As an avid reader and a member of the Reading for Justice Book Club at my high school, I’ve always been drawn to stories that challenge perspectives, foster empathy, and highlight diverse voices. When I first discovered #BookTok, I was thrilled to find a community of readers who share similar interests, where books that explore important social issues are celebrated and discussed. My ideal bookshelf, inspired by #BookTok recommendations, would be filled with titles that have not only resonated with me personally but have also made a significant impact on the #BookTok community by amplifying diverse voices and encouraging meaningful conversations. One of the must-have titles on my bookshelf is "Feminist AF: A Guide to Crushing Girlhood" by Brittney Cooper, Susana Morris, and Chanel Craft Tanner. This guidebook, which combines humor with serious discussions about feminism, has been a favorite on #BookTok for its relatable approach to empowering young women. The themes of self-confidence, resilience, and activism in this book have been especially impactful for me as I navigate my own journey of self-discovery. The #BookTok community has embraced this book, with many readers sharing how it has helped them feel more confident in their identities and motivated to advocate for gender equality. Another essential title is "Maus" by Art Spiegelman. This Pulitzer Prize-winning graphic novel tells the harrowing story of the Holocaust through the lens of a son interviewing his father, a Holocaust survivor. "Maus" has been a significant title on #BookTok, where its powerful depiction of trauma, survival, and memory has sparked deep conversations about the impact of history on the present. For me, "Maus" has been a poignant reminder of the importance of remembering and learning from the past to ensure that such atrocities never happen again. "Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You" by Jason Reynolds and Ibram X. Kendi is another book that has had a profound impact on both my personal growth and the #BookTok community. This book offers an accessible yet powerful exploration of the history of racism in America and encourages readers to confront and challenge these issues in their daily lives. For me, "Stamped" was an eye-opening read that deepened my understanding of systemic racism and fueled my desire to advocate for social justice. Lastly, "Gender Queer" by Maia Kobabe is a title that has garnered much attention on #BookTok, especially given its frequent appearance on banned book lists. This memoir, which explores Kobabe's journey with gender identity and sexual orientation, has resonated deeply with many readers, including myself. The book's honest and raw portrayal of the challenges and triumphs of navigating identity in a world that often misunderstands or rejects difference has sparked important conversations about inclusivity and acceptance. For me, "Gender Queer" has been both a source of comfort and a call to action, inspiring me to continue advocating for LGBTQ+ rights. These books, all of which have been popular on #BookTok, reflect the power of literature to inspire change, foster understanding, and bring people together. My ideal bookshelf is not just a collection of great stories, but a tool for learning, empathy, and activism. Each of these titles has had a profound impact on both my personal growth and the #BookTok community, encouraging readers to engage with difficult topics and to think critically about the world around them. #BookTok has shown me that books can be more than just a form of entertainment—they can be a means of sparking important conversations and inspiring action. My ideal bookshelf, inspired by #BookTok, is a testament to the power of literature to make a difference in the world, one reader at a time.

Minecraft has been a constant in my life for years, serving as both a creative outlet and a source of endless adventure. While there are countless aspects of the game that I enjoy, the one that resonates most deeply with me is the ability to build and create entire worlds from scratch. The freedom to shape landscapes, construct intricate buildings, and design detailed environments taps into my love for art and creativity in a way that no other game has ever done. One of my favorite aspects of Minecraft is the ability to create large-scale projects, similar to the murals I’ve worked on in real life. Just as I take pride in designing and painting murals that bring life and color to neighborhoods, I find immense satisfaction in using Minecraft to construct virtual spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Whether I’m building a sprawling medieval castle or a modern city skyline, the process of planning, designing, and bringing a structure to life in the game is incredibly rewarding. Minecraft has also been a great way to collaborate with others. Much like working on community art projects, building in Minecraft often involves teamwork and communication. I’ve spent hours working with friends to construct complex builds, each of us contributing our unique skills and ideas to create something greater than what we could achieve alone. This collaborative aspect of the game mirrors my experiences with group projects and community service, where teamwork is key to success. Another reason Minecraft resonates with me so deeply is its open-ended nature. The game provides a canvas where creativity knows no bounds. This mirrors my approach to art in the real world, where I’m always experimenting with new techniques and ideas, pushing the limits of what I can create. Minecraft offers that same freedom, allowing me to try out new designs and concepts without the constraints that often come with traditional art forms. Exploration is another aspect of Minecraft that I love. The thrill of discovering new biomes, uncovering hidden treasures, and navigating through dangerous dungeons has always kept me coming back to the game. This sense of adventure mirrors my curiosity and love for learning in real life. Just as I explore different subjects and ideas in school, I explore the vast and varied worlds of Minecraft, each new discovery fueling my desire to learn and grow. In many ways, Minecraft is more than just a game to me—it’s a platform that allows me to express my creativity, collaborate with others, and satisfy my curiosity. It has taught me valuable lessons about planning, teamwork, and perseverance, all of which are skills I carry with me into my everyday life. Whether I’m working on an art project, participating in community service, or tackling a challenging class assignment, the experiences I’ve had in Minecraft have helped shape the way I approach problems and find solutions. Minecraft’s endless possibilities have not only provided me with countless hours of enjoyment but have also played a significant role in my development as a creative and driven individual. The game has taught me to think outside the box, work well with others, and never stop exploring—all traits that I believe will serve me well in the future.

Throughout my high school years, I have been deeply involved in various forms of community service and volunteering, driven by a desire to make a positive impact on the world around me. My love for history, art, and the environment has guided my community involvement, and I am eager to continue this work as I move forward in my education. One of my most significant commitments has been with the Fort Hayes Historical Society. Our work focuses on preserving and sharing the history of our school and the broader Central Ohio community. One particularly meaningful project involved researching the life of Washington Townshend, the first Black man hired at Ohio State University. This project was featured on a PBS show, and it deepened my understanding of the importance of preserving stories that might otherwise be forgotten. Being part of this project reinforced my belief in the power of history to connect us to our past and shape our future. In addition to my work with the Historical Society, I have spent the past three years involved in Artsway Columbus, where I participated in mural projects that aimed to beautify neighborhoods in Columbus. Working alongside local artists and other students, I helped design and paint murals that are now permanent fixtures in the communities we served. These murals tell the stories of the neighborhoods and the people who live there, bringing art and a sense of pride to the community. This experience not only allowed me to contribute to the community but also helped me grow as an artist, learning how art can be used to connect people and bring a community together. My involvement with the Green Team at Fort Hayes has also been a significant part of my high school experience. Our team works on sustainability initiatives, environmental education, and gardening projects, but we’ve also reached beyond the school to make an impact on the broader community. Last year, I wrote a grant that earned money to improve our campus garden and expand our sustainability efforts. This grant allowed us to implement new projects that have made a lasting impact on both our school and the local community. Through this work, I have learned that small actions can lead to significant change and that environmental stewardship is a responsibility we all share. As I look ahead to starting college, I’m excited about the opportunity to further my education. I’m committed to continuing my community service work and using what I learn to give back even more. This scholarship would play a crucial role in helping me achieve these goals by easing the financial burden of college. It would allow me to focus on both my studies and my ongoing efforts to make a difference in the community. Erich and Frieda Schmid’s legacy of kindness and generosity is something I aspire to uphold in my own life. This scholarship would support my educational goals and help me continue working towards making the world a better place, just as they did.

My love for art has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. From the time I could hold a crayon, I was fascinated by the ability to create something out of nothing—turning blank pages into worlds of color and imagination. As I grew older, this interest turned into a passion, driven by the desire to express myself and communicate in ways that words sometimes couldn't capture. A key moment in my artistic journey happened when I attended Fort Hayes Arts & Academic High School. The school’s focus on both academics and the arts provided me with an environment where creativity was not just encouraged but celebrated. This supportive environment allowed me to explore various mediums and find my artistic voice. My introduction to mural art, however, came through my involvement with Artsway Columbus, where I had the opportunity to work with Jeremy Jarvis, a mural artist who became a significant influence on my artistic development. Jeremy is an incredibly talented artist and a dedicated mentor who has a unique ability to bring out the best in those he works with. His approach to art is all about storytelling, using murals to capture the essence of a community, its history, and its dreams for the future. Jeremy’s work in the Hilltop area of Columbus is particularly inspiring to me. His murals are not just beautiful; they are powerful visual stories that tell the tales of the neighborhoods they are in. Working alongside him, I learned how to think about the bigger picture—how to create art that is not just pleasing to look at but also meaningful and impactful. Jeremy’s ability to connect with the community and translate its stories into visual form is something I aim for in my own work. What I admire most about Jeremy is his dedication to using art as a tool for positive change. He taught me that art is not just about self-expression but also about giving back to the community and creating spaces that inspire and uplift others. This way of thinking has shaped my approach to art, pushing me to think beyond the canvas and consider how my work can contribute to the world around me. My love for art comes from the belief that creativity has the power to bring people together, to tell stories that might otherwise go untold, and to make the world a more connected place. As I prepare to pursue a degree in the arts, I am motivated by the lessons I’ve learned from Jeremy and the desire to continue growing as both an artist and a community member. The Hilda Klinger Memorial Scholarship would help me as I work toward my dream of furthering my education in the arts. Although I did not know Hilda personally, I am inspired by her story and her passion for art, which resonates with my own journey. I am committed to carrying forward the legacy of artists like Hilda, using my talents to contribute positively to the community and to inspire others, just as Jeremy has inspired me.

Attending Fort Hayes Arts & Academic High School has been an incredible experience for me. As an arts and music magnet school, it’s a place where creativity thrives in every corner. While my focus has been on the visual arts, being surrounded by so many talented musicians and performers has given me a deep appreciation for music and its impact on all forms of art. One of my closest friends since middle school is an amazing dancer. We’ve spent countless hours talking about how our different art forms—her dance and my painting—can tell stories and convey emotions in unique ways. Watching her perform is always inspiring; the way she moves to the rhythm of the music makes me think about how I can bring that same energy and emotion into my visual work. Her dedication to her craft motivates me to keep pushing myself creatively. I’ve also had the opportunity to photograph many of her performances, capturing the grace and intensity of her movements. Through my lens, I’ve learned to appreciate the nuances of dance and how a single moment, frozen in time, can convey so much emotion and story. In addition to my dancer friend, I’m also surrounded by some incredibly talented musicians. Several of my friends are in the school’s jazz band, and I often attend and photograph their performances. The energy and passion they bring to their music is contagious. Whether they’re playing a slow, soulful piece or a fast, upbeat tune, there’s something about live music that really resonates with me. It’s taught me a lot about the power of collaboration and how different art forms can influence one another. One of my favorite parts of the school day is our outdoor lunches. During these, the drum corps often performs, filling the air with the sound of their drums. It’s hard not to be swept up in the excitement when you hear them play. The rhythm, the synchronization, and the sheer volume of their performance create an atmosphere that’s both energizing and inspiring. Seeing how they work together as a team, each drummer contributing to the overall sound, reminds me of the importance of teamwork in any creative process. Being in such a vibrant and artistic environment has definitely shaped who I am as an artist. Even though my primary focus is on visual arts, the influence of music and performance is always present in my work. Music often sets the mood for my paintings, helping me decide on colors, compositions, and themes. Whether I’m working on a mural or a smaller piece, I find that music helps guide the narrative I’m trying to create. What I’ve learned most from my time at Fort Hayes is that art, in all its forms, is a powerful way to connect with others. My friends who are dancers and musicians have shown me how important it is to express yourself and share your art with the world. They’ve inspired me to think more deeply about my own work and how I can use it to make a positive impact. As I move forward in my education, I’m excited to continue exploring how art and music can intersect. I hope to use what I’ve learned to contribute positively to my community and to keep growing as an artist who appreciates all forms of creativity. Whether through painting, photography, or just being a supportive friend to the talented musicians around me, I’m committed to using art to bring people together and make the world a little bit better.

This past spring, I went on the ultimate adventure with my best friend to see Taylor Swift's Eras Tour in Tennessee. We traveled two states away, filled with excitement and a touch of crazy energy that only Swifties understand. Little did I know, this experience would help me discover new things about myself in the most unexpected and fun ways. The stadium was buzzing with thousands of fans, each dressed up in outfits from their favorite Taylor Swift eras. It was like a giant costume party with sparkles, cowboy boots, and red lipstick everywhere. From the sweet and innocent vibe of "Fearless" to the edgy and mysterious "Reputation," Taylor’s music has always been a big part of my life, guiding me through all sorts of moods and phases. But then, the weather decided to throw a curveball. Storm warnings blared, and we all had to take shelter in the tunnels under the stadium. Instead of being a bummer, it turned into a magical experience. As we crammed into the tunnels, strangers started singing Taylor's songs together. It felt like the biggest karaoke party ever! From "Love Story" to "All Too Well," the tunes echoed through the tunnels, creating an atmosphere of pure joy and connection. In that moment, something clicked for me. I’ve always been kooky and outgoing, but sometimes I felt pressured to dial it down and fit in. But here, surrounded by fellow Swifties, I realized the power of being my true, quirky self. Taylor’s music, especially during the Eras Tour, taught me to embrace every part of me without holding back. Each era of Taylor's music represents a different chapter of her journey, just like my life has its own chapters. From the country charm of "Fearless" to the indie vibes of "Folklore," she’s shown that it's totally okay to change and grow. This really resonated with me. I started seeing my life as a series of fun, colorful eras – the fearless dreamer, the artsy creator, the bold adventurer – and realized that each one is worth celebrating. When the concert finally resumed after the storm, the excitement was off the charts. As Taylor took the stage, I felt a newfound sense of freedom and confidence. Songs like "Shake It Off" and "The Man" became my personal anthems, reminding me to be proud of who I am and to stand tall. The bond with my best friend grew even stronger, as we shared this incredible experience, knowing we were part of something truly special. Taylor Swift's music has always been more than just catchy tunes; it's been a guide, a source of fun, and a spark for self-discovery. The Eras Tour, with its mix of nostalgia and new beginnings, helped me understand that life is all about embracing your true self. It showed me that every quirky, kooky part of me deserves to shine. So, the storm that almost ruined our night ended up being a perfect metaphor for life’s twists and turns. It reminded me that even when things get stormy, there's magic in coming together, finding joy in the chaos, and celebrating every crazy, wonderful era of our lives. Thanks to Taylor Swift’s music, I discovered new sides of myself, and for that, I’ll always be grateful.

Art is an integral part of my identity, shaping my perspective and spurring my ambition to make a positive impact in the world. Growing up in Columbus, Ohio, I have always been surrounded by a supportive and diverse community that has inspired my artistic projects. My passion for art began in childhood, evolving from simple drawings to more complex projects as I explored various mediums and techniques. I love painting, drawing, collage, crochet, pottery, and graphic design, making it difficult to pick a single favorite piece of art. Looking around my room as I write this, I realize that my bedroom itself stands out because it is a blend of all these elements, reflecting my artistic identity and personal history. It holds the memories and inspirations that define me. The walls are covered from floor to ceiling with artwork, photographs, knickknacks, and mementos that capture moments in time and tell the story of my life. Each item has been carefully selected and placed to create a space that is uniquely mine, a sanctuary where I can retreat to relax, read, create art or spend time with friends. What makes my bedroom so special is the little details. There are prints of pictures I took, a vintage camera from a thrift store, a set of plastic teeth, an Aries card, and a variety of stars that always make me happy because they symbolize reaching for my goals. There’s a COTA pass from the public bus, a bracelet from my Grandma’s funeral, and an album cover that reminds me of the winter holiday my family celebrates together. Every friendship, hardship, and relationship has led to the creation of this space. It's more than just a room; it's an extension of myself and my creative process. One of the most meaningful creative experiences to me was my participation in a community-based mural project. Working alongside other artists to create a mural that complemented an existing piece was a powerful reminder of the collaborative nature of art. This project challenged me to think critically about the themes and messages I wanted to convey and how to integrate them into a public space. It also taught me about the varied responses art can evoke, as not everyone in the community was initially supportive of our work. However, the project ultimately fostered dialogue and brought people together, demonstrating art's ability to bridge differences. After college, I aspire to use my art to make the world a better place. I am particularly interested in the intersections of art, history, and social justice. I believe that art can be a powerful tool for advocacy and education, shedding light on marginalized histories and promoting inclusivity. My goal is to create public art projects that celebrate diverse voices and challenge viewers to think critically about social issues. Whether through murals, photography, or mixed media, I want to create work that inspires change and fosters a sense of community. My passion for art is driven by a desire to connect with others and make a positive impact. My bedroom, my favorite piece of art, embodies this connection, representing my journey and the experiences that have shaped me. With the support of the Samantha S. Roberts Scholarship, I am excited to continue my artistic journey and contribute to a more inclusive and vibrant world.

As I prepare to begin my journey at Sarah Lawrence College this fall, I reflect on the experiences and values that have shaped me, particularly the importance of community, kindness, and service. I strive to make a positive impact on others through acts of love and compassion. My involvement in the Fort Hayes Historical Society has enriched my understanding of our community's history and its importance. We preserved and cataloged artifacts, gave tours, and participated in a PBS show episode of Columbus Neighborhoods called "African American Burials at Greenlawn Cemetery." Through this work, I gained a deeper appreciation for the diverse stories that shape our community and the significance of preserving these narratives. One of the most fulfilling aspects of my high school years was my involvement in the Shot Tower Art Gallery, where I served as an intern for three years. In this role, I assisted with the installation and removal of exhibitions, managed events, and engaged with visitors. My efforts were focused on creating a welcoming and inclusive environment where art could be appreciated by all. I believe that art has the power to unite people and spark meaningful conversations, and by making the gallery accessible, I helped foster a sense of community and cultural appreciation. Beyond the gallery, I actively participated in Artsway Columbus and SCRAWL, local organizations dedicated to public art and community engagement. Through these initiatives, I collaborated with professional artists to design and create murals that reflect the diverse cultural heritage of our neighborhood. These projects not only beautified our surroundings but also encouraged dialogue about the role of art in public spaces. My commitment to community service extends to environmental sustainability as well. As a member of the Fort Hayes Green Team, I worked on various projects, including environmental education and gardening initiatives. One of my proudest achievements was our participation in the 2024 Teen Eco Summit Grant competition, where we won a grant from the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. I created the video submission for our school, which enabled us to enhance the campus and garden at Fort Hayes. This project taught me the value of teamwork and the significant impact a dedicated group can have on their environment. Additionally, my experience as a lifeguard and swim coach for Columbus Parks and Recreation has been deeply rewarding. Over the past three summers, I have taught swim lessons and coached the Tuttle Torpedoes swim team. Working with children from various backgrounds, I have helped them develop confidence and skills in the water. Providing a safe and supportive environment has allowed me to make a meaningful difference in their lives and foster a love for swimming. In all these endeavors, my motivation has been to make a positive impact through love and acts of kindness. Whether through art, environmental initiatives, or teaching, I strive to create spaces where people feel valued and supported. Like Janie Mae, I believe in the power of education and the importance of lifting others up, regardless of the challenges we face. As I embark on my college journey at Sarah Lawrence College this fall, I am committed to continuing my efforts in service and compassion. This scholarship would enable me to further my mission of making a difference in my community and beyond.

It is so hard to pick my favorite piece, but the one I had the most fun making is a photograph below called "All Over the Place." I used photography and photoshop skills to edit myself many times into the same photo. I enjoyed thinking through the various shadows that I needed to add or change for it to look as realistic as possible. I am in a photography career center at my high school and I think this one shows how my skills have improved since I started the program my junior year. I love how it turned out and I feel that it does a good job of representing me because I, too, am all over the place - but hopefully in a good way. I love so many different things and wish I could split myself into clones so that I could experience everything. You can see from the attached portfolio that in addition to photography and photoshop, I also love painting, muraling, ceramics, and digital design. I feel that each one allows me to express myself in unique ways.