From a young age, I faced a constant battle with my stutter, which made communication a daily challenge. Words beginning with "s," "l," and "t" felt like mountains, and every conversation was a struggle to be heard. It wasn’t until one fateful moment in the car with my parents, singing along to Kirk Franklin’s music, that I discovered something transformative. As I sang, my stutter disappeared completely. The rhythm and melody of the music unlocked a part of me that allowed my words to flow freely. In that moment, I realized the power of music to heal, not just the body, but the spirit. This experience ignited a passion within me that has guided my journey ever since. As I grew older, I found that my love for music could extend beyond personal healing. I developed a deep interest in physical therapy, a field where I could help others overcome their own challenges and reclaim their strength and independence. But I never abandoned the idea that music could play a central role in the healing process. Over the years, I’ve come to believe that combining my passion for music with my desire to help others could become something truly transformative—a business idea that integrates music into physical therapy to create a holistic approach to rehabilitation. My entrepreneurial journey started with a simple but powerful vision: to create a therapy practice that combines the healing power of music with traditional physical rehabilitation techniques. The idea was born out of my personal experience with music as a form of emotional and physical healing. I envisioned a practice where patients not only heal physically but also receive emotional support through the power of music. For example, patients recovering from surgery or injury could use music as both motivation and therapy, moving to the rhythm of songs to guide their movements, boost their spirits, and track their progress. This business idea is about more than just physical recovery; it’s about creating a space where people can heal holistically, where they can feel supported emotionally and spiritually while rebuilding their bodies. I want to use my business as a way to promote mental health awareness, particularly in how it relates to physical healing. In this field, we often focus solely on the body’s recovery, but emotional and mental health are just as important to the healing process. By combining music and physical therapy, I hope to break down these boundaries and offer a well-rounded approach to recovery. My goals are simple but profound: to create a practice where patients feel inspired, supported, and motivated through the power of music, and to build a community around the idea that healing is not just physical, but emotional and psychological as well. I hope to one day expand my practice, offering not just one-on-one sessions but group programs, workshops, and even partnerships with other healthcare providers to integrate music into more traditional therapeutic settings. Entrepreneurship became a natural fit for me because it offers the freedom to create something that blends my passion for helping others with my deep love for music. My entrepreneurial spirit is driven by the desire to solve a real-world problem, one that is personal to me and could benefit others. I hope to achieve more than just a successful business—I want to create lasting, positive change in the way we approach healing and recovery. Ultimately, my goal is to offer a service that makes a difference in people's lives, helping them rebuild not just their bodies, but their sense of hope and joy, just as music did for me.

Growing up with a stutter, I faced significant challenges in communicating with others. For years, words starting with "s," "l," and "t" felt like mountains I couldn't climb. Every conversation became a battle, and it seemed like I was always fighting to be heard. But one day, while riding in the car with my parents and listening to Kirk Franklin’s music, something incredible happened—my stutter disappeared as I sang along. In that moment, I realized the profound, transformative power of music. It wasn’t just an escape or a form of expression; it became a bridge to freedom. As I grew older, my path shifted from aspiring to be a singer to wanting to help others overcome their own struggles. I found my calling in physical therapy - a field where I could empower people to regain their strength, confidence, and independence. But my love for music never faded. I began to imagine a practice where music could guide patients through their recovery, just as it had once helped me find my voice. I envision a future where physical therapy sessions are not just about physical movement, but about nurturing the whole person—body, mind, and spirit. By incorporating music into rehabilitation, I hope to create a therapeutic environment that motivates, uplifts, and connects patients with their progress in a way that traditional methods alone may not. For example, starting with calming, soulful tunes like Whitney Houston’s I Will Always Love You can help patients relax and focus, while more energetic songs, like Ray Charles’s Hit the Road Jack, can inspire movement and momentum. The rhythm of music can act as both a metronome for progress and a source of emotional healing. By building this integrated approach to therapy, I hope to foster a sense of community and support where patients feel encouraged and inspired throughout their recovery. Music, with its ability to uplift the spirit, can provide an emotional release that encourages resilience. Beyond helping individual patients, I aim to build a practice that also contributes to broader mental health awareness, emphasizing the importance of emotional and psychological well-being in physical recovery. This vision of integrating music with physical therapy is not just about the future of healthcare—it's about making a positive, lasting impact on my community. It’s about building a space where people can heal not only physically but emotionally, finding strength through both movement and music. Through this, I hope to help others feel empowered, supported, and ready to face the challenges ahead—just as music once helped me find my own voice.

Happy New Year! The fireworks light up the sky, couples share midnight kisses, and friends toast to new beginnings. Everyone is celebrating, joy radiating from their smiles, but I stand motionless in the crowd. For me, the year 2024 wasn’t filled with fireworks; it was the year I lost my cousin, a loss that taught me one of life’s most painful yet important lessons. Imagine getting the call that your cousin has passed away. He was the kind of person who would give you his last penny, a former college basketball star at Houston Baptist University, known for his charisma, his kindness, his infectious laughter. He lit up every room he entered, and you couldn’t help but be drawn into his warmth. But behind that bright exterior, my cousin was struggling with demons no one saw. Drugs had taken hold of him, slowly and silently. No one noticed, not even those who loved him most. One day, he was found unresponsive in someone’s backyard pool. For weeks, he lay in a hospital, unresponsive, his body struggling to survive. Doctors told us he was brain dead. There was nothing more they could do. Our family gathered, torn between hope and heartache, to decide whether to pull the plug. It was the hardest thing I’ve ever faced. The decision was made on January 1, 2024. The majority ruled it was time to let him go, to stop watching him suffer. It felt like the world had come crashing down on me, and I was left with this overwhelming grief, coupled with an aching sense of guilt. Why didn’t I see the signs? Why didn’t I do more? The pain was unbearable, but through it, I found a powerful lesson that has changed my life forever: always check in on the people you love no matter how happy they seem. Mental health isn’t always visible. Someone can be smiling, laughing, or even excelling in life, and still be battling inner demons that no one knows about. Sometimes, the smallest act of kindness through a hug, text, and/or conversation can make a world of difference. It can remind someone they’re not alone, that someone cares. I’ve learned that one simple check-in could save a life. My cousin’s death has taught me resilience. It’s shown me that, even in the darkest moments, we can find strength. It’s inspired me to be there for others, to never assume someone is okay just because they’re smiling. I know now that we can’t wait for people to ask for help, but we must offer it. I will carry this lesson with me, honoring my cousin’s memory by showing up for those who need it most. 2024 may have been a year of loss, but it has also been a year of growth — a year where I learned that resilience isn’t about avoiding pain, but about finding hope even in the aftermath of tragedy.

As a child, I faced the constant challenge of communicating with others due to my stutter. Words beginning with "s," "l," and "t" were the most difficult to say, and every conversation felt like a hurdle. My mom played a pivotal role during this time, offering patience and determination in helping me navigate this obstacle. She tirelessly worked with me, coming up with creative ways to reduce my speech impediment. Then, one day, one of her methods changed my world entirely. On our way to church, as my parents blasted Kirk Franklin’s music, they noticed something remarkable: while I was singing, my stutter disappeared. It was as if the rhythm and melody of the music unlocked a part of me that could flow effortlessly. For the first time, I felt free. It was nothing short of a miracle. In that moment, I realized the transformative power of music. From then on, I dreamed of becoming a singer—imagining a life where I could express myself without limits and share the joy of music with others. However, as the years passed, my path shifted. While music remained a source of comfort and self-expression, I discovered a deeper calling in helping others. I realized that the same sense of freedom I experienced through singing was something I wanted to offer to others in their own struggles. This led me to physical therapy—a field where I could empower people to overcome their challenges, reclaim their strength, and improve their quality of life. Even so, my love for music has never waned. I dream of integrating music into my future practice. Music has a unique ability to heal both the body and the soul. I envision rehabilitation sessions where patients move to the rhythm of songs, using music as both motivation and therapy. For instance, the first few sessions could start with something soothing, like Whitney Houston’s I Will Always Love You, and gradually progress to energetic tracks, such as Ray Charles’s Hit the Road Jack. The music would guide the patient’s movements, acting as a metronome to enhance their progress and uplift their spirits. As a woman in healthcare, I hope to break down barriers for underserved communities by bringing a unique perspective. My experiences have taught me that no one should have to face their struggles alone. Whether it's through physical therapy, patient education, or advocating for better healthcare policies, I want to ensure that everyone — regardless of ethnicity, gender, religion, or background —has the resources and support they need to thrive. In the end, I will pursue my goal through empowering others to live fuller, more joyful lives. My struggles with a stutter taught me resilience, and my discovery of music gave me hope. By combining the two, I want to be the person who not only helps patients heal physically but also helps them find the strength to face the world with confidence, knowing they are supported and valued.

Title: Double the Trouble Concept: Instead of introducing one new islander interested in a single contestant, two new bombshells arrive simultaneously - both openly interested in the same person. This twist introduces a new level of tension, testing loyalty, trust, and the depth of current connections, while stirring up villa drama in a way that keeps everyone guessing. The Start: The targeted islander is informed of the situation in advance and has the opportunity to interact with both bombshells during a series of tasks designed to test compatibility, attraction, and loyalty. The rest of the villa observes and weighs in, further fueling discussions and potential conflicts. First Impressions: The bombshells invite the islander on a triple date, focusing on the person they’re both interested in. They’re encouraged to be bold, flirtatious, and upfront. Challenge: The two bombshells and the targeted islander play a game revealing fun facts and preferences to see who aligns better. Decision: After spending time with both bombshells, the targeted islander must decide: stick with their current partner (if they are in a relationship), choose one to get to know the bombshells better on the island, or settling with being single. Objective: This twist amplifies the tension and unpredictability of the show, keeping viewers hooked while adding a fresh dynamic to the villa. It challenges relationships and introduces an exciting battle for connection that’s sure to leave everyone sitting on the edge of their seats.

Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson is a masterpiece that beautifully bridges the emotional depth of the written word with the immersive visuals of the screen. The novel’s rich narrative, centered on family, identity, and secrets, captivated me when I first read it, and seeing it come to life on screen felt like witnessing a cherished story gain a heartbeat. What makes this adaptation special is its ability to preserve the intricate layers of the book while adding new dimensions through visuals, performances, and music. The novel’s narrative weaves between the past and present, exploring the lives of siblings Byron and Benny as they uncover their late mother’s hidden history. On screen, the juxtaposition of lush Caribbean landscapes and modern urban settings adds a striking visual element to these timelines, making the transitions between them even more poignant. The director’s use of vibrant colors, authentic costumes, and carefully curated set pieces immerses viewers in the cultural richness that Wilkerson’s prose evokes. The adaptation also shines in its portrayal of the characters. While reading the book, I imagined the emotional intensity of Eleanor’s voice in her recorded message to her children. Seeing this moment performed on screen brought her pain, love, and resilience to life in a way that felt deeply personal and tangible. Similarly, the sibling dynamic between Byron and Benny gained new layers through the actors’ chemistry, making their journey of reconciliation even more heartwarming and relatable. One of the most memorable aspects of the film adaptation is how it uses music and silence to amplify emotions. The book leans on vivid descriptions to convey Eleanor’s struggles and triumphs, but the film’s score enhances these moments, making them resonate on a visceral level. A single violin note or a moment of stillness can evoke a sense of loss or hope that words alone might not capture as powerfully. What bridges the gap between reading Black Cake and watching its adaptation is the universal relatability of its themes. Both formats emphasize the importance of understanding one’s heritage and the bonds of family, but the film adds a visual and emotional immediacy that complements the introspection inspired by the book. Together, they create a fuller, more immersive experience that deepens my connection to the story. Black Cake reminds me that storytelling transcends mediums, and each interpretation offers something new to cherish. It’s a testament to the enduring power of family legacies, a message that lingers long after the final scene.

As a child, I faced the constant challenge of communicating with others because of my stutter. Words beginning with "s," "l," and "t" were the most difficult to say, and every conversation felt like a hurdle. My parents played a vital role during my journey because of their patience and determination. They worked tirelessly with me by creating possible ways to reduce my speech impediment. Until one day, one of their methods, changed my world completely. On our way to church, while my parents were blasting Kirk Franklin, they noticed as I was singing, my stutter disappeared entirely. It was as if the rhythm and melody of music unlocked a part of me that could flow effortlessly. For the first time, I felt free, and it was nothing short of a miracle. From that moment, I dreamed of becoming a singer, imagining a life where I could express myself without limits and share the joy of music with others. However as the years passed, my path shifted. While music remained a source of comfort and self-expression, I discovered a deeper calling in helping others. I realized that the same sense of freedom I experienced through singing was something I wanted to bring to others in their own struggles. This led me to physical therapy - a field where I could empower people to overcome challenges, reclaim their strength, and improve their quality of life. Even so, my love for music has never waned, and I dream of integrating it into my future practice. Music has a unique ability to heal both body and soul. I envision rehabilitation sessions where patients move to the rhythm of songs, using music as both motivation and therapy. For instance, the first few session could start with something soothing, like Whitney Houston’s I Will Always Love You, and gradually progress to energetic tracks like Ray Charles’s Hit the Road Jack. The music would guide the patient in their movements, serving as a metronome to enhance their progress and uplift their spirits. In the end, I hope to merge my childhood passion with my professional aspirations. My struggles with a stutter taught me resilience, and my discovery of music gave me hope. By combining the two, I hope to create a holistic therapy approach that not only strengthens the body but also nurtures the spirit. Helping others find freedom and joy, just as I did, would be the greatest fulfillment of all.

Please, please, please don't get me started on my love for Sabrina Carpenter. She’s like the "Espresso" to my macchiato that jumpstarts my day. Every lyric and every beat make the goosebumps on my "Skin" rise. If I had the opportunity to see her in person, the "Things I Would Say" would be a heartfelt thank you for shaping me into the best version of myself today. Her music basically sums up my life – "Nonsense" at times and probably should come with "Tornado Warnings." When I was little, I had a severe stutter, but "Looking at Me" now, I’m impressed with my improvement. I would speak as if I were given a "Fast Time." I remember my parents working with me, asking me to repeat words or sentences from the top. I mean, you "Can't Blame a Girl for Trying." But one day, with my "Eyes Wide Open," I realized that music helped minimize my speech impediment. As I’m "On My Way" to becoming an exceptional physical therapist, I have Sabrina Carpenter to thank. "Why?" you may ask. Because her career has shown me how to "Take On the World" and integrate music into physical therapy. I can use music during therapeutic sessions, having the patient move their body in "Opposite" directions to serve as a metronome. I’d give her music a million "Thumbs" up as a learning tool for physical development. I just hope she doesn’t "Sue Me" for using her words in this essay.

During my undergraduate years, I faced challenges that reshaped my understanding of mental health, substance abuse, and personal growth. Attending a university well-known for its party culture, I initially turned to alcohol as a way to socialize, manage stress from assignments, and fit in. Over time, however, this coping mechanism negatively impacted my grades, relationships, and self-esteem. I soon realized that alcohol, which I had thought was helping, was in fact a depressor, leading me to hit rock bottom. On my 21st birthday, I was excited to go out and celebrate. I invited my so-called "friends" to join me for the special occasion. We went to the bar, had a few drinks, and danced the night away. Everything was going perfectly until a group of men approached us. They convinced us to join an after-party they were hosting. What seemed like a fun idea at the time quickly turned into one of the worst nights of my life. When we arrived at their apartment, we immediately noticed it was empty, except for the guys and my friends. A sense of unease washed over me, and I had a gut feeling that things weren't going to end well. I tried to signal to my friends that we should leave, but they dismissed my concerns, calling me a "party-pooper." The guys poured a shot and dedicated the first round to me. We all cheered and downed the drink. Not long after, I felt my body grow heavy, and the room began to spin. The next thing I remember is waking up alone, with no one in sight. Recognizing the damage alcohol was doing to my mental health, I knew I had to make a change. To distract myself from the craving, I joined the club volleyball team, which allowed me to create lifelong friendships and gave me a sense of purpose outside of alcohol. This experience was crucial in developing healthier coping strategies and understanding the importance of true friendship and connection. I learned that recovery requires not only self-discipline but also the courage to confront vulnerabilities. As I continue my recovery, I prioritize self-care through regular exercise, mindfulness, and maintaining a supportive network of friends and mentors. I also advocate for mental health awareness by volunteering and promoting education on addiction recovery. These practices not only keep me grounded but also serve as a reminder of the resilience I have built over time. Recovery is a lifelong journey, but it has taught me to transform adversity into growth. I have learned how to take ownership of my experiences, and they have shaped my determination to become a compassionate physical therapist. By integrating the lessons I’ve learned in recovery, I hope to empower patients to reclaim their lives and achieve their fullest potential. My personal struggles with substance abuse and mental health have deepened my empathy and strengthened my desire to serve others in their healing process. As I aspire to be an outstanding physical therapist, I will always approach my patients with compassion and an empathetic ear. My dedication extends beyond their rehabilitation sessions, as I aim to support them through whatever they may be experiencing. I want my patients to know that I will always be here to listen and help them find connections that promote both their physical and mental well-being.

Discovering that I was a chimera at 21 years old was both a shocking and an emotional journey. When I was little, I always fantasized about having a twin - someone to share my life with, who would understand me, and be a lifelong companion. The idea of a twin always felt like a missing piece of me, a bond I yearned for but never thought I could have. So when a routine dermatology appointment turned into a life-changing discovery, my world felt like it had been flipped upside down. The visit started like any other annual check-up. My dermatologist noticed a discoloration on one side of my back and stomach—something I had always thought was just a large birthmark. Concerned, she recommended genetic testing and bloodwork, explaining that the pattern resembled the characteristics of chimerism, a rare phenomenon where two fertilized eggs merge into one during conception. When the results confirmed it, I was stunned: I carried two different DNA strands in my body. Essentially, I was my own twin. At first, I didn’t know how to process it. The scientific explanation made sense, but emotionally, I felt lost and confused. It was surreal to think about the life of a twin that never fully came to be, and I was overwhelmed by feelings of guilt and sadness. Though the merging of the two embryos was natural and beyond my control, it felt as though I had unknowingly absorbed the sibling I had always dreamt of having. To me, it was a loss and there's a part of me that I would never truly know. Desperate for clarity and connection, I turned to the internet, hoping to find others who had experienced something similar. That’s when I discovered Taylor Muhl and her story titled, “I Am My Own Twin.” Watching her speak about chimerism gave me a sense of relief and validation. I wasn’t alone in this unique identity, and it inspired me to reframe my perspective. Still, the lingering guilt remained, and I struggled with the idea that my existence came at the cost of my twin’s. Over time, I came to terms with my reality. I decided to live not just for myself, but for the both of us. I’ve embraced my uniqueness as a chimera and vowed to honor the life that might have been by living with intention, gratitude, and purpose. This experience has taught me to celebrate life in all its complexity, to turn loss into strength, and to cherish the journey of self-discovery.

Nine months before Rosa Parks became famous for her bravery that led to an unforgettable protest, there was Claudette Colvin. At just 15 years old, Claudette made a courageous stand against racial injustice by refusing to give up her bus seat to a white passenger in Montgomery, Alabama. Her act of defiance occurred on March 2, 1955. Despite facing immense pressure, legal repercussions, and criticism from some in her community, Claudette’s fearless actions created a crucial spark for the Civil Rights Movement. What makes Claudette’s story so powerful? Undoubtedly, it was her youth and determination in the face of systemic oppression. As a , she was unafraid to challenge unjust laws, even when it meant putting herself at significant risk. Claudette mentioned "... I kept thinking, Why don’t the adults around here just say something?" She was aware of the injustice that transpire, but she knew it was not going to be easy to overcome it. Her boldness and moral conviction remind me that change often begins with ordinary people who refuse to accept the status quo. Although history has not celebrated her as prominently as others, Claudette’s actions were instrumental in shaping the legal and cultural battles of the Civil Rights Movement. She was one of the plaintiffs in Browder v. Gayle, the Supreme Court case that ultimately struck down bus segregation laws. Claudette Colvin’s story also speaks to the importance of acknowledging the unsung heroes of history, particularly young people and women whose contributions have been overlooked. Her experience teaches us that every act of courage, no matter how small it might seem at the time, can lead to transformative change. It challenges me to look beyond surface-level narratives and honor the diverse individuals who have shaped our world. I am currently pursuing a career in physical therapy with hopes of working in underserved communities, and Claudette’s story inspires me to advocate for equity and inclusion in my field. African Americans often face disparities in healthcare access due to systemic inequalities and historical oppression. However, her resilience motivates me to challenge these biases and create spaces where every individual, regardless of background, can thrive. Claudette Colvin’s legacy reminds me that leadership is not about fame or recognition - it’s about standing firm in your beliefs and working toward a better future, even when the path is uncertain. Her courage fuels my determination to make a positive impact in the lives of others, just as she did in hers.