I believe that those who go into the healthcare/medicine field are truly unique and dedicated individuals who have a specific calling for this career field, rather than just the aspiration alone. I chose this field, specifically as an athletic trainer, because I was drawn to it from a young age. Growing up, I was surrounded by and participated in a variety of different sports, which ultimately led me to many athletic injuries and introduced me to the world of athletic medicine. Spending lots of time with athletic trainers, physicians, and physical therapists led me to my passion of the healthcare and medical career fields and combined my love of sports with a deep passion for serving others in the field of athletic training. I attended the University of Alabama for my undergraduate degree in athletic training. As an athletic training student, I was immersed into rigorous coursework and hands-on clinical rotations, which allowed me to explore the world of sports medicine. This program at Alabama gave me a range of opportunities to work with elite athletes across various sports learning the ins and outs of injury, prevention, rehabilitation, and performance optimization. Each clinical rotation emphasized my belief that athletic training was not just a career – it was a privilege to be a part of each athlete's journey to recovery and success. Currently, I am attending graduate school at the University of Pittsburgh for a masters degree in sports medicine, and I am also working as a certified athletic trainer, providing sports coverage and clinical care to a range of different competitive club sports. This position has given me autonomy as well as an invaluable range of experiences, working with different sports and a diverse population. As a healthcare and medical professional, I believe it is important to be able to serve all populations to the best of your ability and make connections to provide the best standard of care. Now, as a working athletic trainer, this position has only reinforced and further highlighted my dedication and commitment to this career. The aspects that I love most about not only the healthcare and medical career field, but specifically athletic training, is the overall connection with the patients. I thrive on the professional relationships built through good rapport, trust, and empathy, as well as a shared commitment to improving health. Being able to guide athletes through injuries, or even just push through mild setbacks is truly an honor to be of help and service. Ultimately seeing a patient progress and return to their sport, or even just make specific achievements is a huge reward as a healthcare professional. Athletic training allows me to combine science, compassion, and my own personal experiences to make a difference in the lives of others. Personally, it's not just about healing injuries, it's about restoring hope, empowering my patients, and being a part of a team. I believe the healthcare career field chose me and I couldn't imagine doing anything else.

In my journey through life, I have always believed in embracing a spirit of excellence in all my endeavors and contributing positively to the community around me. This commitment to excellence and community service has become an integral part of my daily life, driving my actions and shaping my aspirations. Excellence is not merely an achievement but a way of being. I strive to infuse every task I undertake with a high standard of quality, dedication, and attention to detail. Whether it's academic pursuits, personal projects, or professional responsibilities, I approach them with the mindset that every effort should reflect the best of my abilities. This commitment to excellence ensures that I continuously challenge myself to improve and to deliver results that I can be proud of. I consistently seek growth opportunities to enhance my skills and knowledge, staying informed about the latest developments in my field. I take the initiative to seek feedback, critically assess my work, and seek ways to refine it. This dedication to continuous improvement is central to maintaining a spirit of excellence in everything I do. Furthermore, giving back to my community is a core value that resonates deeply with me. I believe that each of us has a responsibility to contribute positively to the world around us. Volunteering and community engagement are not just acts of service, but an expression of empathy and a means of fostering positive change. I have done so by volunteering as a youth cheerleading coach, which allows me to dedicate my time to sharing a passion of mine with others as well as helping young cheerleaders grow and learn in the sport. I have also volunteered at my local soup kitchen, which helps to bring a sense of community to everyone involved by sharing such a precious resource and gathering our community to ensure everyone receives proper nourishment. These experiences provide a humbling perspective and a reminder of the privilege I have in my life. I find that giving back is not just a selfless act, but it enriches my own life and connects me to the larger community in meaningful ways. Furthermore, I actively seek opportunities to collaborate with others who share similar values. By joining forces with like-minded individuals and organizations, we amplify our collective impact on the community. This collaborative approach allows us to address societal challenges more effectively and make a lasting difference. In conclusion, exemplifying a spirit of excellence and giving back to the community are integral to my identity and purpose. The commitment to excellence shapes my daily actions, driving me to consistently strive for the highest standards in all my pursuits. Simultaneously, my dedication to community service reflects my belief in the importance of contributing positively to society. By embracing these values, I not only challenge myself to grow but also create a positive ripple effect that extends to the lives of others. Through excellence and community engagement, I aim to contribute to a better world and leave a lasting impact on the lives of those around me.

In my everyday routine, I strive to embody the traits of strong leadership and communication skills, resilience, unselfishness, focus, determination, and a strong work ethic. I show my strong leadership in leading by example and fostering open communication. Whether I'm collaborating on group projects or participating in team activities, I actively listen to other's ideas and opinions while also articulating my thoughts clearly. By creating an environment where everyone's input is valued, I aim to facilitate effective teamwork and mutual understanding. As for resilience, life often presents challenges, and I approach them with a resilient attitude. When faced with setbacks or obstacles, I view them as opportunities for growth. I maintain my determination even in the face of adversity, adapting my strategies and remaining committed to finding solutions. I show unselfishness by strongly believing in the power of collaboration and sharing knowledge. I'm always eager to support my peers and colleagues by offering assistance or insights. In group settings, I ensure that credit is shared equitably and that everyone's contributions are acknowledged. I am focused and determined in the ways that I approach tasks and goals with a clear sense of purpose. By setting well-defined objectives, I maintain focus on what needs to be achieved. This determination drives me to allocate time and effort efficiently to accomplish my goals, both short-term and long-term. As for my work ethic, I value hard work and commitment. I'm dedicated to producing high-quality results in whatever I undertake. Whether it's my academic pursuits, personal projects, or professional responsibilities, I consistently invest time and effort to ensure excellence. Regarding my future goals, I am pursuing a Masters degree in Sports Medicine while also working as an Athletic Trainer. I'm drawn to the medical field and to helping and serving others, and I believe my leadership skills, coupled with my ability to communicate effectively and maintain a strong work ethic, will enable me to excel in this role. I am pursuing a Masters degree because I see education as the cornerstone of personal and professional growth. It equips me with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities necessary to navigate complex challenges and seize opportunities. A Masters degree provides me with a strong understanding of ways to apply my knowledge to my career in Athletic Training that will empower me to make meaningful contributions in my chosen field and broaden my scope of practice. To me, leadership means guiding and inspiring others toward a shared vision of success. A true leader leads not by authority alone but by fostering a sense of unity, encouraging collaboration, and promoting the growth of every individual within a team. Leadership is about empathy, understanding the strengths of team members, and aligning those strengths toward a common goal. A leader listens, communicates effectively, and supports the growth and development of their team members, ultimately achieving success through collective effort. In summary, I incorporate strong leadership and communication skills, resilience, unselfishness, focus, determination, and a strong work ethic into my everyday routine. These traits form the foundation of my pursuit of a Masters degree in Sports Medicine, as I believe they will contribute to my success in the medical field. Leadership, to me, embodies guiding others toward shared goals through empathy, effective communication, and fostering growth.

The passing of a beloved family member or loved one is an experience that shakes the very core of our existence, forcing us to confront the fragility of life and the profound impact of our relationships. The sudden and unexpected loss of my uncle was a pivotal moment that brought into sharp focus what truly matters in life and ignited a newfound determination to fight for my aspirations. The news of my uncle's passing was a devastating blow that left a permanent mark on my heart. His absence created an emptiness that seemed insurmountable, a void that no amount of time could fill. As I navigated the stages of grief, I found myself reflecting on the moments we had shared, the laughter that had echoed through family gatherings, and the wisdom he had imparted. It was in those reflections that I realized the inherent value of the connections we form with those around us. Losing someone close, and so suddenly, prompted me to reevaluate my priorities and reexamine my life's trajectory. Amid the chaos of daily routines and the pursuit of material goals, I recognized the need to focus on what truly matters: meaningful relationships, personal growth, and the pursuit of genuine happiness. The experience made me acutely aware of the fleeting nature of time, urging me to prioritize the people I care about and the experiences that enrich my life. The loss also ignited a fire within me – a desire to honor my uncle's memory by channeling my grief into productive pursuits. I felt a renewed urgency to fight for the dreams and ambitions that often took a backseat to the demands of life. This determination to achieve what I had always aspired to became a way of celebrating his life and the impact he had on me. As I embarked on this journey of self-discovery and purpose, I found myself striving for a harmonious balance between work, personal growth, and cherished relationships. I realized that life's value lies not in the accumulation of possessions but in the quality of moments shared with loved ones and the fulfillment derived from pursuing one's passions. One of the things he always said was “enjoy the little things in life”, and I remind myself of that every single day. In essence, the passing of my uncle became a catalyst for transformation. His departure illuminated the impermanence of life and highlighted the importance of embracing every fleeting moment. It ignited a deep appreciation for the relationships that define our existence and a commitment to pursuing my goals with unwavering dedication. In conclusion, the loss of a close family member can be a painful awakening that shakes us out of our complacency and forces us to confront the essence of our existence. The passing of my uncle propelled me to refocus on what truly matters – relationships, personal growth, and genuine happiness. Through grief, I found the strength to forge ahead, vowing to fight for my dreams with an intensity fueled by the memory of the loved one I had lost.

"Where the Crawdads Sing" has recently captured my attention as my favorite movie on Netflix, and its ability to evoke a captivating blend of emotions, along with its compelling storyline and picturesque setting, is what makes it stand out in the current lineup. Adapted from Delia Owens' best-selling novel of the same name, the movie presents a narrative that weaves together mystery, romance, and the exploration of human connection. Set against the backdrop of the lush North Carolina marshlands, the film follows the life of Kya Clark, a young woman who grows up isolated from society, earning her the moniker "Marsh Girl." The story alternates between her childhood and the present day, unraveling the mystery of a murder that has taken place within this picturesque but mysterious environment. One of the reasons why "Where the Crawdads Sing" resonates so deeply with me is its portrayal of solitude and nature's profound impact on the human spirit. Kya's connection with the marsh, her observance of its intricacies, and her eventual evolution into a self-sufficient and resilient individual create a poignant exploration of solitude as both a challenge and an opportunity for growth. Moreover, the film delves into the complexities of relationships and the power of human connections. Kya's interactions with a few key individuals who venture into her isolated world reveal the yearning for companionship and understanding that lies within us all. The development of her connection with Tate and her interactions with Jumpin' and Mabel provide heartwarming moments that showcase the beauty of friendships forged against all odds. The movie's visual aesthetic is another aspect that contributes to its appeal. The cinematography captures the ethereal beauty of the marshlands, bringing the setting to life and allowing it to serve as a character in its own right. The serene landscapes juxtaposed with moments of tension create a visual tapestry that keeps the audience engaged and invested. Furthermore, the mystery element of "Where the Crawdads Sing" adds an extra layer of intrigue. The gradual unraveling of the truth behind the murder and the anticipation of discovering how it is linked to Kya's life adds suspense and depth to the narrative. In conclusion, "Where the Crawdads Sing" has claimed the title of my favorite movie on Netflix due to its ability to evoke a wide range of emotions, its skillful weaving of mystery and romance, and the captivating depiction of nature's impact on the human experience. The film's exploration of solitude, human connections, and the allure of the marshlands makes it a cinematic journey that leaves a lasting impression.

I have just recently graduated Summa Cum Laude with my Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training. I have also just recently passed my boards to become a certified Athletic Trainer. Currently, I am pursuing my Master of Science degree in Sports Medicine to further supplement my knowledge as an athletic trainer and to foster my success in this career field and the world of STEM. Growing up, I aspired to have a career in the medical field. I have always loved being able to help others, and one of the best ways to do so is through the medical and health professions. I also grew up participating in and admiring the world of sports, so working to become an athletic trainer was the perfect fit for me. I am driven, hard-working, and passionate in everything I do. I aspire to grow as a woman in this career and as a woman in STEM, and to serve as a positive example of the success that women can bring to this world as well. Athletic trainers play a significant role in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). While their primary focus is on the physical well-being of athletes and active individuals, their work involves a wide range of scientific, technological, and data-driven aspects that contribute to the advancement of STEM disciplines. With my background in this field, as well as my current pursuit in Sports Medicine, I will continue to learn and promote all of the aspects that embody and contribute to the STEM community. My education in this career focuses on a variety of aspects including, but not limited to, anatomy and physiology, biomechanics and motion analysis, exercise science and kinesiology, sports nutrition, rehabilitation techniques and modalities, injury prevention, medical technology, data analysis, and emergency medicine. I deserve this scholarship to help aid in my graduate education as I further develop my knowledge in the STEM community, as I work to continue to promote these lessons and utilize them in my career daily. As an athletic trainer, I bring valuable contributions to STEM through a deep understanding of human anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and exercise science. I integrate technological advancements, data analysis, and research to optimize athletic performance, prevent injuries, and facilitate recovery. My work plays a crucial role in promoting the health and well-being of athletes and active individuals, while also contributing to the advancement of various STEM disciplines related to sports medicine and human movement.

In a world often defined by individual pursuits and self-centered ambitions, the act of helping someone in need and embodying selflessness stands as a beacon of hope and humanity. The power of selflessness lies not merely in the act itself but in the profound impact it can have on both the giver and the receiver. It is a demonstration of empathy, compassion, and a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of all human beings. Throughout life's journey, we often encounter moments where the call to help someone in need arises. It could be a stranger struggling with a heavy load, a friend facing emotional turmoil, or a community devastated by a natural disaster. At times, the call might be subtle, while at others, it may be an urgent cry for assistance. Regardless of the form it takes, the act of helping someone in need often stems from an innate desire to alleviate suffering and make a positive difference in the lives of others. As a college student, I often see my peers and spend a lot of time with classmates. Being in a smaller program, I established good working relationships with a number of my classmates. During this time, I was approached by a classmate in need of some help and tutoring on their schoolwork. Usually in college, when you search for tutors it also comes with a price to pay, which for many college students may not be feasible. I believe that education and knowledge are a privilege, one of which is amazing to share without asking for extra, materialistic compensation. I also value the importance of helping others out of kindness, and not seeking anything in return. During those classes, I helped my classmate with the lessons they were struggling with, while also becoming closer friends. Not only was I helping them learn and grow as a student, but it also allowed me to build a new friendship with them. With selflessness and kindness, many other positive things can arise. In a world often characterized by self-interest, the art of helping someone in need and embodying selflessness becomes a powerful force for good. It is a testament to our shared humanity and our capacity for compassion and empathy. The act of selflessness not only brings relief to those in need but also transforms the giver, allowing a deeper appreciation for the connection of others. By embracing selflessness and reaching out to help others, we create a more compassionate world, one small act of kindness at a time.

One of the most important values I have established in my life is to be able to serve others. I strongly believe that the most fulfilling and beautiful thing one can do in life is to be able to serve and show others kindness, and to always be willing to offer their help in any way possible. Being able to do so promotes positivity for everyone involved, and truly helps to take steps in making this world a better and more loving place. Along with service, other core values that I uphold and practice daily are passion, gratitude, leadership, and so many others. These values hold me accountable to be the best I can be and to do everything I do with a purpose that will leave a lasting, positive impact. Some of my most recent volunteer experiences that embody these values include helping out at my local soup kitchen, as well as helping to volunteer coach my local youth cheerleading teams. Volunteering at my local soup kitchen allows me to connect with my community, as well as help those in need. Food is such a valuable resource and is something that offers a sense of comfort and brings others together. Being able to serve others and celebrate community through food is so fulfilling and valuable. Along with that, helping to coach my local youth cheerleading teams allows me to serve as a leader and a positive role model for these younger athletes, as well as allow them to come together to do something that they love to do. All of these experiences offer a feeling of gratitude that is truly priceless and helps to offer wonderful experiences and opportunities. These experiences and core values help to strengthen my career and life goals in so many ways. Currently, I am pursuing a Master of Science degree in Sports Medicine. While completing this degree, I am working as a certified athletic trainer for my university's sports teams. Athletic training is a career that also embodies the value of service. As an athletic trainer, I believe it is essential to have the passion to serve your athletes and your patients to give them the full attention and care they need so that they can participate in the sport that they love. Athletic training is a career that is built on passion, service, care, and drive for everyone that we encounter, and I strongly believe that my volunteer experience and my core values go hand in hand with my career and life goals.

My name is Rachel McCoy and I am from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. I am pursuing a career in Athletic Training. Growing up, I played a variety of sports such as softball, dance, cheerleading, basketball, and gymnastics. Being around sports so often made me realize my true passion for the world of athletics. While in these sports, I also sustained several injuries, some of which needed advanced medical care. Because of those sports injuries and all of the countless visits to medical appointments, my interest in the sports medicine career field truly blossomed. During high school is when my interest in Athletic Training truly began. I realized that I excelled in my science classes, especially anatomy. I began to talk with my teachers and my parents about career options, and Athletic Training was a career that I took a lot of interest in. Fortunately, my high school had two of our own Athletic Trainers. Being involved in sports, I was able to work with them and see what their day-to-day career was like. They served as mentors for me, and I am really glad I was able to have them as an example and help spark my love for this career field. When it came time to apply to colleges, I researched the best options for a career in Athletic Training. I knew I wanted to attend a college where I was able to major in Athletic Training and complete it during my undergraduate years, and also a college that had a great Athletics program to supplement my learning and practice in the field. That is when I decided that the University of Alabama would be the best fit for me, so I applied. I was accepted into their undergraduate Athletic Training program and spent three years working at many different clinical sites with the different sports at the university. I worked with Soccer, Tennis, Cheer, Gymnastics, Basketball, and Football teams, and was able to immerse myself into a career field that I enjoyed. I was able to combine my love for the world of athletics as well as my passion for the world of medicine. One of the aspects that makes this career so rewarding is being able to work one on one with athletes and sports teams and to help take care of them to prevent injuries, as well as work with them post-injury to help them return to the sports that they love. Today, I have graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training and have obtained my certification as an Athletic Trainer. I will be pursuing a Master's Degree at the University of Pittsburgh in Sports Medicine while working as a certified Athletic Trainer. I hope to continue my passion for this career field and to succeed in helping others.

Growing up, my life revolved around athletics. If I was not at my sporting events, I was at my brother's. As I grew up I was on multiple different sports teams, including dance, gymnastics, cheerleading, and softball. Over the years, my love for both cheer and gymnastics increased, and I refined my talents in both. I was on both an all-star-competitive cheerleading team, as well as a school competitive cheerleading team. These teams allowed me to travel to national competitions and learn the value of teamwork and determination with many other athletes. As mentioned before, if I was not at my sporting events, I was usually at my brother's sports events. He was a part of wrestling, baseball, skiing, and football teams growing up. Over the years I had spent countless hours around different sports and it allowed my love and passion for the world of athletics to grow. Seeing the way athletics brings others together and allows athletes to challenge themselves and accomplish new heights is truly something like no other. It is a passion shared among so many, and it is something that brings so many people together to celebrate something bigger than themselves. As I participated in these sports I also sustained multiple different injuries. Some of these injuries required advanced medical attention, such as immediate care and some needed months of rehabilitative care from physical therapists. Throughout the years in these sports and many trips to the doctors, physical therapists, and athletic trainers, I started to notice my interest in the medical field. Not only was I interested in the medical field, I knew that I wanted to specialize in something that involved both medicine and athletics. I loved the process of helping athletes return to sports from an injury, and wanted to pursue that as a career. When I applied for college, I knew immediately that I wanted my degree to be in Athletic Training. In this career, I can work directly with sports teams providing hours of care pre and post-practice, as well as during games. Athletic Training involves immediate and emergency care, rehabilitative services, and modality-based treatments, as well as so many other aspects. Not only that, but athletic trainers can also work directly with physicians and many other medical specialists as well. Now, as I have completed my undergraduate degree in Athletic Training and am a board-certified athletic trainer, I am pursuing my graduate degree in Sports Medicine. This degree allows me to work as a certified athletic trainer all while continuing to learn and grow as a healthcare provider and broaden my scope in the world of sports medicine.

I stay true to myself in my daily life by being honest and loyal to others, and by valuing respect and integrity. Everyday, I am determined to have a productive and great day and put forth the effort to do so. I am conscientious of others around me as well and I strive to help others in any way that I can. I also stay true to myself by ensuring that I am looking after my personal health and care. It is important to ensure that your own personal and mental health is in check so long as you are able to go about your day in the best way possible. I strive to be myself and to down my own things, and to work independently while also being able to work with others. Staying true to yourself is a vital aspect in life that will allow someone to live to their greatest potential.