My name is Rachel, and I am currently pursuing a degree in geography and sustainability. My journey has been profoundly influenced by my experiences working as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) and my previous role in therapeutic foster care for developmentally disabled children. These experiences have shaped my understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with special needs and have ignited my passion for advocating for their rights and well-being. As an RBT, I had the privilege of working directly with children on the autism spectrum and those with various developmental disabilities. This role allowed me to implement behavior intervention plans, support skill development, and foster communication. Witnessing the progress of these children was not only rewarding but also eye-opening. I learned how crucial it is to provide tailored support that meets the unique needs of each individual. I saw firsthand how small successes could lead to significant improvements in their quality of life, and it reinforced my belief in the power of compassionate, informed care. Prior to my work as an RBT, I was involved in therapeutic foster care, where I provided a safe and nurturing environment for children with developmental disabilities. This experience taught me about the importance of stability and support in the lives of vulnerable children. Many of these children faced significant challenges, not only due to their disabilities but also because of societal stigma and a lack of resources. I became acutely aware of the systemic barriers that hinder access to essential services and accommodations. This realization has fueled my desire to advocate for change and ensure that all individuals with special needs are welcomed and embraced by society. My goal is to empower families and help them access the resources necessary for their children to succeed. In addition to my academic and professional pursuits, I am committed to engaging in community outreach initiatives that raise awareness about the needs of individuals with special needs. I envision organizing workshops and support groups that not only educate families but also foster a sense of community and belonging. By creating a supportive network, I hope to help those who often feel marginalized find their voices and advocate for themselves. Ultimately, my aspiration is to be a compassionate advocate for individuals with special needs, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are met. This scholarship, honoring the memory of Bogdan Radich, would provide invaluable support as I continue my education and work toward my goal of making a difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities.

My decision to pursue a path in STEM, specifically in geography and sustainability, stems from a deep-rooted passion for understanding the intricate relationship between human activities and the environment. Growing up in Oklahoma, I have witnessed the effects of environmental degradation firsthand, particularly in communities that are marginalized and often overlooked. The reliance on fossil fuels has led to significant pollution and health issues in these areas, which has ignited my desire to advocate for sustainable practices and clean energy solutions. I have always been fascinated by how geographical data can inform better decision-making and contribute to solving pressing environmental challenges. This curiosity led me to pursue a Geographic Information Systems (GIS) certification alongside my degree. I believe that harnessing technology and data analysis is essential for developing effective strategies to combat climate change and promote social equity. Career Goals My career goal is to work in environmental policy and advocacy, focusing on promoting renewable energy solutions and sustainable practices. I aspire to leverage my education and GIS skills to analyze environmental data and create actionable strategies that address climate change and its impacts on vulnerable communities. I envision myself collaborating with local governments, non-profits, and community organizations to implement policies that prioritize environmental justice and equitable access to clean energy. In addition, I aim to engage in research that identifies the potential for sustainable energy sources in Oklahoma, particularly wind and solar power. By providing data-driven recommendations to policymakers, I hope to influence decisions that lead to a healthier environment for all residents, especially those in underserved communities. Community Service Aspirations Community service is a vital aspect of my vision for the future. I believe that education and empowerment are key to fostering sustainable practices at the grassroots level. Once I have established myself in my career, I plan to organize workshops and outreach programs that educate local communities about the benefits of renewable energy and environmental stewardship. By providing resources and support, I hope to inspire individuals, particularly young women and those from low-income backgrounds, to explore careers in STEM fields. Additionally, I aim to collaborate with schools and community organizations to create programs that encourage students to engage with environmental issues. By fostering a sense of responsibility and ownership, we can cultivate a generation that is committed to building a sustainable future. Ultimately, my goal is to be a catalyst for positive change in both my community and the broader world. I believe that by combining my passion for sustainability with a commitment to community service, I can make a meaningful impact. This scholarship would not only alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with pursuing higher education but also empower me to continue my journey toward creating a better world through my career in STEM.

As a dedicated and passionate female student pursuing a degree in geography and sustainability, I am acutely aware of the barriers that women face in achieving their goals, particularly in fields like STEM. Throughout my academic journey, I have encountered instances where women's voices are overlooked, and I have witnessed firsthand the challenges that many women endure in both educational and professional settings. This awareness has fueled my determination to not only succeed in my own career but also to uplift and empower other women along the way. My commitment to making a difference in the world is rooted in my desire to address pressing issues such as climate change and environmental justice. Growing up in Oklahoma, I have seen the impact of environmental degradation on local communities, especially those that are marginalized and underrepresented. The reliance on fossil fuels has led to significant air and water pollution, which disproportionately affects low-income populations and communities of color. I believe that everyone deserves access to a healthy environment, and I am dedicated to advocating for sustainable practices that promote social equity. In addition to my degree, I am also pursuing a Geographic Information Systems (GIS) certification. This skill set will enable me to analyze spatial data effectively, which is crucial for understanding environmental patterns and making informed decisions. I aspire to leverage my GIS expertise to promote clean and renewable energy solutions in Oklahoma and beyond. My goal is to conduct research that identifies the potential for wind, solar, and other sustainable technologies, providing data-driven recommendations to policymakers and community leaders. I am particularly interested in creating programs that engage local communities in these initiatives, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs are prioritized. I am committed to mentoring and supporting other women who are pursuing careers in STEM and related fields. I envision organizing workshops and outreach programs that empower young girls and women to explore their interests in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. By sharing my own experiences and providing resources, I hope to inspire the next generation of female leaders to break through barriers and pursue their dreams fearlessly. Collaboration will be essential in my efforts to create meaningful change. I plan to partner with local organizations, schools, and universities to develop interdisciplinary initiatives that address both environmental and social challenges. By working together, we can create innovative solutions that not only reduce our carbon footprint but also promote equity and inclusion in our communities.

As a female student pursuing a degree in geography and sustainability, I am deeply passionate about addressing the critical issues of climate change and environmental justice. These global challenges not only threaten our planet but disproportionately impact vulnerable communities, particularly those with limited resources and access to essential services. My commitment to these issues is rooted in a desire to create a more equitable world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive in a healthy environment. One local issue that resonates with me is the environmental degradation caused by Oklahoma's long-standing reliance on fossil fuels. This dependence has led to air and water pollution, adversely affecting the health of local communities, especially those in low-income areas. I am particularly concerned about the impact of these environmental issues on marginalized populations, who often lack the resources to advocate for themselves or adapt to the changing climate. Addressing these disparities is crucial for achieving social justice and sustainability. In addition to my academic pursuits, I work as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), supporting young children with autism as they prepare for their school years and work to overcome challenging self-regulatory behaviors. This role has deepened my understanding of the unique challenges faced by children with developmental differences and reinforced my commitment to fostering inclusive environments where all children can thrive. I see a strong connection between my work as an RBT and my passion for sustainability; both require compassion, patience, and a dedication to empowering individuals and communities. To tackle the challenges of climate change and environmental justice, I plan to leverage my education in geography and sustainability to promote the transition to clean and renewable energy sources in Oklahoma. My goal is to conduct research that identifies the potential for wind, solar, and other sustainable energy technologies in our state. By analyzing data on environmental impacts, economic feasibility, and community needs, I hope to provide actionable recommendations that can guide policymakers and local leaders in making informed decisions about energy development. In addition to research, I am committed to community engagement and education. Empowering individuals with knowledge is essential for fostering a culture of sustainability. I envision organizing workshops and outreach programs that educate local communities about the benefits of renewable energy and sustainable practices. By collaborating with schools, community centers, and local organizations, I aim to raise awareness and inspire collective action toward a greener future. My experience as an RBT has equipped me with valuable skills in communication and empathy, which I plan to utilize to connect with diverse audiences and make complex topics accessible. Collaboration is key to driving meaningful change. I plan to partner with local governments, non-profits, and academic institutions to create interdisciplinary initiatives that address sustainability challenges. By working alongside engineers, environmental scientists, and social activists, I can contribute to innovative solutions that prioritize both environmental health and social equity. Together, we can develop programs that not only reduce carbon emissions but also create jobs and improve the quality of life for all community members. Ultimately, my vision is to be a catalyst for change in Oklahoma and beyond. I aspire to use my skills in research, education, and collaboration to advocate for policies that support renewable energy development and environmental justice. By engaging with policymakers and community leaders, I hope to influence the direction of energy policy and ensure that the voices of marginalized communities are heard in the decision-making process.

As a geography and sustainability student based in Oklahoma, I am deeply committed to addressing the pressing challenges posed by climate change and environmental degradation. My academic journey has equipped me with a robust understanding of the intricate relationship between human activities and the natural world, and I am eager to leverage this knowledge to facilitate a transition from Oklahoma's reliance on fossil fuels to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future. Oklahoma has long been synonymous with oil and gas production, a legacy that has shaped its economy, culture, and landscape. However, the environmental repercussions of this reliance have become increasingly evident, manifesting in issues such as air and water pollution, habitat destruction, and the exacerbation of climate change. As I pursue my degree, I am acutely aware of the need for innovative solutions that can help mitigate these impacts while promoting economic growth and social equity. My approach to contributing to the field of sustainability is multifaceted. Firstly, I aim to engage in research that explores the viability of renewable energy sources in Oklahoma, such as wind, solar, and bioenergy. Oklahoma is uniquely positioned to harness wind energy, with its vast plains and consistent winds. By conducting studies on the potential for expanding wind farms and integrating solar panels into existing infrastructure, I hope to provide data-driven recommendations that can guide policymakers and stakeholders in making informed decisions. Additionally, I plan to focus on community engagement and education. Transitioning to sustainable energy is not solely a technical challenge; it also requires a cultural shift. I envision organizing workshops and outreach programs that inform local communities about the benefits of clean energy, dispel myths surrounding renewable technologies, and empower individuals to advocate for sustainable practices. By fostering a sense of ownership and involvement among residents, I believe we can cultivate a grassroots movement that supports the transition to a sustainable energy future. Collaboration will be key to my efforts. I intend to partner with local governments, non-profit organizations, and academic institutions to create interdisciplinary initiatives that address the multifaceted nature of sustainability. For instance, working alongside engineers and environmental scientists, I can contribute to developing innovative technologies that improve energy efficiency and reduce waste. By fostering a collaborative environment, I hope to facilitate knowledge sharing and inspire collective action toward a common goal. In addition to my local efforts, I aspire to contribute to broader policy discussions at the state and national levels. Understanding the regulatory frameworks that govern energy production and consumption is essential for advocating effective change. I plan to study energy policy and engage with policymakers to promote legislation that supports renewable energy development, incentivizes energy efficiency, and invests in sustainable infrastructure. By being an informed advocate, I aim to influence the direction of energy policy in Oklahoma and beyond. Ultimately, my goal is to be a catalyst for change in Oklahoma's energy landscape. By combining research, community engagement, collaboration, and policy advocacy, I believe I can play a significant role in transitioning the state from its oil-dependent past to a sustainable energy future. The journey toward sustainability is undoubtedly challenging, but I am motivated by the potential for positive change and the opportunity to contribute to a healthier planet for future generations. With determination and a commitment to collaboration, I am excited to embark on this path and make a meaningful impact in the field of geography and sustainability.

Growing up my older brother had numerous concerns in regards to his mental health, adhd , odd and rad just to name a few. As a result of growing up in the south his issues were often pushed aside and were down played as him “just being a boy”. I watched him struggle well into his 20s, friends never stayed around, clubs were dropped , the school was calling asking where he was once a week and I suffered psychological and physical abuse as a result. I resent him and my parents for many of my teen years. Around the time I turned 18, and things finally got better for him, I began to realize he too was a victim. He was a victim of a culture that didn’t believe in mental health, the only solution was to ship him off to military school or behavioral camps. He had to learn to cope all on his own, to communicate in a world that didn’t understand him. It all slowly began to make sense, he needed love and compassion and was instead shunned for his anger, for his emotions he was too young to feel, he was a stranger in a strange land. My parents still rarely acknowledge that their lack of advocacy and care has lasting impacts on both of us, for him it’s his sense of self, for me it’s my sense of security. Some of my traumas sound silly, I hate being tickled, I still go back to him trying to coax me into a game and then quickly turning it into a fight. My parents would scream at us to stop and then place us in time out or make us do house hold chores instead. In reality what we needed was guidance and counseling. I’ve forgiven my brother now and we are rather quite close. I’ve gone into the field of behavioral therapy now. Every day I see young kids just like him, kids who need help, kids who just can’t find their voice to ask for help. Seeing those light bulb moments always heal a small part of me, when for the first time instead of pushing a kid away they ask “ can you move?” Although the tone is often not the kindest they did it in a functional way. I think of my brother constantly, wishing he had something like this. An adult who would listen and adult who would care. Currently I study geography and sustainability degree that is misleading as to what it is, most classes I take are to educate me on other cultures. They help me empathize and understand my clients no matter who they are and where they are from. I want to transcend culture boundaries and help every child who needs it. I never want another child to experience the fear and disappointment my brother did when he realized no one would help.

Fall has always held a special place in my heart, not just because of the changing colors of the leaves or the crispness in the air, but because of the cherished memories it evokes, particularly those tied to a beloved seasonal drink – the iced dirty chai with pumpkin. This delightful concoction became a fall staple for me during my high school years back in 2016. I remember eagerly anticipating the release of Starbucks' fall menu each year, and my mom and I would make it a tradition to rise early, even before the crack of dawn, to be among the first to indulge in this seasonal delight. The ritual of savoring this drink is more than just a culinary experience; it's a journey back to my childhood and a celebration of the love and resilience of my mother. Growing up, my mom went above and beyond to ensure that every holiday, especially Halloween, was nothing short of magical for my brother and me. Despite the financial hardships we faced during the 2008 recession, with my mom being a newly minted college educator facing the threat of unemployment, she never let adversity dampen our spirits. Instead, she exhibited remarkable resilience, transforming humble materials into enchanting costumes that ignited our imaginations. I fondly recall the year she fashioned me a fairy princess costume and my brother a ninja outfit using fabric scraps from my grandmother's house. Our Halloween celebrations were not extravagant affairs, but they were infused with my mom's boundless creativity and love. The scent of pumpkin treats wafting through the air, the warmth of our cozy home adorned with decorations (albeit some older than me), and the flickering glow of Halloween-themed VHS tapes playing in the background – these are the memories that linger in my mind like the aftertaste of a perfectly brewed cup of chai. For me, this fall drink serves as a poignant reminder of my mother's unwavering love and her ability to craft joy out of simplicity. It embodies the essence of generations of mothers who have poured their hearts into creating memorable experiences for their children, even in the face of adversity. My mom's resilience and her knack for making everyone feel special continue to inspire me to this day. As I sip on my iced dirty chai with pumpkin, I am reminded not only of the flavors of fall but also of the love, warmth, and ingenuity that define my mother's spirit. It serves as a gentle nudge to express my own love and appreciation in small but meaningful ways, just as she has always done for me and our family. In every sip, I taste the essence of her enduring love, and I am filled with gratitude for the gift of her presence in my life.

Reducing my carbon footprint is not just a personal choice but an urgent necessity in today's world, particularly given the environmental challenges faced by regions like the great plains of Oklahoma, where I hail from. Climate change, driven largely by human activities such as the burning of fossil fuels, poses a significant threat to ecosystems, biodiversity, and human livelihoods worldwide. Living in close proximity to multiple oil refineries has provided me with a firsthand understanding of the detrimental effects of pollution on both the environment and public health. The rivers and lake systems in my region, once pristine natural resources, have become heavily polluted and unsafe for swimming due to industrial contamination. It's disheartening to witness the toll this pollution has taken on the health of my community, with reports of elevated cancer rates and infertility issues among residents. These alarming realities serve as a daily reminder of the critical importance of sustainable living practices in mitigating environmental degradation and safeguarding human health. In my quest to reduce my carbon footprint, I've focused on making conscious choices in my everyday life, particularly when it comes to shopping habits. I've opted to avoid big-box stores in favor of establishments that are transparent about their ethical values and commitment to sustainability. Natural Grocers has become my go-to destination for groceries, where I prioritize purchasing products that are either package-free or packaged in materials that are recyclable or biodegradable. One significant aspect of my sustainable shopping journey is the selection of personal care products that minimize waste and environmental impact. I've made the switch to packageless solid soaps, cardboard-packaged solid shampoo and conditioner bars, and toothpaste in metal tubes. While recycling is not a panacea for sustainability, I strive to ensure that every item I purchase aligns with my commitment to reducing waste and promoting eco-friendly alternatives. Beyond individual actions, I am deeply invested in pursuing higher education in Geography and Sustainability. My academic journey is driven by a passion for environmental conservation and a desire to contribute meaningfully to efforts combating climate change. Upon completing my bachelor's degree, I intend to pursue a master's program focused on conservation work, with the ultimate goal of forging a career dedicated to addressing the urgent challenges posed by climate change. As I embark on this career path, I am committed to leveraging my knowledge and skills to advocate for policy changes, implement sustainable practices, and empower communities to take action in safeguarding our planet for future generations. By dedicating myself to the cause of environmental conservation, I hope to make a tangible difference in combating climate change and fostering a more sustainable and resilient world for all.

Childhood development trauma has long impacts that last long into adulthood. Some issues include the development of major personality disorders and increased chances of substance abuse in adulthood. I spent the greater majority of my college life unsure of what I wanted to do with my degree, unsure of the difference I wanted to make in the world. It was not until I got my job in therapeutic foster care, the details of which I will go into later, that I realized how deeply I feel about supporting children with developmental trauma. I plan to pursue a master's in child counseling. I plan to be an advocate and voice for the most vulnerable members of society. I currently work for an agency that finds young children, typically between the ages of 8-13, in Oklahoma who have developmental disabilities and are in child welfare. The goal of the program is to provide therapeutic foster care to encourage normal development in the older childhood years. In addition to the therapeutic foster care many of the children work with a strong team of physicians and psychologist to help the children process and cope with their trauma. In this program the state provides a house for the child and staff rotates to provide a family environment for the kid in hopes of encouraging normal and healthy family relationships. This program is the first of its kind in the nation, being adopted federally around December of 2023, so proving the benefits of the program has been fairly difficult. The prof is in the weekly experiences of the staff. The child I specifically work with has gone through over 20 staff members in about 6 months, because of their trauma they have learned that abuse is love. They will hit and beat staff to show the love them. This child was so severely traumatized that they do not understand how to show love. This job has shown me exactly how important is is to be a voice and advocate for these high risk children, providing love and care for these kids has been the most rewarding thing I have, and will ever do. It also breaks my heart, its hard to believe that someone could be so hateful and so cruel to such an innocent being. What makes it even worse is that the kids I work with are some of the most extreme cases in Oklahoma, meaning there are thousands more who are not being helped.

I do not recall my diagnosis with NF1, I was only a few months old at the time but all the tell tail markers were there. I've been told countless times by countless doctors how lucky I am that I don't "have it worse". But in my eyes I don't have it good at all, I have have an optic glioma, have sufferer from migraines from the age of six, have chronic nausea, cyclic vomiting syndrome and multiple fibromas in my ribs and arms in recent years ive started developing nerve pains in my wrists and arms. The hardest part of NF for my is my skeletal deformity causing my to need from my septum down reconstructed trough three surgeries. Much of my early childhood was spent in MRI machines, in the nurses office or at home "sick" from school. I think in my first 10 years of life I visited more doctors than most people do in their entire life. My parents tried to support my best they could but they never really understood what was going on with me, I am one of the spontaneous mutation NF1 cases, and I am very blessed to have a mild form of the condition. There's a double edged sword behind having a mild form of NF1, I'm "lucky" enough to pass trough society with out many second glances, but health care professionals down play my symptoms and often time accusing my of lying about my diagnoses, and when they do believe me they tell me how lucky I am its not worse. I live with an invisible disability. I am so tired of being told I am lucky to be disabled, I am not no one is lucky to have NF. I peruse my education for my self, I want so badly to make a name for my self and prove that I can do something greater than my disability. My condition is not bad yet but I know it will get worse so I'm making the most of my life while I am still "healthy". I wish to live my life to the fullest while I still can. I believe I am an ideal candidate for this scholarship because I'm so tired of my disability being erased from my persona, I have NF1, I have a disability and it effects every single aspect of my life. I want to be seen as who I am and that is a woman with NF1 and a woman in college, a woman with a career. I want to be all those things at once yet trough the eyes of healthcare professionals I can not be because I am "lucky".

Often when telling people about my job I am greeted with a look that is equally confusion and sympathy. I am a direct support professional, for children's. Every week for 48 hours straight I come to work and support children with developmental disability's, mood disorders and severe trauma who have been displaced from the foster system. The best way to describe what i do is a step in foster parent, I administer medication , take them to school and doctors appointments and help them learn to navigate various social settings while simultaneously preparing them with the life skills they will need to live as independently as possible one day. The child I work with the most is only 9 and has been placed in over 14 foster homes and 5 institutions, some of these placements lasted less than a day. For her privacy I will be referring to her as "B". B has been diagnosed with a moderate learning disability and 3 mood disorders, she is filled with rage and anger, she has beaten and bruised grown men. Yet I don't blame her, she has had countless people abandon her and give up on her ,until recently she has had no one to advocate and speak for her. However B is the most loving person I have met, she has a radical sense of empathy that many adults only dream of having. B has shown to me its not having a disability that sets you back in the world, the world sets you back for having a disability. Even management in my agency treats her different than the other kids, they fear her and critique ever mistake she makes. The behavior deeply upsets me, B is only a child after all. The average staff member works 24 hours with her before they decide she is too much. B has lost every chance for a normal life because of the fear and stigma adults have placed on her. B is not her disability's she is a brilliant and complex human who just wants to love and be loved. I can not recall a single shift I have left at Bs not crying, not because of what she said or did to me, but because I so badly wish she could be given an equal chance in the world. All I want for her is to live a happy life with kind people and every shift I try so hard to give her that, a happy life with kind people. That's all I can do, so few people before me have given her a happy life, every kid deserves to be happy, including disabled ones. Across the nation there are 1000s of children just like B, turned away from foster homes nearly weekly. The program I work for is working to change that, each child in the program has a house they can call their own, they have a permeant address, the staff are the once bouncing around. Each kid can finally experience some form of normalcy. In December of 2023 the program was federally adopted, giving countless kids a second chance to be a regular normal kid. Children like B will no longer age out of the foster system due to disability's, they will finally have some form of "home", they will have somewhere safe, they will no longer be stigmatized for conditions that are outside of their control.