Writing has always been a way for me to express myself, explore new ideas, and connect with others. From a young age, I found comfort and joy in the written word, whether it was crafting imaginative stories, writing essays for school, or reflecting on my personal experiences. For me, writing has always been more than just a skill—it’s a way of making sense of the world and my place in it. Writing allows me to capture the emotions and thoughts swirling in my mind and transform them into something meaningful that I can share with others. What I love most about writing is its ability to evoke change. Words can inform, inspire, and challenge us. They can open our minds, shift our perspectives, and even change the way we think or act. Writing allows me to communicate my thoughts in ways that I might not be able to express otherwise. Whether it’s a heartfelt letter, an essay on a topic I’m passionate about, or a short story, writing has always been a means to create connections and make an impact. It’s a tool for not only sharing ideas but for understanding others. Through writing, I’ve learned to appreciate diverse perspectives and developed an awareness of the world that I might not have had otherwise. Beyond personal growth, writing also provides a sense of fulfillment. I enjoy the process of putting my ideas on paper and seeing them take shape into something more coherent and complete. The satisfaction I get from writing comes not only from the end result but from the journey itself—the creative problem-solving, the exploration of different viewpoints, and the refining of ideas. Writing is an evolving skill that challenges me to think critically and communicate effectively, and I find immense joy in that process. As I prepare to enter college and pursue my career in dental hygiene, writing will continue to play an important role in my life. While my main focus will be on my studies and future profession, writing is an essential skill in any field. Whether I’m writing research papers, case studies, or reflecting on my experiences in journals, I plan to continue using writing as a tool for both academic success and personal growth. Effective communication is crucial in healthcare, and writing will allow me to express complex ideas clearly and concisely. In addition to academic writing, I also hope to continue creative writing in college. I’ve always been fascinated by how stories can convey powerful messages and evoke emotions. I want to explore writing for personal expression, whether through poetry, short stories, or even writing for social causes that matter to me. I believe that writing has the power to bring awareness to important issues and to inspire others, and I want to be a part of that process. Through this scholarship, I hope to honor Ryan Stripling’s legacy and his motto, “Words create worlds.” Like him, I believe in the transformative power of writing, and I am excited to continue my journey with writing as a central part of my education and life’s work. This scholarship would allow me to continue writing throughout college and beyond, using my words to make a positive impact.

I have chosen to pursue a career in dental hygiene because it combines my passion for helping others with my love for improving details. From a young age, I have appreciated the importance of a healthy smile, not only for its impact on a person’s health but also for the confidence it brings. My academic and personal experiences have solidified my decision to pursue dental hygiene as the perfect field for me. As a high school student, I am completing the prerequisites for Carrington College’s Dental Hygiene program through Treasure Valley Community College while gaining hands-on experience interning at my local dentist’s office. I work three hours a day, four days a week, and by the end of this semester, I will have completed over 170 hours of practical experience. This internship has only deepened my passion for the field and confirmed my desire to help others improve their oral health. In addition to my academic and professional pursuits, I have demonstrated leadership and dedication through my role as editor of my high school yearbook for the past two years. My responsibilities included designing layouts and ensuring the quality of our publications, which directly contributed to increased sales. These skills—attention to detail, organization, and creative problem-solving—are directly transferable to my future work in dental hygiene, where precision and care are key. My journey toward dental hygiene began in my junior year of high school when I participated in a hands-on module that introduced me to the field. I was captivated by the direct impact dental care has on a person’s health and self-esteem. After touring Carrington College’s dental hygiene facilities, I was certain I had found my path. Next year, I will continue my studies at Central Arizona Community College, where I will complete science prerequisites in person to build a strong foundation for my education. These courses, along with additional dental-related classes, will strengthen my application to Carrington College’s competitive program and further prepare me for success. I’m inspired by the advice of my mentor, Alyssa Atherly, a dental hygienist with over 30 years of experience. Her enthusiasm and love for her work are contagious, and her guidance reinforces my desire to pursue this career with dedication and confidence. Alyssa’s advice to “do it” reflects the excitement and fulfillment that comes from making a real difference in people’s lives. Ultimately, I want to use my skills and compassion to serve others, particularly in underserved communities where access to dental care is limited. With hard work and determination, I am committed to becoming a dental hygienist who improves smiles, builds confidence, and educates patients on the importance of oral health. This scholarship will help me continue to pursue my goals and create a meaningful impact in the field.

Being raised in a blended family with siblings from my dad’s first marriage taught me lessons in resilience, independence, and empathy that have shaped who I am today. My sister and brother, though close to me in spirit, were much older and often spent time with their mother, leaving me feeling alone and missing them, especially my sister. During holidays and even my own birthdays, I had to wait until they could visit to celebrate with them. This often left me feeling left out, as they had a whole other family that I wasn’t a part of. Trying to explain our family dynamics to others was always challenging because, to me, it didn’t feel any different from what other siblings shared. Yet, it was a unique situation that required me to learn how to navigate the complexities of a blended family. Despite the challenges, these experiences taught me some of my greatest strengths. I learned how to be resilient, managing my emotions during times of separation from my siblings. I also became very independent, as both of my parents worked full-time jobs, which meant I spent a lot of time on my own. Though it was difficult at times, I found ways to entertain myself and focus on my own interests. This independence was a blessing in disguise, allowing me to grow more self-reliant and capable. One of the most important lessons I learned, however, was how to be happy for others even when I wasn't feeling the same joy myself. I often had to share my siblings with their other family, but over time, I realized that supporting their relationships with their mother was an essential part of fostering peace in our blended family. I became a peacemaker, striving to keep harmony and understanding between my parents, siblings, and myself. This ability to accept and support others, regardless of circumstances, has remained a core value that I carry with me today. As I look to the future, I hope to use my strengths of resilience, independence, and empathy to help others, no matter what career I ultimately pursue. I’ve always felt a deep desire to uplift others, to make them feel loved and accepted, especially those who may feel out of place or marginalized. Whether I end up working as a dental hygienist or in another field, I know that I want to use my talents to make people feel comfortable and valued. I want to create a space where others feel seen, supported, and understood, just as I’ve strived to do for my family. My experiences have taught me that even in difficult or complex situations, we can find ways to embrace others and grow from our challenges. I want to bring this mindset to whatever path I take, ensuring that I use my strength of independence not only to achieve my goals but also to lift others along the way. In a world that often feels divided, I hope to be a person who creates unity and joy for those around me, just as I’ve worked to do within my own family.

I am passionate about pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene because it allows me to turn my deep-rooted desire to help others into a meaningful career. Growing up in a small, rural community has profoundly shaped who I am and why I am committed to this path. My experiences have instilled in me a sense of responsibility to give back and make a difference, especially in under served areas like the one I call home. The community I grew up in is small but mighty. With a population of just over 100 students at my high school and a town that consists of a feed store, a post office, and a cafe doubling as a gas station and convenience store, it’s fair to say we live a very different lifestyle compared to most. Our closest “real” city is more than two hours away, which means even the simplest things—like groceries or medical appointments—often require a full day’s journey. Despite these challenges, my town has always been a place of unwavering support and connection. Everyone knows everyone, and the kindness here runs deep. People don’t hesitate to step up when someone is in need, whether it’s lending a hand on a ranch, organizing fundraisers for families facing hardship, or just offering a friendly smile and conversation. This sense of community has been instrumental in shaping my values and aspirations. It’s in this environment that I learned the importance of service and the joy that comes from helping others. In our small town, helping someone isn’t optional—it’s simply what you do. Whether it was volunteering at school events, helping neighbors with odd jobs, or simply offering moral support, I discovered how fulfilling it is to make a positive impact on someone’s life. However, growing up here also exposed me to the realities of healthcare inequity. Many of my friends and neighbors have had to go without proper medical or dental care because of the time, cost, or distance involved in accessing it. Dental care, in particular, is a significant gap in our area. People often put off routine visits until minor issues become serious problems. Seeing this has been eye-opening and heartbreaking, but it has also motivated me to pursue a career in dental hygiene. I want to be part of the solution, ensuring that people in communities like mine have access to compassionate, high-quality care. Dental hygiene is more than just cleaning teeth; it’s about creating healthier lives. Oral health is closely connected to overall well-being, and untreated dental issues can lead to a host of other problems. I’m passionate about educating others on how to care for their teeth and gums, empowering them to take control of their health. Through my degree, I will gain the knowledge and skills to make this a reality. I am particularly drawn to preventive care, which aligns with my belief in addressing problems before they become crises. By helping patients maintain their oral health, I can contribute to their overall happiness and confidence. One of the aspects of dental hygiene that excites me most is the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with patients. In a small community like mine, relationships are everything. People don’t just want competent care—they want to feel seen and valued. I want to be the kind of dental hygienist who creates a welcoming, judgment-free environment for every patient. I want them to feel comfortable sharing their concerns and confident that I will listen and provide the best care possible. My ultimate goal is to return to a rural community after completing my degree. I want to bring the same sense of warmth and belonging that I grew up with to the people I serve. Sitting in my chair, I want patients to experience not just excellent care but also genuine kindness. I want to meet everyone with a friendly smile and a caring heart, just as I’ve been blessed to experience in my hometown. Earning a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene is more than just a step toward a career—it’s a way to live out my values and make a lasting impact. I want to give back to communities that often feel forgotten by the healthcare system. Through my education and career, I will work to close the gaps in access to care, ensuring that everyone, no matter where they live, has the opportunity to lead a healthy life. My passion for dental hygiene stems not only from my desire to help others but also from the understanding that healthcare, especially oral healthcare, is a basic necessity that should never be out of reach. My passion is deeply rooted in the experiences and lessons I’ve gained from my small-town upbringing. The people here have shaped me into someone who values compassion, hard work, and service. By pursuing this degree, I am honoring the community that has given me so much while working to bring those same values to others. I am excited to embark on this journey and make a meaningful difference, one smile at a time.

The community I grew up in is incredibly small, but it has shaped me in ways I will carry for the rest of my life. Crane Union High School, where I am a student, has a population of just 116. Our home is over two hours from what most would call a city, and our local businesses consist of a feed store, a post office, and a cafe that doubles as a gas station and convenience store. Living in such an isolated area has its challenges, but there is truly nothing like it. Everyone knows you on a first-name basis and would give you the shirt off their back if you needed it. Not only do they know you, but they also know your parents and, most likely, your grandparents, too. This tight-knit environment has given me an incredible sense of belonging, confidence, and safety throughout my life. Growing up here, I have learned the value of community and the importance of helping others. In a place where lending a hand to someone in need is not just encouraged but expected, I discovered how much I enjoy serving others. This strong sense of connection and mutual support has deeply influenced the person I am today. It has also sparked my passion for public service, especially in areas like mine where resources are limited. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned living in a small community is how under served rural areas are when it comes to healthcare. From dental services to general medical care, many of my neighbors face significant challenges accessing quality treatment. This realization has fueled my desire to make a difference. I want to be part of the solution by pursuing a career as a dental hygienist. After completing my education, I plan to return to a community like the one I grew up in and serve the people who need it most. Sitting in my chair, my future patients will receive more than dental care—they will find a friendly face and a caring heart. The sense of support and compassion that I have experienced growing up here is something I want to pass on to others. My community has given me so much, and I am determined to give back by making a positive impact in the lives of those who often go overlooked. In this way, my small hometown has not only shaped my future goals but also inspired me to help others achieve healthier, happier lives.