My name is Shania Creary and throughout my life, I have learned that circumstances do not define a person’s potential. Growing up in a single parent household, with my mom as the only parent in my life, has shaped me into someone who understands responsibility and hard work. My mom and I have faced significant challenges, including experiencing homelessness, yet I have remained committed to my education and personal growth. There was a time when my mom and I struggled to find stable housing. Not knowing where we would stay was overwhelming, but my mom continued to work tirelessly to provide for me. Watching her strength during those moments motivated me to stay focused on my goals. Even while facing instability at home, I made the decision to not let my grades suffer. Education became my sense of control and hope for a better future. I pushed myself academically and earned membership in the National Honor Society and the National Spanish Honor Society. These achievements represent more than good grades, they reflect my determination to succeed no matter the obstacles. In addition to my academic commitments, I am deeply involved in my school community. I served as the captain of the varsity track and field team, a role that has taught me leadership, accountability, and teamwork. Leading my teammates means setting an example through discipline, positivity , and hard work. I am also part of a relay team that is currently ranked first in Suffolk County, New York an accomplishment that fills me with pride. Being part of a top-ranked team requires dedication, early mornings, long practices, and constant effort, but it has strengthened my character and time-management skills. Beyond athletics, I served as the president of the Multicultural Club Association at my school . In this position, I work to create an inclusive environment where students from all backgrounds feel seen and valued. As someone who has faced hardship, I understand how important it is to feel supported. Through this leadership role, I have helped organize events that celebrate diversity and bring students together. Balancing academics, athletics, and leadership has required sacrifice, but I embrace the challenge because I care about making a difference. While maintaining my school activities, I also worked at an assisted living home in the kitchen. I helped serve residents and help them eat if needed. As a first generation college bound student from a single parent household, the financial burden of higher education weighs heavily on my family. My mother has sacrificed so much to give me opportunities, and I want to ease that burden rather than add to it. Receiving this scholarship would not only provide financial support, but it would also affirm that my hard work and resilience are recognized.I am proud of what I have accomplished despite instability and hardship. This scholarship would help me continue striving toward my goals and building a future that reflects the perseverance my mother has instilled in me.

        My name is Shania Creary and  growing up it was always just me and my mom. She did everything she could to take care of me, but things were never easy. We moved from apartment to apartment, always trying to keep up with rent and bills. Eventually, it got to the point where my mom couldn’t afford rent anymore, and we lost our place. We had to move in with my grandma, sleeping on her couch, basically homeless. It was one of the hardest times in my life, not just because of our situation, but because I could see how much it was affecting my mom.         My mom started to feel like giving up. She felt like all her hard work wasn’t paying off and that she wasn’t going to make it in the United States considering we moved from Jamaica. Seeing her like that scared me, because she’s always been the strongest person I know. I realized that even though I was just her daughter, I had to be strong for her too. Instead of letting her lose hope, I made it my mission to remind her that this wasn’t the end of our story. I would talk to her about our future all the time, even when things felt uncertain. I would say things like, “When we get our own house…” or “When things get better…” I spoke as if I already believed it would happen, because deep down, I did. I tried my best to pour inspiration into her while also doing my own research and keeping my grades up in school.  I tried to find any opportunity that could help us. That’s when I came across Habitat for Humanity, an organization that helps low income families be able to receive a home. I brought it up to my mom, and together we looked into it more. That moment changed everything. It gave us hope again and something real to work toward. Over time, things started to fall into place, and eventually, we were able to get a house through the program. It didn’t happen overnight, but it happened because we didn’t give up. Later on, my mom told me something I will never forget. She said the only reason she kept going was because of me. She felt motivated because I stayed by her side and never stopped believing in a better future for us. Hearing that made me realize that even as a kid, I had the power to inspire someone to choose hope instead of giving up. Today, we still come from a low income background, and we trying our best for me to attend college. This grant would help tremendously. I often think back to the fact that we made it through one of the darkest times in our lives together. This experience showed me that even in the hardest situations, choosing to stay positive and encourage others can make a real difference. Sometimes, staying motivated through difficult times can change everything.

My name is Shania Creary and throughout my life, I have learned that my mother has shaped the way I see myself as a leader. Growing up in a single parent household, with my mom as the only parent in my life, has shaped me into someone who understands responsibility  and hard work. My mom and I  have faced significant challenges, including experiencing homelessness, yet I have remained committed to my education and personal growth. Because of my perseverance, leadership, and dedication despite financial hardship, I believe I am deserving of this scholarship.             There was a time when my mom and I struggled to find stable housing. Not knowing where we would stay was overwhelming, but my mom continued to work tirelessly to provide for me. Watching her strength during those moments motivated me to stay focused on my goals. Even while facing instability at home, I made the decision to not let my grades suffer. Education became my sense of control and hope for a better future. I pushed myself academically and earned membership in the National Honor Society and the National Spanish Honor Society. These achievements represent more than good grades, they reflect my determination to succeed no matter the obstacles.           In addition to my academic commitments, I am deeply involved in my school community. I serve as the captain of the varsity track and field team, a role that has taught me leadership, accountability, and teamwork. Leading my teammates means setting an example through discipline, positivity, and hard work. I am also part of a relay team that is currently ranked first in Suffolk County, an accomplishment that fills me with pride. Being part of a top-ranked team requires dedication, early mornings, long practices, and constant effort, but it has strengthened my character and time-management skills.         Beyond athletics, I am the president of the Multicultural Club Association. In this position, I work to create an inclusive environment where students from all backgrounds feel seen and valued. As someone who has faced hardship, I understand how important it is to feel supported. Through this leadership role, I have helped organize events that celebrate diversity and bring students together. Balancing academics, athletics, and leadership has required sacrifice, but I embrace the challenge because I care about making a difference.           Outside of school, I work in the kitchen at an assisted living home. Working while maintaining high academic and athletic standards has not been easy, but it has been necessary. My job helps contribute financially and teaches me responsibility, patience, and compassion. Serving elderly residents reminds me daily why perseverance matters, as many of them have their own stories of overcoming adversity.             As a first generation college bound student from a single parent household, the financial burden of higher education weighs heavily on my family. My mother has sacrificed so much to give me opportunities, and I want to ease that burden rather than add to it. Receiving this scholarship would not only provide financial support, but it would also affirm that my hard work and resilience are recognized.I am proud of what I have accomplished despite instability and hardship. This scholarship would help  me continue striving toward my goals in becoming an Occupational Therapist and building a future that reflects the perseverance my mother has instilled in me.

1. My name is Shania Creary and I was born and raised in Kingston, Jamaica. I grew up speaking Patois, which is considered “broken” english. I came to the United States in 2016 to start the third grade. I began picking up on how other kids would speak and slowly learned proper english that way. I could fully pronounce words the same others did around me by the 5th grade. 2a. An obstacle I encountered in my educational journey would be understanding my new educational environment. The way teachers taught in Jamaica was much different than the United States. 2b. I overcame this obstacle by adapting how other children would learn. I also communicated with my teachers and asked for help when I wasn’t sure what they were saying. 3. I would say my educational role model is Gabby Thomas. Gabby Thomas is an olympic gold medalist in Track and Field. As she was competing, she was also attending Harvard University. She studied neurobiology,global health and graduated with her masters in epidemiology from the University of Texas. I am a Track and field athlete as well and her dedication to her education while running was truly inspiring to me. 4a. I plan to continue my educational journey by attending a 4-year college. I come from a single parent household and I am a first generation student to be able to attend college. I really just want to make me and my family proud. 4b. I hope to become an Occupation Therapist and run Track and Field at a professional level. 5. Outside of school, I attend a church called the Journey Church. After service I help clean up the sanctuary and other things that need to be done. When I do this it makes the people that lead the church be able go home quicker to their families.

My name is Shania Creary and growing up, I always knew that going to college would mean more to me than just earning a degree. I am the first person in my family to take this path, and that alone pushes me to work harder every single day. I come from a single-parent household, and there was even a time when my family experienced homelessness. Even during that difficult period, I refused to let my situation define my future. Instead, I used those challenges as motivation to push myself academically and prove that your circumstances do not determine your intelligence or your potential. Today, I have a 3.8 GPA, am ranked high in my class, and am a proud member of both the National Honor Society and the Spanish Honor Society. When I first heard about this scholarship opportunity through my church, I was especially excited because I personally know Tanya from the choir. Knowing someone involved made the opportunity feel even more meaningful and encouraged me to apply. Being involved in school and my community has always been important to me because it shows my dedication not only to my own success but also to helping others. I serve as president of the Multicultural Club, where I help create an inclusive environment and celebrate different backgrounds and perspectives. I am also the captain of the Bellport Varsity Track and Field Team, which has taught me leadership, discipline, and perseverance. In addition, I regularly participate in community service through my church, which has strengthened my compassion, patience, and commitment to supporting those around me. Balancing athletics, academics, leadership roles, and service is not easy, but it has helped me grow into someone who can manage responsibilities and stay committed to my goals. These experiences have shaped my confidence and helped me become someone others feel comfortable approaching for guidance and encouragement. Outside of school, I work as a waitress in an assisted living home. My job is technically to serve food, but I often find myself doing more because I genuinely care about the residents. If someone needs help sitting comfortably, holding their utensils, or simply needs patience while eating, I am always ready to help. Working there has shown me how meaningful it is to support others, especially those who may need extra care. This experience is one of the main reasons I want to become an occupational therapist. I have always been interested in the human body and how it works, and I want to use that interest to help people regain independence and improve their quality of life. Financially, my family is not in the strongest position since my mom supports us on a single income. That is why this scholarship would mean so much to me. Every dollar truly matters and would go directly toward my college expenses. Sometimes people assume that because someone doesn’t have a lot of money, they are not capable or intelligent. I have worked hard to prove that assumption wrong through my grades, achievements, and dedication. Receiving this scholarship would not only ease my financial burden but also bring me one step closer to achieving my dream of becoming an occupational therapist. I want to show others, especially students who come from backgrounds like mine, that success is possible with determination, resilience, and hard work. My journey has not been easy, but it has made me stronger, and I am ready to continue pushing forward toward my future.

My name is Shania Creary and throughout my life, I have learned that circumstances do not define a person’s potential. Growing up in a single parent household, with my mom as the only parent in my life, has shaped me into someone who understands responsibility and hard work. My mom and I have faced significant challenges, including experiencing homelessness, yet I have remained committed to my education and personal growth. There was a time when my mom and I struggled to find stable housing. Not knowing where we would stay was overwhelming, but my mom continued to work tirelessly to provide for me. Watching her strength during those moments motivated me to stay focused on my goals. Even while facing instability at home, I made the decision to not let my grades suffer. Education became my sense of control and hope for a better future. I pushed myself academically and earned membership in the National Honor Society and the National Spanish Honor Society. These achievements represent more than good grades, they reflect my determination to succeed no matter the obstacles. In addition to my academic commitments, I am deeply involved in my school community. I serve as the captain of the varsity track and field team, a role that has taught me leadership, accountability, and teamwork. Leading my teammates means setting an example through discipline, positivity, and hard work. I am also part of a relay team that is currently ranked first in Suffolk County, an accomplishment that fills me with pride. Being part of a top-ranked team requires dedication, early mornings, long practices, and constant effort, but it has strengthened my character and time-management skills. Beyond athletics, I am the president of the Multicultural Club Association. In this position, I work to create an inclusive environment where students from all backgrounds feel seen and valued. As someone who has faced hardship, I understand how important it is to feel supported. Through this leadership role, I have helped organize events that celebrate diversity and bring students together. Balancing academics, athletics, and leadership has required sacrifice, but I embrace the challenge because I care about making a difference. Outside of school, I work in the kitchen at an assisted living home. Working while maintaining high academic and athletic standards has not been easy, but it has been necessary. My job helps contribute financially and teaches me responsibility, patience, and compassion. Serving elderly residents reminds me daily why perseverance matters, as many of them have their own stories of overcoming adversity. As a first generation college bound student from a single parent household, the financial burden of higher education weighs heavily on my family. My mother has sacrificed so much to give me opportunities, and I want to ease that burden rather than add to it. Receiving this scholarship would not only provide financial support, but it would also affirm that my hard work and resilience are recognized.I am proud of what I have accomplished despite instability and hardship. This scholarship would help me continue striving toward my goals and building a future that reflects the perseverance my mother has instilled in me.

My name is Shania Creary and I am a senior at Bellport High school. I currently have a job at an Assisted Living home. Working at an assisted living home has helped me understand what I want to do in the future. I work as a waitress, but my job is more than just serving food. Every day I help older residents who have trouble doing simple things like holding their forks, lifting cups, or cutting their food. I see how hard it can be for them to do tasks that most people don’t even think about. Being there has made me more patient and caring, and it showed me that small acts of help can make a big difference in someone’s day. Sometimes I help steady a resident’s hand or move their plate closer so they can eat more easily. When I help them, I can see how thankful they are. Moments like that make me feel happy and proud because I know I made things a little easier for them. These experiences helped me realize that I truly enjoy helping others and want to keep doing that in my future career. Because of this job, I want to study Health Sciences to become an Occupational Therapist. Occupational therapists help people who have trouble doing everyday tasks because of injuries, disabilities, or age. They teach people how to move better, improve their motor skills, and find new ways to do daily activities. I think this career is perfect for me because it focuses on helping people become more independent. I especially want to help older adults since I work closely with them and understand their struggles. However, I also want to help people of all ages who need support with daily tasks. I am the oldest cousin and have much experience with younger children as well. I want to be someone who encourages others, teaches them patiently, and helps them feel confident again.Working at the assisted living home helped me discover my passion for caring for others. It showed me that I find real joy in helping people do things they thought they couldn’t do anymore. Growing up i’ve always had a passion for helping others but I did not know exactly what I wanted to become. Becoming an Occupational Therpist will allow me to use my passion and pour it into a career where I can make a positive difference in people’s lives every day.

No I was not in the foster system. But, I have been separated from my mother due to homelessness. Growing up, I always understood that education could open doors that had never been opened in my family before. I come from a single parent household, and my mother has always tried her best to continue my education. Even during those difficult moments, I refused to let my circumstances define my future. Instead, I used those challenges as motivation to work harder in school, become involved in my community, and prepare myself for college. One of the most meaningful experiences that prepared me for college was becoming the President of the Multicultural Club at Bellport High School. As president, I am responsible for organizing meetings, planning cultural events, and creating opportunities for students to learn about different cultures and backgrounds. This role has helped me grow as a leader and as a communicator. I have learned how to bring people together, manage responsibilities, and ensure that every student feels represented and valued. Leading this club has also strengthened my confidence and shown me the importance of building inclusive communities, something I hope to continue doing in college and beyond. Another experience that has shaped me is being the captain of the Bellport Girls Varsity Track Team. Track and field has always been an important part of my life. As captain, I help motivate my teammates, lead by example, and support others during practices and competitions. Being a captain has taught me responsibility, teamwork, and discipline. Athletics require dedication, consistency, and the ability to push yourself even when things are difficult. These are the same qualities that will help me succeed in college. Track has also helped me cope with the challenges in my life and has given me a strong support system through my teammates and coaches. In addition to my leadership roles, I have worked hard to maintain strong academics. I am a member of both the National Honor Society and the Spanish Honor Society, which reflects my commitment to my education. Being part of these organizations requires maintaining high grades, demonstrating good character, and participating in service to the community. I am also involved in Faith Club, where I connect with other students and focus on values such as kindness, service, and personal growth. Balancing these activities while keeping my grades high has taught me time management and responsibility. As a first-generation college student, pursuing higher education means a great deal to me. No one in my family has had the opportunity to go to college before, so I want to take advantage of every opportunity to learn and grow. I am eager to gain more knowledge through my college education and use it to build a better future for myself, my family, and others around me.

My name is Shania Creary, and throughout my life, I have learned that circumstances do not define a person’s potential. Growing up in a single parent household, with my mom as the only parent in my life, has shaped me into someone who understands responsibility and hard work. My mom has always been my biggest role model, she has shown me what it means to keep going even when things feel impossible. We have faced serious challenges, including experiencing homelessness, but those experiences have pushed me to become stronger and more focused on my future. Instead of letting my situation hold me back, I have used it as motivation to work harder. Because of my perseverance and dedication despite financial hardship, I believe I am deserving of this scholarship. There was a time when my mom and I struggled to find stable housing. Not knowing where we would sleep or stay was stressful and overwhelming, especially while trying to keep up with school. Even during those moments, my mom never stopped working hard to provide for me. Watching her stay strong and determined inspired me to do the same in my own life. I made a decision that no matter what was going on at home, I would not let my grades drop. School became something I could control when everything else felt uncertain. I stayed focused, completed my work, and pushed myself to do my best. Because of that, I earned membership in both the National Honor Society and the National Spanish Honor Society. These achievements mean a lot to me because they show that I didn’t give up, even when life was difficult. Along with my academics, I am very involved in my school community. I am the captain of the varsity track and field team, which has taught me leadership, responsibility, and how to support others. Being a captain is not just about being a good athlete, it is about setting an example, encouraging my teammates, and staying positive even when things get tough. I am also part of a relay team that is currently ranked first in Suffolk County, New York, which is something I am very proud of. Track requires a lot of commitment, including early mornings, long practices, and pushing through physical and mental challenges. Even when I feel tired, I remind myself why I started and continue to give my best effort. Being a student-athlete has helped me develop strong time management skills and has shown me that I can handle multiple responsibilities at once. Outside of sports, I serve as the president of the Multicultural Club Association. In this role, I work to create a space where students from different backgrounds feel included and appreciated. I help organize events that celebrate different cultures and bring people together. This position is important to me because I know what it feels like to go through hard times, and I want others to feel supported and seen. Being a leader in this club has helped me grow as a person and has taught me how to communicate, organize, and make a positive impact in my school. I also work in the kitchen at an assisted living home, and this experience has played a huge role in shaping my future goals. While working there, I interact with elderly residents every day, and I have seen how difficult it can be for them to complete simple daily tasks like eating or holding utensils. Seeing this has made me realize how much I enjoy helping others, especially those who have lost some of their independence. This is what inspired me to pursue a career as an occupational therapist. I want to help people regain their ability to do everyday activities and improve their quality of life. Occupational therapy is meaningful to me because it focuses on helping people live more independently, which is something I truly value. Becoming an occupational therapist isn’t just a career choice for me, it is is a goal that is connected to my personal experiences and the people I have met. I have learned that small actions, like helping someone hold a fork or complete a basic task, can make a huge difference in their life. I want to be someone who provides that kind of support and care. Working while keeping up with school and sports has not been easy, but it has taught me responsibility, patience, and compassion. These are all qualities that I know will help me succeed in the field of occupational therapy. As a first generation college bound student from a single parent household, paying for college is a major concern for my family. My mom has already sacrificed so much to give me opportunities, and I want to make her proud by continuing my education. Receiving this scholarship would help ease the financial burden and allow me to focus on reaching my goals. It would also remind me that all of my hard work has been recognized. I am proud of everything I have accomplished despite the challenges I have faced. My experiences have shaped me into a hardworking and determined person who is ready to take the next step toward becoming an occupational therapist. This scholarship would not only support my education, but it would also help me continue working toward a future where I can give back and make a difference in the lives of others.

My name is Shania Creary and as a senior in high school, I have spent a lot of time thinking about my future and the kind of impact I want to have on others. One career that truly stands out to me is becoming an occupational therapist. Occupational therapy focuses on helping people develop or regain the skills they need to complete everyday tasks. Whether someone is recovering from an injury, living with a disability, or facing developmental challenges, occupational therapists help them build independence and confidence in their daily lives. Being able to support people in that way is what inspires me to pursue this field. My background has played a large role in shaping this goal. I was born in Jamaica and later moved to New York, where I have continued my education and grown as a student and a person. As a Black student from an immigrant background, I understand how important representation and opportunity are, especially in fields related to science and healthcare. Many STEM careers still lack diversity, and that can sometimes make it feel like those careers are not meant for people of color. Unfortunately, there are still stereotypes that suggest people of color are not capable of studying or succeeding in demanding academic fields such as STEM. These assumptions are unfair and far from the truth. There are countless people of color who are highly capable and have succeeded in science, technology, engineering, and healthcare careers. However, because there are fewer visible role models in these fields, some students may feel discouraged from pursuing them. This is one of the reasons why becoming an occupational therapist is so important to me. I want to be part of increasing diversity in STEM and healthcare professions. Representation matters because it shows younger generations that they are capable of reaching these goals as well. When students see people who share similar backgrounds achieving success, it encourages them to believe that they can do the same. Diversity in healthcare is also important for the patients who receive care. In fields like occupational therapy, building trust and comfort with clients is essential. Sometimes clients may feel more comfortable when they see a healthcare professional who looks like them or understands their cultural background. Seeing someone who shares similar experiences can make a client feel more understood, respected, and safe during their treatment. This connection can help build stronger communication and allow therapists to better support the people they are helping. As someone who has experienced adapting to a new country and environment, I understand how important it is to feel comfortable and supported. Occupational therapists help people learn or relearn important daily tasks, such as writing, getting dressed, or returning to school or work after an injury. These tasks may seem small to others, but they can make a huge difference in someone’s independence and confidence. Being able to guide someone through that process and help them regain control of their daily life is something I find incredibly meaningful. My journey as a Jamaican immigrant and a Black student pursuing a STEM-related career has taught me the importance of perseverance and believing in my abilities. I want to continue working toward my goal of becoming an occupational therapist while also helping increase diversity in the field. By doing so, I hope to not only improve the lives of the people I work with but also inspire others who may one day follow the same path.

Growing up, I have always seen my mother as the strongest person I know. She is a single mother who has carried the responsibility of raising and supporting our family on her own. Even though life has not always been easy for us, she has never stopped working to give me a better future. I am writing this essay for her because she would never brag about the sacrifices she has made, but I know how much she deserves the opportunity to continue her education and improve our lives. My mom never had the chance to go far in school. She did not receive more than an elementary school education, but that has never stopped her from believing in the power of learning. Even though she did not have many educational opportunities growing up, she made sure that I would. She always reminds me that education is something no one can take away from you. Because of that belief, she has pushed me to stay focused in school and to aim higher than she ever had the chance to. We live off of one income, which means that things are not always easy financially. My mom works extremely hard to make sure that we have what we need. There have been many moments where she had to put her own dreams aside just to take care of our family. Despite the challenges, she has always made sure that I had the support I needed to succeed in school. She checks on my grades, encourages me when things get difficult, and constantly reminds me that I can achieve great things. At one point in our lives, we experienced homelessness. That was one of the hardest times for our family. Many people might have given up or lost hope in a situation like that, but my mom refused to let that happen. Instead of letting our situation define us, she worked even harder to find a way forward. Through determination and perseverance, she was able to help us secure a home through Habitat for Humanity. That moment meant everything to us because it showed that even during the most difficult times, my mom never stopped fighting for our future. My mom’s biggest dream is to continue her education so that she can provide an even better life for our family. She wants the opportunity to learn more, grow more, and build a career that will allow her to support both herself and me. She also dreams of helping me go to college and achieve my own educational goals. Even though she did not get the chance to pursue higher education when she was younger, she believes that it is never too late to improve yourself and create new opportunities. Watching my mom work so hard for our family has taught me the true meaning of strength, sacrifice, and determination. She has shown me that even when life puts obstacles in your way, you can keep pushing forward. Everything she does is motivated by her love for our family and her desire to see us succeed. I am incredibly proud of my mom and everything she has accomplished despite the challenges she has faced. She deserves the chance to pursue her education and continue building a better future for our family. I truly believe that with the same determination she has always shown, she will continue to achieve great things.

#3 My name is Shania Creary and I am a senior at Bellport Highschool, track and field has been a part of my life since I was six years old. It is my favorite sport, and it means even more to me because my whole family bonds over watching track together during the olympics. Ever since I was little, I've loved the excitement, the speed, and the feeling of pushing myself to be better every time I step on the track. Running is not just something I do for fun after school, it's something that has disciplined me, shaped my mindset, and pushed me to achieve my goals for the future. I've had many races in my track and field career. One track meet I will always remember is the ¨Last Chance Meet¨ I competed in during tenth grade. Last chance meets are competitions designed for athletes to try and hit a qualifying time to be placed in bigger competitions. I was very nervous for this meet. At that time, I ran faster than most ninth and tenth graders, Thus instead of placing me in races with people my age, I was placed in races with juniors and seniors. This made the pressure feel even greater. I was competing in the 55-meter dash, the event I hoped to qualify in. When I got into position at the starting line, my nerves got the best of me and I went before the gun went off. That false start caused me to be disqualified. I felt completely crushed. I cried, felt discouraged and even thought about quitting track. However, that moment didn't end my journey, it motivated me. Instead of quitting, I used that disappointment as fuel to work harder for the spring season and the seasons after that. Now, in my senior year, I have qualified for states, Nike Nationals and I am part of a relay team that is ranked first in the county. This has all been completed in my winter season. I still have an entire spring season to thrive for more accomplishments. None of this would have ever happened if I went with the impulsive decision to quit after a bad loss. Whenever things get tough, I think back to that race and remind myself how far I have come since then. That experience taught me that setbacks don't define you, your response to them does. This specific setback pushed me to become stronger, faster, and more determined than ever.

Moving to a new country at a young age can be both exciting and overwhelming. When I moved from Jamaica to New York in the third grade, my life changed in many ways. Everything around me felt unfamiliar, especially school. The way students learned in Jamaica was very different from the way students were taught in New York. The curriculum, teaching style, and even the classroom environment were not the same, and adjusting to those differences was challenging for me. One of the biggest things that made me stand out was my strong Jamaican accent. At the time, I did not realize how different I sounded compared to the other students. Some kids would joke about the way I spoke or repeat my words in a mocking way. Although they may not have meant to hurt my feelings, it sometimes made me feel embarrassed and unsure of myself. I started to feel like I did not completely belong. Thankfully, one person made a huge difference in my experience, and that was my third grade teacher, Miss Ranaldo. From the moment she noticed that I was struggling to adjust, she took me under her wing. She understood that I was not only adjusting to a new school, but also a new country, culture, and curriculum. Instead of letting me fall behind, she gave me extra time, extra help, and constant encouragement. Miss Ranaldo often worked with me one-on-one to make sure I understood the lessons. Since the curriculum in Jamaica was different from what students were learning in New York, I sometimes felt lost during class. However, she never made me feel like I was a problem. Instead, she made me feel supported and capable. She helped me build confidence in my learning and reminded me that adjusting takes time. She also helped me feel more comfortable socially. By encouraging the other students to include me and by showing kindness and patience, she helped create an environment where I could slowly feel like I belonged. Over time, my confidence grew. I became more comfortable speaking in class, participating in activities, and building friendships with my classmates. Looking back now as a high school senior, I realize how important Miss Ranaldo’s support was for me. If I had not had a teacher who cared enough to go beyond what was required of her, my adjustment to school in New York could have been much more difficult. Her patience, dedication, and kindness truly changed my experience as a young student. Her influence is one of the reasons I want to become an occupational therapist in the future. Occupational therapists help people develop the skills they need to complete everyday tasks and live more independently. Just like Miss Ranaldo helped me feel comfortable, capable, and confident in my new environment, I want to help others feel the same way in their own lives. Many people struggle with tasks that others may see as simple, whether because of injury, disability, or developmental challenges. As an occupational therapist, I want to support people as they learn and grow, helping them feel confident in their abilities. When I think about the way Miss Ranaldo helped me succeed during such an important time in my life, it inspires me to have that same positive impact on others.

Leadership and science shape our future by creating a more successful environment around us. Through my experiences as a student leader and aspiring occupational therapist, I have seen how both work together to create lasting impact. As captain of my track and field team, leadership has meant more than leading warm-ups or setting the pace at practice. It has meant setting a standard of discipline, accountability, and encouragement. When one of my teammates struggles, I step in to motivate them and remind them of their potential. As president of my school’s Multicultural Club, I plan events that celebrate different cultures and create spaces where every student feels included. Leadership in these roles requires empathy, communication, and the courage to speak up when something is wrong. Whether addressing conflict, standing up against bullying, or making sure someone is not left out, I have learned that leadership shapes the culture around us. When leaders act with integrity and compassion, they influence others to do the same. This creates a more comfortable environment. Science, on the other hand, provides the tools to solve problems and improve lives. My passion for science is closely connected to my goal of becoming an occupational therapist. Occupational therapy blends biology, anatomy, psychology, and neuroscience to help individuals regain independence after injury, illness, or developmental challenges. Science allows therapists to understand how muscles function, how the brain processes movement, and how habits are formed. With this knowledge, occupational therapists can design and find strategies to help children develop motor skills, assist patients in recovering daily living abilities, and support individuals in building confidence. The future needs leaders who understand science and scientists who lead with heart. In occupational therapy, leadership means advocating for patients and guiding families through difficult transitions. Science ensures that the care provided is effective and grounded in research. By combining the leadership skills I have developed through athletics and community involvement with a strong foundation in science, I hope to contribute to a future where individuals feel empowered, supported, and capable of reaching their fullest potential.

Growing up in a single parent household as a first generation college student, I learned early that resilience is not just a trait but a necessity. My family’s journey, including experiencing homelessness at one point, shaped my perspective on perseverance, faith, and hard work. Rather than allowing my circumstances to define me, I used them as motivation to excel academically, athletically, and within my community. As a Jamaican-American student, I take pride in my culture and strive to represent it with excellence in all that I do. I am the captain of my track and field team and a member of a relay team currently ranked first in Suffolk County. Track is more than a sport for me, it is my outlet and my therapy. It has taught me discipline, leadership, and how to uplift others even when I am pushing through my own challenges. Beyond athletics, I am a member of the National Honor Society and Spanish Honor Society and serve as president of my school’s Multicultural Club. In this role, I plan events that celebrate and educate others about different cultures, creating an environment where every student feels seen and valued. My goal is to become an occupational therapist. I am passionate about helping individuals, especially children, regain confidence and independence after physical or developmental challenges. I want to work closely with youth, providing them with the tools and support they need to thrive both physically and emotionally. Occupational therapy combines science, compassion, and advocacy qualities that reflect who I am and what I value. As I enter a higher education, financial need remains a significant concern. Although my grades have caused me to earn merit scholarships, I am still responsible for a large portion of tuition and expenses. Coming from a single parent household means that financial resources are limited, and the cost of college can feel overwhelming. However, I am determined to continue my education and pursue my dream career. Receiving this scholarship would ease the financial burden on my family and allow me to focus fully on my studies and community involvement. Keeping children and youth safe, both in person and online, is something I take seriously. I am not afraid to stand up and say something when I see something wrong. If I witness bullying, whether face to face or through social media, I speak up, report it when necessary, and check in with the person being targeted. I also make it a point to include others who may seem left out, whether that means inviting them to sit with me, join a group activity, or simply letting them know they are valued. Small actions can make a significant difference in someone’s life. I believe creating a safe environment starts with courage and compassion, and I strive to model both. Through leadership, service at my church and school, and my commitment to uplifting others, I aim to be a positive force in my community. With the support of the Matthew E. Minor Memorial Scholarship, I will continue working toward my goal of becoming an occupational therapist and an advocate for youth, ensuring that every child feels safe, supported, and empowered to succeed.

My name is Shania Creary and throughout my life, I have learned that circumstances do not define a person’s potential. Growing up in a single parent household, with my mom as the only parent in my life, has shaped me into someone who understands responsibility and hard work. My mom and I have faced significant challenges, including experiencing homelessness, yet I have remained committed to my education and personal growth. Because of my perseverance, leadership, and dedication despite financial hardship, I believe I am deserving of this scholarship. There was a time when my mom and I struggled to find stable housing. Not knowing where we would stay was overwhelming, but my mom continued to work tirelessly to provide for me. Watching her strength during those moments motivated me to stay focused on my goals. Even while facing instability at home, I made the decision to not let my grades suffer. Education became my sense of control and hope for a better future. I pushed myself academically and earned membership in the National Honor Society and the National Spanish Honor Society. These achievements represent more than good grades, they reflect my determination to succeed no matter the obstacles. In addition to my academic commitments, I am deeply involved in my school community. I serve as the captain of the varsity track and field team, a role that has taught me leadership, accountability, and teamwork. Leading my teammates means setting an example through discipline, positivity, and hard work. I am also part of a relay team that is currently ranked first in Suffolk County, an accomplishment that fills me with pride. Being part of a top-ranked team requires dedication, early mornings, long practices, and constant effort, but it has strengthened my character and time-management skills. Beyond athletics, I am the president of the Multicultural Club Association. In this position, I work to create an inclusive environment where students from all backgrounds feel seen and valued. As someone who has faced hardship, I understand how important it is to feel supported. Through this leadership role, I have helped organize events that celebrate diversity and bring students together. Balancing academics, athletics, and leadership has required sacrifice, but I embrace the challenge because I care about making a difference. Outside of school, I work in the kitchen at an assisted living home. Working while maintaining high academic and athletic standards has not been easy, but it has been necessary. My job helps contribute financially and teaches me responsibility, patience, and compassion. Serving elderly residents reminds me daily why perseverance matters, as many of them have their own stories of overcoming adversity. As a first-generation college-bound student from a single-parent household, the financial burden of higher education weighs heavily on my family. My mother has sacrificed so much to give me opportunities, and I want to ease that burden rather than add to it. Receiving this scholarship would not only provide financial support, but it would also affirm that my hard work and resilience are recognized.I am proud of what I have accomplished despite instability and hardship. This scholarship would help me continue striving toward my goals and building a future that reflects the perseverance my mother has instilled in me.

1. Growing up, I always knew that going to college would mean more to me than simply earning a degree. For me, it represents opportunity, stability, and the chance to change the direction of my family’s future. I will be the first person in my family to attend college, and that responsibility motivates me every single day to push myself further than I ever thought possible. I come from a single-parent household, and there was a time when my family experienced homelessness. Living through that period was challenging, but it shaped my mindset in a powerful way. Instead of letting those circumstances define me, I chose to let them fuel me. I became determined to prove that a person’s situation does not determine their intelligence or their worth. That determination has guided my academic journey and shaped the person I am today. Because of that drive, I have worked hard to excel in school and take advantage of every opportunity available to me. I currently hold a 3.8 GPA, am ranked near the top of my class, and am a proud member of both the National Honor Society and the Spanish Honor Society. These achievements did not come easily, they are the result of long nights studying, staying disciplined, and constantly reminding myself why my education matters. When I first heard about this scholarship opportunity it gave me more motivation to apply and share my story. Being involved in my school and community has always been important to me because I believe success is not just about personal achievement but also about uplifting others. I currently serve as president of the Multicultural Club, where I work to create an inclusive environment that celebrates different cultures, perspectives, and backgrounds. In this role, I organize meetings, lead discussions, and plan events that encourage students to appreciate diversity and learn from one another. I am also the captain of the Bellport Varsity Track and Field Team, a responsibility that has taught me valuable lessons about leadership, accountability, and perseverance. As captain, I encourage my teammates to stay motivated, support them when they feel discouraged, and lead by example both on and off the track. Balancing athletics, academics, leadership roles, and community involvement is not always easy, but it has strengthened my time-management skills and shown me that with determination and organization, it is possible to succeed in multiple areas at once. These experiences have helped me grow into someone who is dependable, confident, and always willing to guide or support others when they need encouragement. In addition to my school commitments, I dedicate time to serving my community through my church. Volunteering has allowed me to give back to the people who have supported me throughout my life, and it has strengthened my compassion, patience, and sense of responsibility. Whether I am helping organize events, assisting community members, or simply offering my time, I have learned that even small acts of service can have a meaningful impact. These experiences have shown me that leadership is not just about being in charge; it is about being willing to serve others with kindness and humility. Outside of school, I work as a waitress in an assisted living home, a job that has influenced me deeply. Although my official responsibility is to serve meals, I often go beyond that role because I genuinely care about the residents. If someone needs help sitting comfortably, holding their utensils, or simply needs patience while eating, I am always ready to help. Working closely with elderly residents has taught me empathy and has opened my eyes to how important compassionate care can be. Many of them share stories about their lives, and I have come to value the wisdom and perspective they offer. This experience is one of the main reasons I aspire to become an occupational therapist. I have always been fascinated by the human body and how it functions, and I want to combine that interest with my passion for helping others regain independence and improve their quality of life. Financially, my family is not in the strongest position, as my mom supports us on a single income. She works incredibly hard to provide for us, and watching her perseverance has inspired me to approach my own goals with the same determination. Because of our circumstances, every dollar truly matters, and this scholarship would go directly toward my college expenses. I understand that many students face financial challenges, but I also believe that those challenges can strengthen a person’s work ethic and resilience. I have worked hard to prove that limited financial resources do not limit a person’s ability to succeed. Through my grades, achievements, leadership roles, and dedication, I strive to show that determination can overcome even the most difficult obstacles. Receiving this scholarship would not only ease my financial burden but also bring me one step closer to achieving my dream of becoming an occupational therapist. More importantly, it would allow me to continue building a future that once felt out of reach. I want to use my education to make a difference in the lives of others and to be an example for students who come from backgrounds like mine. I hope to show them that their circumstances do not define their future and that success is possible with resilience, faith, and hard work. My journey has not been easy, but every challenge I have faced has made me stronger, more determined, and more grateful for every opportunity. With the support of this scholarship, I will continue pushing forward, committed to making the most of my education and using it to positively impact the world around me.

From a young age, the concept of helping others has been deeply ingrained in my life. With my mother working as a med tech, I grew up surrounded by conversations about healthcare and the studies of the human body. This environment sparked an early interest in understanding how the body works and how I can assist it in healing and functioning optimally. As an athlete, I've experienced firsthand the importance of physical well being and the challenges that injuries and physical limitations can present. This personal connection to the physical aspects of life has fueled my passion for exercise science, providing me with a comprehensive understanding of movement, rehabilitation, and the body's response to exercise. Having these experiences as an athlete and being surrounded by health has made this career path personal. Working in the dining room of an assisted living home has given me invaluable insight into the daily struggles faced by individuals with impaired abilities. I witness firsthand the frustration and emotional toll that physical limitations can take on a person's quality of life. Whether it's assisting residents with their meals, offering a comforting word, or simply lending a listening ear, I find immense satisfaction in making a positive impact on their day. These interactions have solidified my desire to pursue a career where I can directly improve the lives of others, empowering them to regain independence and live fulfilling lives. Occupational therapy stands out as the perfect intersection of my interests and experiences. It combines my passion for helping others with my knowledge of exercise science and my understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with physical limitations. As an occupational therapist, I envision myself working with patients of all ages, developing personalized treatment plans that address their specific needs and goals. I am particularly drawn to the idea of helping individuals regain the skills necessary to perform everyday tasks, enabling them to participate more fully in their communities and live more independent lives. My goal is to not only restore physical function but also to provide emotional support and encouragement, empowering my patients to overcome obstacles and achieve their full potential. My passion for becoming an occupational therapist comes from my family, my experiences as an athlete, and my work with the elderly. I am motivated to study exercise science because it will prepare me to understand the body on a deeper level. Ultimately, I want to dedicate myself to helping others regain strength, independence, and hope