My name is Shae Simpson, and I am a senior at Liberty High School in Liberty, Missouri. When I joined the EDGE Global Microschool as a freshman, I knew I had found an educational environment that would challenge me to grow academically, personally, and as a leader. EDGE’s project-based learning model allowed me to tackle real-world challenges aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and it inspired me to pursue opportunities that would create a meaningful impact. Over the past four years, I have worked to embody the values of leadership, resilience, and community service in every area of my life. Academically, I have always strived for excellence, whether in rigorous courses like Dual Credit Global Leadership, AP English Language and Composition, or AP Seminar. My critical thinking, research, and communication skills were put to the test in these classes, and I was proud to earn a 4 on the AP Seminar exam. This year, I am giving back by mentoring current AP Seminar students, helping them navigate the challenges of research and presentation while building their confidence—a role I find incredibly rewarding. One of my proudest accomplishments in EDGE is the creation of a hydroponic garden as part of a project addressing food security. What began as a single project has since grown into “Grow Getters,” a club that engages students in sustainable agricultural practices. This initiative reflects my passion for sustainability and my ability to transform an idea into a lasting program that benefits others. Because we were able to start this garden, our culinary arts program uses the herbs and plants we grow for their classes. Beyond academics, I am deeply committed to leadership and service. I mentor younger students through the A+ program, represent EDGE at recruitment events, and host visiting educators to share my journey with project-based learning. These opportunities have taught me the importance of clear communication and adaptability. I also take great pride in the leadership roles I’ve held, including Captain of JayCrew, Class Leader for Blue Crew Crazies, and Executive Director of the JayBlues A Cappella Choir. These experiences have shaped my ability to motivate teams, foster collaboration, and balance responsibilities effectively. Throughout high school, I have faced unique personal challenges that have required resilience and perseverance. I unexpectedly lost my father during my freshman year of high school. Despite these obstacles, I’ve maintained a positive attitude and a strong work ethic, which have helped me excel in academics and activities. The death of my father forced me to face grief at a young age. I had to respond to a life-changing event positively. My commitment to building community extends to my involvement in the National Honor Society, Student Council, and multiple choirs, where I’ve served as a section leader and mentor. These roles have reinforced my belief in the importance of supporting others and leading with empathy. Balancing these accomplishments with a rigorous course load has been challenging, but my 3.92 GPA is a reflection of my dedication to academics and personal growth. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to grow as a student, leader, and community member. As I look toward the future, I am committed to continuing this path. Through my personal experiences, I found a calling in the healthcare field. I plan to pursue a degree in Nursing at Missouri State University. I desire to offer support, dignity, and hope to those in need. I want to provide care without judgment and to help individuals on their path to healing. My resilience, creativity, and passion will make a positive impact on the world.

Beer bottles, loud music, and occasional arguing were what I often heard growing up. From the time I could remember, my father could be found with a beer in his hand and a cigarette in his mouth. From the outside looking in, other people saw a different version of my father. He was an educator and a successful basketball coach for the majority of his teaching career. No one could have imagined the late nights he would spend out on the back deck, isolating himself further and further away from his family. I watched his mental health deteriorate as he turned to drinking instead of addressing his internal battles. It was confusing and heartbreaking to grow up like this. Out in public, we were a normal family. The inside of our home, however, was often chaotic and unpredictable. If my father drank too much, he often picked fights with my Mom. My sister and I would hide in our room, hoping he would not come and take his addiction out on us. I would hope and pray that he would eventually get help. That this would all stop. Eventually, my parents divorced. I was expecting him to turn his life around by addressing these deep-seated mental health issues, but the opposite happened. He lost his job as a teacher, and his mental health spiraled more and more out of control. In October of 2021, my father took his own life. He could no longer deal with the pain that his mental illness had caused. As I have navigated through high school, I have seen how easy it is for people to battle mental health issues. My father's mental illness turned into an addiction to alcohol. One drink often turns into two or three. My relationship with alcohol looks much different than a lot of teenagers who, all too often, give in to peer pressure. I have seen firsthand how damaging this can be to a person's emotional and physical health. I have been in the crossfire of the unnecessary trauma that comes from trying to support a family member with an addiction, who refuses to face the root of his mental illness. No one deserves to live like that, and I desire to be a positive change surrounded by this stigma. This experience has forever changed my perspective on life. Growing up with a parent struggling with alcohol addiction was eye-opening. Witnessing the physical and emotional toll it took on him, as well as the impact it had on my family, inspired me to pursue a career in nursing. I want to be a compassionate healthcare professional who makes a difference. As a nurse, I want to help others treat the damaging effects that mental illness and addiction can cause. I also have a desire to offer support, dignity, and hope to those who feel lost. I want to be able to provide care without judgment and to help individuals on their path to healing. Nursing is more than a career choice for me. It is a personal mission to support and advocate for those who, like my father, desperately needed someone to believe in them. If I can help even one person find sobriety, then all the pain I’ve endured from witnessing addiction will have been worth it.

College has always been a goal of mine, but after losing my father during my freshman year of high school, it became my mission. This experience forced me to mature in unexpected ways, changing my perspective on life and inspiring me to pursue a degree in nursing. I realized the true power of compassion, care, and resilience, which became my driving force through the pain. In ninth grade, my world turned upside down when my father tragically passed away from suicide. He had struggled with mental illness and addiction for as long as I could remember. During this devastating time, I experienced grief, confusion, and uncertainty about the future. Still, I pushed through and managed to stay focused on school, even on the hardest days. In May, I will graduate from high school with a 3.92 GPA. Through it all, I discovered a calling toward healthcare, particularly nursing. Nurses are not just medical professionals; they provide comfort, support, and kindness to those who need it most. I knew I wanted to be that person for someone else one day. Additionally, I hope to be a part of community outreach programs that focus on preventative care and mental health awareness, especially considering my personal experience with loss and mental illness. By raising awareness, providing resources, and offering support, I can help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and promote healthier lifestyles in my community. College is the next step in making that dream a reality. A nursing degree will equip me with the knowledge and skills to help others during their most vulnerable moments. More importantly, it will allow me to transform the pain of losing my father into a lifelong purpose. I want to honor his memory by dedicating my career to making a difference in people’s lives, particularly as an Emergency Room or Trauma Nurse. My ability to think critically in a fast-paced environment while keeping patients calm is something I feel deeply passionate about. Beyond personal motivation, college offers the stability and opportunities I need to succeed. I have been accepted into Missouri State University to begin my healthcare journey, and with a nursing degree, I will be able to support myself and give back to my community. Education has the power to change lives, and for me, it is the path to honoring my father’s memory. Each step I take toward my degree is a tribute to him and the love he gave me. Losing my father at such a young age was incredibly difficult, but it also gave me direction. When your world shatters, you have a choice: to live in grief or to move forward. Pursuing nursing isn’t just a career choice; it’s my way of moving forward. It’s a path that allows me to grow, help others, and build a future that honors the love and lessons my father left behind.

College has always been a goal of mine, but after losing my father during my freshman year of high school, it became my mission. This experience forced me to mature in unexpected ways, changing my perspective on life and inspiring me to pursue a degree in nursing. I realized the true power of compassion, care, and resilience, which became my driving force through the pain. In ninth grade, my world turned upside down when my father tragically passed away from suicide. He had struggled with mental illness and addiction for as long as I could remember. During this devastating time, I experienced grief, confusion, and uncertainty about the future. Still, I pushed through and managed to stay focused on school, even on the hardest days. In May, I will graduate from high school with a 3.92 GPA. Through it all, I discovered a calling toward healthcare, particularly nursing. Nurses are not just medical professionals; they provide comfort, support, and kindness to those who need it most. I knew I wanted to be that person for someone else one day. Additionally, I hope to be a part of community outreach programs that focus on preventative care and mental health awareness, especially considering my personal experience with loss and mental illness. By raising awareness, providing resources, and offering support, I can help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and promote healthier lifestyles in my community. College is the next step in making that dream a reality. A nursing degree will equip me with the knowledge and skills to help others during their most vulnerable moments. More importantly, it will allow me to transform the pain of losing my father into a lifelong purpose. I want to honor his memory by dedicating my career to making a difference in people’s lives, particularly as an Emergency Room or Trauma Nurse. My ability to think critically in a fast-paced environment while keeping patients calm is something I feel deeply passionate about. Beyond personal motivation, college offers the stability and opportunities I need to succeed. I have been accepted into Missouri State University to begin my healthcare journey, and with a nursing degree, I will be able to support myself and give back to my community. Education has the power to change lives, and for me, it is the path to honoring my father’s memory. Each step I take toward my degree is a tribute to him and the love he gave me. Losing my father at such a young age was incredibly difficult, but it also gave me direction. When your world shatters, you have a choice: to live in grief or to move forward. Pursuing nursing isn’t just a career choice; it’s my way of moving forward. It’s a path that allows me to grow, help others, and build a future that honors the love and lessons my father left behind.

College has always been a goal of mine, but after losing my father during my freshman year of high school, it became my mission. This experience forced me to mature in unexpected ways, changing my perspective on life and inspiring me to pursue a degree in nursing. I realized the true power of compassion, care, and resilience, which became my driving force through the pain. In ninth grade, my world turned upside down when my father tragically passed away from suicide. He had struggled with mental illness and addiction for as long as I could remember. During this devastating time, I experienced grief, confusion, and uncertainty about the future. Still, I pushed through and managed to stay focused on school, even on the hardest days. In May, I will graduate from high school with a 3.92 GPA. Through it all, I discovered a calling toward healthcare, particularly nursing. Nurses are not just medical professionals; they provide comfort, support, and kindness to those who need it most. I knew I wanted to be that person for someone else one day. Additionally, I hope to be a part of community outreach programs that focus on preventative care and mental health awareness, especially considering my personal experience with loss and mental illness. By raising awareness, providing resources, and offering support, I can help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and promote healthier lifestyles in my community. College is the next step in making that dream a reality. A nursing degree will equip me with the knowledge and skills to help others during their most vulnerable moments. More importantly, it will allow me to transform the pain of losing my father into a lifelong purpose. I want to honor his memory by dedicating my career to making a difference in people’s lives, particularly as an Emergency Room or Trauma Nurse. My ability to think critically in a fast-paced environment while keeping patients calm is something I feel deeply passionate about. Beyond personal motivation, college offers the stability and opportunities I need to succeed. I have been accepted into Missouri State University to begin my healthcare journey, and with a nursing degree, I will be able to support myself and give back to my community. Education has the power to change lives, and for me, it is the path to honoring my father’s memory. Each step I take toward my degree is a tribute to him and the love he gave me. Losing my father at such a young age was incredibly difficult, but it also gave me direction. When your world shatters, you have a choice: to live in grief or to move forward. Pursuing nursing isn’t just a career choice; it’s my way of moving forward. It’s a path that allows me to grow, help others, and build a future that honors the love and lessons my father left behind.

College has always been a goal of mine, but after losing my father during my freshman year of high school, it became my mission. This experience forced me to mature in unexpected ways, changing my perspective on life and inspiring me to pursue a degree in nursing. I realized the true power of compassion, care, and resilience, which became my driving force through the pain. In ninth grade, my world turned upside down when my father tragically passed away from suicide. He had struggled with mental illness and addiction for as long as I could remember. During this devastating time, I experienced grief, confusion, and uncertainty about the future. Still, I pushed through and managed to stay focused on school, even on the hardest days. In May, I will graduate from high school with a 3.92 GPA. Through it all, I discovered a calling toward healthcare, particularly nursing. Nurses are not just medical professionals; they provide comfort, support, and kindness to those who need it most. I knew I wanted to be that person for someone else one day. By consistently offering others grace and a listening ear, I hope to help my future patients realize that hope exists beyond their medical challenges. College is the next step in making that dream a reality. A nursing degree will equip me with the knowledge and skills to help others during their most vulnerable moments. More importantly, it will allow me to transform the pain of losing my father into a lifelong purpose. I want to honor his memory by dedicating my career to making a difference in people’s lives, particularly as an Emergency Room or Trauma Nurse. My ability to think critically in a fast-paced environment while keeping patients calm is something I feel deeply passionate about. Beyond personal motivation, college offers the stability and opportunities I need to succeed. I have been accepted into Missouri State University to begin my healthcare journey, and with a nursing degree, I will be able to support myself and give back to my community. Education has the power to change lives, and for me, it is the path to honoring my father’s memory. Each step I take toward my degree is a tribute to him and the love he gave me. Losing my father at such a young age was incredibly difficult, but it also gave me direction. When your world shatters, you have a choice: to live in grief or to move forward. Pursuing nursing isn’t just a career choice. It’s my way of moving forward and giving back to my community. It’s a path that allows me to grow, help others, and build a future that honors the love and lessons my father left behind.

College has always been a goal of mine, but after losing my father during my freshman year of high school, it became my mission. This experience forced me to mature in unexpected ways, changing my perspective on life and inspiring me to pursue a degree in nursing. I realized the true power of compassion, care, and resilience, which became my driving force through the pain. In ninth grade, my world turned upside down when my father tragically passed away from suicide. He had struggled with mental illness and addiction for as long as I could remember. During this devastating time, I experienced grief, confusion, and uncertainty about the future. Still, I pushed through and managed to stay focused on school, even on the hardest days. In May, I will graduate from high school with a 3.92 GPA. Through it all, I discovered a calling toward healthcare, particularly nursing. Nurses are not just medical professionals; they provide comfort, support, and kindness to those who need it most. I knew I wanted to be that person for someone else one day. College is the next step in making that dream a reality. A nursing degree will equip me with the knowledge and skills to help others during their most vulnerable moments. More importantly, it will allow me to transform the pain of losing my father into a lifelong purpose. I want to honor his memory by dedicating my career to making a difference in people’s lives, particularly as an Emergency Room or Trauma Nurse. My ability to think critically in a fast-paced environment while keeping patients calm is something I feel deeply passionate about. Beyond personal motivation, college offers the stability and opportunities I need to succeed. I have been accepted into Missouri State University to begin my healthcare journey, and with a nursing degree, I will be able to support myself and give back to my community. Education has the power to change lives, and for me, it is the path to honoring my father’s memory. Each step I take toward my degree is a tribute to him and the love he gave me. Losing my father at such a young age was incredibly difficult, but it also gave me direction. When your world shatters, you have a choice: to live in grief or to move forward. Pursuing nursing isn’t just a career choice; it’s my way of moving forward. It’s a path that allows me to grow, help others, and build a future that honors the love and lessons my father left behind.

My parents divorced when I was 11 years old. I knew, even at that age, that our family would be better off in the long run. My mother met my stepfather a year later. I was immediately drawn to his ability to bring a peace to our household and was thrilled by how much he loved my mother. Growing up in a blended family has shaped me in profound ways and taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, compassion, and the importance of human connection. My journey has not been without challenges, but it is through these challenges that I have found immense strength. One of the most significant events in my life was losing my biological father to suicide when I was 14. This was a loss that changed me forever. Following that loss, my blended family became my anchor. My stepfather has been one of the best role models and has loved me fiercely. His unwavering support has helped me navigate the overwhelming grief, and through this, I learned that family does not necessarily have to be blood-related. This experience has profoundly impacted my future goal of becoming a nurse. It has inspired me to value life, relationships, and the well-being of others. In my blended family, I witnessed how compassion and understanding could mend emotional turmoil and build strong connections with those around me. I want to bring that same level of empathy and care to my future patients. Whether it’s comforting a patient during their most difficult moments or offering a listening ear to a family in pain, I want to be that source of strength and support just as my family was for me. Additionally, growing up in a blended family taught me that change can be positive and to work together, despite differences. Nursing requires collaboration and communication among diverse healthcare teams, and I believe that my background has prepared me to work effectively in various environments. I have learned to navigate differences with understanding and respect, skills that I know will be invaluable in a healthcare setting. Looking ahead, I envision a future where I use my talents and skills as a nurse to make a positive impact on the lives of others. I want to honor my father’s memory by dedicating my life to helping those in need, offering the same compassion that I received during my toughest times. I am committed to pursuing a career in nursing, not just as a profession but as a calling to serve and support others through their struggles and challenges. I believe that every patient deserves to feel valued and cared for, and I am determined to be the kind of nurse who makes a difference for every patient, every day.

Beer bottles, loud music, and occasional arguing were what I often heard growing up. From the time I could remember, my father could be found with a beer in his hand and a cigarette in his mouth. From the outside looking in, other people saw a different version of my father. He was an educator and a successful basketball coach for the majority of his teaching career. No one could have imagined the late nights he would spend out on the back deck, isolating himself further and further away from his family. It was confusing and heartbreaking to grow up like this. Out in public, we were a normal family. The inside of our home was often chaotic and unpredictable. If my father drank too much, he often picked fights with my Mom. My sister and I would hide in our room, hoping he would not come take his addiction out on us. I would hope and pray that he would eventually get help. That this would all stop. Eventually, my parents divorced. I was expecting him to turn his life around, but the opposite happened. He lost his job as a teacher and his addiction spiraled more and more out of control. In October of 2021, my father took his own life. The addiction had finally won. As I have navigated through high school, I watched how easy it is for people to become addicted to alcohol. One drink often turns into two or three. My relationship with alcohol looks much different than a lot of teenagers who, all too often, give into peer pressure. I have seen firsthand how damaging this can be to a person's emotional and physical health. I have been in the crossfire of the unnecessary trauma that comes from trying to support a family member with an addiction. No one deserves to live like that and I desire to be a positive change surrounded by this stigma. This experience has forever changed my perspective on life. Growing up with a parent struggling to control alcohol addiction was eye-opening. Witnessing the physical and emotional toll it took on him, as well as the impact it had on my family, inspired me to pursue a career in nursing. I want to be a compassionate healthcare professional who makes a difference. As a nurse, I want to help others treat the physical effects of drinking. I also have a desire to offer support, dignity, and hope to those who feel lost. I want to be able to provide care without judgment and to help individuals on their path to healing. Nursing is more than a career choice for me. It is a personal mission to support and advocate for those who, like my father, desperately needed someone to believe in them. If I can help even one person find sobriety, then all the pain I’ve endured from witnessing addiction will have been worth it.

Beginning in the Fall of 2025, I plan to attend Missouri State University. My goal is to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), pass the NCLEX-RN exam, gain clinical experience, maintain strong study habits, build a professional network, and consider future career advancements such as becoming a Nurse Practitioner or obtaining a master’s degree. Achieving these goals requires a plan that includes securing financial resources and transitioning into the workforce. I started this journey by researching accredited BSN programs. I considered tuition costs, clinical opportunities, and NCLEX pass rates. Missouri State has a fantastic nursing program that offers hands-on experience. I then began preparing for entrance exams, focusing on the ACT. The next major concern is financing the degree. Missouri State University is approximately $25,000 a year, including expenses such as Tuition ($9,000), books and supplies ($1,200 annually), room and board ($9,500), personal expenses ($2,000 to $3,000), and clinical-related costs such as uniforms and equipment ($500 to $1,000). To offset these expenses, I have applied for scholarships (both general and nursing-specific) and am considering federal loans. Some hospitals and healthcare employers also offer tuition reimbursement programs in exchange for work commitments after graduation. Additionally, part-time jobs or work-study programs can help with living expenses while providing valuable work experience. Success in a nursing program requires a strong academic foundation and hands-on clinical practice. I must maintain a high GPA to remain competitive for internships and job opportunities. Most BSN programs incorporate clinical rotations, allowing students to gain real-world experience in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. These rotations not only enhance practical skills but also help students decide on potential specializations. Additionally, I plan to join student nursing organizations, which can provide networking opportunities, mentorship, and professional development resources. Given the rigorous coursework in nursing programs, I plan to maintain effective study routines, seek tutoring services for challenging subjects, and utilize online resources like nursing forums and study groups. As students approach their final year, preparing for the NCLEX-RN exam becomes a top priority. The NCLEX is a comprehensive test that determines whether a graduate is ready to practice as a Registered Nurse. I plan to enroll in NCLEX prep courses, use practice exams from reputable sources, and participate in study groups. I also plan to register early for the exam and ensure that all state licensure requirements are met. After passing the NCLEX-RN, my focus will shift to securing employment and considering long-term career goals. Entry-level RN positions are available in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, nursing homes, and home health care. To further enhance career prospects, I plan to consider additional certifications such as Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) or Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS). I have also considered pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) to become a Nurse Practitioner or obtaining a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) to enter leadership roles in healthcare. Throughout this journey, various resources will play a crucial role in ensuring my success. Academic advisors, tutoring centers, and online nursing communities provide essential support. Financial aid options, including scholarships and employer-sponsored tuition assistance, help manage costs. Clinical experience, networking with healthcare professionals, and strong NCLEX preparation contribute to a smooth transition into this field. By carefully planning each step, managing resources wisely, and staying committed to academic and professional growth, I can achieve my goal and build a rewarding career in healthcare.

Booker T. Washington once said, "Success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which he has overcome." When I think of success, I reflect on the trials and tribulations I have faced so far in life and how I have responded positively to those. I led a fairly normal life until my freshman year of high school. I was involved in basketball, and choir, and had good friends around me. Life was good until it suddenly changed. My father tragically passed away from suicide. I was not only shocked but also devastated. How could I possibly navigate through life while facing this awful reality I was living? My mindset did not allow me to crumble or fail. I poured my energy into school and family. I started working a part-time job and I continued to earn excellent grades. "Failure" was never an option in my mind. I can't say that this journey has or will be easy to navigate, because the pain of losing someone comes in waves. That grief never leaves, but my will to succeed is stronger than that pain. I want nothing more than to become a nurse so that I can help others with their pain, loss, and grief. Success is accomplishing each goal, little by little, and to the best of your ability. Success, to me, is knowing that life is full of obstacles, but grit and inner strength are more powerful.

While sitting in class on my first day of senior year, my teacher Mrs. Ahart says, “Turn to your neighbor and tell them a fun fact about yourself”. I look to my left and I see a girl I do not know. “Hi I'm Shae and my fun fact is that my favorite number is twenty-one,” I said without giving it a second thought. “Hey I'm Bella and I am on the swim team. Why is that your favorite number?” She replies with a sincere tone. I pause, thinking about what I should say next. I ended up just giving her a quick reply about playing basketball but nothing more. As we continue with first-day icebreakers, I can't help but think about the year ahead of me…with one person missing. My father. Twenty-one was his favorite number too. I think I adopted that number at a young age because I wanted to be just like him. My basketball number was twenty-one, just like his when he played. I was often referred to as the “girl version” of him. My big brown eyes and dark hair resemble him exactly. Fortunately, I did not receive his inability to sing a note in tune. Thank god. But we did have a lot in common, like our love for basketball. I proudly wore twenty-one on my back during every game. My heart felt heavy playing basketball after he passed, right before my freshman season. So I quit. I remember when I was considering quitting basketball during my eighth-grade year, my father told me, “I just want you to be happy”. These words rumble in my mind every day. My father struggled with mental illness and addiction to alcohol for as long as I could remember. I used to lay in bed at night, hoping he would decide to get the help he needed. Instead, his addiction and depression consumed him. My father’s death has not only had a significant impact on my emotional well-being, but it has caused my family to try to navigate the financial impact of his loss. My father had a small life insurance policy that went to pay for his memorial service. There was nothing left for my sister and me for future expenses. My Mom is a teacher and has tried to save as much money as she can for future expenses, but it is not enough. I started working before the age of 16 and continue to work part-time while balancing life as a full-time high school student. Through this, I have developed a strong work ethic, making my career goal even more appealing. I have proven that through hard work and focus, I have what it takes to thrive in my career. I have a strong desire to assist people in need. Over the last few years, I have realized that the field of nursing is what I would like to pursue. Advocating for and educating people to reach their health goals is my calling. This burning desire stems from losing my father so tragically. I know I can help others experiencing grief. I hope to inspire them to realize that even on days that feel heavy, their “21” in life is always present.

While sitting in class on my first day of senior year, my teacher Mrs. Ahart says, “Turn to your neighbor and tell them a fun fact about yourself”. I look to my left and I see a girl I do not know. “Hi I'm Shae and my fun fact is that my favorite number is twenty-one,” I said without giving it a second thought. “Hey I'm Bella and I am on the swim team. Why is that your favorite number?” She replies with a sincere tone. I pause, thinking about what I should say next. I ended up just giving her a quick reply about playing basketball but nothing more. As we continue with first-day icebreakers, I can't help but think about the year ahead of me…with one person missing. My father. Twenty-one was his favorite number too. I think I adopted that number at a young age because I wanted to be just like him. My basketball number was twenty-one, just like his when he played. I was often referred to as the “girl version” of him. My big brown eyes and dark hair resemble him exactly. Fortunately, I did not receive his inability to sing a note in tune. Thank god. But we did have a lot in common, like our love for basketball. I proudly wore twenty-one on my back during every game. My heart felt heavy playing basketball after he passed, right before my freshman season. So I quit. I remember when I was considering quitting basketball during my eighth-grade year, my father told me, “I just want you to be happy”. These words rumble in my mind every day. My father’s death has not only had a significant impact on my emotional well-being, but it has caused my family to try to navigate the financial impact of his loss. My father had a small life insurance policy that went to pay for his memorial service. There was nothing left for my sister and me for future expenses. My Mom is a teacher and has tried to save as much money as she can for future expenses, but it is not enough. I started working before the age of 16 and continue to work part-time while balancing life as a full-time high school student. Through this, I have developed a strong work ethic, making my career goal even more appealing. I have proven that through hard work and focus, I have what it takes to thrive in my career. I have a strong desire to assist people in need. Over the last few years, I have realized that the field of nursing is what I would like to pursue. Advocating for and educating people to reach their health goals is my calling. This burning desire stems from losing my father so tragically. I know I can help others experiencing grief. I hope to inspire them to realize that even on days that feel heavy, their “21” in life is always present.

While sitting in class on my first day of senior year, my teacher Mrs. Ahart says, “Turn to your neighbor and tell them a fun fact about yourself”. I look to my left and I see a girl I do not know. “Hi I'm Shae and my fun fact is that my favorite number is twenty-one,” I said without giving it a second thought. “Hey I'm Bella and I am on the swim team. Why is that your favorite number?” She replies with a sincere tone. I pause, thinking about what I should say next. I ended up just giving her a quick reply about playing basketball but nothing more. As we continue with first-day icebreakers, I can't help but think about the year ahead of me…with one person missing. My father. Twenty-one was his favorite number too. I think I adopted that number at a young age because I wanted to be just like him. My basketball number was twenty-one, just like his when he played. I was often referred to as the “girl version” of him. My big brown eyes and dark hair resemble him exactly. Fortunately, I did not receive his inability to sing a note in tune. Thank god. But we did have a lot in common, like our love for basketball. I proudly wore twenty-one on my back during every game. My heart felt heavy playing basketball after he passed, right before my freshman season. So I quit. I remember when I was considering quitting basketball during my eighth-grade year, my father told me, “I just want you to be happy”. These words rumble in my mind every day. My father’s death has not only had a significant impact on my emotional well-being, but it has caused my family to try to navigate the financial impact of his loss. My father had a small life insurance policy that went to pay for his memorial service. There was nothing left for my sister and me for future expenses. My Mom is a teacher and has tried to save as much money as she can for future expenses, but it is not enough. I started working before the age of 16 and continue to work part-time while balancing life as a full-time high school student. Through this, I have developed a strong work ethic, making my career goal even more appealing. I have proven that through hard work and focus, I have what it takes to thrive in my career. I have a strong desire to assist people in need. Over the last few years, I have realized that the field of nursing is what I would like to pursue. Advocating for and educating people to reach their health goals is my calling. This burning desire stems from losing my father so tragically. I know I can help others experiencing grief. I hope to inspire them to realize that even on days that feel heavy, their “21” in life is always present.