One of my favorite times of the year as a native Texan is when the monarch butterflies migrate south for the winter. It’s a simple routine that happens annually, but I love to see the tiny creatures fly above my head when I step outside. I find the butterfly cycle to be extremely helpful in the way I view my own life. In our early school years, we are taught that butterflies start out as caterpillars, where they eventually form a chrysalis and go through a procedure called metamorphosis. Through metamorphosis, they transform from these crawling worms into beautiful, majestic butterflies. Throughout my seventeen years on earth, I’ve been anticipating my own metaphorical transformation, and college is the next step in my process. I’ve dealt with mental health through mostly all my teenage years, depression being the main weight on my shoulders. Fitting in and being well perceived were the things I cared about. When I didn’t get the acceptance I craved, I would beat myself up and belittle every positive characteristic I held. I guess you could refer to me as a caterpillar, inching my way through school, desperately trying to start my metamorphosis journey. I had thoughts of taking my own life, not realizing then that it was valuable. In my mind, I would never become a butterfly… How could someone as little as me ever be one? However, on January 18th , 2022, my perspective of life changed. I was pulled out of school during the fifth period, with the news that my father had attempted to take his own life. I had discovered that day that he had been dealing with mental health, just like me. Our relationship had been rocky for a long time, but everything seemed to change after that day. I knew right then and there that I had to step up and get better.… Not just for me, but so my father could see that mental health is beatable. I entered my metamorphosis stage, and I started to value the life I was given. Attending therapy, seeing doctors, and filling the space around me with the positive energy from God, allowed me to overcome the depression my cup was filled with. As sadness fades…happiness follows. Although I still struggle here and there, I’ve learned that my life is valuable. As college approaches, I know that I will finally transform into a butterfly. Throughout my upcoming years in school, I will remember that my life is valuable… and that the way I push myself can inspire others just like me. Truthfully, I am undecided in what I want to study, but I know I have the traits required to push myself towards whatever I decide. I’m coming out of my chrysalis and entering the world of adulthood. It’s scary, but I want my college experience to be filled with joy and determination. I truly believe I will accomplish my goals with the self growth I have on my side. I strive to become the best version of myself while also learning what life has in store for me. It may be ironic to say, but I’m ready to spread my wings and take off towards my future.

The musical Wicked has always been special to me, not just because of the music and performances, but because of how personal it is to me. As someone who has participated in seven productions, most recently playing Wednesday Addams in The Addams Family, I have developed a connection to Broadway. Not only is the production a stunning Broadway show, it is a reminder of the importance of identity, friendship, and healing. One of the most memorable moments in my life was when I had the chance to see Wicked with my father in Austin. Our relationship has been complicated, especially due to the struggles we have faced together surrounding mental health. For many years, we found it difficult to connect, often misunderstanding each other or failing to express what we truly felt. But that evening was different. As we sat together, watching the story of Elphaba and Glinda unfold, we were both happy. We both silently acknowledged the themes of Wicked, identity, personal struggle, and the power of friendship. A special memento I have from that night was not just the playbill, but a photo of my father and me outside the theater, walking to our car. In it, my father is hugging me, and that photo has become one of my favorites. It captures the moment that felt like a small victory in our relationship. It constantly reminds me of how arrt, specifically Wicked, can bring people closer, even when they are navigating tough emotions. The themes of Wicked are particularly important to me. The musical tells the story of two unsusual matches, Elphaba and Glinda, whose contrasting personalities and experiences shape their identities and their friendship. Through them, the show explores the idea that people are often misunderstood and that true friendship involves accepting each other’s differences. This speaks to me deeply because, like Elphaba and Glinda, I have experienced moments of self-doubt and struggles with identity. Me and my father have struggled to understand eachother, but we still work, just like Elphaba and Glinda. Seeing how the characters learn to embrace who they are, flaws and all, is empowering. Wicked is more than just a show to me. It is a reminder of the importance of self-acceptance, the power of friendship, and the ability to heal and connect with someone you have differences with. It brings me joy not just because of the story it tells, but because it has been a part of a healing journey in my own life, especially in my relationship with my father.

When I was little, my grandmother used to sit me down and teach me bible stories on a felt board. I remember this vividly, not only because I drew on there once and got a spanking, but because it sparked my innocent knowledge of God. She would tell me stories and sing me songs that I would later belt in the shower. I would perform for her, and most of these performances consisted of Christian songs. I truly believe my grandmother drove my love for performing, but she also drove me to be closer to God. With these two things combined, I know I can use the talents God has given me to make a difference in the world. I always wanted to be a popstar. I was writing songs by eight, and I dreamed of being like the people I saw on the television. It wasnt until middle school that I started to perfrom with my youth groups worship band. I immeadietly knew this was what singing was supposed to feel like. God guided me through the songs with no effort, and the lyrics spoke to my soul. When my mental health started to decline, I pulled away from the church and music. I had never experienced a test with God before. I felt hopeless and insecure, and I didnt understand why I felt so distant from Him. After months of this pain, I decided to get up and try to reconnect with Him. Eventually, along with therapy, doctor visits, and self-help, I felt his presence again. A weight was lifted off my shoulders, and I felt a way I had never felt before. Secure. With His word as a guiding hand, I decided to try singing again. When I started to sing, I knew it was what His plan was for me. With the Lord by my side, I started to take music as an option in college seriously. On November 16, 2024, I auditioned for AMDA, the American Musical and Dramatic Academy. I have always done musicals throughout my high school, but I want to involve ministry in my journey as well. If accepted into this prestigious program, I plan to inolve God in any way I can. Within classes, dance lessons, and even musical performances. He will be my number one priority, and I will make sure to acknowledge the guidance He has shown me throughout my journey mentally and vocally. Overall, I am confident I can merge my faith and love for entertaining together. I cant wait to see where the path God has laid out takes me.

Rylee Aguilar Personal Essay ¨Butterfly¨ One of my favorite times of the year as a native Texan is when the monarch butterflies migrate south for the winter. It’s a simple routine that happens annually, but I love to see the tiny creatures fly above my head when I step outside. I find the butterfly cycle to be extremely helpful in the way I view my own life. In our early school years, we are taught that butterflies start out as caterpillars, where they eventually form a chrysalis and go through a procedure called metamorphosis. Through metamorphosis, they transform from these crawling worms into beautiful, majestic butterflies. Throughout my seventeen years on earth, I’ve been anticipating my own metaphorical transformation, and college is the next step in my process. I’ve dealt with mental health through mostly all my teenage years, depression being the main weight on my shoulders. Fitting in and being well perceived were the things I cared about. When I didn’t get the acceptance I craved, I would beat myself up and belittle every positive characteristic I held. I guess you could refer to me as a caterpillar, inching my way through school, desperately trying to start my metamorphosis journey. I had thoughts of taking my own life, not realizing then that it was valuable. In my mind, I would never become a butterfly… How could someone as little as me ever be one? However, on January 18th , 2022, my perspective of life changed. I was pulled out of school during the fifth period, with the news that my father had attempted to take his own life. I had discovered that day that he had been dealing with mental health, just like me. I knew right then and there that I had to step up and get better.… Not just for me, but so my father could see that mental health is beatable. I entered my metamorphosis stage, and I started to value the life I was given. Attending therapy, seeing doctors, and filling the space around me with the positive energy from God, allowed me to overcome the depression my cup was filled with. As sadness fades…happiness follows. Although I still struggle here and there, I’ve learned that my life is valuable. As college approaches, I know that I will finally transform into a butterfly. Truthfully, I am undecided in what I want to study, but I know I have the traits required to push myself towards whatever I decide. I’m coming out of my chrysalis and entering the world of adulthood. It’s scary, but I want my college experience to be filled with joy and determination. I truly believe I will accomplish my goals with the self growth I have on my side. I strive to become the best version of myself while also learning what life has in store for me. It may be ironic to say, but I’m ready to spread my wings and take off towards my future.

Technology is killing our youth and it’s time the world acknowledges it. From a young age, I encountered the harsh reality of cyberbullying. The anonymous messages, cruel comments, and relentless taunts became a daily torment in my life. I had to deal with schools not realizing how serious cyberattacks were. This experience, though deeply painful, has shaped me into a stronger, more compassionate individual dedicated to making a difference. Initially, the impact of cyberbullying was devastating. My self-esteem plummeted, and I often felt isolated and helpless. However, rather than letting these experiences define me negatively, I chose to confront the pain head-on. This journey of self-discovery and resilience transformed me into a better version of myself. One of the most significant lessons I learned was empathy. Understanding the profound effects of cyberbullying on mental health gave me a heightened sensitivity to the struggles of others. I became more attuned to the emotional needs of my friends and peers, always striving to offer support and encouragement. Whether it was a kind word, a listening ear, or a simple gesture of kindness, I made it my mission to uplift those around me. Through this I have created so many wonderful friends that share my story. My experiences with cyberbullying also fueled a passion for advocacy. I realized that to create a more compassionate world, awareness and action were crucial. As I transition to college in the fall of 2025, my commitment to combating bullying remains unwavering. I plan to volunteer with anti-bullying programs, offering my time and energy to educate and support others. Volunteering will allow me to extend my advocacy efforts, reaching a broader audience and fostering a culture of respect and kindness within the college community. Moreover, I am eager to collaborate with like-minded individuals and organizations dedicated to this cause. By sharing my story and insights, I hope to inspire others to stand against bullying and promote a more inclusive environment. My goal is to be a beacon of hope for those affected by cyberbullying, showing them that it is possible to rise above the negativity and emerge stronger. While cyberbullying was a painful chapter in MY life, it ultimately shaped me into a more resilient, empathetic, and proactive person. I am committed to using my experiences to uplift and encourage others, advocating for a world where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. Through volunteering and continued advocacy, I aim to make a meaningful impact during my college years and beyond.