I chose to pursue higher education because it represents a chance to create opportunities my family never had. Growing up as a first generation student, I saw firsthand how hard my parents worked to provide for us despite their limited access to education. Their sacrifices weren’t lost on me, they inspired me to dream bigger, to break the cycle, and to build a brighter future not just for myself but for my family. For me, education isn’t just about earning a degree, it is a way to honor their efforts and open doors for others. As a first generation student, I know that college will come with its own set of challenges, but I have worked hard to prepare myself. Early on, I realized I couldn’t do it alone. I sought out resources to learn about the college application process, from guidance counselors to online tools and mentorship programs. Along the way, I learned to ask questions and advocate for myself, skills that I know will help me succeed in college and beyond. I have also dedicated myself to excelling academically and staying involved in my community. Whether it was spending late nights finishing projects, asking teachers for extra help, or volunteering to make a difference, I committed to making the most of every opportunity. These experiences not only helped me grow as a student but also solidified my determination to keep striving for success. Preparing for college hasn’t just been about academics. I have worked on building a strong support system of mentors, teachers, and friends who understand what it’s like to navigate uncharted territory as a first generation student. Their guidance has boosted my confidence and reminded me I am not alone. I have also participated in workshops and programs to strengthen my time management, study habits, and financial planning, practical skills I’ll need and have been applying in college thus far. More than anything, growing up in a low income household taught me resilience. I have learned how to adapt when things don’t go as planned and how to keep moving forward even when the path feels uncertain. Those lessons have prepared me for whatever challenges lie ahead. For me, higher education is about more than just earning a diploma, it’s about creating a legacy of growth and possibility. As the first in my family to attend college, I hope to show others that the barriers they face can be overcome with hard work, perseverance, and belief in themselves.

Faith has always been a steady anchor for me, especially in tough times. One of the hardest periods I faced was my freshman year of high school, when my mom had become diagnosed with thyroid cancer. Balancing school, mental challenges, and the uncertainty of what was happening at home felt like an impossible weight to carry. There were moments when I wondered what my future was going to look like, and I didn’t know where to turn. That’s when my faith became my lifeline. I vividly remember one night when everything felt overwhelming. I sat on my bed, exhausted and defeated, and prayed. It was not a polished prayer, it was raw and honest, a plea for strength and guidance. In that quiet moment, I felt a sense of peace that reminded me I wasn’t alone in facing these challenges. My faith gave me the reassurance that even though I did not have all the answers, I could find purpose in the struggle and trust that things would eventually get better. With this renewed sense of hope, I started focusing on what I could do. I leaned on my church community, where I found not only spiritual encouragement but practical support. They showed me the power of faith in action, whether through their kind words, shared resources, or simply just being there to listen. Their generosity reminded me that hardships are not meant to be faced alone and that giving back is an essential part of faith. I also turned to scripture during this time. Romans 8:18 stood out to me, with its message, "The pain you've been feeling can't compare to the joy that is coming". It reminded me that this was just a bad time in my life, not a bad life. There is always a light at the end of the tunnel. Through prayer, hard work, and the incredible support of my faith community and family, I made it through that difficult year, and God had answered my prayers and kept my mom safe. Looking back, I see that my faith didn’t make the challenges disappear, but it gave me the strength to face them head-on. It taught me to trust the process, hold on to hope, and see every obstacle as an opportunity to grow. That experience continues to guide me, shaping how I approach challenges and inspiring me to support others in the same way I was supported.

Growing up in a low income household taught me resilience, determination, and the value of hard work in ways that shaped the person I am today. There were times when we had to stretch what little we had, and that meant learning to be resourceful and creative in finding solutions. Watching my family make sacrifices to ensure we could get by left a deep impression on me, it taught me the importance of perseverance and showed me how transformative education and opportunity can be. These experiences have fueled my desire to give back and make a meaningful impact. I want to help create a world where others don’t face the same barriers I did, whether that’s through improving access to education, mentoring young people, or building stronger communities. I believe that sharing my story can show others that obstacles don’t have to define their future, they can be stepping stones to something better. Right now, I’m working toward that vision by pursuing my goals while staying actively involved in my community. I volunteer with organizations that support youth development, helping children who remind me of where I once was. At the same time, I’m building my skills in psychology, so I can tackle systemic issues head on and contribute to lasting change. My goal is simple but powerful, to use my experiences to show others what’s possible and to help create opportunities for them to thrive, no matter where they start.

Insurance is a safety net that helps people and businesses handle the unexpected. Whether it’s health, life, auto, property, or liability insurance, these policies are designed to protect us from life’s curveballs, like accidents, illnesses, or natural disasters. They give us peace of mind, knowing that if something goes wrong, we won’t be left to handle the financial burden alone. Think about health insurance. It ensures that if a medical emergency arises, we can access care without worrying about how to pay for it. Auto insurance helps cover the costs of accidents, whether it’s damage to your car or medical bills. For homeowners, insurance is a way to safeguard the place they’ve invested so much in, offering a lifeline when disasters like fires or storms strike. Life insurance is especially meaningful, it provides financial security for loved ones if the unthinkable happens, ensuring they can carry on without added financial stress. Insurance agencies play an essential role in making this system work for us. They’re the ones who help figure out what coverage we need and guide us toward options that fit our budget. When things go wrong, they’re there to help us navigate the claims process, advocating for fair treatment and quick resolutions. They’re also educators, breaking down complex terms and conditions so we can make informed decisions about our coverage. Of course, insurance isn’t perfect. It can get pricey, especially for those in high-risk areas or with preexisting conditions. Policies can be confusing, with fine print that sometimes leads to disputes or unexpected denials. And let’s not forget fraud or inefficiencies in the system, which can drive up costs for everyone. But despite these challenges, insurance remains a vital part of our lives, offering protection and peace of mind when we need it most. In recent years, states like Florida, California, and Texas have been hit hard by natural disasters, hurricanes, floods, and wildfires seem to come more often and with greater intensity. As a result, many insurance companies have pulled out of these states, leaving homeowners scrambling. For those who can still find coverage, premiums have often skyrocketed, making it nearly impossible for some people, like retirees or single parents, to afford. This growing crisis is forcing us to think differently about how to protect people in disaster-prone areas. One potential solution is for states to create reinsurance pools. These pools act like a safety net for insurance companies, sharing the financial burden of major disasters so that private insurers can keep offering coverage in risky areas. Florida already has something like this with its Hurricane Catastrophe Fund, and expanding programs like this could make a big difference. If insurers know they’re not on the hook for every dollar of a major disaster, they’re more likely to stick around, and that could help keep premiums more reasonable. Another idea is for the federal government to step in with a national program designed specifically for disaster-prone areas. This could spread the risk across the entire country, rather than letting it fall only on the hardest-hit regions. Programs like the National Flood Insurance Program are already in place, but they’d need serious updates to handle today’s challenges. With the right changes, such a program could provide a more sustainable way to help families stay insured and secure, no matter where they live. The insurance crisis in these states is a tough problem, but by working together at both state and federal levels, we can find ways to support homeowners while keeping the insurance market stable. It’s about ensuring everyone has access to the protection they need when disaster strikes.

Hi all! My name is Savannah and I am currently studying psychology at my local community college. I am excited to say that I will be attending Boise State University in the fall of 2025 with the goal of getting my bachelors degree in psychology. From there, I hope to be a school counselor for elementary school children. I have always wanted to make a lasting impact on our future generations, and I feel this career path aligns perfectly with my goals and ambitions. However, with leaving for college comes taking on a lot of big finances all by myself. From small things like textbooks and school supplies, to rent and tuition, I will be in need of quiet a large sum of student loans. This scholarship will truly make a meaningful difference in my life, both now and in the future. Financially, it will relieve some of the stress of covering tuition and other academic expenses, allowing me to focus entirely on my studies. Not having to constantly worry about finances means I can put more energy into excelling in my classes and making the most of my education. But beyond the financial relief, this scholarship is a chance to unlock opportunities I might not have had otherwise. It will allow me to pursue internships, research projects, or other hands-on experiences that can enrich my learning and help me grow in ways that go beyond the classroom. These opportunities will help me build essential skills and set me up for a strong start in my career. Contributing to my community has been one of the most rewarding parts of my life. I’ve had the privilege of being involved in initiatives like organizing food drives and volunteering, which have given me the chance to directly support those in need. These experiences have opened my eyes to the resilience and kindness that exists in so many corners of our community. One area I’m particularly passionate about is raising awareness around mental health and education. Whether I'm simply just sharing resources, or participating in advocacy campaigns, I aim to start meaningful conversations that can lead to real change. Failure is never easy, but it has a way of teaching lessons you don’t forget. One moment that really stands out for me was during a group project. I was chosen to lead the team, and I wanted so badly to prove myself. I thought the best way to ensure success was to take on most of the responsibilities myself. I micromanaged instead of delegating and didn’t trust my teammates as much as I should have. As the deadline got closer, I realized I had taken on way too much. I was overwhelmed, rushing to finish my part, and missing important details. When we turned in the project, it wasn’t our best work. When we received our grade, it was disappointing, and I couldn’t ignore the fact that my approach had contributed to the outcome. Looking back, I see how perfectionism and trying to control everything held me back. Now, I focus on working smarter and making sure everyone on a team feels empowered to do their best. It’s a lesson I carry with me in every opportunity to lead, and even small everyday challenges. My greatest strength is adaptability. I’m at my best when things are changing or unpredictable, as I’m quick to learn and adjust to whatever comes my way. It helps me stay calm under pressure, think outside the box, and find practical solutions, all while keeping a positive attitude and working well with others.

Mental health challenges can feel incredibly isolating, but working through them has been a journey of growth and self-discovery for me. One of the most important steps I have taken in my journey is recognizing that it is okay not to have all the answers and that seeking help is not a sign of weakness, it is one of strength. Therapy has been a lifesaver for me, giving me a safe space to unpack my emotions, reframe from negative thinking, and develop healthier ways to cope with life’s ups and downs. Along the way, I have also realized how vital it is to take care of myself in small but meaningful ways. I have built habits that help me feel grounded, like mindfulness meditation, journaling, and staying active. These are not magic fixes, but they have helped me manage stress and reconnect with myself. Setting boundaries, whether in work or in personal relationships, has been another game changer. Learning to say “no” and protect my time and energy has allowed me to focus on what truly matters. That being said, this journey is not a straight line. Some days are harder than others, and that is okay. I have learned to embrace the fact that healing is not about being perfect, it’s about making progress and being gentle with myself along the way. Looking ahead, I want to use what I’ve learned to help others who are navigating similar struggles. I believe it starts with open conversations. Talking about mental health, whether it’s sharing my own experiences or simply being there to listen, can make a world of difference. When we talk about these things, we remind each other that we are not alone. Beyond that, I am passionate about giving back. I want to volunteer with organizations that support mental health, whether that means running support groups, creating resources, or helping fundraise for important services. I plan to make a difference by taking concrete steps to support mental health awareness and care. I want to advocate for better resources, pushing for affordable, inclusive mental health care in schools, workplaces, and communities. Everyone deserves access to the help they need, and I’m passionate about working toward making that a reality. I also want to focus on education and awareness. Organizing or participating in workshops and campaigns is a powerful way to share knowledge and resources about mental health. These efforts can spark conversations, break down stigma, and help people feel less alone in their struggles. Most importantly, I aim to simply be present for others. Sometimes, all someone needs is a listening ear and genuine empathy. By creating a safe space for people to share their feelings, I can help ensure they feel heard, valued, and supported. It’s a small but meaningful way to remind others that they’re not alone in their journey. No matter how big or small, every action can help create a world where mental health is treated with the respect and care that it deserves. By focusing on both my personal growth and ways to support others, I hope to contribute to a society where everyone feels seen, supported, and empowered to thrive.

I want to build a foundation for storytelling that brings people together and amplifies voices that often go unheard. For as long as I can remember, stories whether told through film, books, or casual conversations have shaped the way I see the world. They’ve taught me to empathize, to question, and to connect. Now, I want to channel that power into creating spaces where people can share their experiences and where diverse narratives are not just appreciated but celebrated. For me, this starts small and personal. I want to become a better storyteller, someone who listens carefully and captures the nuances of human experience. Whether it’s through writing, media production, or conversations, I aim to tell stories that reflect the complexity of life. To get there, I plan to immerse myself in learning through books, films, travels, and simply spending more time with people whose perspectives differ from mine. It’s not just about gathering knowledge; it’s about building relationships that enrich my understanding and, in turn, the stories I create. But my dream doesn’t stop with me. I want to create a platform where others can share their stories too. Maybe it’s a community project where people come together to exchange life experiences or a workshop that helps individuals find their voice. I imagine a collaborative space, a podcast, a series of short films, or even a local storytelling night that highlights the voices of those who often go unnoticed. These spaces would allow people to feel seen and to see one another in new ways. What excites me most about this vision is its potential to ripple outward. Stories have a unique ability to break down barriers and foster empathy. They remind us of our shared humanity, even when our experiences are vastly different. By encouraging storytelling in my community, I hope to inspire connections that lead to greater understanding and inclusivity. Ultimately, I’m building this foundation because I believe in the power of stories to change lives, mine included. This isn’t just about pursuing a passion; it’s about creating something meaningful, something that strengthens bonds and brings out the best in people. I want to help create a future where authenticity and connection are at the heart of how we relate to one another.

Reflecting on my journey as a suicide loss survivor feels like trying to untangle a knot of emotions that are still tender and raw. Losing someone this way isn’t just a tragedy; it’s a grief like no other, marked by questions that linger and emotions that collide. It’s a path through heartbreak and confusion, but also one of learning, growth. It has reshaped my sense of love, resilience, and hope in ways I never imagined. In the immediate aftermath, I was stunned. The loss felt surreal, like the ground had been ripped out from beneath me. I cycled through emotions, deep sorrow, disbelief, anger, guilt, and even shame. I kept asking myself over and over, How did I not see this coming? What could I have done differently? The weight of those questions was crushing, and they followed me everywhere, like a shadow. The stigma around suicide only made it harder to reach out for help. I feared judgment or awkward silences, so I kept much of my pain inside, which only deepened my sense of isolation. Navigating the guilt was one of the hardest parts. It felt impossible not to blame myself, to replay our conversations in search of something I might have missed. The "what-ifs" became an exhausting loop in my mind: What if I’d called more? What if I’d noticed sooner? The grief didn’t follow any predictable pattern, it would hit me out of nowhere. Sometimes it was a song, a smell, or just a random memory, and suddenly, I’d feel like I was drowning all over again. The loss also tested my relationships. Some people didn’t know what to say or how to support me, so they distanced themselves. On the flip side, there were unexpected gestures of kindness and support from others, people I hadn’t been close to before who showed up for me in ways I’ll never forget. Those moments taught me that grief has a way of reshaping our connections, sometimes in surprising and beautiful ways. Over time, I learned that grief isn’t something you “get over.” It doesn’t have a clear endpoint, and it doesn’t move in a straight line. It ebbs and flows, like waves. Some days, I could barely get through, while other days, I felt a glimmer of strength. I realized that allowing myself to feel, without judging those feelings, was a crucial part of healing. Sometimes that meant crying until I felt empty; other times, it meant finding small joys in nature or simply letting myself breathe. Resilience, I’ve learned, isn’t about being strong all the time. It’s about finding ways to keep going, even when you feel broken. For me, it came from taking small, intentional steps to care for myself. Things like writing down my thoughts, walking outside, or meditating became lifelines. I stopped trying to push away the pain and started letting myself sit with it, trusting that it wouldn’t consume me forever. Hope didn’t return all at once; it came in tiny, fragile moments. At first, it was the memory of my loved one’s laughter or the warmth of their kindness that began to pierce through the pain. I made a conscious choice to focus on those memories rather than letting the tragedy define their life. Remembering them for who they were, their quirks, dreams, and joy helped me keep their spirit alive in a way that felt healing. The pain of this loss will always be a part of me, but it doesn’t define me. It’s shaped me, deepened my empathy, strengthened my resilience, and taught me to cherish every moment I have.

Plato, The Republic, Book VII (The Allegory of the Cave) "And if someone, forcibly dragged out of the cave, walked out into the sunlight, he would be pained and dazzled and unable to see the realities whose shadows he had seen before. But after some time on the surface, he would grow accustomed to the light of the sun and would see things as they are, ultimately understanding that the sun is the source of life and truth." Thesis: In this excerpt, Plato shows us that gaining true understanding is never easy, it is often uncomfortable and even painful at times, but it is also life changing. To grow, we have to let go of our old ways of thinking, step out of ignorance, and open ourselves to deeper truths. This process is not just about knowing more; it’s about seeing the world for what it really is and letting that understanding shape how we live and make decisions. At its core, enlightenment is about finding the truths that give meaning to everything around us, and guide us toward living our lives with purpose and integrity. Plato’s image of someone being “forcibly dragged out of the cave” paints a vivid picture of how jarring and difficult it can be to face the truth. Using the words of "forcibly dragged" emphasizes how people are reluctant and unwilling to face the truth. They are forced to do so rather than willingly doing so. Most of us find comfort in what we already know, the shadows on the wall. They are familiar, easy to interpret, and don’t challenge us too much. But those shadows are just illusions, and stepping beyond them means questioning everything we thought was real, turning our backs towards what we have always known. Plato’s description of pain and disorientation as someone encounters the light reminds us that gaining real understanding is rarely a pleasant experience. It is uncomfortable because it forces us to confront how limited our previous understanding really was. But that discomfort is necessary, it is the first step in truly growing and transforming. The light outside the cave, which Plato likens to sunlight, represents something much deeper: ultimate truth and understanding. It is not just about learning facts or gaining intellectual clarity, it is about seeing the bigger picture, the moral and existential truths that define life itself. The process of adjusting to this light is slow, reflecting how real growth takes time. Plato is clear that truth can not be grasped all at once. It is a gradual journey that demands patience, reflection, and a willingness to face hard truths. Plato’s idea that the sun is the “source of life and truth” underscores how deeply connected knowledge is to meaning. For Plato, understanding truth isn’t just about improving your mind, it is about reshaping your entire perspective on life, seeing it differently than just black and white. Once someone truly sees the world as it is, they realize they have a responsibility to share that knowledge. Enlightenment is not just personal; it is something that should ripple outward, helping others who are still stuck in the shadows. In this passage, Plato shows us that seeking truth is more than an intellectual exercise. It is a deeply personal struggle and a moral duty to help others see the light too. His allegory reminds us that growth is not easy, but it is worth it, not just for ourselves but for the betterment of the world around us. If we are able to help others grow as well as ourselves, the world would be a much different place.

Growing up with very little money shaped my life in ways that I’m only beginning to fully understand. It wasn’t always easy, but those years taught me resilience, resourcefulness, and a deep appreciation for the little things that many people take for granted. They also gave me a clear sense of what I wanted for my future, and the determination to get there. As a kid, I learned the meaning of sacrifice early. My parents worked incredibly hard, often stretching every dollar just to make sure we had what we needed. Sometimes that meant they went without things for themselves so my siblings and I could have clothes for school or food on the table. Birthdays meant homemade cakes, and holidays were about being together, not what was under the tree. It wasn’t lavish, but it was full of love, and I never doubted how much they cared for us. Money being tight also forced us to get creative. We reused and fixed just about everything, and school supplies were stretched far beyond what they were ever meant to last. If something broke, we didn’t throw it away, we found a way to make it work. Looking back, I realize those moments taught me how to problem-solve and appreciate what I had. Even now, I carry those lessons with me. With a lack of wealth in the family, it has caused me to have to also take on a lot of financial burdens myself, leaving me to fund all of my education single handedly. However, financial challenges are just one piece of the puzzle. On a personal level, pursuing higher education has tested my ability to manage time, stay confident, and balance a full plate of responsibilities. Between work, family, and school, I’ve had to make tough decisions about what takes priority. Sometimes, it means missing a family gathering because of a paper deadline, or saying no to social plans because the budget simply won’t stretch that far. Those moments can feel heavy, even lonely, but they also remind me why I’m on this path. Each choice I make, no matter how hard, brings me closer to my goal. What keeps me going is the bigger picture: creating a better future for myself and the people I love. Education isn’t just about earning a degree or landing a better job, It’s about proving to myself that I’m capable of growth and change. With the help of my school’s resources, mentors, counselors, career services, I’m learning to navigate the challenges and see them as stepping stones instead of roadblocks. These struggles aren’t just hurdles to overcome, they’re shaping who I am. This journey is more than an academic pursuit, it’s a reminder that resilience, hope, and the support of others can carry me through even the hardest days. It’s about believing in the power of persistence and knowing that each small victory adds up to something bigger.

I never imagined agriculture would become such a big part of my life. I didn’t grow up on a farm, my childhood was more about running through parks and exploring nature than working in fields. But I’ve always been fascinated by the natural world and curious about where our food comes from. That curiosity really deepened during college when I took an internship at a local community garden. It was there that I truly saw the connection between the land, the food we eat, and the people who make it all happen. That experience completely shifted my perspective and my future. What started as a passing interest quickly became a passion. I began spending weekends volunteering on local farms, rolling up my sleeves and learning everything I could about planting, harvesting, and taking care of the soil. I’ll never forget the moment I planted my first seeds and saw them sprout, it felt like pure magic. Even the simplest tasks, like pulling weeds or watering crops, became meaningful when I realized how they fit into the bigger picture of growing food and sustaining life. What really drew me in, though, was the sense of purpose and connection I found in agriculture. Farmers and growers aren’t just working in isolation, they’re part of a larger community, constantly sharing knowledge, supporting one another, and addressing critical issues like food insecurity and climate change. Being a part of that felt inspiring and urgent, and it made me realize that this was more than just an interest, it was a path I wanted to commit to. Since then, I’ve thrown myself into learning everything I can about sustainable farming and soil health. For me, agriculture is more than just a career, it’s a way of life. It’s taught me to deeply appreciate the environment and the responsibility we all share to protect it. It’s also shown me the strength of community. Farming is not something you can do alone, it’s about coming together, sharing resources, and supporting each other through challenges. Looking ahead, I’m passionate about making a positive impact by championing sustainable agricultural practices. My goal is to help create systems that not only protect the environment but also ensure that everyone has access to healthy, affordable food. I want to work on innovative solutions that empower local communities, helping them build farming systems that are not just productive but fair and sustainable for future generations. To me, it’s not just about growing food—it’s about growing a better, more connected, and more equitable future.