Throughout high school, I've had many teachers who have shaped me, but none have had a greater impact than my art teacher. She didn't just help me learn how to draw, paint, or design, she taught me how to believe in myself as an artist and as a person. Her influence changed the way I approach creativity, challenges, and life itself. When I first entered her class, I loved art but often doubted my abilities. I was afraid of making mistakes and hesitant to share my work. I thought "good" art had to look a certain way or follow strict rules. But from the very beginning, my art teacher created a space that felt different, a space where experimentation, curiosity, and imperfection were not only accepted but encouraged. She would say, "Art isn't about being perfect. It's about being brave enough to create something honest." That perspective completely shifted how I saw myself. She pushed me out of my comfort zone, encouraging me to try new techniques and concepts I never would have attempted on my own. When I hesitated to tackle larger projects or unfamiliar mediums, she reminded me that growth only happens when you take risks. She challenged me to dig deeper into the meaning behind my art, to connect it to who I am and what I care about. Because of her, I began exploring themes that truly mattered to me, like humanity's relationship with the environment, and discovered that my art could be more than just visual expression; it could be a voice for something bigger. What made her so special wasn't just her skill or knowledge, it was her constant support. She treated every student as if their ideas were valuable, no matter their experience level. She celebrated progress, not perfection, and helped each of us find confidence in our unique styles. There were times when I'd get frustrated with my work, wanting to scrap everything and start over, but she'd always remind me that even mistakes are part of the creative process. Her encouragement taught me patience, perseverance, and pride in the effort itself. Because of her guidance, I not only became a better artist but also a more confident person. I learned how to take initiative, how to express my ideas fearlessly, and how to see challenges as opportunities for growth. These lessons extend far beyond the art room, they've shaped how I approach every part of my life, from academics to sports to future goals. Her influence is a huge part of why I plan to pursue animation and visual storytelling in college. She helped me realize that art has power, the power to connect, to communicate, and to create change. Without her belief in me, I might never have had the courage to see my art as something worth sharing with the world. My art teacher didn't just teach me techniques; she taught me confidence, creativity, and the importance of authenticity. She showed me that stepping outside your comfort zone is where true growth begins, and that lesson will stay with me for the rest of my life.

I would like to receive this scholarship because it represents more than financial support; it represents belief in students like me who have faced challenges but refuse to let them define us. As someone with ADHD and dyslexia, I’ve spent years learning how to turn what once felt like setbacks into strengths. I’ve had to work harder, stay more disciplined, and find creative ways to learn and grow. This scholarship would help me continue my academic and athletic journey with the same resilience that has carried me this far. On the academic side, I plan to use this scholarship to help fund my college education as I pursue a degree in animation. My dream is to combine my creativity and storytelling skills to work in the animation industry, where imagination and innovation go hand in hand. Financial support would allow me to invest in the tools and technology I need: software and equipment, without putting extra strain on my family. It would also give me the freedom to balance school, training, and personal growth, knowing I have a strong foundation behind me. Athletically, this scholarship would support my training and development as a lacrosse goalie. I’ve been playing lacrosse for years, and it has shaped who I am in every way. Being a goalie requires mental toughness, focus, and leadership. Skills I’ve had to develop not just on the field, but in life. The pressure of standing in the cage has taught me to stay calm under stress, to shake off mistakes, and to always focus on the next shot. It mirrors how I’ve learned to handle ADHD and dyslexia: one play, one challenge, one step at a time. There was a time when my learning differences made me feel like I wasn’t capable enough. Reading and writing assignments took me longer than most, and it was easy to get frustrated. But over time, I discovered that the same traits that made learning hard also made me unique. My ADHD gives me energy, creativity, and the ability to think differently. My dyslexia has trained me to find new ways to solve problems, to visualize concepts deeply, and to persevere when things get tough. Both have made me stronger, more empathetic, and more adaptable, qualities that help me every day on the field and in the classroom. Sports have been my outlet and anchor. Lacrosse gives me purpose, confidence, and a sense of belonging. It’s where I’ve learned teamwork, leadership, and how to thrive under pressure. As a goalie, I’ve learned that mistakes don’t define you; your response does. I used to get caught up in every missed save, but through experience and growth, I’ve learned to play loose, trust my instincts, and stay focused on the next play. That mindset has translated into my academic life too: when things get hard, I reset, refocus, and move forward. My dream is to continue competing in college lacrosse while excelling in animation, proving that no diagnosis or challenge limits what I can achieve. I want to inspire others with ADHD and dyslexia to embrace their differences and chase their goals without hesitation. This scholarship would help me continue doing just that. It would help me continue pushing boundaries, chasing dreams, and showing that resilience and hard work can turn any obstacle into an opportunity. At the end of the day, I don’t just want to be known as a student or an athlete. I want to be known as someone who kept going. Someone who proved that there are truly no limits to what you can do when you believe in yourself.

1. I believe a “You Got It Girl” is someone who steps into uncertainty with courage, works harder when things don’t go her way, and uplifts others along the way. For me, being a lacrosse goalie demands presence, resilience, and unshakable belief; even when the ball is flying directly at your face. I train not only my physical reflexes, but also my mindset: staying calm under pressure, reading the field, and trusting my instincts. Off the field, I bring that same grit to academics and personal growth. As a USA All-American Academic and WCAC 2nd Team honoree, I push myself to excel in both sports and academics. These honors reflect not just natural ability, but consistent effort. The YGIG Scholarship is more than financial assistance, it’s affirmation that someone believes in the full scope of who I am: athlete, student, dreamer. 2. Lacrosse has been part of my life for many years. I started playing in elementary school, and over time I became a goalie. This role demands leadership, focus, and resilience. I play for Bishop Ireton High School, just finished my final club season at Pride Girls Lacrosse, and I am committed to play at the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). Some of my honors include being selected WCAC 2nd Team and being recognized as a USA All-American Academic. These honors reflect my dual commitment to the sport and my skill. In the cage I’ve earned respect from coaches and teammates for my communication, determination, and ability to stay composed under pressure. Being a goalie brings unique challenges and pride. When things get scrappy, whether the offense is pushing hard or the game is winnable by inches, I see myself as the backbone of the defense, and that responsibility alone motivates me to train harder every day. 3. One of my biggest challenges wasn’t physical. It was mental. For a long time, I struggled with putting too much pressure on myself as a goalie. I wanted to be perfect for every game, every shot, every clear. When things didn’t go as planned, when a goal went in or I missed a save, I would spiral, replaying mistakes in my head instead of focusing on what was next. It became mentally exhausting, and I started losing the joy that made me love lacrosse in the first place. Eventually, I realized that I couldn’t play my best while constantly fighting myself. I began working on my mental health just as much as my physical training. I learned how to reset after mistakes, breathe through pressure, and trust my preparation. I practiced positive self-talk and visualization, and I reminded myself that even the best goalies get scored on. What matters isn’t perfection. It’s resilience. Once I shifted my mindset, everything changed. I started playing looser, more relaxed, and more focused on the next shot or play. I learned to let go of fear and play with freedom, supporting my teammates and trusting myself in the moment. That transformation didn’t just make me a better player; it made me a better person. Now, I approach every game with gratitude and composure, knowing that confidence comes from balance, not control. 4. I admire my life-long lacrosse coach, my mother, who has always believed in me, even when I doubted myself. She doesn’t just coach technique; she coaches character. She encourages me to dig deeper, to be vulnerable about my fears, to support myself and my team, and to keep growing. Watching her invest in everything for me, celebrate small wins, and guide me through losses and tough games has influenced how I want to lead. 5. I’d use funds to: - Upgrade my gear (pads, gloves, helmet) - Travel to tournaments and showcases - Afford extra training - Help with academic costs 6. I want you to know that being a goalie has shaped who I am beyond sport. It’s taught me accountability (because mistakes are costly), leadership (organizing the defense), resilience, humility, and empathy. I believe that every time I step into that cage, I have an opportunity, not only to make a save, but to grow stronger in spirit, and represent girls who fight to exist in spaces traditionally dominated by others. 7. I plan to continue goalie lacrosse at SCAD, where I am fully committed to competing and playing. Being a student-athlete means showing up when it’s hard: balancing film, practice, class, and rest. To me, that role is not just about athletic performance, it’s about being part of a team, growing in grit and grace, and representing women’s athletics with pride. If chosen as a YGIG representative, I would bring humility, drive, transparency, and dedication. I would use my story to encourage younger girls to step into boldness, own their ambitions, and believe that they, too, “got it.”

Art has always been my strongest form of expression, my way of understanding the world and sharing my perspective with others. As a digital artist and animator, I strive to create work that goes beyond aesthetics, telling stories that resonate, inspire, and make people feel seen. Animation, in particular, is an art form that brings characters, ideas, and emotions to life in a way that no other medium can. It has the power to bridge cultures, evoke deep emotions, and even drive meaningful change. My artistic journey has been shaped by my experiences, both on and off the field. As a lacrosse goalie, I have learned resilience, discipline, and the importance of quick thinking. These qualities do not just apply to sports, they have become integral to how I approach my art. Being a goalie means reading movements, anticipating actions, and responding with precision, and I find that same energy in animation. Whether capturing the fluidity of movement in a dance sequence, the intensity of an athlete in motion, or the subtle facial expressions that give a character life, I love using animation to create a sense of motion and realism that draws the audience in. Beyond technique, my art is driven by the desire to tell meaningful stories. Representation in media matters, and I want to be part of the new wave of artists and animators ensuring that different voices, perspectives, and experiences are brought to the forefront. I want to create characters and narratives that people can relate to, that inspire confidence and spark conversation. Whether through a personal project, an independent short film, or a larger studio production, I am dedicated to using my creativity as a force for connection and understanding. Another key aspect of my artistic mission is exploring the intersection of art and technology. Digital art and animation continue to evolve, and I love experimenting with different styles, techniques, and software to push creative boundaries. I am especially interested in how animation can be used beyond entertainment, whether in education, advocacy, or even interactive experiences. Animation can simplify complex topics, amplify important messages, and reach wide audiences, and I want to explore how I can use my skills to contribute to positive change. As I continue developing my craft, I also want to encourage and support other young artists. I know firsthand how intimidating it can be to pursue art seriously, especially when the path is not always clear. I hope to mentor and uplift other aspiring artists, whether through sharing my experiences, collaborating on projects, or offering guidance on navigating the industry. My long-term goal is to work in the animation industry, helping to create films, series, or interactive media that leave a lasting impact. I dream of being part of a creative team that brings inspiring and diverse stories to life, and I am committed to continuing to learn and grow as both an artist and storyteller. If you would like to see my work, you can check out my portfolio here: https://www.instagram.com/reaanimations/ I am always looking for new opportunities to collaborate, learn, and share my passion with others. Art has given me a voice, and through my work, I hope to help others find theirs too.

From the moment I first picked up a pencil, I understood that art was more than just images on a page, it was a language, a way to tell stories, express emotions, and impact the world. As I prepare to attend the Savannah College of Art and Design, I am eager to refine my skills, explore new creative avenues, and use my artistic voice to make a meaningful difference. Art has always been a powerful force in my life, but it wasn't until high school that I truly grasped its potential to influence and inspire. Whether sketching characters, designing digital compositions, or experimenting with different mediums, I realized that my passion lies in storytelling, crafting visuals that evoke emotion, spark conversations, and leave a lasting impression. One of my primary goals as an artist is to challenge perspectives and create work that resonates with people on a deep level. I believe that design and illustration have the power to bridge gaps, bring attention to important issues, and foster connections across cultures. Through my studies at SCAD, I want to explore how visual storytelling can be used to communicate complex narratives, whether through animation, concept art, or graphic design. Beyond personal expression, I see art as a tool for social change. Many of my inspirations come from artists and designers who use their platforms to address issues like mental health, environmental sustainability, and social justice. I aim to follow in their footsteps by producing work that not only captivates but also educates and motivates action. I want to create pieces that make people stop, think, and feel, whether it’s through thought-provoking illustrations, immersive designs, or innovative multimedia projects. Another key aspect of my artistic journey is representation. Growing up, I often searched for characters and stories that reflected diverse experiences, and I want to be part of a new wave of artists who bring underrepresented voices to the forefront. Whether it’s through character design, world-building, or visual storytelling, I want to create narratives that celebrate individuality and inclusivity. At SCAD, I am excited to immerse myself in a community of talented creatives who share my drive for innovation. The school’s emphasis on industry connections, hands-on learning, and interdisciplinary collaboration aligns perfectly with my aspirations. I look forward to honing my skills, learning from experienced professionals, and working on projects that push creative boundaries. Ultimately, my goal is to leave a positive mark on the world through my art. Whether it’s by creating visuals that inspire, designing work that challenges conventions, or collaborating on projects that bring meaningful stories to life, I want my creativity to have an impact. Art can shape perspectives, influence emotions, and drive change, and I am committed to using my passion and skills to contribute to that movement. SCAD represents the next step in my journey, and I am eager to embrace every opportunity to grow, experiment, and create. Through dedication, collaboration, and a relentless pursuit of innovation, I hope to carve out a career that not only fulfills me as an artist but also leaves a lasting impact on the world.

In a world dominated by technology and social media, our lives have become increasingly intertwined with our devices. My artwork was inspired by the idea of digital imprisonment, the feeling of being trapped in a cycle of endless scrolling, validation-seeking, and artificial connection. The piece depicts a young man in an orange prison jumpsuit, sitting against a bleak, featureless wall, immersed in his phone. However, rather than being physically restrained, his confinement is psychological. The floating icons of popular social media apps, such as Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook, and WhatsApp, surround him, symbolizing the forces that keep him locked in this virtual reality. The inspiration for this artwork came from observing how people, including myself, are consumed by social media. It's easy to lose hours mindlessly scrolling through TikTok, seeking approval through likes on Instagram, or engaging in constant messaging without meaningful conversations. The more I thought about it, the more I realized that social media can be both a tool and a trap. It offers connection, entertainment, and information, but it also fosters addiction, comparison, and anxiety. One of the key visual elements in this piece is the prison uniform. The orange jumpsuit is a universally recognized symbol of incarceration, but instead of metal bars and locked doors, the prison here is digital. The character is not in a literal jail cell, yet he is isolated, his focus entirely absorbed by the device in his hands. His slouched posture and neutral expression reflect detachment from the real world, a common sight among people engrossed in their screens. Another major element is the presence of floating social media icons. These symbols represent the digital forces that exert control over the individual, constantly demanding attention. They are bright and colorful, drawing the eye, much like notifications and app designs that are intentionally created to be engaging. The inclusion of a brain icon further emphasizes the mental captivity caused by social media addiction, it’s not just a distraction, but a rewiring of the way we think, interact, and even perceive ourselves. The setting plays an important role in reinforcing the theme. The dull, neutral tones of the background contrast with the vibrancy of the app icons, emphasizing how digital spaces can seem more exciting or more stimulating than reality. The isolated environment also conveys a sense of loneliness, hinting at the paradox of social media: while it is designed to bring people together, it often leaves users feeling more disconnected and alone. I was also inspired by personal experiences and the stories of those around me. Many people struggle to balance their online and offline lives. Some feel pressure to maintain a certain image online, while others experience FOMO (fear of missing out) when they see curated highlights of other people's lives. This artwork reflects those struggles, a visual commentary on the modern condition of digital dependence. Ultimately, my goal with this piece was to spark self-reflection. I want viewers to question their own relationship with technology and social media. Are they in control, or are they prisoners to their screens? Can they break free from the cycle of digital consumption, or is the pull too strong? While technology is an integral part of our world, it's crucial to be mindful of how much power we give it over our lives. This artwork serves as a reminder that while social media can be a powerful tool, it should never become a prison. The key to freedom lies in awareness, balance, and reconnecting with the world beyond the screen.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been drawn to the world of art, and it’s been my escape and my ambition. I’m a junior in high school and am committed to playing lacrosse at the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). I’m beyond excited to combine my love for art and sports in a place that feels like a bridge between where I come from and where I’m going. SCAD is everything I dreamed of. Art and lacrosse have always been my first love, and now, both are leading me toward a future I never thought possible. I never expected both my passions would align this way, but here I am, ready to take on both. My life in Baltimore City was a balancing act. I was surrounded by concrete buildings and crowded streets. The feeling of a pencil in my hand, the way the graphite would turn into something on the page, was like magic to me. It allowed me to tell the stories and emotions that I was constantly surrounded by. My mom always encouraged me to use my creativity as a way to express what words couldn’t. The idea of seeing something in my mind and making it real with my hands fascinated me, and it became my refuge. Not many people understood the drive I had for art. It wasn’t something that seemed practical to them. A lot of my friends didn’t know what it meant to create something out of nothing, but to me, it was a way to escape the pressures of daily life. It allowed me to make sense of the world, even when it didn’t make sense to me. Whether I was drawing the people around me, the places I had been, or the emotions I felt, my artwork was my way of finding my place in the chaos. My sketches were never just about the finished product; they were about the process, the release, and the exploration of identity and dreams. My passion for art wasn’t just limited to drawing. I was always looking for ways to connect art to the world around me. I started looking into digital art and that's when I realized that my love for lacrosse and my love for creativity could merge. I began drawing lacrosse teams in action, capturing the intensity, the focus, and the raw emotion that came with each game. There was something about the movement, the colors, and the energy that made me feel like I could create a visual story. Sports and art aren’t two worlds that people often think of together, but for me, they’ve always coexisted. One of the main reasons I want to attend SCAD is because of the unique intersection of art and sports. It’s a place where I could explore both my love for art and my commitment to lacrosse. I didn’t want to choose between being an athlete and an artist. I wanted to do both. The opportunity to study art and play a sport I love at the same time is a dream come true. When I visited SCAD, I was amazed by the campus and the way they foster creativity in every corner. I immediately felt like I could thrive there, not just as a student but also as an athlete. SCAD has given me the chance to pursue both paths without feeling like I have to pick one over the other. It’s a place that will allow me to grow as both an artist and an athlete, and that’s what excites me the most about my future. Growing up in the city has shaped who I am as both an artist and a person. It’s given me a unique perspective, one that is grounded in resilience, resourcefulness, and a desire to make something beautiful out of the ordinary. I have been inspired by the people around me who have all played a part in pushing me to be my best. But the biggest inspiration for me has always been the city itself. There’s so much to learn from the raw energy, the vibrancy, and the grit of the urban landscape. In a way, the city is an endless source of inspiration for my artwork. I see the beauty in the textures of the buildings, the colors of the streets, and the expressions of the people. It’s a dynamic mix of chaos and calm, and I try to capture that balance in my work. My biggest inspiration, though, comes from my mother who blends purpose, ambition, and drive into everything she does. I admire her and words cannot describe how grateful I am to have her. My mother has shown me the world and all the good things that come with it. I wouldn't be here today if it wasn't for her. Whether it was dragging me to practice when I didn't want to go, waking up super early for those far-away tournaments, or helping me save up to buy my first drawing tablet, my mother has always been there for me. She is my rock. Through both my art and my sport, I’ve come to understand that creativity is not just about making something beautiful. it’s about expressing yourself and connecting with others. As I continue my journey toward SCAD, I know that my artistic path will not be a simple one, but I am ready to embrace every challenge and every opportunity. Whether I’m drawing, animating, or on the lacrosse field, I believe that art is my way of making sense of the world and sharing my story with others. My artwork is a reflection of the world around me. its beauty, its chaos, and its complexity. Growing up in the city has given me a unique perspective on life, one that I strive to capture through my art. I use a variety of mediums, from traditional drawing to animating, to express the raw energy and emotion I see in my surroundings. My art is about finding beauty in unexpected places, whether it’s the texture of a crumbling wall, the intensity of a lacrosse game, or the quiet moments between people. My goal is to create work that connects with others, evokes emotion, and inspires reflection. Through my art, I aim to tell stories that transcend the ordinary, challenging the viewer to see the world through my eyes.

Creativity, to me, is the ability to break free from the conventional and imagine new possibilities. It’s not limited to traditional artistic endeavors like painting or writing but can be found in all areas of life, whether in problem-solving, rethinking daily routines, or approaching challenges from fresh angles. At its core, creativity is about expression, innovation, and connection. It involves looking at the world with new eyes and finding beauty and meaning in both the ordinary and extraordinary. Creativity begins with curiosity; an openness to new ideas and perspectives. For example, when I think about creativity in problem-solving, it’s about stepping outside established patterns and allowing my mind to wander freely. A creative solution doesn’t always have to be the most efficient; it just needs to challenge the status quo and offer something new. This freedom to think beyond limits is what makes creativity so powerful, it lets us explore the vast potential of our thoughts. One of the most compelling aspects of creativity is its ability to transform everyday experiences into opportunities for growth. Creativity is not just about creating something new; it’s about finding new meaning in familiar things. Whether it’s drawing inspiration from a conversation, a walk in nature, or a quiet moment, creativity often arises when we least expect it. Reflecting on my own creative moments, I realize they often come when I am fully present, and open to the world around me, rather than actively trying to be creative. Creativity also involves vulnerability. To create something original, we must take risks and embrace imperfection, willing to face judgment and the possibility of failure. It’s an act of courage, exposing our ideas and ourselves to the world. But this vulnerability is what makes creativity authentic, it’s what turns ideas into something real. Whether I’m writing, designing, or brainstorming, the process of creation often requires deep introspection and the courage to share our most personal thoughts. Creativity is also inherently collaborative. While we each have a unique expression, it’s the sharing of ideas and perspectives that often leads to innovation. Creativity thrives in community, as diverse minds come together to inspire and challenge one another. Some of my most rewarding creative experiences have come from working with others, whether on team projects or simple brainstorming sessions. The exchange of ideas broadens our vision, pushes us beyond our limits, and leads to outcomes we could never have achieved alone. Ultimately, creativity is a dynamic and evolving process. It’s not a single act of brilliance but a continuous journey of exploration and growth. Creativity is about embracing uncertainty and the freedom to make mistakes, learn from them, and refine our thoughts and actions. It’s through experimentation, persistence, and the willingness to fail that something meaningful emerges. My definition of creativity is rooted in curiosity, expression, vulnerability, and collaboration. It shapes our experiences and allows us to discover new possibilities within the world and ourselves. Creativity is not limited to artists or innovators, it is a universal human trait that enables us to envision a better future, solve problems, and connect with others in meaningful ways.

Playing women’s lacrosse in high school has been one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences of my life. The physical demands of the sport, the balancing act between academics and athletics, and the personal growth I’ve gone through have all shaped me into who I am today. Looking back, I can see how the challenges on and off the field helped me develop skills and lessons that will stay with me long after graduation. One of the most obvious challenges of playing lacrosse is the physicality of the game. It’s fast-paced, and the demands on your body are constant. You need to have endurance, agility, and strength, all while trying to master skills like stick handling, shooting, and defending. As a high school player, I remember struggling at first to keep up with my teammates, many of whom had been playing for years. Trying to match their speed and technique, while still learning the ins and outs of the game, was tough. There were moments when I felt frustrated or even doubted my abilities. But over time, I learned that improvement doesn’t come overnight. Consistent practice, feedback from coaches, and believing in my own potential helped me gain confidence and become a better player. On top of the physical demands, managing the time commitment of lacrosse while keeping up with schoolwork was one of the toughest parts of being a student-athlete. Practices, games, and tournaments often conflicted with homework assignments, tests, and other extracurricular activities. I learned to prioritize my time, create schedules, and set goals. It wasn’t easy, and there were many late nights spent working on assignments after practice, but I became much better at managing my time and staying organized. These skills helped me not only as an athlete but also as a student, and I know they will serve me well in the future. Injury was another challenge I faced in my high school lacrosse career. Whether it was a sprained ankle or an unexpected muscle strain. It’s frustrating, and difficult, to watch your teammates play while you’re stuck on the sidelines. I learned how to stay mentally tough and focused, even when I couldn’t physically be on the field. Being injured also made me appreciate my body more and taught me how to care for it properly, which is a lesson I’ll carry forward into adulthood. Perhaps the most important lesson I learned through lacrosse was the value of teamwork and leadership. Lacrosse is a team sport, and success depends on how well everyone works together. Early on, I found it difficult to fit in and figure out my role on the team, especially with so many players with varying levels of experience. But over time, I learned that communication, trust, and support are the keys to a successful team dynamic. Whether you’re playing a leadership role or supporting from the sidelines, everyone has a part to play. I also learned how to be a leader in my own way, encouraging teammates, stepping up when needed, and leading by example. The lessons I’ve learned through lacrosse; resilience, time management, teamwork, leadership, and self-confidence, are invaluable. They’ve shaped me not only as an athlete but as a person. The challenges I faced on and off the field have prepared me for life’s bigger challenges, and I know I’ll carry these lessons with me forever.

Billie Eilish's music has captivated many listeners with its unique blend of introspective lyrics, innovative production, and hauntingly beautiful soundscapes. Choosing my top three Billie Eilish songs is a challenging task, given her extensive and diverse catalog. However, the following tracks stand out to me for their profound emotional impact and how they resonate deeply with my personal experiences. 1. "When the Party's Over" "When the Party's Over" is a standout track due to its raw vulnerability and emotional depth. The song's minimalist production, featuring a haunting piano melody and subtle, echoing vocals, creates an intimate atmosphere that allows the lyrics to shine. Eilish’s voice conveys a sense of melancholy and resignation, perfectly capturing the theme of emotional exhaustion and the need for solitude. The lyrics, "Call me friend but keep me closer, and I'll call you when the party's over," explore the complexity of relationships and the struggle to maintain connections while dealing with personal struggles. This song resonates with me deeply because it encapsulates the feeling of needing to withdraw from social situations to recharge, something that I find relatable in my own life. 2. "Everything I Wanted" "Everything I Wanted" is another track that resonates profoundly due to its exploration of trust, family, and self-worth. The song reflects Eilish's relationship with her brother and collaborator, Finneas, and touches on themes of support and reassurance. The lyrics, "I've had everything I wanted, but I don't want it anymore," delve into the paradox of achieving one’s dreams and still feeling unfulfilled or isolated. This song speaks to me because it addresses the pressure and expectations that come with success and the importance of having a support system. The soothing and layered production and the sincerity in Eilish’s voice create a powerful sense of intimacy and understanding. 3. "Bellyache" "Bellyache" stands out for its juxtaposition of a seemingly upbeat melody with darker, introspective lyrics. The song’s catchy rhythm and playful production contrast with the underlying themes of guilt and internal conflict. Eilish’s clever wordplay and the song's narrative about feeling remorseful over a troubling situation make it a compelling listen. The lyrics, "I don't know what I want, so I'll just keep pretending," capture the sense of confusion and disconnection that many people experience. This track resonates with me because it reflects the struggle of grappling with complex emotions and the feeling of not fully understanding one’s desires or actions. Each of these songs exemplifies Billie Eilish’s ability to convey complex emotions through her music. "When the Party's Over" speaks to the need for solitude and self-care, "Everything I Wanted" addresses the challenges of success and the importance of support, and "Bellyache" explores themes of guilt and self-deception. These tracks resonate deeply with me due to their relatable themes, emotional honesty, and Eilish’s distinctive artistic style, making them some of my top favorite songs from her catalog.

Choosing to pursue a career in animation has been a lifelong fascination. From a young age, I was captivated by the ability of art to transcend words and communicate emotions and narratives in a uniquely impactful way. My passion for animation began with the realization that it combines my love for drawing with storytelling in a dynamic and engaging medium while also producing an intriguing work of art. Unlike static art, animation brings characters to life, allowing me to explore the full spectrum of human experience and fantasy. The movement, expression, and interaction inherent in animation provide a deeper layer of communication, and I am excited by the prospect of crafting stories that can evoke a range of emotions from joy to introspection. I aspire to create an impact through animation by focusing on projects that blend artistic innovation with meaningful storytelling. I believe animation has the power to address important social issues, explore complex themes, and offer diverse perspectives. By creating narratives that resonate with audiences and provoke thought, I hope to contribute to a broader cultural dialogue and foster empathy and understanding. My goal is to create work that not only entertains but also inspires and educates, reflecting diverse experiences and fostering inclusivity. My personal reasons for my commitment to animation are deeply rooted in my own experiences and aspirations. Growing up, I often felt like an outsider, using art as a refuge and a means of self-expression. Animation became a way for me to connect with others, to share stories that mattered to me, and to find a voice in a world that sometimes felt overwhelming. This personal connection fuels my desire to create content that resonates with people on a personal level, providing comfort, inspiration, or a sense of belonging. In terms of achieving my professional goals, I have set several specific objectives. First, I plan to continuously refine my technical skills in animation and drawing, staying current with industry trends and technological advancements. I recently committed to Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) for lacrosse, where I plan to major in animation and minor in visual effects. Second, I aim to build a portfolio that showcases my versatility and creativity, including both personal projects and collaborative work. Additionally, I intend to contribute to projects that emphasize diverse storytelling and champion underrepresented voices. By collaborating with others who share my values, I hope to create an animation that reflects a wide array of experiences and perspectives. This approach not only enriches the medium but also ensures that my work has a positive and inclusive impact. Ultimately, my passion for art is driven by my desire to create meaningful and transformative experiences through visual storytelling. By honing my craft, pursuing inclusive and impactful projects, and drawing on my personal experiences, I am committed to making a significant contribution to the world of animation and beyond!

My favorite athlete to cheer, for this year's Olympics, on Team USA was Noah Lyles. His story had a very great impact on me and how I saw competing and winning, and he was such a character to watch and experience. It was extremely powerful to watch him win gold in the 100-meter sprint as well as bronze in the 200-meter. As an athlete myself who has struggled with mental health and losing time and time again, I was able to relate to Noah Lyles which made him winning even more inspirational to me. However, my favorite overall athlete on Team USA is Liam Entenmann and Shea Dolce. Both are lacrosse goalies on the men and women's USA National Lacrosse Teams. Lacrosse is not an Olympic sport yet. But it will have its Olympic Debute in the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, CA. I play lacrosse and I too am a goalie. Liam Entenmann and Shea Dolce are amazing, once in a generation, lacrosse goalies who carried their colleges to NCAA Division 1 Championships. Now, Liam Entenmann plays in the Pro Lacrosse League (PLL) on the New York Atlas Team after his more than impressive lacrosse carrier at Notre Dame University! While Shea Dolce is a junior at Boston College and will come in the spring as a three-year starter for the Eagles! Both goalies are starters for the men and women's USA National Teams, and it is expected that they will continue to be starters in the Olympics.

Hello, my name is Reagan Lowrance. I am a junior in high school (2026), and I just committed to Savannah College of Art and Design for lacrosse (2030). Art has had a huge impact on me since the COVID-19 Pandemic when the world shut down. I was able to find sanity in art and drawing and it became my refuge in the insane and crazy world during and after the lockdown. Now, I use art to express myself and tell stories. My family and I have been greatly impacted since I started my journey as an artist. From buying a new iPad to draw on all the way to committing to my number one choice school to pursue a degree in animation, every step has been an experience that will continue to leave a mark on me and my family. My family has also been my biggest support and encouragement throughout my art career. My mom signed me up to do commissions where I would draw peoples' dogs in a realistic style. After I did that for a year or two, I wanted to try animation. I had no idea where to start or what I was doing. But I know I wanted to try it. So, I grabbed my old iPad and downloaded 'Flip-A-Clip'. I started with learning how to make eyes blink, then I saw that people always animated a ball moving. So, I tried that. I kept animating, day in and day out until one day, I animated a whole music video to the song 'Into the Unknown' by Panic! at the Disco. I animated characters from my favorite anime at the time, 'My Hero Academia', performing the song in front of their school. Last year, my school did a football homecoming hype video contest. Everyone who submitted videos just recorded themselves or the football team. But I had to be different! I had to stand out! So, I animated! I did not win first place, because the administrators and teachers liked another student's recorded video more, but the whole student body agreed that they liked my video more and that I should have won first. Even though I did not win first place, I won in the hearts of my peers and that is what matters.   Art is important to society because it allows people to freely express themselves, tell a story/point of view, and it can make people look at things from a different angle. Not to mention it looks pretty.