my senior year, and it's going to be difficult when it ends. It has instilled great grit and determination in me. The skills and lessons that I have learned through playing tennis have helped me to become a better person in all aspects of my life. Through my many hours of playing tennis, I have learned the value of supporting others, being mentally tough, and having patience. These skills have helped me to become a better person and have taught me to never give up on my goals. I am grateful for the lessons that tennis has taught me and I will continue to carry these skills with me throughout my life.

Substance Use Disorder has sadly and negatively impacted many individuals and families. I am passionate about making a positive impact in the world through education on Substance Use Disorder. I believe that by providing knowledge and resources to individuals, families, and communities, we can create a safe and supportive environment for those struggling with addiction. No one experiments with drugs with the intention of becoming addicted. Most people are dragged into a seemingly never-ending rabbit hole. By creating educational materials such as videos, courses, and articles we can help people understand Substance Use Disorder. We can provide them with the tools and resources they need to make proactive healthy decisions. Local organizations need encouragement and funding to help spread awareness of Substance Use Disorder in the community. We need to make these local organizations known and supported. With more funding and better education, we can create a brighter future for those affected by addiction. Substance Use Disorder is a complex issue that requires research-based, effective, and appropriate education. Treating it requires support and resources to provide hope and help people recover. It is crucial that those who are struggling have the knowledge and support they need. Educating others on the importance of understanding this disorder is crucial. Communities can also provide access to resources that can help individuals recover and provide a support group for those who continue their journey to health and wellness. Communities need to strive to create a safe space where people can learn and grow in their journey toward recovery. They need to create spaces where people are not dehumanized because they struggle with addiction. Millions of Americans struggle with addiction. It is time that we stop looking down on people and start receiving them with open arms. It is time that people feel comfortable coming forward and getting the help they need. It is hard for anyone to admit they need help. When they do they must be given the resources and support they need. I believe that education is a powerful tool in combating Substance Use Disorder. By educating others about the causes and effects of substance abuse, one can help to reduce the stigma associated with it and create an environment where people are more comfortable seeking help. It is important to provide ongoing support and guidance to those who are already in recovery, helping and encouraging them to stay on track and reach their goals.

My role model is my Grandpa. When I was a little girl, come the mid-June, we went to my grandparents’ farm in north-central Kansas. When I was eight, it was not an enjoyable or ideal vacation destination, and it seemed like we were in the middle of nowhere. Before my grandparents inherited it, the 950 mostly pastureland acres sat neglected and fallen in disrepair. We had to stay in a hotel 30 miles away in because the farmhouse was uninhabitable. It was my grandpa's dream to restore it. I grew up each summer traveling to the farm and restoring the house and land as best my little family could. Every summer we go up for a week or so and work hard with my Grandpa to make it functional and livable. Two years ago we helped him cut down locust trees. That was one of the biggest challenges I remember. We worked a week with every day over 100 degrees. My grandpa and father chainsawed dead trees while my sister, mom, and I loaded the limbs onto a trailer to be hauled to a wood pile to be safely burned later in the winter. The branches were not normal ones though, they had big, three to eight-inch thorns on them that would constantly harass us, scratching and poking. Between the heat and the constant pain, I wanted to quit. I wanted to give up. This was an impossible task. Tree after tree - it seemed never-ending. Again I felt like no matter what we did it never made a difference. My Grandpa preserved through all of it and showed me that I could be just as tough. I saw how hard my Grandpa worked and something changed. I realized that even when what we did seemed minuscule, all together, it did make a huge difference. Working that blistering, hot, and sweaty week, we had accomplished so much. When I looked back after we finished, I saw how many trees we cleared. Seeing how hard he worked encouraged me to do better as well. Next, we needed to replace some of the fencings that were destroyed in a prairie fire. Again this included long days in the heat, however, I had a much better mindset going into it. My Grandpa gave me encouragement that this too would make a difference. I worked harder than I ever did last summer, and it felt so good. My Grandpa was so thankful and proud of me. My Grandpa is 82 years old and continuously works hard to keep the farm maintained, and if we don’t help him no one will. He spends months at the homestead to clear the land of dead trees and invasive weeds on our 98 acres of land. I admire my grandpa— he has taught me multiple valuable lessons. He has taught me how good and satisfying hard work can be. He pushes me to accomplish things I never thought I could do. This new work ethic has brought me to appreciate a good breeze on a cloudy day or beautiful sunsets and thunderstorms. I am a part of the land now. My family history is in my heart.

There is great joy found in serving others. In my community, over the past 7 years, I have had the opportunity to volunteer by making meals at the local homeless shelter, cleaning the zoo in preparation for the season, shoveling snow for my cul-de-sac neighbors, and serving my local church weekly by providing free child care and making and serving free coffee for others. Serving with a loving heart is important. A willingness to serve others is beneficial not only to the community but also to oneself. One learns how to have empathy and compassion for others along with the value of self-sacrifice. It teaches one how to put others above yourself and encourages one to contemplate deeper about the meaning of service and self-sacrifice. Some volunteer to make their college essays better, while others may volunteer to help build their character. the image they are trying to project. While helping others is good no matter what, the level of care you show and the joy you express can help others more than one might imagine. It is important that one finds a volunteer opportunity that one loves and not one that is an obligation. Serving others with all you have is better than serving only halfway. Along with serving others, I want to benefit my community by listening to others. Over the years I have learned the value of talking to someone who will intently listen to me and my point of view. Though it may seem like such a small thing, our country is so divided that it has become a necessity. We discount others' dependability and friendships just because we don't agree with their opinions. It seems as if we can only be friends with people who agree with us on every single topic. Abiding by this worldview, one misses out on so much. If one does not have the opportunity to understand other points of view, one cannot further shape their individual opinions. Using civil debate and discussions will lead to more independent thought and less deep-cut division between the county and the world. Opposition is the best way to better understand what one believes. All people are valuable, and we cannot undermine someone's value because they disagree with an idea. If the world would simply understand that, imagine how much better that would be—treating others with dignity and respect. Our society would have greater respect for each other and treat others with love, patience, and understanding. I love hearing about different cultures, religions, politics, families, and ideas. This is what makes the United States thrive. We are a mix of experiences, cultures, and ideas. This is what makes us the best country in the world. We must individually take small steps to look to serve others and improve the world. It's not big moves made by the elites, but a lot of tiny steps by normal, everyday people in everyday neighborhoods. The people who run the world do not care about our neighbors and communities as we do. We see the highs and lows that surface at every step of life. We can be a difference in our communities as we love, serve and live.

Teachers are seen as just educators and are often not thought of out of the context of school. Some say teachers only care about the subject they teach, and not about the students they teach. However, teachers are much more than that to their students. Teachers are role models, who provide essential encouragement and a window into a wider world. My high school teachers are the reason I am pursuing a degree in education. I have witnessed their hard work and commitment to helping their students understand complex topics. I have also witnessed their humanity. My AP calculus teacher, Mrs. Oliver, once gave us M&M's to help us comprehend chain rule derivatives. She takes time out of her day to assist students who are struggling and seems to easily put herself in our shoes. She knows that it can take some time to grasp complex topics. She makes learning a delight while she shares her passion for math with us. Mrs. Oliver is also my Honor Society advisor, and through her leadership, the student body helps serve the community in my hometown. This past Christmas we went to a nursing home to give gifts to residents. When the bond for our school was up for a vote she selflessly stood outside in the snow holding a sign to ask people to vote yes to improve our school for the students. Not only is she an amazing teacher, but she is also an amazing person to know. Mrs. Oliver is kind, caring, and self-sacrificing. She is the teacher I want to become. Just like my math teacher, my AP Composition teacher, Mrs. Trudell, made impacted my life as well. She is one of the biggest influences in my life. For the first time, Mrs. Truedell helped me understand English language rules. Faithfully, she sat down with me to help me learn the patterns and exceptions of grammar rules. Mrs. Truedell is also the person who taught me to write well. She takes time with each and every one of her students to help us learn how to write high-quality essays, by carefully reading every essay and providing personal feedback to help us improve. At the same time, she demonstrates how to write with passion and use the parts of speech we were learning to become better writers. When I arrive before class she was there working with her previous students to edit scholarship essays and college entrance essays. She wants her students to succeed. One can see the devotion with which she teaches. Her joy is contagious. She challenged me to think about what I read and pick out tiny details that enriched the books. My love of reading was ignited because of her. Mrs. Truedell is also the person I know I can talk to. She is a safe place where I feel free to say what I am thinking and feeling. She is such a genuinely caring person. When I become a teacher, I want my students to feel the same way about me. I want my students to learn and feel they have a safe place to go, to journey into life and learn together. Teachers are the backbone of our society. They are who students spend their lives with six hours each day. I can see that my teachers truly cared about helping me succeed and helped me be prepared for my future. They taught me not only the content I need for college, but they taught me the joy of learning and how to treat others, and for that, I am forever grateful.

The characteristic that best describes me is perseverance. I am persistent in accomplishing tasks despite them being difficult or tedious. I have set my mind towards perseverance and strive for it constantly. First, I see perseverance when I play tennis. I used to not like tennis, but over time I found peace and joy in it. Due to my perseverance, I love the valuable lessons tennis has taught me over the years. Playing on my varsity high school team taught me the value of supporting others. It has shown me the importance of being mentally tough and controlling my emotions when I am not playing well. I have learned patience to overcome difficulties and to keep going even though I want to give up. Looking back I cannot fathom that I used to take tennis for granted for it has instilled great grit and determination in me. Another way I have learned perseverance is by working on my grandpa's farm. Every summer, my family and I make a long trip to Kansas to help my grandpa maintain his family farm. During 100-degree days, my grandpa and father chainsawed dead trees while my sister, mom, and I loaded the thorny, locust tree limbs onto a trailer to haul to a wood pile to be safely burned later in the winter. Between the heat and the constant pokes and scratches, I wanted to quit and give up. I felt like no matter how long we worked it never made a difference. Then suddenly we were finished. When I looked back behind me, I saw how many trees we cleared The next year we needed to replace some of the fences that were destroyed by a prairie fire. Seeing the small progress that was made each day, gave me encouragement to work harder, and it felt so good. Moment by moment what we did seemed so minuscule, but just doing it made a huge difference. Additionally, I cultivate perseverance in my schoolwork. I take the time to work hard to earn good grades and maintain a 4.0 GPA. I love to learn new things and discover something new. I love connecting new topics to things I have already learned. Although completing assignments can seem tedious and pointless, I know the work improves my understanding of particular topics. I know persevering through challenges will make me better in the end. I know perseverance will help me in the future. It will help me be successful in my future college experience. I am determined to do well so I can make an impact on my community and the world. I want to understand how the world works. I want to learn all I can so I can be an effective accountant. I want to excel in my job to help others in their lives. Additionally, perseverance will benefit my future family. I want to work with my husband to raise my kids in a safe and comfortable environment even if we face difficulties. I have seen this with my parents. My dad works two jobs and my mom works full-time. They have never complained, instead, they showed my siblings and me the joy and value of perseverance. I want to show this same ethic to my husband and children. I have been blessed with the ability to learn such an amazing trait. I love that so many opportunities have been opened because of my perseverance. I am so thankful that it has been modeled for me and instilled in me. It truly is something I will not forget or take for granted.

There is great joy found in serving others. In my community, over the past 7 years, I have had the opportunity to volunteer by making meals at the local homeless shelter, cleaning the zoo in preparation for the season, shoveling snow for my cul-de-sac neighbors, and serving my local church weekly by providing free child care and making and serving free coffee for others. Serving with a loving heart is important. A willingness to serve others is beneficial not only to the community but also to oneself. One learns how to have empathy and compassion for others along with the value of self-sacrifice. It teaches one how to put others above yourself and encourages one to contemplate deeper about the meaning of service and self-sacrifice. Some volunteer to make their college essays better, while others may volunteer to help build their character. the image they are trying to project. While helping others is good no matter what, the level of care you show and the joy you express can help others more than one might imagine. It is important that one finds a volunteer opportunity that one loves and not one that is an obligation. Serving others with all you have is better than serving only halfway. Along with serving others, I want to benefit the world by listening to others. Over the years I have learned the value of talking to someone who will intently listen to me and my point of view. Though it may seem like such a small thing, our country is so divided that it has become a necessity. We discount others' dependability and friendships just because we don't agree with their opinions. It seems as if we can only be friends with people who agree with us on every single topic. Abiding by this worldview, one misses out on so much. If one does not have the opportunity to understand other points of view, one cannot further shape their individual opinions. Using civil debate and discussions will lead to more independent thought and less deep-cut division between the county and the world. Opposition is the best way to better understand what one believes. All people are valuable, and we cannot undermine someone's value because they disagree with an idea. If the world would simply understand that, imagine how much better that would be—treating others with dignity and respect. Our society would have greater respect for each other and treat others with love, patience, and understanding. I love hearing about different cultures, religions, politics, families, and ideas. This is what makes the United States thrive. We are a mix of experiences, cultures, and ideas. This is what makes us the best country in the world. We must individually take small steps to look to serve others and improve the world. It's not three big moves made by the elites, but a lot of tiny steps by normal, everyday people in everyday neighborhoods. The people who run the world do not care about our neighbors and communities as we do. We see the highs and lows that surface at every step of life. We can be a difference in our communities as we love, serve and live.

The scarlet letter is an exceptional book that dives into social expectations and internal conflict. This book is such an inspiration to the world. It teaches love, overcoming obstacles, the value of honesty, and the problem of hypocrisy. At some point in life, one doesn't feel good enough, and one can feel guilty for the things they have done. In the Scarlet Letter, the Puritans publicly shamed Hester Prynne after she was found pregnant without a husband. Though she was seen as a sinner and shunned from their tight-knit community, Hester served others with her sewing and charity. She knew she had messed up but worked hard to create a better name for herself and became seen as a good person. Hester worked to better herself even when the people around her were hypocrites and cruel to her. This is an example to people all over the world. You can turn away from your mistakes and make a better life for yourself. The people around cannot determine your worth or who you will be. One can not help but feel frustrated with the Puritans because they set this standard that even the best could never achieve. Dimmesdale, the child's father, and the town's preacher are distraught because of what his community demands. He feels like he is out of reach of the very God who he knows forgives and loves. Dimmesdale is in turmoil and feels there is no way out. Although he looked perfect on the outside he was a mess on the inside. All the people thought he was without flaw and could do no wrong, but he was hiding a big secret. You can see this in the way we idolize people today. The influencers we see on social media and magazines can fool us all and make us think we are not good enough when it is, in fact, a big facade. Even though one tries, no one can be perfect. There is always one more thing we can do to be better. Hawthorne criticized the Puritan's hypocrisy but one must ask, is there any hope for today? We need to step back and realize that no one can be perfect.

Teachers are seen as educators and are often not thought of out of the context of school. Some say teachers only care about the subject, and not about the students they teach. However, teachers are much more than that to their students. Teachers are role models, who provide encouragement and a window into the world. My high school math teachers are the reason I am pursuing a degree in education. I have witnessed their hard work and commitment to helping their students understand complex topics. I have also witnessed their humanity. My AP calculus teacher, Mrs. Oliver, once gave us M&M's to help us comprehend chain rule derivatives. She takes time out of her day to assist students who are struggling. She puts herself in our shoes and knows that it can take some time to grasp complex topics. She makes learning a delight while she shares her passion for math with us. Mrs. Oliver is also my Honor Society advisor, and through her leadership, the student body helps serve the community in my hometown. This past Christmas we went to a nursing home to give gifts to residents. When the bond for our school was up for a vote she selflessly stood outside in the freezing snow holding a sign to ask people to vote yes to improve our school for the students. Not only is she an amazing teacher, but she is also an amazing person to know. Mrs. Oliver is kind, caring, and self-sacrificing. She is the teacher and person I want to become. Just like my math teacher, my AP Composition teacher, Mrs. Truedell, made a major impact on my life as well. She is one of the biggest influences in my life during high school. For the first time after years of English classes, Mrs. Truedell helped me understand clearly what seemed at first to be silly English language rules that made no sense. Faithfully, she sat down with me to help me learn the patterns and exceptions of grammar rules. Mrs. Truedell is also the person who taught me to write well. She takes time with each and every one of her students to help us learn how to write high-quality essays, by carefully reading every essay and providing personal feedback to help us improve. At the same time, she demonstrates how to write with passion and use the parts of speech we were learning to become better writers. When I arrive before class she was there working with her previous students to edit scholarship essays and college entrance essays. It is obvious She wants her "kids" to succeed. One can see the devotion with which she teaches. Her joy is contagious. Mrs. Truedell, for the first time, introduced me to the love of English. My love of reading was ignited because of her. Mrs. Truedell is also the person I know I can talk to. She is a safe place where I feel free to say what I am thinking and feeling. She is such a genuinely caring person. When I become a teacher, I want my students to feel the same way about me. I want my students to learn and feel they have a safe place to go, to journey into life and learn together. I can see that my teachers truly cared about helping me succeed and helped me be prepared for my future. They taught me not only the content I need for college, but they taught me the joy of learning and how to treat others, and for that, I am forever grateful.

Ever since I was a little girl, we journeyed to my grandparent’s farm in Kansas. When I was eight, it was not an enjoyable vacation. I wanted to go to Disneyland, but year after year our vacations were based on service and work. My great, great grandparents, William and Bethena Conger homesteaded the farmland in 1880. Before my grandparents inherited it, the 950 acres sat neglected and fallen in disrepair. When I was little, the farmhouse was uninhabitable. It was my grandparents’ dream to restore it. So each summer we drove 930 miles to the farm and worked to refurbish the house and land as best my family could. When my Grandma died in December of 2019, she was buried in the family graveyard on a hilltop a quarter of a mile from our farm, land My Great, Great Grandpa donated. My Grandma loved the land and passed this love and attachment down to my family. Growing up it seemed that all the work was in vain and I was often frustrated with the never-ending tasks. It seemed that the farm would never be fixed and we would never be done. When the farmhouse was finished I started to realize that all this work might be paying off. Though a big task was completed, we had more work to do. In the summer of 2021, we cut down locust trees to clear land for the cattle to graze. That was the biggest challenge I remember. We worked daily, in temperatures over 100 degrees. The branches had three to eight-inch thorns, which constantly harassed us, scratching and poking. Between the heat, bugs, and constant pain, I wanted to quit and give up. Tree after tree - it seemed never-ending. Again, I felt like no matter what we did, it never made a difference. But we finally finished. When I looked back behind me, I saw how many trees we had cleared. What we did seemed minuscule at the moment, but all together, it made a huge difference. We had accomplished so much during that blistering, hot, and sweaty week. In December 2021, a prairie fire burned 17,000 acres and came up to 50 yards from our barn. I could not imagine losing what we worked so hard on. Thankfully, no building on our property burned, but the fire had a big impact on me. The risk of losing the farm made me value it even more. Last summer we tackled a bigger project. We needed to replace some of the fencing that the fire destroyed. Again this included long days in the heat. However, I had a much better mindset going into it. Seeing the progress that we made each day, gave me encouragement that this too would make a big difference. I worked harder than I ever did last summer, and it felt so good. In closing, these tough lessons have taught me that it is satisfying to work and serve others. My family has instilled a strong work ethic in me that I use in my everyday life. Those long days in the hot sun taught me that hard work is rewarding and the little things we do for others, over time can make a major impact. In a time when the world is more divided than ever, it is important to be mindful of others and help people wherever possible. As I plan for my life after high school and the beginning of my college experience, I know I will work hard to make a positive impact in my community and maybe even the world.

“How dare you?” This phrase brings to mind Greta Thumbug, the young, famed climate activist. While I applaud her for her passion, she does not understand the reasons her opponents disagree. We need to make climate change a bi-partisan issue. We need to let both sides win. Everyone wants a better world-- but at what cost. We as a country need to unite to find a reliable and sustainable form of energy. Most people in Idaho love the outdoors and nature. We are close to Yellowstone National Park and other incredible, beautiful natural landscapes. I have had great experiences in a state that loves its natural land. In northern Idaho, there are 2,366,757 acres of protected land called the Frank Church Wilderness. It is protected from the development of the outside world. Inside the area is the Middle Fork of the Salmon River. My family and friends have been lucky enough to get permits to go on the seven-day whitewater rafting trip. There one can see the incredible landscape and one can help but cherish and value the environment we have. This trip has made me appreciate the world we have. I want to preserve it and protect it as much as I can. The basic solution to climate change is to remove oil and gas dependence and replace them with solar panels and windmills. We need to be careful when it comes to such a complex question. Getting rid of fossil fuels will only solve some of our problems, but not overnight. Look at Germany. Russia reduced flows via the Nord Stream 1 natural gas pipeline, which is causing an energy crisis as we speak. Although our reliance on oil needs to change, it is not possible at the moment. We cannot stop our energy sources suddenly and hope to catch up with new ones. We should focus on making reliable and sustainable sources that can replace fossil fuels in the long term. We need to keep utilizing what we have momentarily, so we can build solar panels and windmills and find a way to store that energy. Those are not our only options, however. While they are a good start, fields of windmills and solar pannels can ruin landscapes, kill wildlife, kill plants, and be unreliable. In Idaho, we have the Idaho National Laboratory. It conducts nuclear research on how to make nuclear energy more safe and more sustainable. Nuclear energy is considered clean energy and seems to be a promising solution. Similar to solar and wind power, more research is needed. It seems nuclear energy could be one of the most reliable forms of energy yet to come. In the end, we need to focus on further advancing research in solar, wind, and nuclear energy. We can not stop the use of fossil fuels now; we can slowly over time. We can eventually replace what we have with more affordable, sustainable, researched based technology to care for our environment.

Math can cause great stress and cast fear into the eyes of many. However, it was always given me a sense of organization and structure. Once you know the rules and understand the concepts everything fits together. Once you solve a problem it is like putting the last piece of the puzzle together. It makes me feel happy and proud. Although it is frustrating when one doesn't understand the concept once it clicks it is the best feeling ever. A sudden wave of knowledge spreads through your brain and body. You feel successful and proud for keeping calm to figure out a problem. It has taught me patients and perseverance. I have met some of my closest friends in math classes. The struggle always brings the class together. We struggle and succeed together which creates an incredible bond. I love how things fit into equations and how numbers fit together. I loved all my teachers. They are a big part of why I enjoy the subject. They are patient when I don't understand, they are kind when I mess up and they always encourage me to try my hardest. They are part of the reason I plan to study accounting or become a high school math teacher. I want to make an impact on the students learning. I want to support them while they are struggling and rejoice with them when they succeed. Math has advanced the world in such amazing ways, it is so complex and can be overwhelming at times but it sure is magnificent. It helps us understand the world better and can help us solve global problems. Although some people hate it there is a hidden beauty beneath the confusion. There is order when it seems like chaos. It really is a beautiful thing.

Feminism today makes a lot of people shutter. Most people imagine blue-haired crazy people. It has not always been that way however, feminism has accomplished much over the past centuries. From having the right to vote to title nine they have given opportunity and freedom to so many women. With all this accomplished the fight seems never-ending. Today feminism has turned into much more than women's rights. Most people view feminists as extreme political activists. I am not, however. I have different views on feminism than the mainstream. I believe that in the US we as women have equal rights to men. I believe that we have a bigger voice than ever and can accomplish anything we dream of. I believe that Instead of focusing on our fairly good situation, we need to help places in the middle east, where women have little to no rights. We need to fight for the people whose voice has been taken away. Instead of focusing on first-world issues, we need to support other women who have fled from abusive relationships and need support. We need to help single mothers find affordable childcare and well-paying jobs to support themselves and their children. We need to not only complain but act to help our sisters. We need to care for the vulnerable not just call the government to act. We need to act and not just protest. We need to work hard to secure our position and not have it handed to us. I refuse to accept what the mainstream feminist movement has turned into. The original goal for our great-grandmothers was to be treated as equals. That's what feminism is about, women are treated as equals to men. We have our differences of course but that only makes us stronger together. We can learn and benefit from each other which I why tribalism is dangerous. We are good as one but when we unite we are so much more powerful. That is what the world must recognize. Our society is crumbling because of people's pride and refusal to work together. We have become more divided than ever because everyone refuses to listen to others. Feminism is the power of women to work, think, listen and speak with the same freedom as a man. It is also the power to care for others. That is what our society needs, not a bunch of people yelling but a group who acts to better the world. It is not a group that only complains but takes action to make a difference for the people and the world around them. The world will follow our example. We can start a new wave of feminism that not only benefits us but could change the division and unite people from every race, gender and creed.

The moment we saw her we knew she was the one. She a was beautiful midsized white dog with a brown face. Now I am so grateful that she was there at the shelter that day. For the past 11 years, she was the joy of our family. When I can home from elementary school she was waiting for us to play with her. While she was a puppy she a handful. She chewed up anything in sight and dug holes in our backyard. As both matured, we got closer. When I was going into fourth grade we moved to North Platte Nebraska. We lived in a hotel for 3 weeks while we waited for our house to close, So had to leave her with our grandparents who were back in Idaho Falls. Those months were the hardest. We had no fun-spirited dog who loved cuddles and belly rubs. Something always felt off without her. A few months later my grandparents were able to travel and bring her to us. A void in my heart was filled at the moment I saw her. She made the transition to a new state and culture bearable. When it seemed I had no friends, she was there. She listed to me when I needed to vent and always made me laugh. A year later we moved back to my hometown. She was with us through all the stress of moving and the tension that was ever-present. She was there when my brother left for college. She was sad when she didn't see my brother every day. When we finally took her to Laramie Wyoming she was ecstatic. She was happy that her ¨herd¨ was all together. She loved to see all of us together. She was there when I started High School and there when covid cut my freshman year short. She helped me survive the months of covid lockdowns. I would take her on walks and tell her how bored I was. She would lie with us and binge-watch movies and tv shows. She was always there for me. She was spoiled. Every day while my parents worked and I went to school, our grandpa would pick her up to babysit her. She was a great comfort to him after my grandma died. She kept him company while he was morning the loss of his wife. She consoled all of us during that time. She made us smile when we thought we couldn't. She truly knew our feelings and knew just what to do to comfort us. At the end of my junior year, she was sick and could barely move. The decision was hard for us but it was time. I was crying hard that day, cherishing every moment I had with her. It was devasting for our whole family. I couldn't believe she wasn't going to be with us anymore. My brother was at college so we had to facetime him so he could say goodbye to her. My dad was the one who was with her when she was put down. Even today he is still affected by that. He loved Delta so much and it was difficult for him to say goodbye. She was a big part of my life. She taught me the importance of just being there for others and listening to them why they need to. She taught me what it meant for me to care for others and how to say goodbye to someone I love. I will forever remember her and the impact she had on me and the people around her.

Raising me and my sister was no easy task. As twins, we caused a lot of trouble. We would run in opposite directions and torment each other for fun. When my grandparent moved from Kansas City to Idaho Falls it helped my parents greatly. As teachers, they worked long hours, and both worked to support me, my sister, and my brother. My grandparents were lifesavers to our family. They came over every morning and helped Claire and I get ready for school and take us there. They cared for me when I was sick and would buy us a lot of presents. As we got older they set an example to me of how to act toward others. They taught me how to sever others and to sacrifice for others. They were my whole childhood. As we got older we would travel to Kansas where our farm was located. My great, great grandparents, William and Bethena Conger homesteaded the farmland in 1880. The farm has been in our family ever since. Before my grandparents inherited it, the 950 acres sat neglected and fallen in disrepair. When I was little, we slept in a hotel 30 miles away because the farmhouse was uninhabitable. It was my grandma's dream to restore it. So each summer we drove 930 miles to the farm and worked to refurbish the house and land as best my family could. I saw how much love and effort they put into something that most people would just abandon. They fixed what seemed unfixable. Now for generations, my children and my children's children will be able to see their efforts. On December 19, 2019, I was getting ready when I heard my mom frantic on the phone. She explained that something was wrong with my Grandma and then she and my dad rushed to my grandparent's house. That night as I tried to fall asleep I had this peace within me. Amid the uncertainty, I knew everything was going to turn out alright. The next day I woke up and my parents told me the news. She had passed. Disbelief ran through me but at the same time, I knew she was in a better place. I saw how hard my grandpa took it. He loved her so much and was devastated without her. My whole life I saw their love for each other and has given me the standard of how I should be treated. She was the foundation of our family. Every day I miss her and I can't wait to see her again one day. She was buried in the family graveyard on a hilltop a quarter of a mile from our farm in Kansas, land My Great, Great Grandpa donated. My Grandma loved the land and passed this love and attachment down to my family. Because of her dreams and care, I am the person I am today. My Grandpa is 82 years old and continuously works hard to maintain the farm in my grandmother’s memory. He has taught me how good and satisfying self-sacrifice and hard work can be. I am a part of the land now. My family history is in my heart. Because of my grandma, I have learned how to move on even when it may seem hard. I have learned what it means to leave a legacy and positively impact those around me. I have seen unconditional love from her and understand that life may not always be easy but you can work hard to overcome them. In closing, these tough lessons have taught me that it is satisfying to work and serve others. My grandma has instilled a strong work ethic in me that I use in my everyday life. Those long days cold days I was sick and the times she would take us out for ice cream showed me that tiny things you do can make a major impact. In a time when the world is more divided than ever, it is important to be mindful of others and help people wherever possible. As I plan for my life after high school and the beginning of my college experience, I know she would be proud as I work hard to make a positive impact in my community and maybe even the world.