The first time I stayed after school for extra help, I thought I was being punished. In fourth grade, I struggled with focus and was pulled out of recess for tutoring. At the time, it felt embarrassing. But looking back, that small, consistent intervention planted something much bigger than improved grades. It planted discipline. My goal became simple but personal. I wanted to prove to myself that I could grow beyond my weaknesses. Instead of resisting help, I leaned into it. I began asking more questions in class. I practiced staying present instead of daydreaming. I treated tutoring not as a setback, but as an opportunity to strengthen skills I lacked. Over time, my grades improved, but more importantly, my mindset changed. I learned that growth rarely comes from comfort. It comes from consistent, intentional effort. That lesson followed me into high school. As a member of the band, I faced another challenge, confidence. Performing in front of others exposed every mistake. Rather than shrinking back, I applied the same discipline I learned years earlier. I created structured practice schedules and asked for feedback from peers. Small improvements each day built confidence over time. By senior year, I was not just playing notes. I was contributing to something larger than myself. Band taught me that consistency, encouragement, and teamwork create powerful results, even if the progress feels small at first. Outside the classroom, I have sought ways to reflect those same values in my community. Through volunteering and supporting peers academically, I learned that sometimes the most meaningful impact comes from quiet encouragement, helping someone understand a difficult concept or simply showing up when others need support. These moments may seem small, but they shape confidence and belief in lasting ways. Now, as I pursue a degree in chemical engineering at the University of Texas at San Antonio, my next goal is to use discipline and service to create impact on a larger scale. Chemical engineering challenges me academically, but it also positions me to contribute to solutions in energy, sustainability, and manufacturing that affect entire communities. I plan to engage in engineering organizations, collaborative projects, and service initiatives that allow me to mentor others, especially students who may doubt their potential the way I once did. The Sewing Seeds scholarship honors the power of small, faithful actions. My journey reflects that truth. A tutoring session. A practice schedule. A word of encouragement. Each was a small seed planted through consistency and care. Today, I continue working toward becoming not only a skilled engineer, but someone who intentionally sows confidence, discipline, and opportunity into others. Because what begins as a small act of effort can grow into something far greater than we imagine.

Growing up as the youngest in a single-mother household, I learned early on that strength isn't just loud; it's quiet, constant, and built through love and sacrifice. My name is Daniel Ibidapo, and I’m a graduating senior preparing to attend the University of Texas at San Antonio as a chemical engineering major. I’m the youngest of four siblings and the son of a single mother. Growing up in a single-parent household has deeply shaped the way I view the world, and it’s a big part of why I’m determined to create a future full of purpose and impact. Being the youngest in my family meant watching a lot happen before it was my turn. I saw my mom juggle work, responsibilities, and love for all of us without ever giving up. Her strength and sacrifices taught me the value of resilience. She raised four children on her own, never letting her struggles define our future. That example showed me that success isn’t just about talent or intelligence; it’s about grit, consistency, and heart. From a young age, I understood the importance of stepping up, even when I was still learning. Whether it was helping out around the house, managing my schoolwork, or encouraging my siblings when they needed support, I knew I had a role to play. That sense of responsibility matured me early and made me appreciate everything my mom gave us, even when resources were tight. In high school, I found a space where I could grow through the band. At first, I was shy and unsure of myself. But over time, music helped me come out of my shell. I learned how to work as a team, how to lead quietly but effectively, and how to build meaningful relationships. It was through band that I truly gained confidence in who I was and who I could become. My interest in chemical engineering stems from a love for solving problems and a desire to give back. I’m drawn to sustainable solutions, things that can improve energy, protect the environment, and help communities like mine. I want to be a part of the next generation of engineers who not only invent but also serve. Beyond my career, I hope to mentor students from low-income or single-parent backgrounds and let them know they can achieve great things too. Iliana Arie Velez’s story inspires me. Her passion, her drive, and her heart mirror the kind of impact I hope to make. Her words, “You got this,” are simple but powerful, reminding me that no matter how hard the path gets, I have the strength to keep going. Receiving this scholarship would not just ease the financial burden of college. It would be a vote of confidence in my potential. I’m honored to apply in Iliana’s memory and thankful for the opportunity to continue my journey with the same energy and purpose she lived by.