There is a quote that really speaks to me and I feel it accurately sums up the impact art has had on my life. Cesar A. Cruz once said "Art is meant to disturb the comfortable and comfort the disturbed." This quote really speaks to me as someone who struggles with mental illness. I have always found solace in art. It's amazing how the sweep of a stranger’s brush or the stroke of one's pencil can make a person feel seen. Feel whole. Art relays the story of others and this is a healing thing for those struggling across the world. Art is a beautiful medicine. I really wish others saw the value in it. Art is all around us yet many people don’t see it. A mural downtown, a billboard on the highway, the packaging of that new video game you bought, it’s all art and it’s frequently overlooked. Imagine a world without art, plain walls, billboards with plain text reading “buy our product”, blank boxes on all shelves. Suddenly the world is lifeless. That is why art is vital to a well run society. That is why art calls to me. That is why I wish to pursue it. I wish to bring life into our world. I will bring life to our world my putting artwork on something we interact with every single day. You can even see it in your mirror. People. I will bring art to the world my adorning people in artwork that speaks of themselves, their struggles, their dreams. Tattooing is often overlooked as a “not real” form of art. I’ve heard it from my own art teachers. But I disagree. I think decorating one’s body makes art alive. I believe a persons body can be a gallery of their life. A gallery which is worthy of recognition, of love. A gallery which can reflect the struggles and triumphs of a life well lived. Tattooing is not a “waste of talent” or a “poor artists job” it’s an art that lights up a society that is easily accessible to the masses. I will make a positive impact on the world by comforting the disturbed via art that is applied to the body and which speaks to the soul. Art that is deeply personal. Art that belongs just as much to the wearer as it does the artist.

There is a quote that really speaks to me, and I feel it accurately sums up the impact art has had on my life. Cesar A. Cruz once said, "Art is meant to disturb the comfortable and comfort the disturbed." This quote resonates deeply with me, especially as someone who struggles with mental illness. I have always found solace in art. It's amazing how the sweep of a stranger’s brush or the stroke of one’s pencil can make a person feel seen, understood, and whole. Art relays the story of others, and this is a healing force for those struggling across the world. It is how I shine my light for others to see. Art is a beautiful medicine, and I truly wish others could see its value. Art is often undervalued in our society. In a generation overrun by extreme levels of consumption, people rarely stop to appreciate the art around them. Art is all around us, yet many people don’t see it. A mural downtown, a billboard on the highway, the packaging of that new video game you bought — it’s all art, yet it often goes unnoticed. Imagine a world without art. Plain walls, billboards with nothing but dry text reading “Buy our product,” and blank boxes on all the shelves. Suddenly, the world would feel lifeless. That’s why art is vital to a well-functioning society. That’s why art calls to me, and that’s why I want to pursue it. I want to bring life into our world. I will do this by putting artwork on something we interact with every single day. You can even see it in your mirror: people. I will bring art to the world by adorning people with artwork that speaks to their stories, their struggles, their dreams, their truths. Tattooing is often overlooked as a “not real” form of art. I’ve heard this criticism from my own art teachers, but I completely disagree. I believe decorating one’s body brings art to life. A person’s body can be a gallery of their life, a gallery worthy of recognition and love. A gallery that reflects both the struggles and triumphs of a life well-lived. Tattooing is not a “waste of talent” or a “poor artist's job.” It’s an art form that lights up society and is easily accessible to the masses. It has the power to speak to people on a deeply personal level. I want to make a positive impact by comforting the disturbed through art that’s applied to the body, art that speaks to the soul. Art that belongs just as much to the wearer as it does to the artist. I want to shine my light by pursuing a career in tattooing and opening my own business. This will provide me with a greater sense of responsibility and ownership for my craft. In a world that often seems disconnected, I believe art has the power to bring people together. It has the ability to heal, to communicate, and to comfort. Running my own business will allow me to offer that healing through tattooing. Art has shaped my life in ways words cannot express, and I want to dedicate my life to sharing that gift with others. I’m not just looking to own a business; I’m looking to bring art into the lives of people who need it most, just as it has been a source of comfort for me.

There is a quote that really speaks to me, and I feel it accurately sums up the impact art has had on my life. Cesar A. Cruz once said, "Art is meant to disturb the comfortable and comfort the disturbed." This quote resonates deeply with me, especially as someone who struggles with mental illness. I have always found solace in art. It's amazing how the sweep of a stranger’s brush or the stroke of one’s pencil can make a person feel seen, understood, and whole. Art relays the story of others, and this is a healing force for those struggling across the world. Art is a beautiful medicine, and I truly wish others could see its value. Art is often undervalued in our society. In a generation overrun by extreme levels of consumption, people rarely stop to appreciate the art around them. Art is all around us, yet many people don’t see it. A mural downtown, a billboard on the highway, the packaging of that new video game you bought — it’s all art, yet it often goes unnoticed. Imagine a world without art. Plain walls, billboards with nothing but dry text reading “Buy our product,” and blank boxes on all the shelves. Suddenly, the world would feel lifeless. That’s why art is vital to a well-functioning society. That’s why art calls to me, and that’s why I want to pursue it. I want to bring life into our world. I will do this by putting artwork on something we interact with every single day. You can even see it in your mirror: people. I will bring art to the world by adorning people with artwork that speaks to their stories, their struggles, their dreams, their truths. Tattooing is often overlooked as a “not real” form of art. I’ve heard this criticism from my own art teachers, but I completely disagree. I believe decorating one’s body brings art to life. A person’s body can be a gallery of their life, a gallery worthy of recognition and love. A gallery that reflects both the struggles and triumphs of a life well-lived. Tattooing is not a “waste of talent” or a “poor artist's job.” It’s an art form that lights up society and is easily accessible to the masses. It has the power to speak to people on a deeply personal level. I want to make a positive impact by comforting the disturbed through art that’s applied to the body, art that speaks to the soul. Art that belongs just as much to the wearer as it does to the artist. I want to learn, grow, and refine my skills so that I can better understand art, its impact, and how I can use it to connect with others. I know that a higher education in art will allow me to deepen my understanding of techniques, history, and the endless possibilities that art offers. It will give me the tools I need to pursue tattooing as an art form that not only beautifies the body but tells meaningful stories. In a world that often seems disconnected, I believe art has the power to bring people together. It has the ability to heal, to communicate, and to comfort. I want to use my education to help people, to make them feel seen, and to comfort the disturbed with the power of art through tattooing.

My name is Riley Cioffi-Smith, and art is my passion. There is a quote that really speaks to me, and I feel it accurately sums up the impact art has had on my life. Cesar A. Cruz once said, "Art is meant to disturb the comfortable and comfort the disturbed." This quote resonates deeply with me, especially as someone who struggles with mental illness. I have always found solace in art. It's amazing how the sweep of a stranger’s brush or the stroke of one’s pencil can make a person feel seen, understood, and whole. Art relays the story of others, and this is a healing force for those struggling across the world. Art is a beautiful medicine, and I truly wish others could see its value. Art is often undervalued in our society. In a generation overrun by extreme levels of consumption, people rarely stop to appreciate the art around them. Art is all around us, yet many people don’t see it. A mural downtown, a billboard on the highway, the packaging of that new video game you bought — it’s all art, yet it often goes unnoticed. Imagine a world without art. Plain walls, billboards with nothing but dry text reading “Buy our product,” and blank boxes on all the shelves. Suddenly, the world would feel lifeless. That’s why art is vital to a well-functioning society. That’s why art calls to me, and that’s why I want to pursue it. I want to bring life into our world. I will do this by putting artwork on something we interact with every single day. You can even see it in your mirror: people. I will bring art to the world by adorning people with artwork that speaks to their stories, their struggles, their dreams, their truths. Tattooing is often overlooked as a “not real” form of art. I’ve heard this criticism from my own art teachers, but I completely disagree. I believe decorating one’s body brings art to life. A person’s body can be a gallery of their life, a gallery worthy of recognition and love. A gallery that reflects both the struggles and triumphs of a life well-lived. Tattooing is not a “waste of talent” or a “poor artist's job.” It’s an art form that lights up society and is easily accessible to the masses. It has the power to speak to people on a deeply personal level. I want to make a positive impact by comforting the disturbed through art that’s applied to the body, art that speaks to the soul. Art that belongs just as much to the wearer as it does to the artist. In a world that often seems disconnected, I believe art has the power to bring people together. It has the ability to heal, to communicate, and to comfort. Art has shaped my life in ways words cannot express, and I want to dedicate my life to sharing that gift with others. I’m not just seeking a degree; I’m seeking the knowledge and skills I need to bring art into the lives of people who need it most, just as it has been a source of comfort for me. I want to use my education to help people, to make them feel seen, and to comfort the disturbed with the power of art. Art is not just a hobby or an interest to me. It is my purpose.

Education has always been a shaping factor in my life. My first experience with education was at a magnet school in the nearby city, where children of every color, background, and ability were brought together. I grew up assuming that everyone lived the way I did; accepting and empathetic of others. This was significant in shaping my views of tolerance, acceptance, and diversity; something that I am very grateful for. Throughout school, I always had an interest in the arts, social studies, and justice. I excelled in my art classes and I always wanted to put a creative spin on any and all school projects. I was, and still am, extremely passionate about social injustices. When I moved to my small farm town, I realized empathy wasn’t everyone's first response to diversity. When I moved I was struck by how different things were. The people I met were seemingly kind but frequently made ignorant or outright hateful remarks about sexuality, race, and gender that left a sour taste in my mouth. This fueled my strong sense of justice and activism. In my future, I wish to help people cope, heal, and emerge stronger from injustice and adversity. Art is my passion. There is a quote that has always stuck with me because it so accurately captures the role art has played in my life. Cesar A. Cruz once said, “Art is meant to disturb the comfortable and comfort the disturbed.” This idea resonates deeply with me, not only as an artist, but as someone who has struggled with depression and anxiety from a young age. I have always found solace in art. There is something powerful about the way an image can make someone feel seen, understood, and less alone. Art tells stories that words sometimes cannot. I often think back to a phrase I first heard in elementary school: “The brain is like a muscle. The more you use it, the stronger it gets.” At the time, it felt like just another thing teachers said to get students to try harder. However, as I’ve grown older, I’ve come to understand how true this really is. I began therapy as a child but I refused to engage. I insisted that everything was fine, even when it wasn’t. If the brain is like a muscle, then mine was weakening. That weakness grew over time. My mental health declined to the point where I could barely function, eventually leading to hospitalization. It was a harsh and sudden turning point, not a gentle recovery. When I left, I wasn’t “fixed”, I was still struggling, still trying to rebuild. The only way forward was to begin strengthening those “muscles.” Through therapy, medication, support systems, and years of effort, I slowly began to understand myself. Recovery was not easy, and it was not linear, but it taught me resilience. It taught me how to live in my own mind and how to keep going even when it felt impossible. Throughout this journey, art remained a constant. In a world that often feels disconnected and fast-paced, art has the ability to slow things down and make people feel. Yet, it is often overlooked. People pass murals, advertisements, and designs every day without recognizing them as art. But imagine a world without it: plain walls, empty spaces, lifeless surroundings. Art brings life into the world, and that is what draws me to it. I want to share my art in a way that is meaningful. I plan to do this through tattooing. Tattooing is often dismissed as less serious than other forms of art, but I strongly disagree. I believe it is a meaningful form of artistic expression. The human body can become a gallery of lived experiences. A place where stories, struggles, and triumphs are displayed in ink. I want to create art that people carry with them every day, art that reflects who they are and what they have overcome. In doing so, I hope to comfort others the same way art has comforted me. I have learned through education and experience about the hardships of others, and I have experienced my own. Art has become like a medicine for me and I want nothing more than to share it with the world. My education has encouraged my life for art, and my desire to make a change in an unjust world. That is why I want to pursue higher education. I want to grow as an artist, refine my skills, and better understand how art can impact individuals and communities. More importantly, I want to turn my experiences into something meaningful. Art is not just a hobby, it is my purpose. Through art, I hope to make a positive impact by helping others feel seen, understood, and strong enough to keep going.

My name is Riley Cioffi-Smith, and art is my passion. There is a quote that has always stuck with me because it so accurately captures the role art has played in my life. Cesar A. Cruz once said, “Art is meant to disturb the comfortable and comfort the disturbed.” This idea resonates deeply with me, not only as an artist, but as someone who has struggled with depression and anxiety from a young age. I have always found solace in art. There is something powerful about the way an image can make someone feel seen, understood, and less alone. Art tells stories that words sometimes cannot. I often think back to a phrase I first heard in elementary school: “The brain is like a muscle. The more you use it, the stronger it gets.” At the time, it felt like just another thing teachers said to get students to try harder. However, as I’ve grown older, I’ve come to understand how true this really is. I began therapy as a child but I refused to engage. I insisted that everything was fine, even when it wasn’t. If the brain is like a muscle, then mine was weakening. That weakness grew over time. My mental health declined to the point where I could barely function, eventually leading to hospitalization. It was a harsh and sudden turning point, not a gentle recovery. When I left, I wasn’t “fixed”, I was still struggling, still trying to rebuild. The only way forward was to begin strengthening those “muscles.” Through therapy, medication, support systems, and years of effort, I slowly began to understand myself. Recovery was not easy, and it was not linear, but it taught me resilience. It taught me how to live in my own mind and how to keep going even when it felt impossible. Throughout this journey, art remained a constant. In a world that often feels disconnected and fast-paced, art has the ability to slow things down and make people feel. Yet, it is often overlooked. People pass murals, advertisements, and designs every day without recognizing them as art. But imagine a world without it: plain walls, empty spaces, lifeless surroundings. Art brings life into the world, and that is what draws me to it. I want to share my art in a way that is meaningful. I plan to do this through tattooing. Tattooing is often dismissed as less serious than other forms of art, but I strongly disagree. I believe it is a meaningful form of artistic expression. The human body can become a gallery of lived experiences. A place where stories, struggles, and triumphs are displayed in ink. I want to create art that people carry with them every day, art that reflects who they are and what they have overcome. In doing so, I hope to comfort others the same way art has comforted me. My experiences have also shown me the importance of early mental health care. I know what can happen when struggles are ignored, and I hope to use both my voice and my work to encourage others to seek help and to feel less alone in doing so. That is why I want to pursue higher education. I want to grow as an artist, refine my skills, and better understand how art can impact individuals and communities. More importantly, I want to turn my experiences into something meaningful. Art is not just a hobby, it is my purpose. Through art, I hope to make a positive impact by helping others feel seen, understood, and strong enough to keep going.

I have struggled with OCD for my whole life although I didn’t always know it. Thoughts would get stuck in my head and just buzz around there. I couldn’t get rid of them. It felt like something was wrong in my brain. Like a record that keeps playing the same note over and over again. It makes it hard to live comfortably especially when the note the record keeps playing is so shrill it pierces through whatever else you are trying to focus on. It made me feel crazy. Why don’t other people get stuck the way I do? Why do they not have this constant buzzing in their ears? Eventually I figured out what it was which helped marginally. I felt less crazy knowing that there was a name for what I was experiencing. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. So that’s why I had to check the locks so much. That’s why no amount of exercise ever felt “right”. That’s why I put deodorant on at least three times before leaving the house. Having a name for what I felt was validating but it didn’t stop the noise. Knowing that what I’m thinking is irrational doesn’t make the buzzing any quieter. This is what inspired me to make my painting titled “buzzing”. I decided to represent my obsessions with bees because of the idea that my thoughts were buzzing in my head. The incessant noise of a bee beating its wings and the anxiety of knowing a bee is right by your head seemed like a perfect parallel to the anxiety perpetuated by an obsession repeating in your mind. I decided to include the bees crawling into and out of the orifices of the face to represent the obsessions becoming external and manifesting into compulsions as well as the cycle of obsessions becoming compulsions which then cause more obsessions. I also intentionally placed bees by the ears to represent the overwhelming noise of obsessive thoughts. I included the honey comb painfully protruding from the face to represent how exhausting dealing with OCD. The area around the honey comb is irritated and the comb itself is leaking honey, like blood. This is showing the obsessions eating away at the person. This is one of my favorite paintings I’ve made because of how personal it is for me. Although not exact, the portrait is inspired by my own face and I crafted the symbols to represent my individual experience with OCD. This painting was healing for me to create. It helped me express the way I often feel in regards to struggling with my mental health.

My name is Riley Cioffi-Smith, and art is my passion. There is a quote that really speaks to me, and I feel it accurately sums up the impact art has had on my life. Cesar A. Cruz once said, "Art is meant to disturb the comfortable and comfort the disturbed." This quote resonates deeply with me, especially as someone who struggles with mental illness. I have always found solace in art. It's amazing how the sweep of a stranger’s brush or the stroke of one’s pencil can make a person feel seen, understood, and whole. Art relays the story of others, and this is a healing force for those struggling across the world. Art is a beautiful medicine, and I truly wish others could see its value. Art is often undervalued in our society. In a generation overrun by extreme levels of consumption, people rarely stop to appreciate the art around them. Art is all around us, yet many people don’t see it. A mural downtown, a billboard on the highway, the packaging of that new video game you bought — it’s all art, yet it often goes unnoticed. Imagine a world without art. Plain walls, billboards with nothing but dry text reading “Buy our product,” and blank boxes on all the shelves. Suddenly, the world would feel lifeless. That’s why art is vital to a well-functioning society. That’s why art calls to me, and that’s why I want to pursue it. I want to bring life into our world. I will do this by putting artwork on something we interact with every single day. You can even see it in your mirror: people. I will bring art to the world by adorning people with artwork that speaks to their stories, their struggles, their dreams, their truths. Tattooing is often overlooked as a “not real” form of art. I’ve heard this criticism from my own art teachers, but I completely disagree. I believe decorating one’s body brings art to life. A person’s body can be a gallery of their life, a gallery worthy of recognition and love. A gallery that reflects both the struggles and triumphs of a life well-lived. Tattooing is not a “waste of talent” or a “poor artist's job.” It’s an art form that lights up society and is easily accessible to the masses. It has the power to speak to people on a deeply personal level. I want to make a positive impact by comforting the disturbed through art that’s applied to the body, art that speaks to the soul. Art that belongs just as much to the wearer as it does to the artist. I want to learn, grow, and refine my skills so that I can better understand art, its impact, and how I can use it to connect with others. I know that a higher education in art will allow me to deepen my understanding of techniques, history, and the endless possibilities that art offers. It will give me the tools I need to pursue tattooing as an art form that not only beautifies the body but tells meaningful stories. In a world that often seems disconnected, I believe art has the power to bring people together. It has the ability to heal, to communicate, and to comfort. Art has shaped my life in ways words cannot express, and I want to dedicate my life to sharing that gift with others. Art is not just a hobby or an interest to me. It is my purpose.

Growing up in a middle-class family, I’ve always known the importance of being smart with money. My parents worked hard to give me and my brother a good life, and while we weren’t rich, we never went without the necessities. We did have some talks about how saving money is important and I picked up a lot just by watching how my parents handled their money. As soon as I was old enough to work, I got a part-time job. Earning my own money was great and it also made me realize how fast it can disappear if you’re not careful. I started setting aside the majority of each paycheck for savings since I had few things I actually needed to buy and I plan on going to college which can be very expensive. Managing my own money, even on a small scale, helped me learn how to budget and plan. One of the most meaningful things I’ve done to grow my money skills is starting a small art business. I’ve always loved drawing and painting, and I started selling prints and commissions online and at local craft fairs. What started as a hobby turned into a side hustle that actually made a profit. Running that business taught me a lot, not just about art, but about pricing, tracking expenses, promoting myself, and making sure I earned more than I spent. I was able to learn way more about budgeting and entrepreneurship from hands-on experience than by reading or listening to my parents. Even with these experiences, I know there’s still a lot I don’t know about finance. I want to learn more about things like stocks, taxes, and how to build passive income. I’ve started teaching myself through videos and books, but I’m excited to keep growing that knowledge in the future, especially in college. My goal is to use what I’ve learned, and what I’ll keep learning, to build a stable and independent future. I’d love to continue growing my art business and eventually turn it into a career. I also want to make smart financial decisions so I can support myself, help my family when they need it, and give back to my community one day. This scholarship would help me take the next step in my education and allow me to focus on learning, both in the classroom and through real-life experience. I know I still have a lot to learn, but I’m proud of the foundation I’ve built and I’m excited to grow.

My name is Riley Cioffi-Smith, and art is my passion. A quote by Cesar A. Cruz, "Art is meant to disturb the comfortable and comfort the disturbed," speaks to me deeply. As someone who has struggled with mental illness, art has always been a source of comfort and healing. The power of art to make someone feel seen and understood is immeasurable, and this is something I want to share with others. In a world filled with constant consumption, art often goes unnoticed, though it’s all around us. From murals and billboards to the design of product packaging, art is everywhere. Imagine a world devoid of art: empty walls, bland advertisements, and lifeless shelves. Art plays a vital role in creating a vibrant and connected society, and this is why I want to pursue it. My goal is to bring art into people’s everyday lives, particularly through tattooing. I believe tattoos are a profound form of art that tells personal stories. It’s a way for people to carry meaningful expressions of their identity and experiences on their bodies. Despite being overlooked by some, tattooing is an accessible art form that speaks to the soul and serves as a powerful form of expression. Tattooing is not a "waste of talent" or a "poor artist’s job." It's a way to share art with the world, making it personal, meaningful, and deeply impactful. I want to use tattooing to bring comfort and healing to others, just as art has done for me. College is the next step in refining my artistic skills and deepening my understanding of how to make a positive impact through my craft. I want to study art not only to improve my techniques but to learn how to communicate and connect with others in more meaningful ways. With a solid education in art, I will be better equipped to use tattooing as a tool for personal expression and societal healing. Art is more than just a career for me, it’s a calling. I want to dedicate my life to sharing the healing power of art, whether it’s through a canvas, a mural, or a tattoo. College will help me transform my passion into a profession that connects people and brings them comfort. By pursuing this scholarship, I can continue my education and ultimately make a difference in the world through the art that has shaped my life. This scholarship is crucial in helping me take the next step toward making art not just a part of my life, but a means to help others feel seen and comforted. Art is my purpose, and I am committed to using it to improve the lives of others.

Art is my passion. There is a quote that really speaks to me, and I feel it accurately sums up the impact art has had on my life. Cesar A. Cruz once said, "Art is meant to disturb the comfortable and comfort the disturbed." This quote resonates deeply with me, especially as someone who struggles with mental illness. I have always found solace in art. It's amazing how the sweep of a stranger’s brush or the stroke of one’s pencil can make a person feel seen, understood, and whole. Art relays the story of others, and this is a healing force for those struggling across the world. Art is a beautiful medicine, and I truly wish others could see its value. Art is often undervalued in our society. In a generation overrun by extreme levels of consumption, people rarely stop to appreciate the art around them. Art is all around us, yet many people don’t see it. A mural downtown, a billboard on the highway, the packaging of that new video game you bought — it’s all art, yet it often goes unnoticed. Imagine a world without art. Plain walls, billboards with nothing but dry text reading “Buy our product,” and blank boxes on all the shelves. Suddenly, the world would feel lifeless. That’s why art is vital to a well-functioning society. That’s why art calls to me, and that’s why I want to pursue it.

"The brain is like a muscle. The more you use it, the stronger it gets." We've all heard some variation of this cliché phrase, usually from a teacher. That was certainly the first time I heard it. During a dull math class, my teacher brought it up: "The brain is like a muscle. The more you use it, the stronger it gets." I'm sure my teacher spoke these words intending to inspire bored fourth graders to put more effort into long division. However, the more I reflect on it, the more I realize how this concept has influenced my life. As someone who has struggled with depression and anxiety since early childhood, I started therapy very young. I was around seven the first time I had a session. Being a stubborn child, I refused to talk. I insisted everything was completely fine, while crying every night and hiding in my room whenever it was time to leave the house. I completely shut out those around me trying to help. I made no effort to get better because I never thought I was really sick. If the brain is like a muscle, then mine was beginning to atrophy. These self-destructive behaviors and lack of action continued for years. I got worse and worse yet still made minimal efforts to strengthen the necessary muscles. This continued until these proverbial muscles completely failed me. So, the question is: how do you function when your muscles have gone limp? The answer: you don’t. So I didn’t. I couldn’t go to school. I didn’t speak to the few friends I still had. I could barely get out of bed. Someone needed to shock these muscles back into use. Unfortunately, that came in the form of rock bottom: hospitalization. I won’t go into detail about my experience there, but I will provide an analogy. Instead of the caring touch of a compassionate professional tenderly coaxing my muscles back into use, my experience was more like that of Frankenstein: an abrupt, traumatic shock used to electrocute muscles in the hope they’ll move again. This left me quite literally in shock. When I left the hospital, I had a brain that could perhaps pass for functioning but was still incredibly weak. The only way to solve this muscle weakness was to exercise. My exercise consisted of frequent therapy, medication, educational support, and a 504 plan. And so it began. Slowly, I began to strengthen my mind. I learned how it worked, what it liked and disliked, what aided in recovery, and what set me back. These steps took years—many hours of therapy and crying, hours of self-discovery and joy, hours of hardship and grief. All of this exercise was exhausting, but I pushed on in the hope that my muscles would never fail me again. "The brain is like a muscle. The more you use it, the stronger it gets." That saying goes both ways. Here is my updated phrase: "The brain is like a muscle. The more you use it, the stronger it gets, and it will cease to function when left uncared for." I was forced to become incredibly resilient from this experience as recovery is not linear. I taught myself how to exist in my own skin, how to be true to myself, and how to expand my perception of what living really means. This helped me grow into the person I am now, creative, passionate, and full of life. That being said, I will never forget the path I had to take to get here. Beginning to exercise a muscle as soon as you see signs of weakness, whether at the fault of the user or simply a victim of circumstance, is vital to ensuring more extreme action is not necessary down the line. Early mental health intervention and care is crucial. I know because I’ve lived what happens when the brain atrophies, and had to fight tooth and nail to rebuild strength.

“The brain is like a muscle. The more you use it, the stronger it gets.” We’ve all heard some variation of this cliché phrase, usually from a teacher. That was certainly the first time I heard it. During a dull math class, my teacher said, “The brain is like a muscle. The more you use it, the stronger it gets.” I’m sure they meant to inspire a room of bored fourth graders to focus on long division, but the more I reflect on it, the more I realize how deeply this idea has shaped my life. As someone who has struggled with depression and anxiety since early childhood, I started therapy when I was around seven. Being a stubborn child, I refused to talk. I insisted everything was fine, even as I cried every night and hid in my room whenever it was time to leave the house. I shut out everyone who tried to help. I made no effort to get better because I didn’t believe I was truly sick. If the brain is like a muscle, then mine was beginning to atrophy. These self-destructive patterns continued for years. I made minimal effort to strengthen my mental “muscles” until they completely failed me. And when your muscles fail, you can’t function. I couldn’t go to school, talk to friends, or even get out of bed. I needed something to shock my mind back into motion. Unfortunately, that shock came in the form of rock bottom: hospitalization. I won’t go into detail about my time there, but I’ll describe it this way: instead of a gentle therapist helping me rebuild, it felt more like Frankenstein’s monster—an abrupt, traumatic jolt meant to force my brain to move again. I left in shock, with a mind that could barely pass for functioning. Recovery was a long exercise regimen: therapy, medication, educational support, and a 504 plan. Slowly, I began rebuilding strength. I learned how my mind worked—what helped it heal and what set it back. It took years of effort: hours of therapy, crying, self-discovery, and even joy. The work was exhausting, but I kept pushing, determined not to let my mental muscles fail again. “The brain is like a muscle. The more you use it, the stronger it gets.” That phrase goes both ways. Here’s my revision: “The brain is like a muscle. The more you use it, the stronger it gets—and it will weaken when left uncared for.” Through this process, I developed resilience. Recovery is not linear; there were relapses and setbacks, but I learned to be patient with myself. I taught myself how to exist in my own skin, how to be honest about my emotions, and how to expand my perception of what living really means. That growth shaped me into who I am now: creative, passionate, and full of life. Still, I will never forget the path it took to get here. Just as with a physical muscle, addressing weakness early prevents long-term damage. Early mental health intervention and consistent care are crucial. I know because I’ve lived through what happens when the brain atrophies—and I’ve fought, day by day, to rebuild its strength.

“The brain is like a muscle. The more you use it, the stronger it gets.” We’ve all heard some variation of this cliché phrase, usually from a teacher. That was certainly the first time I heard it. During a dull math class, my teacher said, “The brain is like a muscle. The more you use it, the stronger it gets.” I’m sure they meant to inspire a room of bored fourth graders to focus on long division, but the more I reflect on it, the more I realize how deeply this idea has shaped my life. As someone who has struggled with depression and anxiety since early childhood, I started therapy when I was around seven. Being a stubborn child, I refused to talk. I insisted everything was fine, even as I cried every night and hid in my room whenever it was time to leave the house. I shut out everyone who tried to help. I made no effort to get better because I didn’t believe I was truly sick. If the brain is like a muscle, then mine was beginning to atrophy. These self-destructive patterns continued for years. I made minimal effort to strengthen my mental “muscles” until they completely failed me. And when your muscles fail, you can’t function. I couldn’t go to school, talk to friends, or even get out of bed. I needed something to shock my mind back into motion. Unfortunately, that shock came in the form of rock bottom: hospitalization. I won’t go into detail about my time there, but I’ll describe it this way: instead of a gentle therapist helping me rebuild, it felt more like Frankenstein’s monster—an abrupt, traumatic jolt meant to force my brain to move again. I left in shock, with a mind that could barely pass for functioning. Recovery was a long exercise regimen: therapy, medication, educational support, and a 504 plan. Slowly, I began rebuilding strength. I learned how my mind worked—what helped it heal and what set it back. It took years of effort: hours of therapy, crying, self-discovery, and even joy. The work was exhausting, but I kept pushing, determined not to let my mental muscles fail again. “The brain is like a muscle. The more you use it, the stronger it gets.” That phrase goes both ways. Here’s my revision: “The brain is like a muscle. The more you use it, the stronger it gets—and it will weaken when left uncared for.” Through this process, I developed resilience. Recovery is not linear; there were relapses and setbacks, but I learned to be patient with myself. I taught myself how to exist in my own skin, how to be honest about my emotions, and how to expand my perception of what living really means. That growth shaped me into who I am now: creative, passionate, and full of life. Still, I will never forget the path it took to get here. Just as with a physical muscle, addressing weakness early prevents long-term damage. Early mental health intervention and consistent care are crucial. I know because I’ve lived through what happens when the brain atrophies—and I’ve fought, day by day, to rebuild its strength.

My name is Riley Cioffi-Smith, and art is my passion. A quote by Cesar A. Cruz, "Art is meant to disturb the comfortable and comfort the disturbed," speaks to me deeply. As someone who has struggled with mental illness, art has always been a source of comfort and healing. The power of art to make someone feel seen and understood is immeasurable, and this is something I want to share with others. In a world filled with constant consumption, art often goes unnoticed, though it’s all around us. From murals and billboards to the design of product packaging, art is everywhere. Imagine a world devoid of art: empty walls, bland advertisements, and lifeless shelves. Art plays a vital role in creating a vibrant and connected society, and this is why I want to pursue it. My goal is to bring art into people’s everyday lives, particularly through tattooing. I believe tattoos are a profound form of art that tells personal stories. It’s a way for people to carry meaningful expressions of their identity and experiences on their bodies. Despite being overlooked by some, tattooing is an accessible art form that speaks to the soul and serves as a powerful form of expression. Tattooing is not a "waste of talent" or a "poor artist’s job." It's a way to share art with the world, making it personal, meaningful, and deeply impactful. I want to use tattooing to bring comfort and healing to others, just as art has done for me. College is the next step in refining my artistic skills and deepening my understanding of how to make a positive impact through my craft. I want to study art not only to improve my techniques but to learn how to communicate and connect with others in more meaningful ways. With a solid education in art, I will be better equipped to use tattooing as a tool for personal expression and societal healing. Being in college is not just about learning for the sake of learning. It’s about turning my passion into a career that makes a difference. I want to use my education to help people, to make them feel seen, and to comfort the disturbed with the power of art. Art is not just a hobby or an interest to me. It is my purpose Art is more than just a career for me, it’s a calling. I want to dedicate my life to sharing the healing power of art, whether it’s through a canvas, a mural, or a tattoo. College will help me transform my passion into a profession that connects people and brings them comfort. By pursuing this scholarship, I can continue my education and ultimately make a difference in the world through the art that has shaped my life.

I am an artist and athlete with a life goal of making people happy, largely because of my own struggles with mental health. I have played soccer and basketball almost my whole life. Soccer is my main sport and I am a goalkeeper. I currently have 5 offers to play college soccer across divisions 1, 2, and 3. I am passionate about sports but I am also heavily involved in the arts and I wish to pursue a degree in visual arts. I have experience being a volunteer goalkeeper coach for two youth soccer programs in my community. I believe the most important quality in a leader is empathy. Empathy makes us human. It is necessary for building meaningful relationships, understanding the world around us, and solving problems. As a leader, employing empathy creates a positive environment, happy teammates, and typically leads to a more efficient process. On the other hand, a leader without empathy is a tyrant. I demonstrated this empathy when I was volunteering as a youth soccer coach. When working with kids, empathy is integral to their success. Kids' emotions can be volatile so it is important to approach situations with patience and understanding. As a coach, I had to find the balance between support and motivation. I myself grew up with some coaches who lacked sufficient empathy. They were loud, and harsh, and it felt like I could never do anything right. This led to demotivation, anxiety, and lack of self-esteem. I wanted to make sure my players never felt this way. I was very intentional to bring empathy to every practice. When I first met the kids I took time to learn their names and get to know them in order to build their trust. I was observant when the kids showed up to practice to see who might be in need of a little extra positivity. I learned which kids responded well to positive reinforcement and which ones needed some more firm guidance. Teaching young kids to be goalkeepers can be difficult. There are lots of technical skills that need to be developed as well as mental hurdles to overcome. By the end of the season, more kids consistently showed up to practice and they had made significant progress in their abilities. They had more confidence and were excited to be in goal. I believe my empathy made me an excellent coach and an even better leader for the kids. I have and will continue to make a positive impact on my community through empathy in sports.

The most significant impact I have brought to a community occurred within my school. My school, like most schools, cares a lot about football. Being a member of the football team means gaining access to opportunities, exposure, and popularity. The football team is awarded every luxury: catered team dinners, large student sections, advertising across all social media platforms, priority use of facilities, all school announcements, and most noticeably funding. The obvious favoritism towards certain groups within my school bothered me. Why should they get all of the school’s attention? Being an art kid, I noticed how little arts were even mentioned at my school. Our art department is the smallest building on campus and only employs three teachers. I have been involved in art at my school since the very first week of my freshman year. I noticed that every single week during the fall, the football team would be doted on during our all school meetings. It didn’t matter if they deserved the attention or not, without fail they would be praised. I began pitching an idea to my art teacher; what if we presented student artworks at these meetings? I nagged on her for almost two whole years. I explained my reasoning for doing so. Bringing attention to the arts on campus can boost community awareness and involvement in our art department. If football can get a shoutout every week, why can’t artists? This could be the start of a real change, balancing what our school put their time and money into. I am happy to say that finally at the beginning of my junior year, this plan was put into motion. Student artworks were presented monthly at our meetings. This is a small step towards equality amongst student activities, but someone has to get the ball rolling and I had the motivation to do it myself.

There is a quote that really speaks to me, and it accurately sums up the impact art has had on me. Cesar A. Cruz once said, "Art is meant to disturb the comfortable and comfort the disturbed." This quote resonates deeply with me, especially as someone who struggles with depression. I have always found solace in art. It's amazing how the sweep of a stranger’s brush or the stroke of one’s pencil can make a person feel seen, understood, and whole. Art relays the story of others, and is a healing force for those struggling across the world. Art is a beautiful medicine, and I truly wish others saw its value. Art is undervalued in society. In a generation overrun by extreme consumption, people rarely stop to appreciate the art around them. Art is all around us, yet many people don’t see it. A mural downtown, a billboard on the highway, the packaging of that new video game you bought — it’s all art, yet it often goes unnoticed. Imagine a world without art. Plain walls, billboards with nothing but dry text, and blank boxes on all shelves. The world would feel lifeless. That’s why art is vital to society. That’s why art calls to me, why I want to pursue it. I want to bring life into our world. I'll do this by putting artwork on something we interact with every single day: skin. I will bring art to the world by adorning people with artwork that speaks to their stories, their dreams and truths. Tattooing is often overlooked as an art form, but see its value. I believe decorating one’s body brings art to life. A person’s body can be a gallery of their life. A gallery that reflects both the struggles and triumphs of a life well-lived. Tattooing is not a “waste of talent,” it’s an art form that lights up society and is easily accessible to the masses. It has the power to speak to people on a deeply personal level. I want to make a positive impact by comforting the disturbed through art that’s applied to the body, art that speaks to the soul. Art that belongs just as much to the wearer as it does to the artist. In college, I want to learn, grow, and refine my skills so that I can better understand art, its impact, and how I can use it to connect with others. I know that a higher education in art will allow me to deepen my understanding of techniques, history, and the endless possibilities that art offers. It will give me the tools I need to pursue tattooing as an art that not only beautifies the body but tells meaningful stories. In a world that often seems disconnected, I believe art has the power to bring people together. It has the ability to heal, communicate, and comfort. College will help me refine my craft so that I can continue to offer that healing. Art has shaped my life in ways words cannot express, and I want to dedicate my life to sharing that gift with others. I’m seeking the knowledge and skills I need to bring art into the lives of people who need it most, just as it has been a source of comfort for me. I will turning my passion into a career that makes a difference. I will use my education to help people, to make them feel seen, and to comfort the disturbed with the power of art. Art is my purpose.

There is a quote that really speaks to me, and it accurately sums up the impact art has had on me. Cesar A. Cruz once said, "Art is meant to disturb the comfortable and comfort the disturbed." This quote resonates deeply with me, especially as someone who struggles with depression. I have always found solace in art. It's amazing how the sweep of a stranger’s brush or the stroke of one’s pencil can make a person feel seen, understood, and whole. Art relays the story of others, and is a healing force for those struggling across the world. Art is a beautiful medicine, and I truly wish others saw its value. Art is undervalued in society. In a generation overrun by extreme consumption, people rarely stop to appreciate the art around them. Art is all around us, yet many people don’t see it. A mural downtown, a billboard on the highway, the packaging of that new video game you bought — it’s all art, yet it often goes unnoticed. Imagine a world without art. Plain walls, billboards with nothing but dry text, and blank boxes on all shelves. The world would feel lifeless. That’s why art is vital to society. That’s why art calls to me, why I want to pursue it. I want to bring life into our world. I'll do this by putting artwork on something we interact with every single day: skin. I will bring art to the world by adorning people with artwork that speaks to their stories, their dreams and truths. Tattooing is often overlooked as an art form, but see its value. I believe decorating one’s body brings art to life. A person’s body can be a gallery of their life. A gallery that reflects both the struggles and triumphs of a life well-lived. Tattooing is not a “waste of talent,” it’s an art form that lights up society and is easily accessible to the masses. It has the power to speak to people on a deeply personal level. I want to make a positive impact by comforting the disturbed through art that’s applied to the body, art that speaks to the soul. Art that belongs just as much to the wearer as it does to the artist. In college, I want to learn, grow, and refine my skills so that I can better understand art, its impact, and how I can use it to connect with others. I know that a higher education in art will allow me to deepen my understanding of techniques, history, and the endless possibilities that art offers. It will give me the tools I need to pursue tattooing as an art that not only beautifies the body but tells meaningful stories. In a world that often seems disconnected, I believe art has the power to bring people together. It has the ability to heal, communicate, and comfort. College will help me refine my craft so that I can continue to offer that healing. Art has shaped my life in ways words cannot express, and I want to dedicate my life to sharing that gift with others. I’m seeking the knowledge and skills I need to bring art into the lives of people who need it most, just as it has been a source of comfort for me. I will turning my passion into a career that makes a difference. I will use my education to help people, to make them feel seen, and to comfort the disturbed with the power of art. Art is my purpose.

My name is Riley Cioffi-Smith. I’m a twin, a daughter, and athlete, and an artist. I am motivated to pursue my interests, as well as find ways to help my community. One of the most meaningful experiences I’ve had in my community was when I volunteered as a youth soccer coach. It was part of a local recreational league where kids learned the basics of soccer while building teamwork and confidence. For me, this experience was important not just because I got to help teach the sport, but because it gave me a chance to lead with empathy. I believe empathy is the most important quality in a leader. It’s what helps us connect with others, understand their needs, and create a supportive environment. As a coach, I saw how empathy helped me build trust with the kids. When you’re working with young players, their emotions can be all over the place. Some days they’re excited, and other days they’re frustrated. I wanted to create a space where they felt comfortable making mistakes and learning without fear of being judged. I remembered how I felt when I had coaches who were harsh and made me feel like I could never get things right. That kind of environment made me anxious and drained my motivation. I didn’t want the kids I was coaching to ever feel that way. From the start, I made an effort to get to know each player. I learned their names, asked about their interests, and paid attention to how they responded during practices. I wanted to understand what kind of encouragement each kid needed. Some responded really well to praise, while others needed a more firm approach. Goalkeeping can be tough to teach, especially to younger kids, because it involves a lot of technical skills and mental focus. By the end of the season, I saw how much progress they’d made. Not only were they getting better at soccer, but they were also showing more confidence and excitement about playing. More kids started coming to practice regularly, and they were having fun while learning. This experience was meaningful to me because I saw how empathy truly made a difference. It wasn’t just about teaching soccer; it was about helping these kids grow as people. I wanted them to feel proud of their efforts, no matter how big or small. I realized that empathy didn’t just help me be a better coach, it helped me be a better leader overall. It reminded me that leadership isn’t about being in charge; it’s about supporting others and helping them reach their potential. If I could see one positive change in my community because of this event, it would be a stronger focus on empathy in leadership roles. Whether it’s in sports, schools, or workplaces, leaders who show empathy can help build stronger relationships and a more positive environment. I believe that if more people practiced empathy in leadership, our community would be more connected and supportive. It’s something I think we need more of—people who listen, understand, and help others grow. This scholarship will help me pursue higher education. I plan on playing soccer and studying art. Since, as previously mentioned, I am a twin, the cost of college is an especially heavy burden on my family. Sending two kids to college at the same time certainly isn’t cheap! This scholarship would help ease that burden and allow my to grow as an active member in my community.

I am a queer artist and athlete with a life goal of making people happy, largely because of my own struggles with mental health. Cesar A. Cruz once said, "Art is meant to disturb the comfortable and comfort the disturbed." This quote resonates deeply with me, especially as someone who struggles with mental illness. I have always found solace in art. It's amazing how the sweep of a stranger’s brush or the stroke of one’s pencil can make a person feel seen, understood, and whole. Art relays the story of others, and this is a healing force for those struggling across the world. Art is a beautiful medicine, and I truly wish others could see its value. Art is often undervalued in our society. In a generation overrun by extreme levels of consumption, people rarely stop to appreciate the art around them. Art is all around us, yet many people don’t see it. A mural downtown, a billboard on the highway, the packaging of that new video game you bought — it’s all art, yet it often goes unnoticed. Imagine a world without art. Plain walls, billboards with nothing but dry text reading “Buy our product,” and blank boxes on all the shelves. Suddenly, the world would feel lifeless. That’s why art is vital to a well-functioning society. That’s why art calls to me, and that’s why I want to pursue it. I think tattooing is a great way to use my passion for art to help others. Tattooing is often overlooked as a “not real” form of art. I’ve heard it from my own art teachers. But I disagree. I think decorating one’s body makes art alive. I believe a person’s body can be a gallery of their life. A gallery which is worthy of recognition, of love. Tattoos have the power to speak to people on a deeply personal level. I want to make a positive impact by comforting the disturbed through art that’s applied to the body, art that speaks to the soul. Art that belongs just as much to the wearer as it does to the artist. I want to learn, grow, and refine my skills in college so that I can better understand art, its impact, and how I can use it to connect with others. I know that a higher education in art will allow me to deepen my understanding of techniques, history, and the endless possibilities that art offers. It will give me the tools I need to pursue tattooing as an art form that not only beautifies the body but tells meaningful stories. As I prepare for college, I’m excited to grow as a student and continue my work in the arts and my community. However, higher education is a serious financial challenge for my family. We’re a middle-class household, but with both me and my twin brother heading to college, it’s going to be difficult to manage the cost of tuition, housing, and other expenses. I plan to work during school and apply for every opportunity I can, including this scholarship, to help ease the burden. This scholarship would support not just my education, but my continued commitment to making a positive impact on others through art. Thank you so much for considering me.

There is a quote that really speaks to me, and I feel it accurately sums up the impact art has had on my life. Cesar A. Cruz once said, "Art is meant to disturb the comfortable and comfort the disturbed." This quote resonates deeply with me, especially as someone who struggles with mental illness. I have always found solace in art. It's amazing how the sweep of a stranger’s brush or the stroke of one’s pencil can make a person feel seen, understood, and whole. Art relays the story of others, and this is a healing force for those struggling across the world. Art is a beautiful medicine, and I truly wish others could see its value. Art is often undervalued in our society. In a generation overrun by extreme levels of consumption, people rarely stop to appreciate the art around them. Art is all around us, yet many people don’t see it. A mural downtown, a billboard on the highway, the packaging of that new video game you bought — it’s all art, yet it often goes unnoticed. Imagine a world without art. Plain walls, billboards with nothing but dry text reading “Buy our product,” and blank boxes on all the shelves. Suddenly, the world would feel lifeless. That’s why art is vital to a well-functioning society. That’s why art calls to me, and that’s why I want to pursue it. I want to bring life into our world. I will do this by putting artwork on something we interact with every single day. You can even see it in your mirror: people. I will bring art to the world by adorning people with artwork that speaks to their stories, their struggles, their dreams, their truths. Tattooing is often overlooked as a “not real” form of art. I’ve heard this criticism from my own art teachers, but I completely disagree. I believe decorating one’s body brings art to life. A person’s body can be a gallery of their life, a gallery worthy of recognition and love. A gallery that reflects both the struggles and triumphs of a life well-lived. Tattooing is not a “waste of talent” or a “poor artist's job.” It’s an art form that lights up society and is easily accessible to the masses. It has the power to speak to people on a deeply personal level. I want to make a positive impact by comforting the disturbed through art that’s applied to the body, art that speaks to the soul. Art that belongs just as much to the wearer as it does to the artist. That is why I want to be in college. I want to learn, grow, and refine my skills so that I can better understand art, its impact, and how I can use it to connect with others. I know that a higher education in art will allow me to deepen my understanding of techniques, history, and the endless possibilities that art offers. It will give me the tools I need to pursue tattooing as an art form that not only beautifies the body but tells meaningful stories. In a world that often seems disconnected, I believe art has the power to bring people together. It has the ability to heal, to communicate, and to comfort. College will help me refine my craft so that I can continue to offer that healing, whether through a canvas, a mural, or a tattoo. Art has shaped my life in ways words cannot express, and I want to dedicate my life to sharing that gift with others. I’m not just seeking a degree; I’m seeking the knowledge and skills I need to bring art into the lives of people who need it most, just as it has been a source of comfort for me. Being in college is not just about learning for the sake of learning. It’s about turning my passion into a career that makes a difference. I want to use my education to help people, to make them feel seen, and to comfort the disturbed with the power of art. Art is not just a hobby or an interest to me. It is my purpose.

What inspires me most as an artist is my own life. I’ve had my fair share of struggles, and they’ve shaped who I am. I’m a queer athlete, artist, and scholar, and I’d say I’m a pretty complex person. From dealing with my parents’ divorce to living with OCD, being bullied, and figuring out my identity, I’ve been through a lot. I draw a lot of my inspiration from how I feel in those moments. I take all those emotions and ideas and turn them into a visual story. It’s not just about creating something beautiful; it helps me understand what I’m going through and sort through my feelings. My everyday life, with all its ups and downs, is what fuels my creativity.

My name is Riley Cioffi-Smith, and I’m a student, an athlete, an artist, and someone who cares deeply about giving back to my community. Soccer has always been a big part of my life. It’s taught me discipline, teamwork, and leadership. But more importantly, it’s shown me how powerful sports can be in building confidence and creating safe, inclusive spaces, especially for young people. One of my favorite volunteer experiences was coaching at the Girls in Sports Day Clinic hosted by my high school this past February. For four hours, I worked with younger girls, teaching basic soccer skills, cheering them on, and encouraging them to believe in themselves. Watching them make new friends and light up when they accomplished something reminded me how important positive role models can be. In addition to one-time events, I’ve committed to coaching regularly. In the summer of 2023, I volunteered as a goalkeeper coach for North Branford Youth Soccer, working 1.5 hours twice a week. I returned to coaching again in summer 2024, helping with Branford’s Nepalese Youth Rec Soccer program. Many of these kids come from immigrant families, and it’s been an amazing experience to build trust, teach skills, and create a fun, supportive environment. Part of keeping kids safe, both in person and online, is being someone they can rely on. When I coach, I do everything I can to make sure every child feels seen, heard, and respected. I make it clear that bullying, whether it happens on the field or on social media, isn’t okay. I encourage them to speak up if they’re feeling uncomfortable or left out. Sometimes, just knowing someone is there for them makes a big difference. I’ve also experienced bullying myself, so I understand how much it can affect someone’s confidence and mental health. Because of that, I’m more aware of signs that a kid might be struggling. Things like becoming withdrawn, quiet, or frustrated. A simple check-in or kind word can mean more than people realize. I try to lead by example. On the field, I encourage teamwork and make sure everyone gets a chance to participate. Off the field, I talk to kids about kindness and respect, especially online, where words can hurt just as much as they do in person. I remind them that what we post has real effects and that the internet isn’t a place to hide behind cruelty. When older students and coaches speak openly about bullying, it helps break the stigma and makes it easier for kids to reach out for help. No one can completely stop bullying, but I believe we can all play a role in protecting and supporting the next generation. I try to do that by showing up, being present, and creating safe spaces where kids feel like they matter. As I prepare for college, I’m excited to grow as a student and continue my work in the community. However, higher education is a serious financial challenge for my family. We’re a middle-class household, but with both me and my twin brother heading to college, it’s going to be difficult to manage the cost of tuition, housing, and other expenses. I plan to work during school and apply for every opportunity I can, including this scholarship, to help ease the burden. This scholarship would support not just my education, but my continued commitment to making a positive impact on others through coaching, mentoring, and advocacy. Thank you so much for considering me.

Growing up in a middle-class family, I’ve always known the importance of being smart with money. My parents worked hard to give me and my brother a good life, and while we weren’t rich, we never went without the necessities. We did have some talks about how saving money is important and I picked up a lot just by watching how my parents handled their money. As soon as I was old enough to work, I got a part-time job. Earning my own money was great and it also made me realize how fast it can disappear if you’re not careful. I started setting aside the majority of each paycheck for savings since I had few things I actually needed to buy and I plan on going to college which can be very expensive. Managing my own money, even on a small scale, helped me learn how to budget and plan. One of the most meaningful things I’ve done to grow my money skills is starting a small art business. I’ve always loved drawing and painting, and I started selling prints and commissions online and at local craft fairs. What started as a hobby turned into a side hustle that actually made a profit. Running that business taught me a lot, not just about art, but about pricing, tracking expenses, promoting myself, and making sure I earned more than I spent. I was able to learn way more about budgeting and entrepreneurship from hands-on experience than by reading or listening to my parents. Even with these experiences, I know there’s still a lot I don’t know about finance. I want to learn more about things like stocks, taxes, and how to build passive income. I’ve started teaching myself through videos and books, but I’m excited to keep growing that knowledge in the future, especially in college. My goal is to use what I’ve learned, and what I’ll keep learning, to build a stable and independent future. I’d love to continue growing my art business and eventually turn it into a career. I also want to make smart financial decisions so I can support myself, help my family when they need it, and give back to my community one day. This scholarship would help me take the next step in my education and allow me to focus on learning, both in the classroom and through real-life experience. I know I still have a lot to learn, but I’m proud of the foundation I’ve built and I’m excited to grow.

One of the most meaningful experiences I’ve had in my local community was when I volunteered as a youth soccer coach. It was part of a local recreational league where kids learned the basics of soccer while building teamwork and confidence. For me, this experience was important not just because I got to help teach the sport, but because it gave me a chance to lead with empathy. I believe empathy is the most important quality in a leader. It’s what helps us connect with others, understand their needs, and create a supportive environment. As a coach, I saw how empathy helped me build trust with the kids. When you’re working with young players, their emotions can be all over the place. Some days they’re excited, and other days they’re frustrated. I wanted to create a space where they felt comfortable making mistakes and learning without fear of being judged. I remembered how I felt when I had coaches who were harsh and made me feel like I could never get things right. That kind of environment made me anxious and drained my motivation. I didn’t want the kids I was coaching to ever feel that way. From the start, I made an effort to get to know each player. I learned their names, asked about their interests, and paid attention to how they responded during practices. I wanted to understand what kind of encouragement each kid needed. Some responded really well to praise, while others needed a more firm approach. Goalkeeping can be tough to teach, especially to younger kids, because it involves a lot of technical skills and mental focus. By the end of the season, I saw how much progress they’d made. Not only were they getting better at soccer, but they were also showing more confidence and excitement about playing. More kids started coming to practice regularly, and they were having fun while learning. This experience was meaningful to me because I saw how empathy truly made a difference. It wasn’t just about teaching soccer; it was about helping these kids grow as people. I wanted them to feel proud of their efforts, no matter how big or small. I realized that empathy didn’t just help me be a better coach, it helped me be a better leader overall. It reminded me that leadership isn’t about being in charge; it’s about supporting others and helping them reach their potential. If I could see one positive change in my community because of this event, it would be a stronger focus on empathy in leadership roles. Whether it’s in sports, schools, or workplaces, leaders who show empathy can help build stronger relationships and a more positive environment. I believe that if more people practiced empathy in leadership, our community would be more connected and supportive. It’s something I think we need more of—people who listen, understand, and help others grow.

My name is Riley Cioffi-Smith, and art is my passion. A quote by Cesar A. Cruz, "Art is meant to disturb the comfortable and comfort the disturbed," speaks to me deeply. As someone who has struggled with mental illness, art has always been a source of comfort and healing. The power of art to make someone feel seen and understood is immeasurable, and this is something I want to share with others. In a world filled with constant consumption, art often goes unnoticed, though it’s all around us. From murals and billboards to the design on product packaging, art is everywhere. Imagine a world devoid of art: empty walls, bland advertisements, and lifeless shelves. Art plays a vital role in creating a vibrant and connected society, and this is why I want to pursue it. My goal is to bring art into people’s everyday lives, particularly through tattooing. I believe tattoos are a profound form of art that tells personal stories. It’s a way for people to carry meaningful expressions of their identity and experiences on their bodies. Despite being overlooked by some, tattooing is an accessible art form that speaks to the soul and serves as a powerful form of expression. Tattooing is not a "waste of talent" or a "poor artist’s job." It's a way to share art with the world, making it personal, meaningful, and deeply impactful. I want to use tattooing to bring comfort and healing to others, just as art has done for me. College is the next step in refining my artistic skills and deepening my understanding of how to make a positive impact through my craft. I want to study art not only to improve my techniques but to learn how to communicate and connect with others in more meaningful ways. With a solid education in art, I will be better equipped to use tattooing as a tool for personal expression and societal healing. Art is more than just a career for me, it’s a calling. I want to dedicate my life to sharing the healing power of art, whether it’s through a canvas, a mural, or a tattoo. College will help me transform my passion into a profession that connects people and brings them comfort. By pursuing this scholarship, I can continue my education and ultimately make a difference in the world through the art that has shaped my life. This scholarship is crucial in helping me take the next step toward making art not just a part of my life, but a means to help others feel seen and comforted. Art is my purpose, and I am committed to using it to improve the lives of others.

I have struggled with ocd for my whole life although I didn’t always know it. Thoughts would get stuck in my head and just buzz around there. I couldn’t get rid of them. It felt like something was wrong in my brain. Like a record that keeps playing the same note over and over again. It makes it hard to live comfortably especially when the note the record keeps playing is so shrill it pierces through whatever else you are trying to focus on. It made me feel crazy. Why don’t other people get stuck the way I do? Why do they not have this constant buzzing in their ears? Eventually I figured out what it was which helped marginally. I felt less crazy knowing that there was a name for what I was experiencing. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. So that’s why I had to check the locks so much. That’s why no amount of exercise ever felt “right”. That’s why I put deodorant on at least three times before leaving the house. Having a name for what I felt was validating but it didn’t stop the noise. Knowing that what I’m thinking is irrational doesn’t make the buzzing any quieter. This is what inspired me to make my painting titled “buzzing”. I decided to represent my obsessions with bees because of the idea that my thoughts were buzzing in my head. The incessant noise of a bee beating its wings and the anxiety of knowing a bee is right by your head seemed like a perfect parallel to the anxiety perpetuated by an obsession repeating in your mind. I decided to include the bees crawling into and out of the orifices of the face to represent the obsessions becoming external and manifesting into compulsions as well as the cycle of obsessions becoming compulsions which then cause more obsessions. I also intentionally placed bees by the ears to represent the overwhelming noise of obsessive thoughts. I included the honey comb painfully protruding from the face to represent how exhausting dealing with OCD. The area around the honey comb is irritated and the comb itself is leaking honey, like blood. This is showing the obsessions eating away at the person. This is one of my favorite paintings I’ve made because of how personal it is for me. Although not exact, the portrait is inspired by my own face and I crafted the symbols to represent my individual experience with OCD. This painting was healing for me to create. It helped me express the way I often feel in regards to struggling with my mental health.

The most significant impact I have brought to a community occurred within my school. My school, like most schools, cares a lot about football. Being a member of the football team means gaining access to opportunities, exposure, and popularity. The football team is awarded every luxury: catered team dinners, large student sections, advertising across all social media platforms, priority use of facilities, all school announcements, and most noticeably funding. The obvious favoritism towards certain groups within my school bothered me. Why should they get all of the school’s attention? Being an art kid, I noticed how little arts were even mentioned at my school. Our art department is the smallest building on campus and only employs three teachers. I have been involved in art at my school since the very first week of my freshman year. I noticed that every single week during the fall, the football team would be doted on during our all school meetings. It didn’t matter if they deserved the attention or not, without fail they would be praised. I began pitching an idea to my art teacher; what if we presented student artworks at these meetings? I nagged on her for almost two whole years. I explained my reasoning for doing so. Bringing attention to the arts on campus can boost community awareness and involvement in our art department. If football can get a shoutout every week, why can’t artists? This could be the start of a real change, balancing what our school put their time and money into. I am happy to say that finally at the beginning of my junior year, this plan was put into motion. Student artworks were presented monthly at our meetings. This is a small step towards equality amongst student activities, but someone has to get the ball rolling and I had the motivation to do it myself. I will continue to push for more visibility for the arts by working to expand awareness of our art programs.

My name is Riley Cioffi-Smith and art is my passion. There is a quote that really speaks to me and I feel it accurately sums up the impact art has had on my life. Cesar A. Cruz once said "Art is meant to disturb the comfortable and comfort the disturbed." This quote really speaks to me as someone who struggles with mental illness. I have always found solace in art. Its an amazing thing how the sweep of a strangers brush or the stroke of one's pencil can make a person feel seen. Feel whole. Art relays the story of others and this is a healing thing for those struggling across the world. Art is a beautiful medicine. I really wish others saw the value in it. Art is undervalued in our society. In a generation overrun by extreme levels of consumption, no one stops to smell the flowers. Art is all around us yet many people don’t see it. A mural downtown, a billboard on the highway, the packaging of that new video game you bought, it’s all art and it’s all overlooked. Imagine a world without art, plain walls, billboards with plain text reading “buy our product”, blank boxes on all shelves. Suddenly the world is lifeless. That is why art is vital to a well run society. That is why art calls to me. That is why I wish to pursue it. I wish to bring life into our world. I will bring this life to our world my putting artwork on something we interact with every single day. You can even see it in your mirror. People. I will bring art to the world my adorning people in artwork that speaks of themselves, their struggles, their dreams. Tattooing is often overlooked as a “not real” form of art. I’ve heard it from my own art teachers. But I disagree. I think decorating one’s body makes art alive. I believe a persons body can be a gallery of their life. A gallery which is worthy of recognition, of love. A gallery which can reflect the struggles and triumphs of a life well lived. Tattooing is not a “waste of talent” or a “poor artists job” it’s an art that lights up a society that is easily accessible to the masses. I will make a positive impact on the world by comforting the disturbed via art that is applied to the body and which speaks to the soul. Art that is deeply personal. Art that belongs just as much to the wearer as it does the artist.

My name is Riley Cioffi-Smith, and art is my passion. As someone who struggles with mental illness, I’ve always found solace in art. There’s a quote by Cesar A. Cruz that speaks to me deeply: "Art is meant to disturb the comfortable and comfort the disturbed." Art has been a healing force in my life, offering me a sense of being seen and understood. The act of a brushstroke or pencil marking paper can make someone feel whole, and for those struggling, that connection is invaluable. Art tells stories, and for those facing battles, it’s a reminder they’re not alone. To me, art is not just expression. It’s medicine. Sadly, in today’s world, art is often undervalued. Our society is overrun by consumerism, where everyone rushes from one product to the next without pausing to appreciate the beauty around them. Art is everywhere; on murals, billboards, and even packaging. However, it often goes unnoticed. Imagine a world without art: plain walls, bland billboards, and simple product packaging. The world would be lifeless. This is why I believe art is vital to a thriving society. It brings life to the world, and it’s why I want to pursue it as a career. For me, success is using art to bring meaning and beauty into the world. I believe tattooing is a way for me to do this. Tattooing is often dismissed as a lesser form of art, something I’ve even heard from my own art teachers. But I disagree. Tattoos are living art. They tell the stories of the wearer, reflecting their experiences, struggles, and dreams. A person’s body can be a gallery that reflects their life, constantly evolving and changing. Tattoos offer an opportunity to adorn someone with something deeply personal, something they carry with them every day. Success, to me, is about creating art that resonates with people, art that is deeply personal and meaningful. Tattooing allows me to put art on the body, speaking to the soul. It’s accessible, impactful, and an art form that connects directly with individuals. Whether a tattoo is a reminder of a life event, a symbol of growth, or an artistic representation of a dream, it becomes a part of that person’s identity. Tattoos have the power to comfort and heal, which is why I’m drawn to this form of expression. This opportunity to pursue tattooing will help me achieve my definition of success. It will allow me to hone my craft and gain the skills needed to turn my passion into a career. Tattooing isn’t just about creating beautiful designs. It’s also about connecting with others and telling their stories. It’s a way to provide comfort and healing, especially for those who may be struggling, as I have. A college scholarship would be incredible helpful for me to reach this goal. It would give me the financial support to pursue formal education in tattoo artistry, allowing me to learn from experienced professionals and refine my techniques. Beyond just learning the technical skills, a scholarship would also provide me with the opportunity to immerse myself in an environment that nurtures creativity, allows me to grow as an artist, and connects me with like-minded individuals who share my passion. It would give me the foundation I need to start a successful tattoo career and make the positive impact I dream of. Tattooing is a powerful form of art that I believe is often misunderstood or overlooked. I want to change that perception. By creating tattoos that reflect people’s lives, I hope to help others feel seen and empowered. Tattoos can serve as a source of strength, reminding someone of their worth and their journey. Through tattooing, I believe I can bring art to life in a meaningful and accessible way. Success for me is using art to positively impact others. Tattooing offers a unique opportunity to connect with people on a personal level and help them feel whole through self-expression. This opportunity will allow me to refine my skills and turn my passion into a career, giving me the chance to bring art into people’s lives in a profound way. Art, especially tattooing, has the power to comfort, heal, and empower—and that’s how I want to make my mark on the world. A scholarship would be the first step in making that dream a reality.

Your teammates won't remember all the times you've saved them. They won't remember every time you threw yourself across the goal to get a fingertip on a ball. They won't remember when you dove into the path of a striker's foot to stop them from shooting. They certainly won't remember each time you motivated them, even when you were not confident in yourself. When you make a mistake, suddenly they only see the now. A ball through the legs, a missed pass, guessing the wrong way on a penalty kick. This is the life of a goalkeeper. As a goalkeeper in high school, the pressure to perform is constant. Every mistake feels magnified because I know I’m the last line of defense. A striker can miss ten shots in a game and still come away with a win. As a goalkeeper, I don't have that luxury. Unlike the field players, who can rely on teammates to cover up their errors, my mistakes are typically the ones that decide the game. The mental pressure of knowing that a single mistake could lead to a goal, and potentially a loss, is one of the hardest challenges I face. But I’ve learned to bounce back quickly, move past the mistakes, and stay focused on the next play. Physically, being a goalkeeper is demanding. Diving, jumping, and putting my body at risk are part of the job. The fear of injury is always present, but I’ve learned to push through pain, knowing that my performance is crucial for my team. Another challenge is the isolation during the game. While outfield players are constantly involved, I can go long stretches without touching the ball, often only touching the ball a handful of times. But when the action comes my way, the pressure is on me to perform. Staying mentally sharp during these quiet moments is just as important as being ready when the game heats up. Despite the challenges, being a goalkeeper has taught me valuable lessons in resilience and leadership. I’ve learned that failure isn’t the end; it’s an opportunity to grow. Each mistake teaches me something, and the key is to learn from it and keep moving forward. I’ve also learned how to lead from the back, communicating with my defenders and staying calm under pressure. In the end, the challenges of being a goalkeeper have made me stronger and more focused, both on and off the field. While mistakes are inevitable, it’s how I recover and continue to perform that truly defines me.

espresso, beige, hazelnut, kahki - shades of brown I'm an artist so I work in color all the time! There are so many different shades of just one color and I think the way we categorize them into names is really interesting. I often do portraits so I'm always working in different shades of brown so I know just how complex the color can be. After all, it contains all the primary colors! taste, texture, consistency, presentation - ways to describe dishes I love food so much and I'm always looking to try new things! Food is such an interesting part of how we experience life and often has a strong link to culture. Juno, Harry, Forest, John - First names of titular characters Juno, Harry Potter, Forest Gump, and John Wick are some of my favorite movies. They are all very different and span different genres but I think they are all culturally significant. feather, hair, scale, pore - singular term for the external layer of an animal I love all types of animals. Snakes, frogs, bugs, dogs; I don't care! I've always loved animals regardless of their appearance. I think these categories would also be fun because they each contain the title of a popular Sabrina Carpenter song! She is one of my favorite artists right now and she is super popular! This would throw off the player and make the game harder.

My ideal bookshelf would feature a cast of strong, diverse, and unique female main characters. Fortunately, #BookTok is a treasure trove for characters that fit this description. On #BookTok, you can discover these characters across a variety of genres—from Pippa Fitz-Amobi in A Good Girl's Guide to Murder to Jude Duarte in The Cruel Prince. In the sea of recommendations, one name consistently stands out: Sarah J. Maas. An ideal bookshelf inspired by #BookTok would undoubtedly include essential titles such as Maas’s A Court of Thorns and Roses, Throne of Glass, and Crescent City. Each of these books has significantly influenced the #BookTok community, reshaped popular reading trends, and inspired a generation of young women to embrace their strength. For many readers, A Court of Thorns and Roses (or ACOTAR) is the gateway to beginning their reading journey. Its appeal spans a wide range of ages, interests, and backgrounds, offering something for everyone. This book is one of my favorites because of its intricate world-building and complex characters, but it also captivates with its beautiful romance and masterful storytelling. Regardless of which aspect resonates most with you, the combined elements make A Court of Thorns and Roses a #BookTok sensation. As readers delve further into the 'Maasverse,' they often turn to Throne of Glass next. This series is a substantial commitment, consisting of eight novels. It follows Aelin Galathynius, also known as Celaena Sardothien. The lengthy, detailed narrative features some of the most complex and endearing characters in fantasy literature. Aelin Galathynius stands out for her strength, confidence, and cunning. Though she may not be a traditional role model, her actions are driven by self-preservation and a deep love for her family and country. Her tenacity is awe-inspiring, and she remains a memorable character long after the final page. Throne of Glass is a must-have for any #BookTok bookshelf due to its lasting impact on readers. Crescent City ties together the Sarah J. Maas universe, creating a cohesive literary world. This modern fantasy tackles complex themes such as slavery, oppression, and sexism while remaining accessible. The protagonist, Bryce Quinlan, is relatable to many women due to her humor, wit, and vulnerability. A key theme in the book is Bryce's use of her power in a society that seeks to suppress women’s abilities. The series excites fans with its connections to the previous series, weaving elements from Throne of Glass into the narrative and integrating characters from A Court of Thorns and Roses. This interconnectedness has drawn fans of Maas’s other works to Crescent City, making it a #BookTok essential. No #BookTok bookshelf would be complete without all three of Sarah J. Maas’s series. A Court of Thorns and Roses draws readers in, Throne of Glass tugs at their heartstrings, and Crescent City keeps them coming back for more. These books have profoundly impacted the #BookTok community and my life with their portrayal of complex, motivated, and intelligent female characters. Their influence on my worldview and connections with others makes them vital components of my dream #BookTok bookshelf.

"The brain is like a muscle. The more you use it, the stronger it gets." This phrase, often uttered by teachers attempting to inspire their students, first reached me during a mundane fourth-grade math class. At that moment, it seemed like just another motivational cliché. However, as I reflect on my own experiences with mental health, I realize how profoundly this analogy has shaped my life. From an early age, I struggled with depression and anxiety. My journey with mental health began around age seven when I first started therapy. I was a stubborn child, convinced that I had no real problems. I insisted that everything was fine, despite the fact that I cried myself to sleep every night and avoided social activities like soccer practice. I rejected the help of those around me and refused to acknowledge the seriousness of my situation. If the brain is indeed like a muscle, mine was starting to atrophy. These self-destructive behaviors persisted for years, leading to a worsening condition and minimal efforts on my part to address the issues. My mental state deteriorated to the point where I was unable to function normally. I couldn’t attend school, communicate with friends, or even get out of bed. The culmination of my struggles came in the form of hospitalization—a dramatic intervention that felt more like an abrupt, traumatic shock than a compassionate guidance. My time in the hospital was intense and disorienting. Instead of a gentle and nurturing approach to coax my mental muscles back into action, it felt like a sudden, jarring jolt aimed at forcing me to respond. The experience left me profoundly shaken, but it marked the beginning of a turning point. When I left the hospital, my brain could barely be considered functional, let alone strong. Rebuilding my mental strength required consistent and deliberate effort. I embarked on a regimen that included frequent therapy sessions, medication, educational support, and a 504 plan. Each step was crucial in the process of strengthening my mind. Slowly but surely, I began to understand how my brain worked, what contributed to my recovery, and what hindered it. This journey involved countless hours of therapy and self-discovery, moments of joy and hardship, and an ongoing commitment to self-improvement. One significant tool in my recovery was art. By channeling my emotions into creative expressions, I provided a tangible outlet for my feelings. Art became a therapeutic practice that alleviated some of the crushing mental pressure I was experiencing. I spent hours drawing, painting, and sculpting, using art as a daily ritual to help me cope with my struggles. This creative process was not just a pastime but a crucial component of my healing journey. As I continued to grow stronger, I began to think about how I could use my artistic skills to benefit others. I recognized that fine art often remains an exclusive domain, accessible mainly to those with financial means. However, art has the potential to be a healing force for people of all socioeconomic backgrounds. This realization led me to consider tattooing—a form of art that is accessible to a broader audience and allows individuals to express their personal stories and experiences through their skin. Now, as a junior in high school, I am focused on planning for my future. Although I could enter the workforce immediately, I am committed to pursuing higher education to refine my artistic skills and learn the essential business aspects needed for a successful career. My goal is to enter the tattoo industry with the knowledge and expertise required to help others through art. By continuously working on my mental health and leveraging my artistic abilities, I aspire to spread the joy and healing that art can offer. In summary, my journey has been one of significant personal growth and resilience. The process of strengthening my mental health has been akin to a rigorous workout for a muscle, and through art, I have found a powerful means of expression and healing. I am determined to help others find solace and strength through creative outlets, just as I have.

"The brain is like a muscle. The more you use it, the stronger it gets." This phrase, often uttered by teachers attempting to inspire their students, first reached me during a mundane fourth-grade math class. At that moment, it seemed like just another motivational cliché. However, as I reflect on my own experiences with mental health, I realize how profoundly this analogy has shaped my life. From an early age, I struggled with depression and anxiety. My journey with mental health began around age seven when I first started therapy. I was a stubborn child, convinced that I had no real problems. I insisted that everything was fine, despite the fact that I cried myself to sleep every night and avoided social activities like soccer practice. I rejected the help of those around me and refused to acknowledge the seriousness of my situation. If the brain is indeed like a muscle, mine was starting to atrophy. These self-destructive behaviors persisted for years, leading to a worsening condition and minimal efforts on my part to address the issues. My mental state deteriorated to the point where I was unable to function normally. I couldn’t attend school, communicate with friends, or even get out of bed. The culmination of my struggles came in the form of hospitalization—a dramatic intervention that felt more like an abrupt, traumatic shock than a compassionate guidance. My time in the hospital was intense and disorienting. Instead of a gentle and nurturing approach to coax my mental muscles back into action, it felt like a sudden, jarring jolt aimed at forcing me to respond. The experience left me profoundly shaken, but it marked the beginning of a turning point. When I left the hospital, my brain could barely be considered functional, let alone strong. Rebuilding my mental strength required consistent and deliberate effort. I embarked on a regimen that included frequent therapy sessions, medication, educational support, and a 504 plan. Each step was crucial in the process of strengthening my mind. Slowly but surely, I began to understand how my brain worked, what contributed to my recovery, and what hindered it. This journey involved countless hours of therapy and self-discovery, moments of joy and hardship, and an ongoing commitment to self-improvement. One significant tool in my recovery was art. By channeling my emotions into creative expressions, I provided a tangible outlet for my feelings. Art became a therapeutic practice that alleviated some of the crushing mental pressure I was experiencing. I spent hours drawing, painting, and sculpting, using art as a daily ritual to help me cope with my struggles. This creative process was not just a pastime but a crucial component of my healing journey. As I continued to grow stronger, I began to think about how I could use my artistic skills to benefit others. I recognized that fine art often remains an exclusive domain, accessible mainly to those with financial means. However, art has the potential to be a healing force for people of all socioeconomic backgrounds. This realization led me to consider tattooing—a form of art that is accessible to a broader audience and allows individuals to express their personal stories and experiences through their skin. Now, as a junior in high school, I am focused on planning for my future. Although I could enter the workforce immediately, I am committed to pursuing higher education to refine my artistic skills and learn the essential business aspects needed for a successful career. My goal is to enter the tattoo industry with the knowledge and expertise required to help others through art. By continuously working on my mental health and leveraging my artistic abilities, I aspire to spread the joy and healing that art can offer. In summary, my journey has been one of significant personal growth and resilience. The process of strengthening my mental health has been akin to a rigorous workout for a muscle, and through art, I have found a powerful means of expression and healing. I am determined to help others find solace and strength through creative outlets, just as I have.

listen before I go is a deeply personal and tragic song. I relate to it's dark and solemn mood because of my struggle with depression and suicidal ideation. I used to listen to this song while in my darkest moments. In an odd way it made me feel less alone. Now that I am in recovery I can't listen to that song because it triggers memories of some of the worst times in my life, but it still holds a tender place in my heart because of the solace it provided little me. idontwannabeyouanymore depicts a struggle with society's unreasonable expectations for women and their bodies. Being a woman can be exhausting with the amount of standards and ideals forced upon you. Body image is something I struggle with due to my size and athletic build. Knowing I'm not the only person who deals with this struggle is comforting. Copycat, for me, represents dealing with bullies who in hindsight, are jealous of you. I had some toxic friendships in middle school that really effected me and my mental health. Even in high school I struggled for a few years with a teammate who made her hatred for me known. Looking back, I can see that these girls were jealous of something I had. In middle school the girl was just insecure and wanted the friend that I was close with to be hers. In high school, the girl knew I was at her level athletically even though I was younger so she bullied me to bring me down. Looking back it is empowering to know their actions had nothing to do with me, but instead were a reflection of them yearning for something I possessed.

My name is Riley Cioffi-Smith and art is my passion. There is a quote that really speaks to me and I feel it accurately sums up the impact art has had on my life. Cesar A. Cruz once said "Art is meant to disturb the comfortable and comfort the disturbed." This quote really speaks to me as someone who struggles with mental illness. I have always found solace in art. Its an amazing thing how the sweep of a strangers brush or the stroke of one's pencil can make a person feel seen. Feel whole. Art relays the story of others and this is a healing thing for those struggling across the world. Art is a beautiful medicine. I really wish others saw the value in it. Art is undervalued in our society. In a generation overrun by extreme levels of consumption, no one stops to smell the flowers. Art is all around us yet many people don’t see it. A mural downtown, a billboard on the highway, the packaging of that new video game you bought, it’s all art and it’s all overlooked. Imagine a world without art, plain walls, billboards with plain text reading “buy our product”, blank boxes on all shelves. Suddenly the world is lifeless. That is why art is vital to a well run society. That is why art calls to me. That is why I wish to pursue it. I wish to bring life into our world. I will bring this life to our world my putting artwork on something we interact with every single day. You can even see it in your mirror. People. I will bring art to the world my adorning people in artwork that speaks of themselves, their struggles, their dreams. Tattooing is often overlooked as a “not real” form of art. I’ve heard it from my own art teachers. But I disagree. I think decorating one’s body makes art alive. I believe a persons body can be a gallery of their life. A gallery which is worthy of recognition, of love. A gallery which can reflect the struggles and triumphs of a life well lived. Tattooing is not a “waste of talent” or a “poor artists job” it’s an art that lights up a society that is easily accessible to the masses. I will make a positive impact on the world by comforting the disturbed via art that is applied to the body and which speaks to the soul. Art that is deeply personal. Art that belongs just as much to the wearer as it does the artist.