“Being Mexican-American is tough… We gotta be more Mexican than the Mexicans and more American than the Americans, both at the same time. It’s exhausting.” This is part of a monologue delivered by Edward James Olmos as Abraham Quintanilla in the film Selena. My family and I have watched that movie countless times. For me and my dad, this monologue has always been our favorite part. Nearly every time it played, we recited it together. To some, it may sound funny, but to me, it felt deeply personal. I felt it in my bones. My father’s parents immigrated to the United States, and he grew up caught between two worlds. At school, he was mocked because he “couldn’t speak English right,” yet at home he lived with parents who barely understood English at all. He was under constant pressure to assimilate while preserving culture. That struggle did not end with him. It was passed down to my brother and I. My parents prioritized teaching us English first so we would not face the same ridicule, but as a result, Spanish became something we learned only in school. Family members would comment on how we did not speak Spanish fluently enough, reminding us that we somehow fell short of our own heritage. I was born in Texas and moved to a predominantly white suburb outside of Philadelphia when I was two years old. From a young age, I learned how to code-switch. I knew to listen to Bad Bunny so I could connect with my cousins, while also keeping up with the latest Taylor Swift album so I could fit in with my classmates. No matter what I did, I felt out of place. Looking around my middle school cafeteria, I was painfully aware that I was part of the minority. What hurt most was not just being underrepresented, but feeling as though I did not fully belong anywhere. I was “too Mexican” for my school district and “too white” for my Latin family. Now, as a junior at Syracuse University, those feelings have transformed into purpose. While Latinos remain underrepresented on campus, I have found spaces where my identity is celebrated rather than questioned. As an acting major I am a member of the Drama Latin Student Union, I work alongside other Latin artists to ensure our culture is respectfully and accurately represented within the drama department. Last year, I collaborated with fellow Latin drama majors to perform “Remember Me” from Coco and presented a slideshow educating the student body on the significance of Día de los Muertos. That experience showed me the power of visibility and education. Being Mexican-American has shaped my path by teaching me resilience, adaptability, and empathy. I no longer feel the need to prove that I am “Latin enough.” Instead, I embrace the full complexity of my identity. Moving forward, I hope to continue representing my culture through my art, honoring my roots, and serving as a role model for others who feel caught between worlds. My identity is now my strength.

“You Can’t Blame a Girl for Trying” is the title of a song Sabrina Carpenter released in 2014. At the time, I was nine years old, and I knew Sabrina Carpenter not as a pop star, but as the funny, cool best friend of Riley Matthews on Girl Meets World. The show followed two middle school girls as they navigated bullies, first crushes, changing friendships, and the confusion of growing up. I watched anxiously from my living room, feeling like I was growing up alongside them. I saw myself in their characters, and for the first time, seeing girls like me on television made me feel understood. Fast forward to 2026: I’m now a junior in college, listening to Sabrina's Short n’ Sweet album on my walk to class. I watch clips from her concerts, she dances confidently in sparkly bodysuits and towering platform boots, completely owning who she is. When I first began listening to her music, I was still figuring myself out. I wore Vans, black leggings, and a Hollister baby tee almost every day, dressing like everyone else because it felt safer that way. Over the years, Sabrina has found her own identity and style, becoming unapologetically herself and I learned how to do the same. Her music, image, and career have grown, changed, and matured over time. The most beautiful part is that I have grown with her. I’m not a fan of Sabrina Carpenter simply because her music is catchy, but because it feels deeply relatable. I’m a fan because a nine-year-old version of me, wearing chokers and Silly Bandz, sang along with her songs during snow days with my elementary school best friend. Now, my college friends and I play those same songs as we get ready for sorority date nights, laughing and dancing together before heading out the door. Sabrina Carpenter is a generational talent, not just because of her undeniable skill, but because so many of us have grown up alongside her. Her music carries nostalgia, confidence, and girlhood all at once. It reminds me how far I’ve come, and how powerful it is to keep trying, growing, and becoming yourself.

One of the biggest things I’ve noticed while watching Love Island is that the pool is surprisingly underused. While this is likely to keep the microphones dry. My challenge finally puts the villa pool to work in a way that’s both practical and entertaining. The challenge, titled “Rock the raft,” transforms the pool into a competitive arena. To ensure audio is captured clearly, waterproof microphones are placed strategically around the pool rather than on the Islanders themselves. In the center of the pool sits a platform just large enough to fit two people, creating an immediate sense of tension and balance. The challenge begins with all Islanders pairing off. Each pair plays a round of rock, paper, scissors on the pool deck—but here’s the twist: winning doesn’t matter. After everyone plays their match, it will be revealed that Whatever hand signal each Islander throws determines the inflatable they’ll use in the pool. Once their inflatables are assigned, the pair steps onto the central platform. Their goal is simple, knock the other person off the platform and into the pool using only their inflatable. No hands, no feet—just balance, strategy, and a bit of chaos. The physical comedy of the inflatables combined with the Islanders’ competitive instincts makes for great television, while alliances, rivalries, and flirtation naturally come into play. The challenge is played tournament-style, allowing it to work at any point in the season and with any number of contestants. Winners advance until one Islander is crowned the ultimate pool champion, earning a prize such as a date, immunity from the next dumping, or a trip to the Hideaway with someone of their choice. “Rock the Raft” blends a nostalgic childhood game with a playful physical battle, finally gives the pool a purpose, and provides some great jokes for Ian Stirling to use while commentating the challenge.

One evening in eighth grade, my brother, parents, and I gathered around the dinner table—something we were fortunate to do regularly. That night, however, felt different. At the end of dinner, my parents shared that my father had been laid off from his job. Even now, as a junior in college, I remember the pit in my stomach. My father covered the mortgage, utilities, and car payments, while my mother managed groceries, clothing, and other daily needs. Suddenly, questions flooded my mind: How long would he be out of work? What would this mean for our future? At the time, my older brother had just started Catholic school, a financial sacrifice my parents made to provide him with the best education possible. I was also beginning to look at Catholic schools myself, and I feared that opportunity might be taken away. Thankfully, about a year later, my father found new employment, and by my sophomore year of high school, my family began to regain financial stability. Unfortunately, we were soon faced with another challenge when my grandmother was diagnosed with stage four pancreatic cancer. She lived in Texas, while my immediate family and I reside in Pennsylvania. My junior year of high school became a constant cycle of long drives back and forth between states. We traveled for every holiday, uncertain if it would be our last with her, and contributed financially to her chemotherapy treatments. Despite the emotional and physical toll, I remained focused on my education. I studied in the car, took tests online, and maintained straight A’s. My mother and I even attended virtual college tours from hospital waiting rooms while my grandmother received treatment. Although my grandmother passed away during my senior year of high school, her strength and perseverance deeply shaped me. Through her illness, I learned the importance of resilience, compassion, and community—values that continue to guide me today. Now, as a junior acting major at Syracuse University with double minors in business and political science, I continue to face obstacles in my pursuit of higher education. Syracuse has increased tuition every year since I enrolled, placing growing financial strain on my family. To help offset these costs, I work multiple jobs during school breaks and maintain a work-study position each semester, all while balancing the demanding workload of my major. Despite these challenges, I have maintained a 3.8 GPA. I aspire to build a career in the arts because storytelling has the power to unite communities, foster empathy, and inspire change. With my education, I plan to give back by working with youth arts programs, increasing access to theater education for underserved communities, and using my platform to advocate for the arts as a vital public resource. I plan to contribute to projects that tell the stories of people who can't tell their own. The obstacles I’ve faced have not deterred me; they have strengthened my commitment to using my education to uplift others.

I want to be an actor because no place on Earth makes me feel more at home than on a stage. Ever since I was six years old and played Wendy in Peter Pan at my local summer camp, I knew I wanted to be on stage. All of my life I have been in shows (community, school, etc) and every single time my passion for it only grows stronger. Not just being on the stage, but the training and hard work that goes into the craft. A lot of people have a hobby or activity that helps them blow off steam and escape the stress and realities of their own lives, for some it’s lifting weights at the gym or shooting hoops on the basketball court, for me that activity is acting. I can channel all of the good, bad and in between into my performance. The out of body feeling I get when I am so into a performance is a feeling that I will never forget. Not to mention the freedom and creativity that comes along with acting. Not only can you play a variety of roles but all of it can help do something that is extraordinary and rare in today’s world, unite people. In June I saw Real Women Have Curves on Broadway. For those two and a half hours, everyone in the theater was in the same place, at the same time, united, with one thing in common, what show they were seeing. As we all sat in our seats, we watched the incredible actors tell an amazing story which took us as an audience on one emotional rollercoaster. I was grateful that I attended a high school with a performing arts program that had many alumni that went on to attend BFA musical theatre and acting programs all over the country all led by Mrs.Lynn. From the first time she mentioned in freshman year performing arts class that she got a BFA in musical theatre in college and performed professionally, I was intrigued. I didn't even know that was a thing, as soon as she explained it more, I knew that is what I wanted to do, and I worked hard to make it happen. Mrs. Lynn was not only my high school director but my voice teacher. She believed in me before I even believed in myself. Her unwavering support and guidance gave me the confidence to work tirelessly toward a career in theatre. Today, I am proud to be an acting major at Syracuse University—ranked among the world’s top 25 programs—and I owe so much of my success to Mrs. Lynn’s mentorship. In college, my professors continue to challenge me to grow not only as an artist but as a person, creating a safe, inclusive environment in which I’ve had countless breakthroughs. Whether in high school or at Syracuse, it’s been the belief of these incredible teachers—in my talent, my potential, and my worth—that has transformed my passion into purpose. In my career I hope to be an actor people love to work with. I want to continue to create positive rehearsal spaces, to make art that unites people and spreads inspiring messages.

No place on Earth makes me feel more at home than on a stage. Ever since I was six years old and played Wendy in Peter Pan at my local summer camp, I’ve known I wanted to be an actor. Over the years, a lot in my life has changed. I’ve lived in different houses, attended multiple schools, and tried all kinds of sports and activities. But the one thing that has always remained consistent is my love for performing. I’ve spent much of my life in rehearsal rooms, on stages, in voice lessons, or memorizing lines in my bedroom. With each new show or scene, my passion only grew stronger—not just for being in front of an audience, but for the entire process. I love the hard work, the discipline, and the vulnerability that the craft of acting requires. I love how each role challenges me to tell someone else’s story, while still allowing me to infuse pieces of myself and my own life experience into the performance. For me, acting is more than just a career path—it’s a calling. Many people have hobbies or outlets that help them blow off steam and escape the stress of daily life. For some, it’s lifting weights or playing basketball. For me, that escape has always been acting. When I’m in a performance, I can channel all the emotions I carry—joy, sadness, fear, hope—into something meaningful. I lose myself in the moment, and in doing so, I find myself all over again. That out-of-body feeling, when everything else falls away and it’s just me and the story, is something I’ll never forget. It’s what makes me want to keep doing this for the rest of my life. Acting also provides a rare opportunity in today’s world: the chance to unite people. When I saw Dear Evan Hansen live in Philadelphia, I was deeply moved. For two and a half hours, every person in that theater—no matter their background or beliefs—was connected by one story. We laughed together, cried together, and left the theater changed in some way. That shared experience reminded me that theater is not just entertainment; it’s a form of communion. It brings people together, opens their hearts, and invites them to think and feel more deeply. I want to be a part of that. I want to help create those moments for others. My journey to pursuing a professional acting career wouldn’t have been possible without the mentorship of Mrs. Lynn, my high school theater director and voice teacher. I attended a Catholic high school with a strong performing arts program, and Mrs. Lynn led it with dedication, passion, and faith. From the moment she mentioned that she had a BFA in Musical Theatre and had performed professionally, I was fascinated. I didn’t even know that was an option. Once she explained what it meant, I knew that’s what I wanted for myself. Mrs. Lynn was the first person who believed in me before I believed in myself. She assigned me challenging songs and monologues and never accepted “I can’t” as an answer. I remember so many times telling her, “This is too high,” or “I’m not ready,” and she would respond, “Yes, you are. You’ve got this.” And somehow, every time, she was right. Her belief in me gave me the courage to pursue what once felt like a far-off dream. She didn’t just teach me how to sing or act. She taught me how to be confident, how to be disciplined, and how to lead with kindness. She also showed me that you can pursue a career in the arts without losing your values. Mrs. Lynn was always grounded in her faith. She reminded us that our talents were gifts from God and that using them with humility and purpose was the greatest way to give back. She prayed with us before big performances and reminded us that the stories we told had the power to change lives. She helped me see that being an actor is not just about applause—it’s about service. Thanks to her mentorship and years of hard work, I was accepted into Syracuse University’s prestigious acting program—one of the top 25 drama schools in the world according to The Hollywood Reporter. Being here is a dream come true. My professors challenge me every day to dig deeper into my craft, to take risks, and to be fully present. I’ve grown tremendously, both as a performer and as a person. Every class, rehearsal, and performance sharpens my skills and brings me closer to the career I’ve been working toward my entire life. Once I graduate, I hope to work in theater, television, and film—bringing meaningful stories to life and building a career rooted in passion, integrity, and purpose. But more than that, I want to be the kind of actor people love to work with—someone who brings joy, professionalism, and collaboration into every rehearsal room. I want to help foster positive, inclusive spaces in the arts, where everyone feels safe to take creative risks and be their authentic selves. I want to create art that unites people, that encourages empathy, and that reminds audiences of our shared humanity. Eventually, I’d love to expand my impact beyond performing. I’d like to teach and mentor younger artists, just like Mrs. Lynn mentored me. I want to help the next generation of performers realize that their stories matter, their dreams are valid, and that there is space in this industry for kindness and authenticity. I also want to advocate for arts education, especially in underserved communities, where creative programs are often the first to be cut. Everyone deserves a chance to tell their story. While my goals are big, the journey isn’t easy—especially financially. Since my freshman year, tuition at Syracuse University has increased by over $5,000. My family and I are doing everything we can to cover the cost of this education, but it’s a heavy burden. I’ve taken on jobs, applied for aid, and budgeted carefully, but the rising expenses make it difficult to focus entirely on my training. Receiving this scholarship would ease that burden significantly. It would allow me to dedicate more time to my craft, take advantage of performance opportunities, and continue learning from some of the best educators in the field. More than that, this scholarship would be an investment—not just in my education, but in my future and in the impact I hope to make. I believe that storytelling is one of the most powerful tools we have to bring people together and spark change. With your support, I will continue to grow into an artist who leads with heart, who builds community through creativity, and who uses the stage as a platform for truth, beauty, and healing. Graduating with my degree will be the culmination of years of hard work, faith, and guidance from mentors like Mrs. Lynn. It will also be the start of a new chapter—a chapter filled with stories I am eager to tell, lives I hope to touch, and a lifelong journey of service through the performing arts. I am committed to this dream, and with your help, I know I can make it a reality.

Ever since I was six years old and played Wendy in Peter Pan at my local summer camp, I knew I wanted to be on stage. A lot has changed in my life since then—I’ve moved houses, attended several different schools, and tried countless activities—but one thing has remained constant: my deep, unwavering love for acting. From community theater productions to school plays, every single performance has only strengthened that passion. But acting is more than just a hobby for me. It’s how I express myself, how I cope, and how I connect with the world around me. Like some people find peace in shooting hoops or lifting weights, I find it in the rehearsal room or on the stage. When I’m performing, I pour every part of myself—the joy, the pain, the uncertainty, the triumph—into the role. It allows me to reflect my own humanity and the humanity of others. That out-of-body experience when I fully become the character is unlike anything else. It’s freeing, exciting, and deeply meaningful. Acting allows me to tell stories that can comfort, inspire, or challenge others—and in today’s world, where people can feel so divided or isolated, I believe that kind of storytelling is not only important, but sacred. I remember seeing Dear Evan Hansen in Philadelphia. For those two and a half hours, the entire audience was united—laughing, crying, reflecting, and holding their breath together. It reminded me why I love theater: because it has the rare ability to unite people from all walks of life under one roof, through one story. That’s the kind of impact I want to have in my career—not just to entertain, but to inspire compassion and understanding. I believe theater has the power to heal and to bring people closer to each other—and even to God. But my journey into this calling has been shaped just as much by my spiritual growth as by my artistic growth. I was raised in a devout Catholic household, where church on Sundays, prayers before meals, and receiving the sacraments were all a part of daily life. My parents never forced faith upon me—they lived it out with such consistency and care that it naturally became the foundation of who I am. Yet for much of my early education, I attended public school. And while some classmates also went to CCD or Mass, my faith often made me feel like an outsider. I still remember the awkward stares I’d get when I bowed my head to pray over my lunch. I was asked questions like, “Do you actually believe in those Bible stories?” or “Why would you want to go to boring Mass every week?” Those comments slowly made me question whether I should be open about my faith. I started keeping that part of me quiet. I didn’t stop believing, but I did start hiding. I felt torn between the person I was at home and the person I was trying to be at school to fit in. Everything changed when I began attending a Catholic high school. For the first time in my life, I was in an environment where my faith was welcomed—celebrated even. We started each morning with prayer, had school-wide Masses, and practiced traditions like giving up meat on Fridays during Lent. On Ash Wednesday, every student and teacher wore the same cross on their forehead. I wasn’t alone anymore. I was part of a community that not only respected my beliefs but shared them. That’s also where I met one of the most influential people in my life: my theater director and voice teacher, Mrs. Lynn. She wasn’t just an incredible educator—she was a living example of how faith and art can exist together in harmony. From day one, she talked openly about her journey as a performer and as a Christian. She had earned her BFA in musical theatre, worked professionally, and never compromised her values. Until then, I didn’t know it was possible to have both: a life in entertainment and a life rooted in faith. But Mrs. Lynn showed me that you can thrive in your career and your spiritual life—if anything, they can feed each other. Mrs. Lynn opened every rehearsal with prayer. She told us to trust God with our nerves before big performances. She spoke to us about integrity, grace, humility, and using our talents for good. Her faith was not just something she practiced privately—it was something she lived boldly. And she saw something in me that I hadn’t seen in myself. She pushed me to go after things I thought were out of reach. I’ll never forget when she gave me a difficult song to sing, and I immediately said, “This is too high for me.” She smiled and said, “No it’s not—you’ve got it.” And she was right. It was because of her that I first learned about BFA programs and started imagining a future in professional theater. She helped me prepare for college auditions, reminded me to pray before walking into every room, and constantly reminded me that I was worthy, talented, and called to do this. She transformed my passion into purpose, and gave me the tools—spiritually and artistically—to pursue it. Today, I’m proud to be studying acting at Syracuse University, one of the top 25 drama schools in the world according to The Hollywood Reporter. It’s an incredibly competitive program that pushes me every day to grow—not just as a performer, but as a person. My professors challenge me to dig deep, take risks, and become the best version of myself. But Syracuse is a secular school, and before starting college, I was nervous that I would once again feel alone in my faith. Thankfully, that hasn’t been the case. If anything, my relationship with God has grown stronger. Without the daily reinforcement of a Catholic environment, I’ve had to make faith a personal and intentional choice. I’ve found local churches, carved out time for prayer in my busy schedule, and leaned on God more deeply in moments of stress, loneliness, or uncertainty. My faith is no longer just something I was raised with—it’s something I choose every day. But while my spiritual growth has flourished, there are still very real challenges. Since my freshman year, Syracuse has raised tuition by more than $5,000. The financial burden has increased significantly, and my family is doing all we can to manage it. I’ve taken on jobs, applied for aid, and worked hard to support myself—but receiving this scholarship would relieve a major financial stress and allow me to fully focus on my training and future career. My long-term goal is to work professionally in theater, film, and television—telling stories that matter, creating meaningful art, and using my platform to uplift others. I want to be part of the storytelling that brings people together and reflects the love, dignity, and truth that I’ve found in my faith. Whether onstage or off, I want to live a life rooted in compassion, integrity, and service. I believe God gave me this talent for a reason, and I want to use it well. From a little girl quietly praying over her school lunch to a young woman training to perform on some of the world’s biggest stages, my journey has been shaped by faith, family, mentors, and perseverance. This scholarship would not just help me financially—it would affirm the belief that my dreams are possible and worth fighting for. And with God guiding me, I know I’m right where I’m meant to be.

I have grown up in a religious household where faith was the foundation of our daily life. My parents have taken me to church every Sunday since I was born. We pray before every meal we eat together, and I have received all of my sacraments. Faith was never something optional or distant—it was central to my upbringing and identity. However, for most of my early education, I attended a public school from first through eighth grade. While some of my classmates also went to CCD or mass, my faith often made me feel like an outsider. I still remember the awkward looks when I would quietly pray over my lunch in the cafeteria, or the teasing questions like, “Wait, you actually believe in those Bible stories?” or “Mass is so boring—do you really go every week?” These moments made me feel self-conscious and, at times, even embarrassed to show my faith openly. Everything changed when I started attending a Catholic high school. For the first time, I was in an environment where my beliefs were not only accepted but celebrated. We began each school day with prayer, attended school-wide masses, and even had meatless options on Fridays during Lent. On Ash Wednesday, it was comforting to look around and see that everyone had the same cross on their forehead. I no longer felt like the “odd one out”—I felt supported, surrounded by a community of faith, and confident in who I was. That confidence was tested again when I began college at Syracuse University, a school with no religious affiliation. I was genuinely nervous that I would once again feel isolated in my beliefs. I worried that talking about God or going to mass might bring back that same insecurity I experienced in middle school. But instead, I’ve found that my faith has become more personal, more resilient, and more essential than ever before. In college, I lean on my faith as my anchor. It reminds me to treat everyone with love and respect, knowing we are all made in God’s image and likeness. It gives me strength during difficult times and gratitude during joyful ones. In a world filled with division, uncertainty, and hardship, my faith offers hope, peace, and a sense of direction. I truly believe God has a plan for me, and I trust that every step I take—academically and professionally—is guided by Him. My parents’ example, my high school experience, and my continued growth in college have all inspired me to pursue higher education with purpose and passion. I want to live a life rooted in compassion, truth, and service—values that my faith has instilled in me from the very beginning.

One significant fact about myself is that my parents grew up poor. While it might not be the typical party greeting, this fact has profoundly shaped who I am as a person. My parents were raised on the bad side of San Antonio, Texas. My father was the child of immigrants, and my mother and her four siblings were raised by a single mother. Both my parents were the first in their families to attend college, achieving this by working multiple jobs and striving to build a better life for their children. Growing up, my parents often reminded my brother and I of their humble beginnings, yet they always spoke of how happy they were. They didn’t have much, but they were surrounded by others who were also struggling, creating a strong sense of community. Despite their financial hardships, they always found ways to give back to others. My parents instilled in me that even if you don’t have a lot, you can still give to others—a quote that has always stuck with me. As I grew up, my dedication to service became a central part of my life. My passion for volunteering was sparked by my Girl Scout troop. To me it wasn’t just about selling cookies; it was packaging hats and gloves for homeless shelters, and serving at soup kitchens. In middle school, I joined the Junior Optimist Club, where I participated in toy drives, food drives, and Township events. Continuing this momentum in high school, I joined Community Service Corps (CSC), a similar community service club. During my junior year, I was selected to be part of the Pantheron executive board. Pantheron is a dance marathon that raises money for Archdiocesan special schools, CHOP, and the Lenny Martelli Foundation. The event required extensive planning and hard work, with weekly meetings from November to April. We organized fundraisers throughout the year, culminating in an eight-hour dance marathon. Over my junior and senior years, Pantheron raised over $85,000. Volunteering has always been a significant part of my life. Currently, I am in my sophomore year at Syracuse University, pursuing a BFA in Acting with a minor in Business. I am passionate about the performing arts because they unite people. At school, I continue my dedication to service by being involved with Upskill, a club that tutors children of all ages at nearby schools, and the Food Recovery Network, which donates unused dining hall food to homeless shelters. Additionally, I am on the philanthropy committee for my sorority, helping plan and run philanthropy events that this year alone have raised over $12,000 for CASA, an organization that trains court appointed special advocates for kids in foster care. In the future I will continue to carry my heart on my sleeve, like my family has always taught me. I plan to volunteer for the rest of my life and always give back to those less fortunate.

I want to be an actor because no place on Earth makes me feel more at home than on a stage. Ever since I was six years old and played Wendy in Peter Pan at my local summer camp, I knew I wanted to be on stage. Over the years a lot has changed in my life. I have lived in several different houses, attended several different schools, and played several different sports. Throughout it all one thing remained the same, my love for acting. All of my life I have been in shows (community, school, etc) and every single time my passion for it only grows stronger. Not just being on the stage, but the training and hard work that goes into the craft. I love how in acting you are able to tell someone else’s story, but at the same time add in aspects of yourself and your life. A lot of people have a hobby or activity that helps them blow off steam and escape the stress and realities of their own lives, for some it’s lifting weights at the gym or shooting hoops on the basketball court, for me that activity is acting. I can channel all of the good, bad and in between into my performance. The out of body feeling I get when I am so into a performance is a feeling that I will never forget. Not to mention the freedom and creativity that comes along with acting. Not only can you play a variety of roles but all of it can help do something that is extraordinary and rare in today’s world, unite people. In August I saw Dear Evan Hansen in Philadelphia. For those two and a half hours, everyone in the theater was in the same place, at the same time, united, with one thing in common, what show they were seeing. As we all sat in our seats, we watched the incredible actors tell an amazing story which took us as an audience on one emotional rollercoaster. In highschool I was grateful that I attended a Catholic school with a performing arts program that had many alumni that went on to attend BFA musical theatre and acting programs all over the country all led by Mrs.Lynn. From the first time she mentioned in freshman year performing arts class that she got a BFA in musical theatre in college and performed professionally, I was intrigued. I didn't even know that was a thing, as soon as she explained it more, I knew that is what I wanted to do, and I worked hard to make it happen. Mrs. Lynn was not only my high school director but my voice teacher. She believed in me before I even believed in myself. I remember countless times when she would assign me a new song and I would instantly say “ that’s too high”, she would “say no it's not, you got it”. Her unwavering faith and guidance gave me the confidence to work tirelessly toward a career in theatre. Today, I am proud to be an acting major at Syracuse University—ranked among the world’s top 25 programs—and I owe so much of my success to Mrs. Lynn’s mentorship. In college, my professors continue to challenge me to grow not only as an artist but as a person, creating a safe, inclusive environment in which I’ve had countless breakthroughs. Whether in high school or at Syracuse, it’s been the belief of these incredible teachers—in my talent, my potential, and my worth—that has transformed my passion into purpose. In my career I hope to be an actor people love to work with. I want to continue to create positive rehearsal spaces, to make art that unites people and spreads inspiring messages. My current acting reel: https://youtu.be/hdzMfU7RnFg

My three favorite Billie Eilish songs are “What Was I Made For?,” “The Greatest,” and “My Future.” “What Was I Made For?” may be one of her most well-known tracks, but for good reason—it captures the emotional weight of the female experience with stunning vulnerability. Featured in Barbie, a movie I love, the song perfectly reflects feelings of confusion, pressure, and emotional numbness, yet still carries a quiet hope for happiness. “The Greatest” is another standout, resonating with me not just as a heartbreak song, but as a raw portrayal of pain and perseverance. While it can be interpreted as a relationship ballad, I hear it as a reflection of the universal struggle of feeling like you're constantly climbing but never getting anywhere. Lastly, “My Future,” released during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, felt like it was written directly for me. From the first line—“I can’t seem to focus”—it captured the fear and uncertainty I felt about the future. But as the song evolves, it becomes a gentle, powerful anthem about self-love and hope, a message I desperately needed during that time. All three songs speak deeply of the human experience, which is why they continue to mean so much to me.

Ever since I was six years old and played Wendy in Peter Pan at my local summer camp, I knew I wanted to be on stage. Over the years a lot has changed in my life. I have lived in several different houses, attended several different schools, and played several different sports. Throughout it all one thing remained the same, my love for acting. All of my life I have been in shows (community, school, etc) and every single time my passion for it only grows stronger. Not just being on the stage, but the training and hard work that goes into the craft. A lot of people have a hobby or activity that helps them blow off steam and escape the stress and realities of their own lives, for some it’s lifting weights at the gym or shooting hoops on the basketball court, for me that activity is acting. I can channel all of the good, bad and in between into my performance. The out of body feeling I get when I am so into a performance is a feeling that I will never forget. Not to mention the freedom and creativity that comes along with acting. Not only can you play a variety of roles but all of it can help do something that is extraordinary and rare in today’s world, unite people. In August I saw Dear Evan Hansen in Philadelphia. For those two and a half hours, everyone in the theater was in the same place, at the same time, united, with one thing in common, what show they were seeing. As we all sat in our seats, we watched the incredible actors tell an amazing story which took us as an audience on one emotional rollercoaster. In high school I was grateful that I attended a Catholic school with a performing arts program that had many alumni that went on to attend BFA musical theatre and acting programs all over the country. The incredible program was all led by Mrs.Lynn. From the first time she mentioned in freshman year performing arts class that she got a BFA in musical theatre in college and performed professionally, I was intrigued. I didn't even know that was a thing, as soon as she explained it more, I knew that is what I wanted to do, and I worked hard to make it happen. Mrs. Lynn was not only my high school director but my voice teacher. She believed in me before I even believed in myself. I remember countless times when she would assign me a new song and I would instantly say “ that’s too high”, she would say "no it's not, you got it". Her unwavering faith and guidance gave me the confidence to work tirelessly toward a career in theatre. Today, I am proud to be an acting major at Syracuse University—ranked among the world’s top 25 programs—and I owe so much of my success to Mrs. Lynn’s mentorship. In college, my professors continue to challenge me to grow not only as an artist but as a person, creating a safe, inclusive environment in which I’ve had countless breakthroughs. Whether in high school or at Syracuse, it’s been the belief of these incredible teachers—in my talent, my potential, and my worth—that has transformed my passion into purpose.

One significant fact about myself is that my parents grew up poor. While it might not be the typical party greeting, this fact has profoundly shaped who I am as a person. My parents were raised on the bad side of San Antonio, Texas. My father was the child of immigrants, and my mother and her four siblings were raised by a single mother. Both my parents were the first in their families to attend college, achieving this by working multiple jobs and striving to build a better life for their children. Growing up, my parents often reminded my brother and I of their humble beginnings, yet they always spoke of how happy they were. They didn’t have much, but they were surrounded by others who were also struggling, creating a strong sense of community. Despite their financial hardships, they always found ways to give back to others. My parents instilled in me that even if you don’t have a lot, you can still give to others—a quote that has always stuck with me. As I grew up, my dedication to service became a central part of my life. My passion for volunteering was sparked by my Girl Scout troop. To me it wasn’t just about selling cookies; it was packaging hats and gloves for homeless shelters, and serving at soup kitchens. In middle school, I joined the Junior Optimist Club, where I participated in toy drives, food drives, and Township events. Continuing this momentum in high school, I joined Community Service Corps (CSC), a similar community service club. During my junior year, I was selected to be part of the Pantheron executive board. Pantheron is a dance marathon that raises money for Archdiocesan special schools, CHOP, and the Lenny Martelli Foundation. The event required extensive planning and hard work, with weekly meetings from November to April. We organized fundraisers throughout the year, culminating in an eight-hour dance marathon. Over my junior and senior years, Pantheron raised over $85,000. Volunteering has always been a significant part of my life. Currently, I am in my sophomore year at Syracuse University, pursuing a BFA in Acting with a minor in Business. I am passionate about the performing arts because they unite people. At school, I continue my dedication to service by being involved with Upskill, a club that tutors children of all ages at nearby schools, and the Food Recovery Network, which donates unused dining hall food to homeless shelters. Additionally, I am on the philanthropy committee for my sorority, helping plan and run philanthropy events that this year alone have raised over $12,000 for CASA, an organization that trains court appointed special advocates for kids in foster care. I love college and am dedicated to community service, and earning my degree. However, it is no secret that college is expensive, and it is challenging to balance working to pay for school and dedicating time to service. This year Syracuse has raised tuition by $5,000, increasing the financial burden. Receiving this scholarship would help alleviate this burden, allowing me to focus on my studies, maintain my 3.8 GPA, and continue my dedication to community service.

“It roars”, I hear Erika Henningsen sing in Mean Girls on Broadway. I was thirteen and it was my first Broadway show. Seeing the Original Broadway cast of Mean Girls on Broadway was so amazing, it instilled in me what I had known for such a long time, I wanted to be an actor. When I was six, I played Wendy in my summer camp's production of Peter Pan, then I got the lead in my third grade musical. My love for performing only grew the more I did it. Over the years a lot has changed in my life. I have lived in several different houses, attended several different schools, and played several different sports. Throughout it all one thing remained the same, my love for acting. I went from my middle school musical, community theatre, to intensives in New York to work with Broadway actors and industry professionals, my high school’s musical and now I am studying for my BFA in acting at Syracuse University, one of the most renowned programs in the country. Growing up I always dreamt of being an actor but I figured it was just that, a dream. Until I grew up and realized that there are successful actors out there. The performing arts program at my high school alone has several alumni who also went on to complete their acting degrees and now are professional working actors. A combination of the support of my family, friends, and directors and the opportunities around me, I realized that I can go to college for acting. The audition process was no easy task, from working two part time jobs to afford audition coaching, having two - three auditions a week, all while maintaining my good grades and staying involved in extracurriculars. At the end of it, all the hard work was worth it. I had been accepted into my dream program at Syracuse University. With only 50 being offered admission out of the 1,000 applicants it was a huge honor and still I can not believe it's real. The program has everything I could ask for and I am loving every minute of my training. I am receiving conservatory-style training taught by working actors and industry professionals. I also am looking forward to studying abroad in London my junior year and in New York for the final semester of my senior year. There is so much this program has to offer and I am so grateful that I get to take it all in. At the end of my four years I hope to move to New York or Los Angeles and pursue a full time acting career. I hope to be on Broadway, West End, television Shows, movies and so much more. I know it will not be easy but, I know it is what I am passionate about.

I want to be an actor because no place on Earth makes me feel more at home than on a stage. Ever since I was six years old and played Wendy in Peter Pan at my local summer camp, I knew I wanted to be on stage. All of my life I have been in shows (community, school, etc) and every single time my passion for it only grows stronger. A lot of people have a hobby or activity that helps them blow off steam and escape the stress and realities of their own lives, for some it’s lifting weights at the gym or shooting hoops on the basketball court, for me that activity is acting. I can channel all of the good, bad and in between into my performance. The out of body feeling I get when I am so into a performance is unforgettable. Not to mention the freedom and creativity that comes along with acting. My freshman year of high school, my high school director told me about how in college she pursued a BFA in musical theatre and went on to list a bunch of alumni from my high school that also received their BFA's in musical theatre and acting at programs all of over the country. As soon as she told me this I knew its what I wanted to study in college. Today I am a sophomore acting major at Syracuse University, one of the top 25 drama programs in the world. Last summer, (after freshman year of college) I interned in a LA and pursued film acting, something that I always wanted to do but had very little exposure to. I took class multiple times a week with LA casting directors, getting feedback about my on camera acting technique.

One significant fact about myself is that my parents grew up poor. While it might not be the typical party greeting, this fact has profoundly shaped who I am as a person. My parents were raised on the bad side of San Antonio, Texas. My father was the child of immigrants, and my mother and her four siblings were raised by a single mother. Both my parents were the first in their families to attend college, achieving this by working multiple jobs and striving to build a better life for their children. Growing up, my parents often reminded my brother and I of their humble beginnings, yet they always spoke of how happy they were. They didn’t have much, but they were surrounded by others who were also struggling, creating a strong sense of community. Despite their financial hardships, they always found ways to give back to others. My parents instilled in me that even if you don’t have a lot, you can still give to others—a quote that has always stuck with me. As I grew up, my dedication to service became a central part of my life. As many young girls do, I joined a local girl scout troop when I was in kindergarten. Looking back I realize this was the start of my passion for volunteering. To me it wasn’t just about selling cookies; it was packaging hats and gloves for homeless shelters, making Christmas cards for those in the hospital, and serving at soup kitchens. In middle school, I joined the Junior Optimist Club, where I participated in toy drives, food drives, and Township events. Continuing this momentum in high school, I joined Community Service Corps (CSC), a similar community service club. During my junior year, I was selected to be part of the Pantheron executive board. Pantheron is a dance marathon that raises money for Archdiocesan special schools, CHOP, and the Lenny Martelli Foundation. The event required extensive planning and hard work, with weekly meetings from November to April. As President of the committee the meetings were no where near equal to the time commitment. That entire board and I were always reaching out to companies for corporate donations, or planning dine n donates with nearby restaurants and so much more. We organized fundraisers throughout the year, culminating in an eight-hour dance marathon. Over my junior and senior years, Pantheron raised over $85,000. Volunteering has always been a significant part of my life. Currently, I am in my sophomore year at Syracuse University, pursuing a BFA in Acting with a minor in Business. I am passionate about the performing arts because they unite people. At school, I continue my dedication to service by being involved with Upskill, a club that tutors children of all ages at nearby schools, and the Food Recovery Network, which donates unused dining hall food to homeless shelters. I love college and am dedicated to community service, and earning my degree. However, it is no secret that college is expensive, and it is challenging to balance working to pay for school and dedicating time to service. This year Syracuse has raised tuition by $5,000, increasing the financial burden. Receiving this scholarship would help alleviate this burden, allowing me to focus on my studies, maintain my 3.9 GPA, and continue my dedication to community service.

When I was six I played Wendy in my local summer camp's production of Peter Pan. From the moment I stepped onto the stage I was hooked. Throughout my life I have moved to different schools, played different sports and even different instruments. Yet, one constant always remained in my life, my passion for acting. I grew up performing everywhere I could, community theatre, school theatre, in my living room, shower concerts, you name it. Unfortunately, like so many other people in this world I viewed an acting career as a dream, not something I could actually pursue. That all changed when my high school director told me my freshman year of high school that she went to college for a BFA in musical theatre and many more students from my high school also have gone on to college BFA performing arts programs. From that moment forward I knew what I wanted to do. The arts have a beautiful ability to unite people, theatre can be used to share someone else's story, giving an audience member a chance to walk out with a new perspective on a situation they have never thought of before. Not to mention the "escape" it provides for both performers and audience members. Everyday I wake up extremely grateful that I get to pursue my passion as my career. Today, as a student at Syracuse University, I have taken my acting training to the next level with a BFA in Acting. My ambition is to grace the stages of national tours, regional theaters, and even Broadway, while also making a mark in television and film. I am driven by the desire to portray characters that resonate deeply with audiences and to be part of compelling stories that inspire and entertain. I believe that the core of acting is ;human connection and emotional authenticity. Trying to figure out the future, one just needs to look at the past. As part of my course work I have to take a class called "drama in context" this class talks about the history of theatre in the context of different historical time periods. I have learned that in Ancient Greece theatre was a way of praising the gods, in the 1870s there was an emergence of realism in theatre because people wanted to see people like them on stage. During the Golden age of Broadway, most musicals were up beat with happy tap dancing numbers because people needed something happy to look forward to during the Great Depression. The arts have been around for a very long time, its how and why that changes. That is what will happen in the future, their might be a shift from hand made sets to screens, there may be an increase in films due to advancements in camera technology. The arts is not going away, it may simply shift. No matter what man made art will never lose it's value because the fact that it was man made is exactly why it is valuable. Whether on stage or on screen, I aim to bring characters to life in ways that resonate with audiences, continually pushing the boundaries of my craft while preserving the spirit of storytelling that first inspired me. I'm driven by a profound love for acting and a commitment to telling stories that matter. This passion fuels my journey and motivates me to continually evolve as an artist, embracing new opportunities while honoring the timeless art of performance.

At the young age of six years old, I played Wendy in my local summer camps production of Peter Pan. From the moment I stepped onto the stage I was hooked. I fell in love with performing. Throughout my life I have moved to different schools, played different sports and even different instruments. Yet, one constant always remained in my life, my passion for acting. Some people are blessed enough to figure out what they want to be when they grow up from a young age, I was not one of those people. I grew up performing everywhere I could, community theatre, school theatre, in my living room, shower concerts, you name it. Unfortunately, like so many other people in this world I viewed an acting career as a dream, not something I could actually pursue. That all changed when my high school director told me my freshmen year of high school that she went to college for a BFA in musical theatre and many more of students also have gone on to college BFA performing arts programs. From that moment forward I knew what I wanted to do. No place makes me feel more at home than on a stage. The arts have a beautiful ability to unite people, theatre can be used to share someone else's story, giving an audience member a chance to walk out with a new perspective on a situation they have never thought of before. Not to mention the "escape" it provides for both performers and audience members. No an actor does not save lives everyday like ER doctors, but it gives them a funny show to watch when they get home. Everyday I wake up extremely grateful that I get to pursue my passion as my career. Today, as a student at Syracuse University, I have taken my acting training to the next level with a BFA in Acting. My ambition is to grace the stages of national tours, regional theaters, and even Broadway, while also making a mark in television and film. I am driven by the desire to portray characters that resonate deeply with audiences and to be part of compelling stories that inspire and entertain. The advancements in modern technology, from AI to digital art, are reshaping the creative landscape. While these tools offer new possibilities, I believe that the core of acting—human connection and emotional authenticity—remains irreplaceable. Trying to figure out the future, one just needs to look at the past. As part of my course work I have to take a class called "drama in context" this class talks about history in the context of different historical time periods. I have learned what theatre was like dating all the way back to Ancient Greece. In Ancient Greece theatre was a way of praising the gods, in the 1870s there was an emergence of realism in theatre because people wanted to see people like them on stage. During the Golden age of Broadway, most musicals were up beat with happy tap dancing numbers because people needed something happy to look forward to during the Great Depression. The arts have been around for a very long time, its how and why that changes. That is what will happen in the future, their might be a shift from hand made sets to screens, there may be an increase in films due to advancements in camera technology. The arts is not going away, it may simply shift. I am prepared to shift with it. No matter what man made art will never lose it's value because the fact that it was man made is exactly why it is valuable. My goal is to work with talented collaborators to create performances that are both innovative and deeply rooted in the emotional truths of human experience. Whether on stage or on screen, I aim to bring characters to life in ways that resonate with audiences, continually pushing the boundaries of my craft while preserving the spirit of storytelling that first inspired me. In summary, my “why” is driven by a profound love for acting and a commitment to telling stories that matter. This passion fuels my journey and motivates me to continually evolve as an artist, embracing new opportunities while honoring the timeless art of performance.

One significant fact about myself is that my parents grew up poor. While it might not be the typical party greeting, this fact has profoundly shaped who I am as a person. My parents were raised on the bad side of San Antonio, Texas. My father was the child of immigrants, and my mother and her four siblings were raised by a single mother. Both my parents were the first in their families to attend college, achieving this by working multiple jobs and striving to build a better life for their children. Growing up, my parents often reminded my brother and I of their humble beginnings, yet they always spoke of how happy they were. They didn’t have much, but they were surrounded by others who were also struggling, creating a strong sense of community. Despite their financial hardships, they always found ways to give back to others. My parents instilled in me that even if you don’t have a lot, you can still give to others—a quote that has always stuck with me. As I grew up, my dedication to service became a central part of my life. My passion for volunteering was sparked by my Girl Scout troop. To me it wasn’t just about selling cookies; it was packaging hats and gloves for homeless shelters, and serving at soup kitchens. In middle school, I joined the Junior Optimist Club, where I participated in toy drives, food drives, and Township events. Continuing this momentum in high school, I joined Community Service Corps (CSC), a similar community service club. During my junior year, I was selected to be part of the Pantheron executive board. Pantheron is a dance marathon that raises money for Archdiocesan special schools, CHOP, and the Lenny Martelli Foundation. The event required extensive planning and hard work, with weekly meetings from November to April. We organized fundraisers throughout the year, culminating in an eight-hour dance marathon. Combined throughout my junior and senior year, Pantheron raised over $85,000. Currently, I am heading into my sophomore year at Syracuse University, pursuing a BFA in Acting with a minor in Business. I am passionate about the performing arts because they unite people. At school, I continue my dedication to service by being involved with Upskill, a club that tutors children of all ages at nearby schools, and the Food Recovery Network, which donates unused dining hall food to homeless shelters. I love college, I am dedicated to community service, and earning my degree. However, it is no secret that college is expensive, and it is challenging to balance working to pay for school and dedicating time to service. This year Syracuse has raised tuition by $5,000, increasing the financial burden. Receiving this scholarship would help alleviate this burden, allowing me to focus on my studies, maintain my 3.9 GPA, and continue my dedication to community service.

The sizzle of the hamburgers on the grill, the ferris wheel going around and around. You are standing in the middle of the Mother Of Divine Providence Parish community carnival, an annual fundraiser for my parish that has been happening since I was five years old. The best part? My parents were part of the effort that went into this event, and I loved it even more when I was asked to help. Every year, as I got older, I chipped in more and more. When I turned 14, I was finally allowed to become a committee member, like the rest of my family. The event takes place in September, but planning starts in March. During the final event, I arrive at the Parish at 4:00 PM with other volunteers so that we can make sure everything is set up before the event starts at 6:30 PM. Throughout the night, I smell like oil because I was making the French fries, or running boxes to restock food or condiments. Sometimes, I catch my breath while I work the register. No matter what, I am on the go, looking for the next thing I can help with. The event ends at 10:00 PM, but I leave the premises around 11:30 PM. This routine is repeated for all three days of the event. I would not trade this hard work for anything because it pays off. Once all attendees go home and cleanup is done, all of the volunteers gather to read the numbers of how much money was raised. The 2022 Carnival raised a record-breaking $56,000, for my Parish. For me, this event sparked my love for community service and was just the start. In high school, on top of helping out with the carnival, I was also the president of a nonprofit at my high school. Junior year of high school, I was selected to be a part of my high school’s Pantheron Executive Board. Pantheron is a mini-thon, a smaller version of THON. The night of the dance marathon event is not until late April, but meetings start in early November. Leading up to the event, several fundraisers, including dine-n-donuts, pretzel days, donut days, and stall days, are held, which all involve a lot of planning and organizing. As students raised more money, they could earn tier prizes. All of the tier prizes were selected and ordered by the committee, and student totals had to be updated on the website every week. All of the preparation was worth it because of the good it does. All of the money raised is split up and given to CHOP, Archdiocesan Special Schools, and the Lenny Martelli Foundation. Combined, my junior and senior years, Pantheron raised $86,700. Now in college, I am continuing my philanthropic efforts as a sister of Kappa Alpha Theta sorority at Syracuse University. As an organization we raise money through our philanthropy events throughout the year towards Theta's national philanthropy CASA, an organization that trains court appointed special advocates for kids harmed in foster care. This past April, we raised over $5,000 during Theta Tots, where we sold tater tots to the Syracuse community. In addition I am involved in two other community service organizations at Syracuse. I am involved with the Food Recovery Network, which helps organize transportation of uneaten dining hall food to surrounding food banks and homeless shelters. Additionally, I am also a tutor for Upskill - an organization that tutors students of all ages from surrounding school districts. I am excited to continue my dedication to community service, helping better my community.

Pauline Medina 07/30/24 Combined Worlds The Impact of Differences Travel is more than just a journey from one place to another; it is an immersive experience that opens the door to personal growth and development. The transformative power of travel lies in its ability to expose individuals to different cultures, perspectives, and environments, fostering a deeper understanding of the world and oneself. My journey of understanding and appreciating differences began early in my life. I was born in Texas and moved to Philadelphia at a young age. However, I frequently visited Texas, where I still have family. These visits exposed me to a variety of differences: traditions, traffic, popular sports, career aspirations, and of course the food. The contrast between the two places was striking. Both places offered me two distinct perspectives on life. I once stumbled upon a quote on Instagram that said, "Don't be the reason why somebody stops doing something they love." This statement resonated with me, teaching me a valuable lesson about embracing differences. Whether it's an outfit that makes me feel great or a song that I love, I realized that what brings joy to one person might not have the same effect on another. This Instagram quote put into perspective that these differences I have witnessed all my life are just that— differences. Neither was better nor worse, just different experiences shaped by unique environments and cultures. Exposure to different perspectives has been instrumental in shaping my worldview. By immersing myself in diverse environments, I learned to appreciate and respect differences rather than judge them. My travels throughout my life have challenged me to step out of my comfort zone and adapt to new environments. Travel not only broadens our horizons but also deepens our empathy. By connecting with people from different backgrounds, I have learned to see the world through their eyes. Through my travels I have come to realize how important travel is. Travel teaches us to embrace differences, broadens our perspectives, and equips us with the resilience to navigate life’s challenges. As I continue my journey, I carry with me the lessons learned from my travels, constantly striving to be a more understanding, empathetic, and globally conscious individual.

I attended a Catholic High school that had a very predominantly white student population. To put it into perspective out the 750 student body, about 5% were people of color. This atmosphere sometimes made me feel confused because about how to celebrate my Mexican heritage because of the lack of other cultural backgrounds. During my senior year of high school, another Latina student approached me in the hallway. She recounted an incident where a peer had told her to "go back to mowing his lawn" the previous day. This deeply offensive comment understandably shook her, and I was equally appalled that such bigotry existed within our school community. She approached me with a proposal to start a diversity club, and I enthusiastically agreed to join her. Together, we approached our assistant principal and received permission to establish the club. Our inaugural project was to create a Dia de los Muertos ofrenda in the school cafeteria. This initiative aimed not only to honor a cherished cultural tradition but also to foster understanding and inclusivity among our peers. "Love Thy Neighbor" became the name of our club, a principle deeply rooted in our Catholic school ethos and one that resonates with me personally. Launching "Love Thy Neighbor" was a catalyst for positive change within our school. It empowered students to embrace diversity and cultivate a welcoming environment where everyone feels valued. By celebrating cultural differences, we helped minority students feel supported and recognized—a source of immense pride for me. One of the most important parts of this initiative was that it continues for future high school classes. As we were both seniors we made sure to pass the leadership to underclassmen in the club. This made sure that the celebration in diversity continues in a predominantly white school community, continuing an inclusive environment for classes to come. Overcoming the initial adversity of encountering prejudice has shaped me profoundly. It has reinforced my commitment to standing up against discrimination and promoting harmony within any community I am a part of. Through this experience, I have learned the importance of resilience and collective action in addressing societal challenges. For those facing similar circumstances, my advice would be to take action. Start conversations, seek allies, and advocate for change. By uniting in solidarity, we can create environments where diversity is celebrated, and every individual feels a sense of belonging. Embrace differences, educate others, and never underestimate the power of empathy and understanding in overcoming adversity. Moving forward, I am determined to continue advocating for inclusivity and social justice in all aspects of my life. Whether through organizing events, participating in discussions, or supporting peers, I strive to be a catalyst for positive change. By fostering empathy and mutual respect, we can build communities where prejudice and discrimination have no place, and where every voice is heard and valued.

I just finished my first year at Syracuse University pursuing my BFA in Acting. This degree is helping me pursue my dream of being an actor. I want to be an actor because no place on Earth makes me feel more at home than on a stage. Ever since I was six years old and played Wendy in Peter Pan at my local summer camp, I knew I wanted to be on stage. Over the years a lot has changed in my life. I have lived in several different houses, attended several different schools, and played several different sports. Throughout it all one thing remained the same, my love for acting. All of my life I have been in shows (community, school, etc) and every single time my passion for it only grows stronger. Not just being on the stage, but the training and hard work that goes into the craft. I love how in acting you are able to tell someone else’s story, but at the same time add in aspects of yourself and your life. A lot of people have a hobby or activity that helps them blow off steam and escape the stress and realities of their own lives, for some it’s lifting weights at the gym or shooting hoops on the basketball court, for me that activity is acting. I can channel all of the good, bad and in between into my performance. The out of body feeling I get when I am so into a performance is a feeling that I will never forget. Not to mention the freedom and creativity that comes along with acting. I can be any type of character, one job I could be playing a cop, the other job, a criminal. Whether it is through a play, musical, or a movie, a story of a famous celebrity, politician, or just an ordinary person whose story I get to portray. Not only can you play a variety of roles but all of it can help do something that is extraordinary and rare in today’s world, unite people. In August I saw Dear Evan Hansen in Philadelphia. For those two and a half hours, everyone in the theater was in the same place, at the same time, united, with one thing in common, what show they were seeing. As we all sat in our seats, we watched the incredible actors tell an amazing story which took us as an audience on one emotional rollercoaster. There is so much creativity and imagination that surrounds acting, It is an exciting, whirlwind field that I am eager and anxious to explore. Growing up I always dreamt of turning my passion into a career, now I am making that dream come true.

I just finished my first year of BFA acting training at Syracuse University. As part of the first-year curriculum, there are four student conferences throughout the year. This means that at the middle and end of each semester, I receive feedback from several of my acting professors on my performance in class: what I am doing well, what I am not doing well, and what to improve upon going forward. Each one of my conferences throughout the year has benefited me, helping me put my training into perspective and better myself as a performer and student. Each of my conferences has been filled with advice from my professors that has stuck with me, but there is one specific piece that I will never forget. When it came time for my final conference of the year during the last week of class, I was feeling a mixture of nerves and excitement. I was proud of the hard work I had already done but was still scared about what my professors would say. One of my favorite professors, Thom Miller, said to me, “Pauline, sometimes you don’t fully commit to your choices because they are bold, but you’re scared. You work very hard to become a good actor, but what I really want you to do is focus on becoming the bravest person in the room.” He explained further, “The choices you make are brilliant but not fully committed to, but by being the bravest in the room and committing, you will become a great actor.” These words were forever engraved in my mind after hearing them. When I look back on my life in thirty years, I want to be able to tell myself that I followed that piece of advice. In thirty years, I will consider my life successful if I have been performing for the majority of it. I want to perform in National Tours, Broadway, television, film, and the West End. A career like that will be made by making the brave choice, by putting everything into every performance and every audition room I set foot into. Additionally, I aim to challenge myself by taking on a variety of roles that push my boundaries and help me grow as an actor. Although I have my goals of where I want to perform, at heart, I want to do what I love. I know it may sound corny or cheesy, but to me, “making it” in this industry means that I am constantly performing. I want to be constantly in and out of auditions, rehearsal rooms, and performances. Moreover, I aspire to leave a positive impact on every project I am part of, ensuring that my dedication and passion inspire others around me. Most importantly, I will find success in the way my co-workers describe me. It is my sincere hope that people say I am a good actor but an even greater person. As my career goes on, I want each contract to be filled with amazing friendships and bonds that I create with my fellow cast and crew members. Building a supportive and creative community within the industry is just as important to me as achieving personal success. By fostering meaningful relationships and showing genuine kindness and respect to everyone I work with, I believe I can contribute to a positive and collaborative environment in the performing arts.

I believe in the small things, and that is how I plan to make a positive impact in the world—by doing the small things. My passion for service started in middle and high school, when I was a part of community service clubs. Within these clubs, I had the opportunity to volunteer throughout my community. Sometimes it was helping with “Night to Shine,” a special needs prom for a few hours, a morning hanging out with disabled kids, or serving food at a soup kitchen. Each of these events only took up a small amount of my time, but they made a positive impact in my community. When I’m not directly serving, I continue my dedication to the small things. I try to help out with the little things as much as I can, from holding the door for a stranger, picking up trash, offering food to any homeless person I pass by, and so much more. These small acts of kindness accumulate over time, creating ripples of positivity that can spread far and wide. I believe that even the smallest gesture can make a significant difference in someone's day and, ultimately, in the world. In my first year at Syracuse, everybody living on campus is required to purchase an unlimited dining plan. On my way to class, there are sometimes one or two homeless people two streets away from campus. With my unlimited dining plan, I found this as an opportunity. In the dining hall, there are protein bars, bags of chips, and easy grab-and-go food items. Due to my dining plan, I would always grab double and keep them in my backpack to give if I ran into someone in need of food on the street. A Kind bar may not be much, but I hope it helped a little to those people in need. I believe that people are like plants; they are products of their surroundings. By that, I mean you can’t give a plant no water and keep them in a dark room, and then wonder why it isn’t growing. I believe that everyone is born good, but the darkness of the world can keep it shielded, stopping it from blooming. It is my hope that my positive attitude and love can help everyone blossom. Ultimately, my philosophy is that change starts with one person and one small act at a time. By continuing to engage in these small but meaningful actions and encouraging others to do the same, I hope to create a ripple effect of kindness and positivity that can influence the world around me. I am committed to this path, knowing that even the smallest contributions can lead to significant and lasting change.

When I was six years old I played Wendy in Peter Pan at my local summer camp, and I knew I wanted to be on stage. Over the years a lot has changed in my life. I have lived in several different houses, attended several different schools, and played several different sports. Throughout it all one thing remained the same, my love for acting. All of my life I have been in shows (community, school, etc) and every single time my passion for it only grows stronger. Not just being on the stage, but the training and hard work that goes into the craft. A lot of people have a hobby or activity that helps them blow off steam and escape the stress and realities of their own lives, for some it’s lifting weights at the gym or shooting hoops on the basketball court, for me that activity is acting. I can channel all of the good, bad and in between into my performance. The out of body feeling I get when I am so into a performance is a feeling that I will never forget. Not to mention the freedom and creativity that comes along with acting. Additionally I love how I can help unite people. In August I saw Dear Evan Hansen in Philadelphia. For those two and a half hours, everyone in the theater was in the same place, at the same time, united, with one thing in common, what show they were seeing. As we all sat in our seats, we watched the incredible actors tell an amazing story which took us as an audience on one emotional rollercoaster. There is so much creativity and imagination that surrounds acting, it is an exciting, whirlwind field that I am eager and anxious to explore. Growing up I always dreamt of turning my passion into a career, now I am making that dream come true. We all know as soon as you begin High School, so do questions about your college and major. Luckily for me, from my freshmen year, my high school director told me that if I was really passionate about pursuing acting, I should audition for college BFA programs. When the time came junior and senior year, that's exactly what I did. From the first time I toured Syracuse and learned about their acting program, I knew it was my first choice. The program had top notch training, study abroad options, and everything I could ask for in a program. It became my number one choice, but I knew that it was very competitive, with a class size of 28 from over 1,000 applicants and I never dreamt that I could get in. Still I worked hard with several coaches, put in the work, and it paid off. I will never forget the feeling I had opening my acceptance letter, especially the happy tears my mom and I shed while we hugged each other after. Now finishing my first year at my dream program I can't wait to continue all the growth I have already made. However, Syracuse is a private University with a very expensive tuition, which will be increasing another $10,000 next school year. This worries my family, and any scholarship amount would help offset the cost, so that I can continue doing what I love.

Back in elementary school, I was 7 years old and it was a snow day! Of course like any other young kid who lived in a snowy climate, I loved snow days. Not only did I love them because we didn't have school but I loved what the day would entail. I loved waking up halfway through the day, I loved walking over to my neighbors door and asking to go sledding. I loved the snowball fights that would follow, I loved how we would sit in our pajamas in front of the fire place while our wet clothes was in the dryer and that is exactly what we did this snow day. Now my best friend Lizzy and I were sitting in our pajamas with mugs of hot chocolate trying to decide what movie we should watch. Then my older brother came into the room and suggested we play Mario Kart instead. We each grabbed a controller and started the game. Our competitive selves got so competitive, we would actually bump each other when we hit the other with a mushroom, and our full bodies would drift when our characters did. Our competitive energy was at an all time high when it came to the last game. My brother was in first place and I was in second (as a younger sister, beating my brother for first place in Mario Kart felt like the equivalent to finding a bar of gold). We both were on our final lap, and I was right behind him, I was so close to beating him, I could taste the victory in my mouth. Until, the final turn in rainbow road, I had gotten too excited and didn't drift enough. My car went sliding off along with all of hope of winning. I yelled "nooooo" and as soon as the little cloud dropped me back off on the track I drifted with my full body. The only problem with that is, I was so into the game I had no awareness where I was and more importantly my mug of hot chocolate. Trying to drift I leaned my whole body to the right, leaning over the coffee table, right where my mug was. My momentum had knocked over my mug and the hot chocolate spilled all over the rug. All three of us were in disbelief, me more from losing to my brother but also the massive spill on the carpet. In a panic as soon as we all crossed the finish line (my best friend ended in 12th, as usual), all three of us raced to the kitchen to grab some paper towels. We dabbed up as much as we could and then there were still little puddles spread out on the carpet. Then, we heard one of the most terrifying sounds a child could hear, the footsteps of their parent. We all look up and then at each other with worry in our face. Then we noticed, the stain was barely noticeable, and took a collective deep breath. Luckily for us, my mother did not notice the stain on the carpet either. That carpet remained in my living with the stain, until my senior year of high school, when my mom decided she wanted to switch it up and get a new one.

Currently I am a freshman at Syracuse University studying to get a BFA in acting. I want to be an actor because no place on Earth makes me feel more at home than on a stage. Ever since I was six years old and played Wendy in Peter Pan at my local summer camp, I knew I wanted to be on stage. Over the years a lot has changed in my life. I have lived in several different houses, attended several different schools, and played several different sports. Throughout it all one thing remained the same, my love for acting. All of my life I have been in shows (community, school, etc) and every single time my passion for it only grows stronger. Not just being on the stage, but the training and hard work that goes into the craft. I love how in acting you are able to tell someone else’s story, but at the same time add in aspects of yourself and your life. A lot of people have a hobby or activity that helps them blow off steam and escape the stress and realities of their own lives, for some it’s lifting weights at the gym or shooting hoops on the basketball court, for me that activity is acting. I can channel all of the good, bad and in between into my performance. The out of body feeling I get when I am so into a performance is a feeling that I will never forget. Not to mention the freedom and creativity that comes along with acting. I can be any type of character, one job I could be playing a cop, the other job, a criminal, the one after that I am playing an alien! The possibilities are endless! Whether it is through a play, musical, or a movie, a story of a famous celebrity, politician, or just an ordinary person or maybe even an animal, it does not matter whose story I get to portray, my passion and desire to tell the story will never go away. As an actor not only can you play a variety of roles but all of it can help do something that is extraordinary and rare in today’s world, unite people. Last August I saw Dear Evan Hansen in Philadelphia. For those two and a half hours, everyone in the theater was in the same place, at the same time, united, with one thing in common, what show they were seeing. As we all sat in our seats, we watched the incredible actors tell an amazing story which took us as an audience on one emotional rollercoaster. There is so much creativity and imagination that surrounds acting, It is an exciting, whirlwind field that I am eager and anxious to explore. Growing up I always dreamt of turning my passion into a career, now I am making that dream come true.

“It roars”, I hear Erika Henningsen sing in Mean Girls on Broadway. I was thirteen and it was my first Broadway show. Seeing the Original Broadway cast of Mean Girls on Broadway was so amazing, it instilled in me what I had known for such a long time, I wanted to be an actor. When I was six, I played Wendy in my summer camp's production of Peter Pan, then I got the lead in my third grade musical. My love for performing only grew the more I did it. Over the years a lot has changed in my life. I have lived in several different houses, attended several different schools, and played several different sports. Throughout it all one thing remained the same, my love for acting. I went from my middle school musical, community theatre, to intensives in New York to work with Broadway actors and industry professionals, my high school’s musical and now I am studying for my BFA in acting at Syracuse University, one of the most renowned programs in the country. Like many people, I have thought about what college I wanted to go to ever since I knew what it was. Especially, my parents both being the first in their family to attend, a college degree has a whole nother meaning to me. Growing up I always dreamt of being an actor but I figured it was just that, a dream. Until I grew up and realized that there are successful actors out there. The performing arts program at my high school alone has several alumni who also went on to complete their acting degrees and now are professional working actors. A combination of the support of my family, friends, and directors and the opportunities around me, I realized that I can go to college for acting. The audition process was no easy task, from working two part time jobs to afford audition coaching, having two - three auditions a week, all while maintaining my good grades and staying involved in extracurriculars. At the end of it, all the hard work was worth it. I had been accepted into my dream program at Syracuse University. With only 50 being offered admission out of the 1,000 applicants it was a huge honor and still I can not believe it's real. The program has everything I could ask for and I am loving every minute of my training. I am receiving conservatory-style training taught by working actors and industry professionals. I also am looking forward to studying abroad in London my junior year and in New York for the final semester of my senior year. There is so much this program has to offer and I am so grateful that I get to take it all in. At the end of my four years I hope to move to New York or Los Angeles and pursue a full time acting career. I hope to be on Broadway, West End, television Shows, movies and so much more. I know it will not be easy but, I know it is what I am passionate about.