The changes were small at first, a slight unintentional movement of the arm or face, barely noticeable to someone who was not paying attention. I noticed it after our first pet rabbit, Churro, died. The worst part is my sister and I watched the life fade from his eyes, and as he twitched until there was no movement at all. It affected the whole family, but the one it affected the most was my sister, who was the closest to Churro and naturally sensitive. Not only did she become less carefree, but she also started showing signs of Tourette Syndrome or tics, a disorder involving repetitive movements or unwanted sounds. It got worse as time went on; now she gets scared of the littlest things, a small sound or the sudden appearance of a person walking by. Imagine the feeling of helplessness and anxiety as your sibling struggles to breathe. Imagine watching her/him shake slightly, and all you can do is be there for them; hold their hand and tell them to breathe in and out. Heart beating out of your chest, you have a little panic attack of your own as your sibling tries to calm down. My sister has had many of these anxiety attacks caused by stress, and I admit that I’m scared whenever I see it, worried about how it will affect her life in the future. The Bright Lights Scholarship will not only help me become the light in someone else's life that has been plagued by darkness but also give me peace of mind as I go through the challenges of college. Because of my sister, I want to be a part of making treatments for Tourette's and research that will possibly lead to a cure or close to it. Combining the fields of neurology and psychology, I want to spread awareness and learn more about mental health as well as neurological conditions that can enter someone's life without notice. Exploring how the mind works and using that knowledge to help people sparks a light inside of me. I grew up watching shows like Bones and Criminal Minds, which showcase how much an understanding of the brain and how it affects behavior can help society and individuals on a personal level. Even before my sister developed Tourette’s, the brain has always fascinated me. The way it’s structured, the way it regulates and controls our body’s reaction to emotions and outside stimuli, and everything about its complexity is engrossing. My career choice of psychiatry will be more than just a job to me, it will be a blessing to others who need someone to hold onto or someone to understand and help them in more ways than one. Getting involved with my community through the American Red Cross and learning about their struggles has been my first step toward my goal of becoming a psychiatrist. College is the next step, but money has been a barrier ever since I started my first semester. With my family struggling to make ends meet, getting a job is my only option. This scholarship will give me that much-needed headstart and help me focus on my rigorous coursework. I want to help as many people as I can even before I become a psychiatrist and this scholarship will help tremendously with tuition and basic needs. Thank you for taking the time to read my essay and for offering this wonderful opportunity!

When I put my headscarf on every day, I feel what it means to be a Muslim. I feel the comfort, love, and belonging that comes with my religion. When the month of Ramadan arrives, again, I recognize the importance of what it represents. Being a Muslim means being a part of a supportive community that would drop anything and everything to help; it means being a part of a culture that emphasizes patience and honesty; it means being a part of the making of traditional foods that make my mouth water and brings the feeling of home closer to my heart. My religion gave me knowledge and understanding about the world and myself, and I would not trade it for anything. Helping others, giving to others that don't have much, and being there for people, especially children, when they need it the most is one of the five pillars of Islam and has influenced my career goals tremendously. I want to become a neuropsychiatrist that helps children/teens with mental disorders and neurological conditions that can change their lives drastically. With my DO degree, I want to also spread mental health awareness and use my knowledge to make an impact in the world and help those who find it hard to cope without guidance. This scholarship will bring me one step closer to doing just that. To become the light in someone's life, I will need the education to get there and the funding to get that education. I come from a low-income family and have a sister that also struggles mentally, so this scholarship will be extremely helpful to my dream of becoming a psychiatrist and having the knowledge to help my sister and others like her. Additionally, my Muslim identity has influenced my academic goals since I started school. I've written and spoken about my identity, background, and how I feel when people look at me with fear and hatred since I was in 5th grade in the form of poems, narratives, speeches, etc. I've done many projects as an editor and writer for my school's newspaper for Muslim Heritage Month, and Muslim dancers that aren't recognized enough. My dad always told me that taking the pain away from others and helping them is the best form of generosity. My sister is also a big part of why I want to become a psychiatrist ever since she developed a disorder known as Tourette's Syndrome. After our first pet rabbit, Churro died, my sister was affected the most because she was the closest to Churro and naturally sensitive. She became less carefree and started moving her arms, legs, or head unintentionally while also making unwanted sounds. It got worse as time went on; now she gets scared of the littlest things, a small sound or the sudden appearance of a person walking by. Imagine the feeling of helplessness and anxiety as your sibling struggles to breathe. Imagine watching her/him shake slightly, and all you can do is be there for them; hold their hand and tell them to breathe in and out. Heart beating out of your chest, you have a little panic attack of your own as your sibling tries to calm down. My sister has had many of these anxiety attacks caused by stress, and I'm worried about how it will affect her life in the future. This is why it's important to me to not only seek higher education but also become the support and encouragement that many children/teens need with similar disorders and anxieties.

When I was growing up, my cousin took it upon herself to teach my sister and I about the importance of understanding how to use one's finances wisely and how to prevent making financial mistakes or falling into a misleading trap. If it's too good to be true, then it probably is. She also taught us the basics of what finances are, such as sources of income (like allowance), what certain things cost, and how much more something else costs compared to an alternative. To educate myself even more, I took a financial literacy class during my sophomore year of high school and learned so much more about how to make smart decisions using the decision-making process (PACED: Problem, Alternatives, Criteria, Evaluate, Decision) and how to create a plan or list for one's finances. Additionally, I learned why it's crucial to track where one's finances go by creating a budget (having a financial limit for each spending group, like 200 dollars for food) and utilizing online tools such as Mint or spreadsheets; why it's imperative to save as much of your income as possible for emergencies or long/short-term goals; and how to adjust your financial plan when there are sudden setbacks. Since my mom works as a tax preparer, I also took the initiative to learn about the different tax forms, such as the W-2, W-4, and 1040, where or how to get tax forms, and how to file one's taxes. It came naturally to me to be responsible for my finances and be organized with them because I am an organized and independent person. When I started working and received my own checking and savings account, I tracked my spending habits and saved at least 70% of what I earned biweekly. It was hard not to spend all of the money on food, clothes, and jewelry, but I reminded myself that I needed to save it for college. Others might also find it hard to control their spending habits and monitor how much they get from their sources of income, so I want to transfer my knowledge to others and give them the ease or comfort of an orderly financial plan. As a BigFuture Ambassador, I am slowly starting this goal by helping students find scholarships and understand the importance of applying for the ones they're eligible for, even if the award is only $500 (lower amounts have the lowest competition and therefore, you have a higher chance of winning). Furthermore, when I go to college, I want to continue helping others become financially literate by holding small workshops, "ask me anythings," and possibly creating a club for students to learn more, share knowledge of what worked for them from a student's perspective, or to just have a safe and open space for people who are struggling financially; an alternative to the financial aid office at the university. When I was little, I started out small with my piggy bank, which I'm sure we've all started out with, and got a monthly allowance of $10. I saved all of it to get a game that I wanted, and when I finally got it with my own money, I was so happy and excited. I realized that learning to manage and save my money helped me achieve my long-term goal. My finances will only get more complex as I grow older and carry on more responsibilities, but by creating a budget and being consistent, I know I can conquer the challenge and better my future.

The changes were small at first, a slight unintentional movement of the arm or face, barely noticeable to someone who was not paying attention. I noticed it after our first pet rabbit, Churro, died. The worst part is my sister and I watched the life fade from his eyes; as he twitched until there was no movement at all. It affected my sister the most; she became less carefree and started showing signs of Tourette Syndrome or tics. It got worse as time went on; now, she experiences head jerks and muscle locks more frequently and has anxiety attacks caused by stress. Imagine the feeling of helplessness as your sibling struggles to breathe, and all you can do is be there for them; hold their hand and tell them to breathe in and out. I have also seen her struggle with depression and ADHD, and my heart broke when she told me that she felt like a burden because of the finances needed to help her. Not knowing what to say at first, I looked at her in disbelief, and then I told her that she should never feel that way and that she was a significant part of our family. She opened up more and told me that she often felt like not being here would be better for us. Shocked, I looked her straight in the eyes and said that she was the one that made everyone laugh/smile just with her presence. After that, I checked on her every couple of days to see how she was feeling. When she told me that my words helped her overcome her depressive states, I knew that I had done my job as her sister and made a difference in her life when she needed it the most. It made me want to do the same for others, so when I think of a future career path, I automatically think of becoming a neuropsychiatrist. I want to spread mental health awareness and make an impact on those, specifically children/teens, affected by neurological conditions and mental health disorders that are often hard to cope with without guidance. I can never understand what my sister goes through daily, but watching her struggle has given me insight and knowledge. The person who's always smiling on the outside can be hurting the most on the inside; sometimes silence can be a sign in times of need. Sometimes many stay silent because they're afraid of not being heard or listened to. Sometimes people stay silent because they feel that no one will understand what they're going through. My sister used to stay silent about what she was going through mentally, but I noticed that something was up and confronted her about it. Mental health is something that people experience in different ways, and holding in your thoughts and feelings will only hurt you more. Mental illness and its significant impact on people's lives is often overlooked in this society because some cultures don't take depression seriously. Additionally, some people don't fully understand what mental health is or don't treat it equally to something physical; "your life is great; why should you feel depressed?" As a result, kids/teens believe that what they're feeling and experiencing does not matter, isn't appropriate, or isn't as serious as it is. According to studies, this mentality increases the rates of suicide, risk-taking behaviors, the use of drugs, overall social anxiety, and more, which can lead to impairments well into adulthood. That's why it's so important to me to inform people about mental health and create an environment that's welcoming of it.

The changes were small at first, a slight unintentional movement of the arm or face, barely noticeable to someone who was not paying attention. I noticed it after our first pet rabbit, Churro, died. The worst part is my sister and I watched the life fade from his eyes, and as he twitched until there was no movement at all. It affected my sister the most; she became less carefree and started showing signs of Tourette Syndrome or tics. It got worse as time went on; now, she experiences head jerks and muscle locks more frequently and has anxiety attacks caused by stress. Imagine the feeling of helplessness as your sibling struggles to breathe, and all you can do is be there for them; hold their hand and tell them to breathe in and out. I have also seen her struggle with depression and ADHD, and my heart broke when she told me that she felt like a burden because of the finances needed to help her. Not knowing what to say at first, I just looked at her in disbelief, and then I told her that she should never feel that way, that we are family, and that she was a significant part of our family. She opened up more and told me that she often felt like not being here would be better for us. Shocked, I looked her straight in the eyes and said that she was the one that made everyone laugh/smile just with her presence. After that, I checked on her every couple of days to see how she was feeling. When she told me that my words helped her overcome her depressive states and that she wanted to be like me, I knew that I had done my job as her sister and made a difference in her life when she needed it the most. It made me want to do the same for others, so when I think of a future career path, I automatically think of becoming a neuropsychiatrist. I want to spread mental health awareness and make an impact on those, specifically children/teens, affected by neurological conditions and mental health disorders that are often hard to cope with without guidance. I can never understand what my sister goes through daily, but watching her struggle has given me insight and knowledge. The person who is always smiling on the outside can be hurting the most on the inside; sometimes, "I'm fine" means the opposite, and silence can be a sign in times of need, heartache, and understanding. Sometimes many stay silent because they're afraid of not being heard or listened to. Sometimes people stay silent because they feel that no one will understand what they're going through. On the other hand, silence can be a sign of understanding: someone takes your hand and looks deep into your eyes, and without saying a word, comprehension flows through you, to that person, and back again. My sister used to stay silent about what she was going through mentally, but I noticed that something was up and confronted her about it. Ever since then, I make sure that we talk to each other about everything and anything. Mental health is something that people experience in different ways, and I realized that holding in your feelings and not speaking out will only hurt you more in the long run. My sister is the first person I helped that was in need and I hope she will not be the last.

When Covid 19 hit, the world went dark; some lost family members, and most lost the freedom to go outside without fear. The feeling of hopelessness as the news flashed across the tv screen was evident and frightening in and of itself. Staying at home without any social interaction, especially for those living alone, shook our mental health to the core. I lost family members and didn't know if life would ever be the same again. Those fears and feelings crowded my mind for a long time until I realized the blessings I had right in front of me. I still had my sister, father, and mother to lean on. Before Covid, our first pet rabbit died, and the worst part is my sister and I watched the life fade from his eyes, and as he twitched until there was no movement at all. It affected my sister the most; she became less carefree and started showing signs of Tourette Syndrome or tics. It got worse as time went on; now, she experiences head jerks and muscle locks more frequently and has anxiety attacks caused by stress. Imagine the feeling of helplessness as your sibling struggles to breathe, and all you can do is be there for them; hold their hand and tell them to breathe in and out. I have also seen her struggle with depression and ADHD, and my heart broke when she told me that she felt like a burden because of the finances needed to help her. Not knowing what to say at first, I just looked at her in disbelief, and then I told her that she should never feel that way, that we are family, and that she was a significant part of our family. She opened up more and told me that she often felt like not being here would be better for us. Shocked, I looked her straight in the eyes and said that she was the one that made everyone laugh/smile just with her presence. After that, I checked on her every couple of days to see how she was feeling. When she told me that my words helped her overcome her depressive states and that she wanted to be like me, I knew that I had done my job as her sister and made a difference in her life. It made me want to do the same for others, so when I think of a future career path, I automatically think of becoming a neuropsychiatrist. I want to spread mental health awareness and make an impact on those, specifically children/teens, affected by neurological conditions and mental health disorders that are often hard to cope with without guidance. I can never understand what my sister goes through daily, but watching her struggle has given me insight and knowledge. The person who is always smiling on the outside can be hurting the most on the inside; sometimes, "I'm fine" means the opposite, and silence can be a sign in times of need, heartache, and understanding. Sometimes many stay silent because they're afraid of not being heard or listened to. Sometimes people stay silent because they feel that no one will understand what they're going through. On the other hand, silence can be a sign of understanding: someone takes your hand and looks deep into your eyes, and without saying a word, comprehension flows through you, to that person, and back again. Mental health is something that people experience in different ways, and I realized that holding in my feelings and not speaking out will only hurt me more in the long run. Before, every time I looked into the mirror, all I saw were bags of skin and weight that I would never be able to get off no matter how hard I worked out; I squeezed my stomach in to look like that "ideal body" that society puts into our heads. Then, I realized the beauty that life brings and that I don't have to stop eating what I love just to lose a pound or two; that happiness was more important than striving for an unrealistic body image when I was already perfect in my own way. I used to hate the way my body looked and the way I thought, but after developing new habits of exercise and healthy food choices, I started to love my body no matter how much it changed. I now look at my body as something that keeps me alive rather than something that should look good on the outside. Speaking to my family about how I feel instead of keeping it in also helped me see the best version of myself. My sister also used to stay silent about what she was going through, but I noticed that something was up and confronted her about it. Ever since then, we talk to each other about everything. In my community, I'm a volunteer on the DoSomething website and have raised awareness for mental health by posting flyers. I've also given resources through my school's newspaper, the Calvert Post, by writing articles about mental health and providing tips. In addition, I posted positive, motivating statements to help those struggling with body image (a campaign called mirror messages). Mental health's importance is often overlooked in this society because some cultures stick to old principles that don't take depression seriously. Also, some people don't fully understand what mental health really is and don't treat it equally to something physical; "your life is great; why should you feel depressed?" As a result, kids/teens believe that what they're feeling and experiencing does not matter, isn't appropriate, or isn't as serious as it is. According to studies, this mentality increases the rates of suicide, risk-taking behaviors, the use of drugs, overall social anxiety, and other effects that can lead to impairments well into adulthood. That's why it's so important to me to inform people about mental health and create an environment that's welcoming of it.

My sister is a big part of why I want to become a neuropsychiatrist and spread mental health awareness throughout my community ever since she developed a disorder known as Tourette's Syndrome. I noticed it after our first pet rabbit, Churro, died, and the worst part is my sister and I watched the life fade from his eyes and as he twitched until there was no movement at all. It affected my sister the most because she was the closest to Churro and naturally sensitive. She became less carefree and started moving her arms, legs, or head unintentionally while also making unwanted sounds. It got worse as time went on; now she experiences head jerks and muscle locks more frequently and has anxiety attacks caused by stress. Imagine the feeling of helplessness and anxiety as your sibling struggles to breathe. Imagine watching her/him shake slightly, and all you can do is be there for them; hold their hand and tell them to breathe in and out. Heart beating out of your chest, you have a little panic attack of your own as your sibling tries to calm down. I have also seen her struggle with depression and ADHD, and my heart broke when she told me that she felt like a burden because of the finances needed to help her. This is why it's imperative for me to seek higher education and get involved with my community so that, with my doctoral degree, I can become the support and encouragement that many children/teens need with similar disorders and anxieties. Within my community and online, I am a volunteer on the DoSomething website (since 2021) and have raised awareness for mental health by posting flyers around my community; I believe mental health is just as important as our physical health because it applies to everything we do, think, and create, so understanding its importance and being comfortable about the topic is what I want for my community. Suicide is still a leading cause of death in the U.S., most being adolescents who suffered from depression or other mental problems in their life. This is a devastating issue, and if I can decrease the number of deaths by even a few with the proper resources and my education, I will fulfill my desired impact on society. I have also given resources through my school's newspaper, The Calvert Post, with the DoSomething STEM guide and vibe check flyer to let students know that there is always someone they can reach out to about their feelings, stress, and anxiety; and to not be afraid or ashamed of those feelings. I have also made a safe place within my school's online student center for those who want to talk or share coping strategies and tips to stay mentally healthy. To raise driver recklessness awareness, I inform people around me and online; for example, I have posted a Youtube video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LxhS5KY3S6E) about the dangers of reckless driving and lack of sleep on the road. I have also donated clothes and recycled plastic bottles and still am a part of the many other campaigns on DoSomething, including sending out positive, motivating statements on the website (mirror messages). I treasure the diverse family that I have that gives me perspectives from Africa, Europe, and America. I have a deep love for traveling and want to expand my endeavors beyond my community as well to help people on a greater scale.

The changes were small at first, a slight unintentional movement of the arm or face, barely noticeable to someone who was not paying attention. I noticed it after our first pet rabbit, Churro, died. The worst part is my sister and I watched the life fade from his eyes, and as he twitched until there was no movement at all. It affected my sister the most, who was the closest to Churro and naturally sensitive. Not only did she become less carefree, but she also started showing signs of Tourette Syndrome or tics, a disorder involving repetitive movements or unwanted sounds. It got worse as time went on; now she experiences head jerks and muscle locks more frequently and has anxiety attacks caused by stress. Imagine the feeling of helplessness and anxiety as your sibling struggles to breathe. Imagine watching her/him shake slightly, and all you can do is be there for them; hold their hand and tell them to breathe in and out. Heart beating out of your chest, you have a little panic attack of your own as your sibling tries to calm down. My sister has had many of these anxiety attacks caused by stress from school, depression, her ADHD, and more, and I’m worried about how it will affect her life in the future. Therefore, my goals for my future career are mainly due to my sister and my desire to help those who are going through the same. I want to be a part of making treatments for Tourette's and research that will possibly lead to a cure or close to it by combining the fields of neurology and psychology. I want to spread awareness and learn more about mental health as well as neurological conditions that can plague someone's life without notice. Ultimately, I want to become the support and encouragement that many children/teens mentally need in this society by obtaining a DO degree and becoming a neuropsychiatrist. This scholarship will bring me one step closer to doing just that. When my sister told me that she often felt like a burden because of the finances needed to support her, my heart broke, and I told her that she can come to me to talk whenever she is feeling depressed. I know that others are feeling the same, even to the point of suicide, especially during teenage years of stress due to school, hormones, change, etc. Suicide is still a leading cause of death in the U.S., most being adolescents who suffered from depression or other mental health problems in their life. This is a devastating issue, and if I can decrease the number of deaths by even a few with my education, I will fulfill my desired impact on society. My sister always tells me that it is hard for her to explain how she feels or why she is acting a certain way, so I want to develop a technique that makes it easier for teens to express themselves such as through dancing, drawing, etc. I believe overcoming challenges such as my financial hardship, family struggles, and more, makes us not only stronger but also more knowledgeable about our surroundings and how we and others feel in certain situations. The experiences we gain as a result make us who we are and what we will become. This scholarship will mean the world to me, coming from a low-income family, and will help me tremendously in my endeavors. Thank you for reading my essay!

The major that I want to pursue is Neuropsychology to become a Neuropsychiatrist that helps teens/children cope with their mental health and neurological conditions. Exploring how the mind works and using that knowledge to help people sparks a light inside of me. I grew up watching shows like Bones and Criminal Minds, which showcase just how much an understanding of the brain and how it affects our behavior can help society and individuals on a personal level. The brain has always fascinated me; the way it’s structured, the way it regulates and controls our body’s reaction to emotions and outside stimuli, and everything about its complexity is engrossing. My sister is a big part of why I want to become a neuropsychiatrist ever since she developed a disorder known as Tourette's Syndrome. I noticed the signs after our first pet rabbit, Churro, died, and the worst part is my sister and I watched the life fade from his eyes and as he twitched until there was no movement at all. It affected my sister the most because she was the closest to Churro and naturally sensitive. She became less carefree and started moving her arms, legs, or head unintentionally while also making unwanted sounds. Her anxiety and stress levels became higher than normal and she started to doubt herself and her ability. Imagine the feeling of helplessness and anxiety as your sibling struggles to breathe and all you can do is be there for them and tell them to breathe in and out. I admit that I’m scared whenever I see it, worried about how it will affect her life in the future. This is why it's important for me to seek higher education so that, with my doctoral degree, I can become the support and encouragement that many children/teens need with similar disorders and anxieties. There is barely any representation in medicine, let alone in the area of mental health. In my community, I have spread mental health awareness through an organization called DoSomething.org to let everyone know that there is always someone you can reach out to about your feelings, stress, and anxiety; and to not be afraid or ashamed of those feelings. I have also made a safe place within my school's online student center for those who want to talk or share coping strategies and tips to stay mentally healthy. The media portrays us Muslims in a bad light and makes us seem violent, rude, and avoidant, even when this is far from the truth, so I also want to create understanding and show the world that we aren't all the same. In my Algerian community, I have helped many stray cats around the neighborhood feel loved and provided a temporary home within my garage. When I put my headscarf on every day, I feel what it means to be a Muslim. I feel the comfort, love, and belonging that come with my religion. When the month of Ramadan arrives, again, I recognize the importance of what it represents. Being a Muslim means being a part of a supportive community that would drop everything to help; it means being a part of a culture that emphasizes patience and honesty; it means being a part of the creation of traditional foods that make my mouth water and brings the feeling of home closer to my heart. My religion gave me knowledge/understanding about the world and myself, and I wouldn't trade it for anything. Insha'Allah, I will become a neuropsychiatrist with guidance along the way and be able to help those who are suffering early in life.

When I was growing up, my cousin took it upon herself to teach my sister and I about the importance of understanding how to use one's finances wisely and how to prevent making financial mistakes or falling into a misleading trap. If it's too good to be true, then it probably is. She also taught us the basics of what finances are, such as sources of income (like allowance), what certain things cost, and how much more something else costs compared to an alternative. To educate myself even more, I took a financial literacy class during my sophomore year of high school and learned so much more about how to make smart decisions using the decision-making process (PACED: Problem, Alternatives, Criteria, Evaluate, Decision) and how to create a plan or list for one's finances. Additionally, I learned why it's crucial to track where one's finances go by creating a budget and utilizing online tools such as Mint, or spreadsheets; why it's imperative to save as much of your income as possible for emergencies or long/short-term goals; and how to adjust your financial plan when there are sudden setbacks. Since my mom works as a tax preparer, I also took the initiative to learn about the different tax forms, such as the W-2, W-4, and 1040, where or how to get tax forms, and how to file one's taxes. It came naturally to me to be responsible for my finances and be organized with them because I am an organized and independent person. However, others might find it hard to monitor their spending habits and how much they get from their sources of income, so I want to transfer my knowledge to others and give them the ease or comfort of an orderly financial plan. As a BigFuture Ambassador, I am slowly starting this goal by helping students find scholarships and understand the importance of applying for the ones they're eligible for even if the award is only $500 (lower amounts have the lowest competition and therefore, you have a higher chance of winning). Furthermore, when I go to college, I want to continue helping others become financially literate by holding little workshops, "ask me anythings," and possibly creating a club for students to learn more, share knowledge of what worked for them from a student's perspective, or to just have a safe and open space for people who are struggling financially; an alternative to the financial aid office at the university. I want to take my cousin's example and teach students the importance of being financially literate, especially to prepare for the future when your responsibilities only increase and your finances become more complex.

The changes were small at first, a slight unintentional movement of the arm or face, barely noticeable to someone who was not paying attention. I noticed it after our first pet rabbit, Churro, died. The worst part is my sister and I watched the life fade from his eyes, and as he twitched until there was no movement at all. It affected the whole family, but the one it affected the most was my sister, who was the closest to Churro and naturally sensitive. Not only did she become less carefree, but she also started showing signs of Tourette Syndrome or tics, a disorder involving repetitive movements or unwanted sounds. It got worse as time went on; now she gets scared of the littlest things, a small sound or the sudden appearance of a person walking by. Imagine the feeling of helplessness and anxiety as your sibling struggles to breathe. Imagine watching her/him shake slightly, and all you can do is be there for them; hold their hand and tell them to breathe in and out. Heart beating out of your chest, you have a little panic attack of your own as your sibling tries to calm down. My sister has had many of these anxiety attacks caused by stress, and I admit that I’m scared whenever I see it, worried about how it will affect her life in the future. Therefore, my goals for my medical career are mainly due to my sister and my desire to help those who are going through the same. I want to be a part of making treatments for Tourette's and research that will possibly lead to a cure or close to it by combining the fields of neurology and psychology. I want to spread awareness and learn more about mental health as well as neurological conditions that can plague someone's life without notice. Ultimately, I want to become the support and encouragement that many children/teens mentally need in this society. I want them to see and know that there is someone like them, whether that be related to the color of their skin; black, their gender; female, or their religion/culture; ie. Islam. This is important because black teens, who have dreams of helping people in the medical field, would feel so alone and unrepresented because of the lack of racial diversity. It's also important because more representation in healthcare, according to studies, can help ease patient anxieties and improve trust between the doctor and the patient. My family is always skeptical of doctors because of this lack of trust formed in the black community. Children/teens will feel more comfortable and understood by someone that looks like them and has a similar background. Every year, when I go to the doctor's office for my regular check-up, feeling nervous and anxious because of the anticipation of needles, I would always think about how I never see a doctor who is a black Muslim woman like myself, how I would feel automatically relaxed if I were speaking to another black woman. When people look at their doctors and specialists, they want to see a face like their own because it's in our nature to be drawn to someone similar to us in racial identity, gender, religion, culture, etc. That's why value should be put on racial diversity in healthcare and beyond. I hope I will receive this scholarship to spread this crucial concept and be one step closer to my goals in the medical and psychological fields.

When I see something, I do something. Even though I might seem cold-hearted or uninterested on the surface when you first meet me, I come to be a trustworthy, reliable, and surprisingly considerate friend. When I think of the impact I want to leave on the world, specifically our youth, I think of my career goals in STEM. With a degree in the area of science, I want to become a neurologist/psychologist that leads and assists children with mental health problems and disorders that affect their brain and nerves. I want to be the encouragement and support that many teens/children need in this overwhelming society where information is overflowing our brains to the point of depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Exploring how the mind works and using that knowledge to help people sparks a light inside of me. I grew up watching shows like Bones and Criminal Minds, which showcase just how much an understanding of the brain and how it affects behavior can help society and individuals on a personal level. The brain has always fascinated me; the way it’s structured, the way it regulates and controls our body’s reaction to emotions and outside stimuli, and everything about its complexity is engrossing. When my sister developed Tourette's syndrome, it only enhanced my interest and brought me closer to realizing what I wanted to be in someone's life. The changes were small at first, a slight unintentional movement of the arm or face, barely noticeable to someone who was not paying attention. I noticed it after our first pet rabbit, Churro, died. The worst part is my sister and I watched the life fade from his eyes, and as he twitched until there was no movement at all. It affected the whole family, but the one it affected the most was my sister, who was the closest to Churro and naturally sensitive. Not only did she become less carefree, but she also started showing signs of Tourette Syndrome or tics, a disorder involving repetitive movements or unwanted sounds. It got worse as time went on; now she gets scared of the littlest things, a small sound or the sudden appearance of a person walking by. Imagine the feeling of helplessness and anxiety as your sibling struggles to breathe. Imagine watching her/him shake slightly, and all you can do is be there for them; hold their hand and tell them to breathe in and out. Heart beating out of your chest, you have a little panic attack of your own as your sibling tries to calm down. My sister has had many of these anxiety attacks caused by stress, and I admit that I’m scared whenever I see it, worried about how it will affect her life in the future. Because of this, I have started to spread awareness throughout my school and on websites like DoSomething.org about mental health as well as neurological conditions that can plague someone's life without notice. In addition to my career goals, I want Muslims and people of color to feel comfortable in their own skin, especially in the STEM field where there isn't much representation. I want to be a model and inspiration for those who are about to give up on their STEM aspirations; I want them to have a clear path toward their degree and job in a STEM field without worrying about their skin color or whether they will be the minority within it.

The changes were small at first, a slight unintentional movement of the arm or face, barely noticeable to someone who was not paying attention. I noticed it after our first pet rabbit, Churro, died. The worst part is my sister and I watched the life fade from his eyes, and as he twitched until there was no movement at all. It affected the whole family, but the one it affected the most was my sister, who was the closest to Churro and naturally sensitive. Not only did she become less carefree, but she also started showing signs of Tourette Syndrome or tics, a disorder involving repetitive movements or unwanted sounds. It got worse as time went on; now she gets scared of the littlest things, a small sound or the sudden appearance of a person walking by. Imagine the feeling of helplessness and anxiety as your sibling struggles to breathe. Imagine watching her/him shake slightly, and all you can do is be there for them; hold their hand and tell them to breathe in and out. Heart beating out of your chest, you have a little panic attack of your own as your sibling tries to calm down. My sister has had many of these anxiety attacks caused by stress, and I admit that I’m scared whenever I see it, worried about how it will affect her life in the future. So, when I hear the words, "What do you want to do when you grow up?" I automatically think of neurology and psychology. I want to be a part of making treatments for Tourette's and research that will possibly lead to a cure or close to it. Combining the fields of neurology and psychology will help me do just that. I also want to spread awareness and learn more about mental health as well as neurological conditions that can plague someone's life without notice. Exploring how the mind works and using that knowledge to help people has always sparked a light inside of me. I grew up watching shows like Bones and Criminal Minds, which showcase just how much an understanding of the brain and how it affects our behavior can help society and individuals on a personal level. Even before my sister developed Tourette’s, the brain has always fascinated me. The way it’s structured, the way it regulates and controls our body’s reaction to emotions and outside stimuli, and everything about its complexity is engrossing. However, I did not always want to become a neurologist/psychologist. Coming from a family that engraves the importance of choosing a career that will give you the most money, I was always thinking about my future career. Starting with pediatrics, and bouncing from cardiac surgery to anesthesiology to even presidency, and finally neurology/psychology as of now, I learned that in a way I want to become all of these. I took an aspect of each career/interest and molded it into one; a job that will shape me into the person I want to become in someone’s life. Taking the role of helping children from pediatrics, easing the pain from anesthesiology, and taking on leadership from the presidency, I want to become a neurologist/psychologist that leads and assists children with mental health problems and disorders that affect their brain and nerves. In today's society, teens are under a lot of stress from college preparations, school work, clubs, social media, etc. and often ignore or don't realize that their mental health is plummeting until it's too late. I want to help them realize the happiness life can bring even with its downfalls and challenges.

With so much going on in our society today, it has become even harder to maintain our mental health and overall wellness. Between school, work, volunteer activities, projects, college applications, scholarships, and more, my mental health has often been put to the side. However, I noticed how much harm that does to me and how important it is to be mentally healthy as well as physically. Stress, feelings of tiredness, and mood negatively affected my life by making it harder to fall asleep and constantly feeling dejected. I also noticed that my sister's mental health wasn't up to par as well, and that she was dealing with the same issues as me, if not more, because of her anxiety and Tourette's syndrome. To change this, I came up with a few goals to improve our mood, brain health, sleep cycle, and overall wellness. This included eating proper meals throughout the day + drinking enough water (mental and physical health are connected; for example, getting exercise can improve one's sleep); stretching for 10min. daily to clear the mind; when feelings of stress become overwhelming, taking the time to calm the heart with breathing exercises; doing an activity that you love after school each day, such as dancing; and more. I can't ease my sister's constant tics or her sudden emotional changes that come with anxiety and her disorder, but I can help reduce them by being there to soothe her mind and make sure that her environment is one of happiness, relaxation, and openness. This aids her mental health and contributes to her overall health. Mental health's importance is often overlooked in this society because some cultures stick to old principles that don't see depression as an illness or believe that kids don't go through as much stress and emotions as adults do. Also, some people don't fully understand what mental health really is and don't treat it equally to something physical; "your life is great; why should you feel depressed?" As a result, kids/teens believe that what they're feeling and experiencing does not matter, isn't appropriate, or isn't as serious as it is. According to studies, this mentality increases the rates of suicide, risk-taking behaviors, the use of drugs, overall social anxiety, and other effects that can lead to impairments well into adulthood. So, to maintain an acceptable level of mental wellness, I listen to my mind, body, and soul; and ask, what is it telling me?, how does it feel?, why does it feel that way?, do I need to take a short break?, etc. Then, I take the appropriate action (e.g. asking for help) needed to bring me back to a state in which I want to be in for the rest of my life, no matter how busy it gets.

I have a saying that I repeat to myself every day, "Breathe, take your time, and listen." Breathing is something we do without even thinking; something our brain controls automatically, so we often overlook how important it is to our well-being; mentally and physically. When I am overwhelmed with stress in school, whether from an essay that's due the next day or an upcoming test, I remind myself to breathe. I close my eyes and clear my mind; inhaling slowly and then exhaling. It only takes a few moments, but when I open my eyes once more, I feel lighter, and my brain is able to think and process what is in front of me better. I make time as well to physically take care of my body with stretching and breathing exercises I've learned from doing Pilates. Take your time, the second part of my motto is something I do with any task, not just things related to school. I tell myself not to rush through my school work; this can include taking short five min. breaks every few hours, and to remember that someone else's pace is not the same as my own. It keeps me focused and motivated to continue learning and doing the school work that might not be as interesting to me. Listen, the third and probably most important part of my motto describes what I do to maintain a healthy mind, and body. By listening to what I feel, how my body is feeling, and how my mind is taking in my surroundings, I can find out if I need to stop doing something (maybe I have a headache); if I'm hungry/if I need to use the bathroom (stomach growls); if I'm dehydrated (throat is dry); if I am tired (unable to concentrate/constantly yawning); even if I'm about to get my period (bloated stomach/slight pain in the lower abdomen); and the list goes on. Lastly, I also prepare my meals before the school day starts so that I can have nutritious meals packed with protein, carbs, fats, and everything our bodies need to maintain homeostasis. It's important to me that I fuel my body with healthy foods that also taste delicious instead fast food that tastes good, but is bad and unnatural for my body. All in all, paying attention to my body's physical, mental, and nutritional health is something I always try to do, even with how demanding and exhausting high school is. By listening, breathing, and taking my time on school work, my body can properly rest and operate throughout the day.

The term "being healthy" is often associated with people eating salads every day or the amount of exercise someone does regularly, but it's more complex than that, and that's what makes it the hardest thing in life to maintain. Your overall health has six dimensions: physical, mental, emotional, social, spiritual, and environmental, so imagine each dimension as a part of yourself that you must keep in check because if one decreases, the others will as well; each is directly related to another. For example, when I feel overwhelmed (emotional) over the five essays that I have to complete in two days, I forget to eat or even drink water for a few hours; therefore, my body (physically) is also negatively affected. I've learned throughout my high school years that the tons of stress put on us teens from school work to college preparation makes it even harder to remember or even take a moment to think about ourselves and ask, "How are you really doing today?" or "did you drink enough water?" We are human after all, and we only have one life to live, so balancing work and time for ourselves is very important. I am an organized person, so creating a routine made me really think about my health overall. Having family time; making time to do the things that I love such as dancing and painting; finding unique and healthy recipes that I enjoy eating; creating a clean space to do my school work, and recognizing my emotions so that I can take action when something becomes too much, are all steps I have taken to improve my lifestyle when I realized my health was just as important, if not more than school, work, scholarships, clubs, college, and the list goes on. Everyone has their own path toward a healthy lifestyle; I might feel and look good from doing high-intensity workouts every day, while someone else might feel better doing yoga occasionally instead. This health journey lasts until we pass away, and transferring our knowledge to future generations will give others a boost of confidence on their own journey. I strive to be at my best in all six dimensions of health to achieve a state of wellness, in which happiness blossoms into a beautiful flower inside my heart. Making time for myself, even if it's five minutes a day, has helped me relax during stressful times and check on my health.

Exploring how the mind works and using that knowledge to help people sparks a light inside of me. I want to become a neurologist/pschycologist that leads and assists children with mental health problems and disorders that affect their brain and nerves. When my sister developed Tourette Syndrome, a disorder involving repetitive movements or unwanted sounds, I knew that I wanted to be the support and encouragement in a child's life when neurological conditions plague their world without notice, making them feel abnormal in this society.

Sometimes a person's silence means they need someone to talk to. I reached for my notebook to jot down some notes for school when I felt a tap on my shoulder. "Ugh, what do you want?" I say, rolling my eyes and then turning my head to see my sister standing over me. "Can I talk to you about something?" She asks, waiting for my answer as I look back to my computer. "You know that I'm doing schoolwork right now!" I say in frustration, and she sighs, going back to her bed. A month passed this way, and she continued to ask me if she could talk and if I could listen to what she was trying to tell me, but I was too busy to listen, too focused on other things to hear. One day I found my sister on the bed with a pair of scissors on her arm, blood was dripping down her skin, and she looked at me with the saddest eyes. Tears formed in both of our eyes as I stared in realization. Listen, listen with all of your heart, and with all of your focus because you never know what you might learn about yourself and others; you never know when listening to someone can lift a burden inside them or even save their life. For me, listening is something I value dearly, along with honesty and patience, because it not only makes others feel heard and appreciated, but it also gives you knowledge. And as everyone knows, knowledge is power.

Silence. It can be a killer and a healer in times of need, heartache, and understanding. Sometimes many stay silent because they are afraid of not being heard or listened to. Sometimes people stay silent because they know that no one will understand what they're going through on the inside. On the other hand, silence can be a sign of understanding; someone takes your hand and looks deep into your eyes, and without saying a word, comprehension flows through you, to that person, and back again. Silence can also be a sign of anger as well as fear, concealing one's emotions instead of letting them out to get back at someone or staying in a corner of a room afraid of even the slightest sound escaping from your lips. Silence. It's something that holds different meanings for every individual. But, I realized that holding in my feelings and not speaking out will only hurt more in the long run. This art piece is inspired by my past struggles with how I see myself and why silence only brings more pain. I also want this art piece to be an inspiration to young people who keep to themselves and never express what they feel because doing that won't solve anything. Yes, people might not understand exactly what it feels like, but many care enough to listen and try to help. I used to hate the way my body looks and the way I think, but after developing new habits of exercise and healthy food choices, I started to love my body no matter how much it changes as I get older. I now look at my body as something that keeps me alive rather than something that should look good on the outside; the inside is what matters. I fuel my body and keep it maintained so that it can carry me upright throughout the day. Speaking to my family about how I feel instead of keeping it in also helped me see the best version of myself. My sister is also an inspiration for this art piece because she has and still is struggling with her mental health. She used to keep silent about what she was going through, but I noticed that something was up and confronted her about it. Ever since then, she talks to me with much more ease, and I don't hesitate to give her plenty of hugs when she needs them.

1. I don't deserve this scholarship. I honestly don't even know why I'm writing this, I just want to sit on my bed all day and binge watch T.V. shows on Netflix because I'm a lazy person. I don't deserve this scholarship because I have tons of money, no skills, and poor academic grades. Also, I have no creativity whatsoever and don't even plan on going to college because it's seriously too much effort, so why would I need the money? I could make a list of reasons why I don't deserve this scholarship, but let's not exceed the word count. 2. Goals? Maybe I have a few, but other than sleeping until 1:00 pm every day (I need my beauty sleep!), listening to music, playing video games, and laying on the floor thinking about how much I want to make great quality paintings but ending up not doing anything, I would say that none are academic let alone career goals. 3. I'm overcoming obstacles every day. Completing my Chemistry lab report and not eating the very tempting Häagen-Dazs ice cream are only some obstacles I've faced. Writing this right now is even something I'm overcoming! Scholarships are opportunities for some, but they are just obstacles in my eyes.

A young girl watches as her dream falls apart in front of her; cries as the beautiful dancer leaps high above the ground and lands smoothly, her thoughts all in a mess. I'll never be able to do this; it's too late now; they'll never accept me. And, again, she goes to her room, watching old videos of herself on stage, longing for the sensational, electrifying, and even intoxicating feeling she once had. Will I ever be able to feel that again? Her mind slips into the abyss of imagination, and she begins to see herself flying across the stage with powerful movements. She sits up with a sudden jolt of determination and motivation. Why can't I do this? Misty Copeland started in her teens, and Stephanie Kurlow is making her way up the ladder as the first professional Muslim ballet dancer. That's when it clicked in her mind to start trying, to start dancing again despite her age and identity. She gathered all of the information she could and began to practice with the little space she had, not caring about knocking into the surrounding furniture. She put everything she had inside of her, expressing all of her emotions through the curve of her toe, the sway of her arm; and building strength, knowledge, courage, agility. Of course, there were hardships and obstacles along the way, but in no time, she achieved her dream of becoming a professional dancer after taking her first step on the stage. She remembered seeing the awe-struck faces of the crowd; she remembered smiling wide, not caring about the ache forming around her cheeks. This is the story I see and feel with Jamie Duffy's song, Solas, and it inspires me to continue practicing dance even when all odds are against me.

"Dreams at first seem impossible, then seem improbable, and finally, when we commit ourselves, become inevitable." -Mohandas Gandhi My sister recently developed a neurological condition known as Tourette syndrome, and I am dedicated to making her feel as comfortable as possible by learning about her condition and others like it. My goals for the future are complex and difficult, but are extraordinary and would mean everything to me when I achieve them. Creating more opportunities for Muslims through dance, developing new techniques in neuroscience, continuing my painting passion, and most of all, staying happy and healthy throughout my life. There is a drive, a passion, a desire within me that ignites whenever I think of all the things that I can do in this world to make a difference, and keeps me going when obstacles stand in the way like money. I plan to break the barriers of traditional ballet dance and show that Muslims, men, and women wearing the hijab and modest clothing, can also perform on stage and become professional dancers. Grace & Poise Academy, established in London in 2019, has created the world's First Muslim Ballet School with Maisie Byers using Islamic poetry rather than music to express movement. This is such a beautiful opportunity for Muslims to still practice Islam, but not have to feel like they don't fit in with the traditional style of ballet. Creating a school like this in America is something that will exhilarate me once I save enough money and find ways to publicize my future dance school.

“Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live in.” – Jim Rohn We wouldn't be here if it wasn't for our body's magnificent functioning system. The way it takes care of us throughout our lives, fighting illnesses and keeping us protected during dangerous situations, is something to be cherished. All it asks of us is to get enough sleep to recharge, give it food and water for everything to run smoothly, and give it some exercise to make it stronger. Adapting to a healthy lifestyle, taking time for yourself, giving your body what it needs to function every day, and making sure you improve your mental state daily are just a few ways that anyone can live a long, healthy life. Make sure that even with the many stresses that come throughout life, you're taking time for yourself mentally and physically and not letting your happiness slip away. Through friends or family, through drawing or painting, whatever makes you happy should be your foundation to a long, healthy life. Know that you are not alone, and you can ask for help whenever you need it. Don't be afraid to try new things; don't be afraid to challenge yourself. You will find that the smallest things in life can make you the happiest. Many people have expectations or stereotypes about eating healthy and exercising; you don't have to spend hours at the gym or eat eggs and salads all the time. You can still have the food that you love in moderation and don't starve yourself; instead, eat things that make you feel full and energized and choose exercises that you will enjoy.

"What do you want to do when you grow up?" "What are you passionate about?" Questions like these have been circling me now more than ever as the years go by and I get closer to the life after high school: college. I've always had the same answer since I was a child. When I glided across the stage with a smile on my face, when the lights shined on me, and my heart jumped with excitement during my first solo, everything seemed clear then. But after having to quit dance because of my identity, I thought I would never have that feeling again. However, seeing many others fight for their dreams, such as Stephanie Kurlow, who is aiming to be the first Muslim professional ballet dancer, and Misty Copeland, inspired me to push towards my passion. Even though I will mainly pursue neurology in college, what's stopping me from also pursuing dance and art? I want to make sure that young Muslim women like me have the chance to learn about and feel free to express dance by opening up a ballet school for all identities. I want to create a space for Muslims to feel released from the shackles that society sets up just because we look different from others. Also, I want to broaden society's attitude towards ballet and Muslims. Dance can have so much power, and I want to use that power to show that anyone, no matter how old, no matter what race and no matter what religion, can experience its beauty.

"Be strong in the moments where you want to be weak. Because life itself is worth living for. If you're not living the life that you want, you fight for that life." —Jensen Ackles "The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing." —Socrates "A wise person knows that there is something to be learned from everyone." —John C. Maxwell "If you believe in Allah and yourself, you won't have to worry about a thing." —Dad I believe that everything I've heard that was meaningful and impacted me were all wise words. Each of these quotes and many more have influenced me throughout my life and made me who I am today; a unique person who strives to achieve her goals with determination and perseverance. I have embraced everything about myself, used it for my education, hobbies, and more, and learned from it. Knowledge is endless, so knowing that you have a lot to learn and understanding that everybody is different is the first step to becoming wiser and happier in life. A very common saying that I've heard many times is "listen to your heart." Sometimes we hear this so many times that we forget the meaning and depth of these words. That feeling that I get when I put my paintbrush on the canvas or the urge I get to pour my whole body into a dance when the music starts to play are examples of my heart calling to me and telling me what I should do. Listening to that feeling/desire has changed my life for the better. I don't hold back on my dreams and goals, and I work hard towards becoming a better dancer and painter.

When someone asks me what the meaning of life is, the answer is simple yet complex. Some people might believe that life is just about finding your significant other while some believe that life is just a pathway to the afterlife. I believe in both of these answers and many more. To me, life is about love, family, purpose, taking care of oneself, achieving goals, leaving an impact, whether small or big, showing gratitude, forgiving others, doing good deeds, and understanding others in every aspect. Life is a journey within oneself and with others; it is about learning from your mistakes and using them to better the world around you. Although it is difficult to go through such a journey, especially one that challenges everything around you, it is also a rewarding experience; and you only have one chance at life. Every day I'm going through the journey of life and every day I learn something new about myself, gain knowledge in many areas, and make mistakes. Hard times will always be there like that of Covid, but remaining patient, and finding ways to continue accomplishing our goals is what life is all about. "The meaning of life is not simply to exist, to survive, but to move ahead, to go up, to achieve, to conquer.” ―Arnold Schwarzenegger

Something that I've learned about myself in recent years, especially during Covid, is that I tend to plan/organize my day in my head before it begins so that I have everything prepared and in order. Realizing this part of myself and finding it valuable, I now write down everything that I need to do for the following week, and I hate when something doesn't go to plan; or something gets added to my schedule on the day of. I've learned to be more flexible when it comes to planning out my week so that I have room for adjustments and sudden changes that might happen. I've also found ways to get to know myself too. Trying new things, doing things I wouldn't normally do, and recognizing how I react to certain situations has helped me learn a vast amount about myself. Even things that I don't like about myself, such as how I say or do something without thinking sometimes, I have come to love and appreciate every bit of it; I have come to realize my faults and work towards bettering myself. “To grow yourself, you must know yourself.” — John C. Maxwell I will be with myself all the time, go through challenges that only I will know about, so knowing myself is the first step towards growth and reaching my full potential.

"You were born to be real, not to be perfect, so smile, smile at the ground, the mirror, the food in front of you, and at the people around you." Just the fact that you are breathing and still holding on even with life's constant challenges is a huge accomplishment. No one can be perfect, so stop comparing yourself to others and realize the beauty within you. Every day you learn something new; every day, there is a change in yourself, whether it's in your mindset, values, or dreams because the you of today is different and unique to the you of yesterday. Appreciate what you have now because it might not be there tomorrow. Dream big. With patience, hard work, and perseverance, you can rise above, and achieve anything that you want, whether it is to be one of the best choreographers or to create a painting like no other. You will win all the time with a strong mindset because even if you "lose," you will have a drive to do better and learn things that you didn't know before. In that sense, you'll always be winning, and mistakes will turn into opportunities or works of art.

I don't have to strive for popularity or become someone grand for the history books to leave a legacy that will be appreciated. I want to have changed someone's heart for the better, gave someone a pat on the back when they needed it the most, wrote a story that gave someone a new perspective on life, created a painting that connects a person so deeply that they will never forget it, and so much more. Why? Some people might see these acts as only leaving a small influence in the world, but I see them as a big turning point in some people's lives or a heartwarming memory to hold onto forever. Being known for developing new techniques in neuroscience, my desired career field, is a second legacy to me because striving to make someone happy and feel appreciated gives an immediate impact on someone who might need it. “Carve your name on hearts, not tombstones. A legacy is etched into the minds of others and the stories they share about you.” -Shannon L. Alder I'll write about something that is worth reading and that will stick on someone's mind or I will do something that is worth writing about. That's how I want my legacy to be.

Two songs that inspire me include Sea by BTS and On also by BTS: "Where there is hope, there are trials." "Gotta go insane to stay sane." Why does happiness also come with sadness? Should I stop and rest, or should I keep achieving my goals without stopping? Is this really what I want in life? What if everything I built topples over when I rest? No, always think positively; I know that I will overcome my trials, and I know that what I rely on can expose the me I try to hide, but I have to keep going. I must fight even when my knees are sinking to the ground; I must fight even when there is an uneasiness inside of me; I must fight even when there is a growing shadow behind me. Embrace the shadow, embrace every feeling and keep going. I will never lose if I keep going; I will never lose if I keep fighting. Never give up. Go beyond the limits set by society; go beyond what they call "insanity" and achieve what they call "impossible." These are just words, and actions speak louder. Keep running towards your dreams and goals, no matter what anyone says, and no matter how difficult it might seem at first. This is what BTS has taught me through their music, and I will always be grateful.

I have felt and experienced firsthand how hard work, drive, dedication, and patience have done to my personal and academic goals so far. I didn't believe I could do it, I didn't believe that I was good enough or strong enough to do it, but I tried my hardest to succeed, and I did. I will continue to push myself, take on challenges, gain knowledge, and believe in myself. Constantly comparing myself to others, "Their essay is so good. Mine will never be that good," "Her painting is definitely better than mine," "How do I be as good as him," never took me anywhere. Once I found the motivation within myself and in the world of art, music, and dance, I realized that I'm a unique person that will never be like anyone else. Now, I'm focusing on gaining as much knowledge as I can academically, for personal goals and possible career paths, which is helping me achieve things and use others' work as inspiration. "Dreams at first seem impossible, then seem improbable, and finally, when we commit ourselves, become inevitable." -Mohandas Gandhi Everything that is difficult or that takes time to achieve can seem impossible at first, but with one step at a time, focus, and patience, it becomes inevitable to achieve your goal. My goals for the future are complex and difficult, but are extraordinary and would mean everything to me when I achieve them. Creating more opportunities for Muslims through dance, developing new techniques in neuroscience, becoming a Muslim model, and continuing my painting hobby are dreams that I will try my best to accomplish in the future.

I reached for my notebook to jot down some notes for school when I felt a tap on my shoulder. "Ugh, what do you want?" I say, rolling my eyes and then turning my head to see my sister standing over me. "Can I talk to you about something?" She asks, waiting for my answer as I look back to my computer. "You know that I'm doing schoolwork right now!" I say in frustration, and she sighs, going back to her bed. A month passed this way, and she continued to ask me if she could talk and if I could listen to what she was trying to tell me, but I was too busy to listen, too focused on other things to hear. One day I found my sister on the bed with a pair of scissors on her arm, blood was dripping down her skin, and she looked at me with the saddest eyes. Tears formed in both of our eyes as I stared in realization. Listen, listen with all of your heart, and with all of your focus because you never know what you might learn about yourself and others; you never know when listening to someone can lift a burden inside them or even save their life. For me, listening is something I value dearly, along with honesty and patience, because it not only makes others feel heard and appreciated, but it also gives you knowledge. And as you know, knowledge is power.

I run my fingers upon the canvas and smile. An idea crosses my mind and I can already see the image of a person walking in the rain, the colors binding together to form the silky, wet feeling that rain gives, the trees looming over with bright red leaves during the fall season. The image is so beautiful, but yet so sad as the person walks alone under the umbrella into the gloomy, gray sky. I pick up my paintbrush and start to brush color onto the canvas, the sound makes me ecstatic and I finish the first part within minutes. My favorite thing to do while painting is to use different objects to make shapes come alive and to make the overall feeling of the painting. I do that now as I crumple the aluminum foil in my hand and roll it gently across the canvas. Puddles form and that silky, wet feeling begins to take shape on its own. Passion is a strong word, and it's really important to me. It can be something that excites me or something that I want to pursue in the future. I'm passionate about painting; mixing colors and textures together to evoke emotion or to make an image come alive thrills me, writing; when I tell a story, I feel as if my whole being is immersed into it and I love to give my characters depth, neurology; something I want to use in college, and psychology; learning about how the brain work, how it makes us behave in certain ways ignites my spirit. I'll continue to develop and find more passions as I get older. It is an everlasting and adventurous journey to find one's passion within yourself and throughout society/the world.

"Find out where joy resides, and give it a voice far beyond singing. For to miss the joy is to miss all." -Robert Louis Stevenson Happiness comes from enjoying the present, forgiving yourself, and waking up without regrets. The best happiness resides within ourselves; it blooms when we choose to love ourselves despite our flaws, and it makes us stronger and better at loving others. Everyone has something to make them happy, but not everyone appreciates the little things in life— the things that make us who we are. When Covid 19 hit, everyone went into despair, not knowing what to do with their lives without school or work and becoming lonely because of quarantine. However, as Covid 19 went into 2020 and 2021, people started to realize what was in front of them the whole time, where they could find the happiness that they were seeking in these difficult times. Family, community, and appreciating the things that have already been in front of us; gave people happiness and created a strong sense of love and unity. Many great things have happened since Covid 19 and to only focus on the struggles and despair that it brought would mean ignoring the strength and love that was created because of it. Even during the darkest times of Covid 19, when all we saw on the television screen were people screaming in pain, nurses/doctors running around trying to help everyone, and the number of lives that corona had taken, we never gave up. Researchers and doctors created a vaccine, and life is beginning to look bright again. Helping others, my family, taking care of myself, and doing the things that I love, such as knitting, painting, dancing, writing, and more, are just a few things that make me happy every day.

I want to create more opportunities for Muslims through dance and in the medical field, acting against islamophobia and emphasizing that all humans, no matter what race, gender, or religion, are equal. Even with many advancements to this very principle, such as the 19th amendment that gave women the right to vote, and the Civil Rights Act prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin, there are still minorities oppressed to this day. I'm very proud of the Muslims who have already made their mark on the world and will always be remembered, like Malala, who won the Nobel Prize, and a black Democrat, Keith Ellison, who became the first Muslim in Congress. I plan to break the barriers of traditional ballet dance and show that Muslims, men, and women wearing the hijab and modest clothing, can also perform on stage and become professional dancers. Grace & Poise Academy, established in London in 2019, has created the world's First Muslim Ballet School with Maisie Byers using Islamic poetry rather than music to express movement. This is such a beautiful opportunity for Muslims to still practice Islam, but not have to feel like they don't fit in with the traditional style of ballet. Creating a school like this in America is something that will exhilarate me by saving a lot of money and finding ways to publicize my future dance school. In the medical field, I hope to create new techniques and treatments relating to the brain and mental health as well as increase mental health awareness among Muslims and the rest of society. It'll be a long and hard journey to leave such a mark on the world, but I have to get used to being uncomfortable as Steve Harvey says and work towards my goals everyday.

Helping others and performing acts of service is something I do and strive to do daily, even with the small things like giving a smile to someone in the street. Helping others doesn't just pertain to the physical acts of service one can do for someone, but also to the mental ease that a person can bring to another. My life is busy with studying in school, trying to find easy scholarships, doing most of the chores, and trying to find a seasonal job to also make money for college; however, I always try to help others in any way that I can because their lives are just as hard if not even harder than mine. Those who fight every day just to survive either because of lack of money or depression that won't let them go even for a second are worth helping. It makes me happy, content, and satisfied when I provide an act of service, seeing smiling faces on those who have a hard time doing so in everyday life. Caring for an elderly person on the street, donating unused clothing, helping my sister cope with her mental problems that she doesn't understand, making dinner when my mom is tired after work, and picking up garbage from the street to put it in a garbage can are just a few acts of service that I perform. But I won't stop there. I want to take on volunteer opportunities to continue my journey, whether it is by helping out at an elderly care center or cleaning up after a concert.

How should I write this? How do I engage my audience throughout my whole story? I ask myself, still staring at the blank page in front of me. Getting this creative writing scholarship means everything to me, and I want to show the best I can do. I already have an idea for the story and even the characters are set, but I don't know how to start it. An Outline! That's it! I type fast on my computer and in an hour, I have all parts of my story organized. I jump up and down in excitement, feeling confident. A week passes, and I ask my cousin to review the rough draft of the story. "This is great and very interesting, but you need to develop the characters more," she says, handing the computer back to me. We spend hours discussing ways to make the characters more complex, and I find myself smiling at the enthusiasm that I feel. My story came out engaging and beautiful, and I will forever be grateful for my cousin. To show my appreciation, I gifted her golden, dove-shaped earrings. My cousin always inspires me to do more; be better than average, and I wouldn't have gained so much knowledge without her. Giving, happiness, and love are all connected and used to show appreciation or to make others feel good. Giving is important to me because it is the very essence of significance and importance. No matter how small the gift, the act of kindness, or love is, it is always special to the one receiving it and the one giving it. It brings people, communities, and even countries together. Giving a hug to someone is the best cure and is my favorite way of giving back to someone I love or admire.

Simple acts of kindness can go a long way and helping others not only gives me a happy feeling and a sense of accomplishment but also benefits society as a whole. The more we help each other in even the simplest gestures, the closer we will feel towards each other. "Part of being a person is about helping others." -Regis Muray It was a crisp cool morning, and my mom, sister, and I were headed to the office to get ready for school. We stopped by our usual spot for breakfast, and I smiled, thinking about the double chocolate muffin I was about to eat. Before heading inside the restaurant, I saw a tall homeless man sitting in front with a cardboard sign. "Please give me some food and money," it read. My mom also noticed the man, and she went up to him, saying, "Come inside, and I'll get you some oatmeal." The man smiled with broken teeth and followed us inside. After ordering the man's oatmeal and leaving the restaurant, the tall, raggedy man grinned from ear to ear and bowed slightly in appreciation. My heart fluttered with happiness as we walked away, and I vowed to do the same act of kindness for someone in need of help in the future. My favorite way to help others is by acting indirectly and without them knowing to take off some stress in their lives. You never know when someone might need help mentally, and taking some of the pressure when you can, can really help someone out tremendously.

My heart is bursting from pain and confusion as I look at the scene in front of me. My sister looks up at me with teary eyes and an arm full of scars. I glance towards one of the marks, and it looks as though it had been scratched up by a nail. My eyes fill with worry, and I again look at her face. Finally, she says, "I have something to tell you, but don't tell Mommy and Dada yet." Hesitantly I sit next to her, waiting patiently for her explanation, and trying to hide the fear in my heart. "I get really sad and stressed sometimes, and the only way I feel better is by scratching my arm. But don't worry! I don't do as much now. I think it's depression or anxiety because you know how I get panic attacks when I see someone throw up?" I nod, "Well, that's what I mean," she explains, keeping her head down. "I don't get it. How could you do that to your arm even if you feel sad or stressed?" I say, still trying to grasp the situation. "I know, I know, but I can't control it. I looked it up, and I might have depression," she says, finally looking up at me. "Ok, but why would you feel sad? We have a great life; I mean, sometimes it might get depressing, but not all the time." "I-I just get sad for no reason sometimes," she says, and I gently embrace her as she cries silently. "I-I c-can't sleep until 3:00 am either, a-and the only way for me t-to sleep is b-by watching videos on my computer," she continues, speaking softly. I don't say anything and instead hold her tighter, her small body trembling slightly in mine. How could I not notice this happening to my own sister? Is this something that other people go through? A roller coaster of questions filled my head, and later on, I did some research on depression and anxiety. I found out that many people are suffering from mental health issues just like my sister, and got involved with mental health awareness. I learned to be more aware of such issues and found ways to help my sister lessen her depression. Basic knowledge about mental health issues, I believe, is very important to society and individuals. There are so many ways that people can increase mental health awareness and try to help those with problems. Some people are suffering out there without even knowing why or how to treat it, and some families don't take depression too seriously. I want everyone to feel comfortable about sharing mental health problems without belittling themselves.

Books of adventure and finding oneself, books with dark themes and cruel enemies, books with fantasy creatures, and others with things you wouldn't even imagine. I have read tons of literature by many inspiring authors, so it is very hard to choose just one of them. It also depends on what I value most and what I prioritize in my life; but, one of the most inspiring books that I've read thus far is "Nectar in a Sieve." A story of an Indian woman, Rukmani, living in a rural village with her father as head of the village. After her sisters go to a new life with their husbands, she soon marries a man of lower rank. Throughout the story, Rukmani goes through struggles that shakes her family's health and well-being. A big theme throughout the book is the influence and hardships that the industrial revolution brought among small villages. The sudden change brings many challenges to Rukmani, her children, and her husband, Nathan, even though it is seen as a joyous opportunity at first. What I love the most about this book is the character development of Rukmani and the way she remains headstrong and faithful even through the endless battles that she faces. Not only is she facing sudden industrial development within the village, but she also encounters trouble with nature itself as well as the death of some of her children. However, she was not always a strong and wise person. Before getting married, Rukmani was weak and naive even with the education and knowledge that most women in her village didn't have. Soon after becoming a farmer's wife though, she grew stronger physically and mentally, using her knowledge as power.

They showed people that it's ok to love themselves, they helped spread awareness towards climate change, they changed the world for the better and brought hope during these difficult times. It's ok to be afraid, it's ok to feel lonely and sad sometimes, but don't put yourself down and use those feelings as strength to move forward. This is what my favorite artist, BTS, has shown me and taught me throughout the years. Namjoon has shown what it means to be a leader, Seokjin has shown that knowledge is powerful, J-hope has shown that in some situations you need to be serious, Jimin has shown what it means to be a professional, Jungkook has shown that you can do anything you put your mind to, Taehyung has shown that art comes in many different forms, and Yoongi has shown that you aren't meant to be perfect.

“Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live in.” – Jim Rohn You wouldn't be here if it wasn't for your body's magnificent functioning system. The way it takes care of us throughout our lives, fighting illnesses and keeping us protected during dangerous situations, is something to be cherished. All it asks of us is to get enough sleep to recharge, give it food and water to get everything running smoothly, and give it some exercise to make it stronger. Adapting to a healthy lifestyle, taking time for yourself especially during times of stress, giving your body what it needs to function every day, and making sure you improve your mental state daily are just a few ways that anyone can live a long, healthy life. But, none of this can be done if you don't make sure that you are happy first. Through friends or family through drawing or painting, whatever makes you happy should be the foundation of a long, healthy life. It takes time to find out what really makes you content, joyful, and carefree in life; however, it doesn't have to be a process that you do alone. Your friends, family, and even teachers can help you directly or indirectly find what makes you glow inside and out. Don't be afraid to try new things, don't be afraid to challenge yourself. You will find that the smallest things in life can make you happy or that your happiness lies within.

"No!" I say as she tugs at my bag, trying to get what was inside. Nobody comes to help me, walking by as if they can't hear a thing. I yank my bag out of her hands, but Lisa doesn't give up. Suddenly, I feel someone standing behind me, and I stop my movements, scared that it is one of her henchmen. But, the person behind me doesn't try to take my bag away and instead glares at Lisa with frightening eyes. "Leave her alone," the person says, stepping in front of me. "Why would I do that?" Lisa asks, seemingly unbothered by the tone of the person. "Fine, don't leave, maybe I should just tell Brian that you slept with his brother last weekend," the person says, and I gasp. Lisa looks up at the person, terrified, and quickly runs down the hall. The person smiles victoriously and turns her attention towards me. "Why did you do that for me?" I ask, confused. "Because, no one deserves to be picked on, and I hate seeing it," she says. "By the way, the name's Emma," she adds before walking away. Ever since then, Emma and I became best friends sharing everything and standing up for one another whenever the time came. We learned from each other, gave advice, and saw things from different perspectives. I will be forever grateful to Emma for showing me how to be strong and giving me someone to talk to. Friendship is about feeling comfortable with someone, and learning from them. Being friends with someone gives you a different perspective on life and in certain situations. Sometimes just having someone to talk to other than a teacher or family member can be helpful and rewarding.

Without a positive mindset towards growth and change, no one can be able to go through life's challenges or improve to become a better version of themselves. You can't say that you'll learn from your past mistakes if you don't change something within yourself first, your mindset, or your attitude. Those static/flat characters in a story are always repetitive and dull in contrast to the dynamic or round characters in a story, who always go through an experience that results in growth, and changes the way they see the world for the better. A story without these characters would be uninteresting and uneventful. Growth doesn't have to be a huge change within yourself; it can be something small and important to you. For instance, taking into account your siblings' feelings or side of the story in an argument instead of always thinking about yourself is a small change within your mindset. "Whatever makes you uncomfortable is your biggest opportunity for growth," -Bryant McGill Challenges will always be there throughout our lives, and they will make us stronger, allow us to grow even further, and give us more knowledge. And as you know, knowledge is power! Keeping a positive mindset and accepting change and challenges is the best way to have a growth mindset, but how do you keep a positive mindset in difficult situations? Always look at the positive side of certain situations, do what you can, try your hardest, and take time for yourself to rest and recoup. Also, know when to step back and give others some space. Growth is a part of life, and in order to live life to the fullest, you must accept change, challenge yourself, and try your hardest to have a positive attitude even in those tough circumstances.

Staying true to oneself can mean so many different things to people in this society where technology has grown so much that we have become accustomed to it and rely on it to perform daily tasks. Every day of our lives we are influenced by society and don't even realize how much it is changing our values. While doing daily tasks such as learning new things in school, looking through Twitter, or even having a conversation with someone, I always question myself about what I'm doing and how it might be affecting my principles to help me prioritize what I value as a unique individual. Many times in society people's morals are brought down and while some stand up for what they believe is right—staying true to themselves—others let what other people think get in the way of their own ethics. This brings me to Ralph Waldo Emerson and his essay, "Solitude and Society," where he explains the role of society further, "In society, high advantages are set down to the individual as disadvantages. We sink as easily as we rise, through sympathy . . . Conversation will not corrupt us, if we come to the assembly in our own garb and speech, and with the energy of health to select what is ours and reject what is not." Making sure I recognize what is important to me and using that in my daily life, is what ultimately helps me stay true to myself.