My experience with mental health has deeply shaped who I am, how I connect with others, and the direction I want my life and career to take. I am a person who feels deeply, thinks critically, and often carries more than what is visible on the surface. For a long time, I believed that struggling silently was a form of strength. Over time, I learned that acknowledging pain, asking for help, and choosing empathy are what truly define resilience. Navigating mental health challenges taught me how easily emotions can be misunderstood or dismissed, especially when you are young and expected to simply “be okay.” At times, I felt pressure to minimize my feelings or blame myself for emotions I did not fully understand. Those experiences changed my beliefs about mental health. I no longer see it as a weakness or an inconvenience, but as a vital part of human well-being that deserves care, patience, and respect. Mental health is not something separate from daily life. It affects how we think, how we love, how we perform, and how we see ourselves. These experiences also reshaped my relationships. I became more aware of how words, tone, and silence can affect others. I learned to listen more carefully, to offer support without judgment, and to understand that everyone carries unseen struggles. While mental health challenges sometimes created distance or misunderstanding in my personal life, they also helped me develop stronger empathy and emotional awareness. I learned that healthy relationships are built on communication, boundaries, and compassion. These lessons have made me a more thoughtful friend, leader, and advocate. Through these challenges, I discovered a strong sense of purpose. I realized that I want to be someone who helps others feel seen, heard, and supported, especially during moments when they feel invisible or overwhelmed. This realization sparked my interest in pursuing a career connected to mental health. I am drawn to this field because it combines science, humanity, and service. Mental health professionals play a critical role not only in treatment, but in breaking stigma, building understanding, and empowering individuals to reclaim control over their lives. As someone who has experienced emotional distress and self-doubt, I understand how intimidating it can feel to seek help. That understanding is what drives my desire to work in mental health. I want to create spaces where people feel safe to express themselves without fear of judgment. Whether through counseling, advocacy, education, or community-based work, my goal is to help others develop healthier coping strategies, stronger self-worth, and hope for the future. I plan to make a positive impact by combining education with genuine human connection. I want to work with individuals and communities to promote mental health awareness, encourage early intervention, and challenge the stigma that prevents so many from seeking help. I believe that mental health care should be accessible, compassionate, and culturally aware. I am especially motivated to support young people who feel overwhelmed by expectations or misunderstood by the systems around them. Mental health has shaped me into someone who values growth, vulnerability, and perseverance. My journey has not been easy, but it has been meaningful. Instead of allowing my experiences to hold me back, I am choosing to let them guide me forward. By pursuing a career in mental health, I hope to transform my personal experiences into purposeful action, helping others heal, grow, and feel less alone in the world.

My interest in technology did not come from a single class or moment, but from consistently being the person who wanted to understand how things worked and how they could work better. Growing up, I learned early on to be adaptable, independent, and resourceful. These qualities shaped the way I interact with technology today—not just as a user, but as someone who sees it as a tool for problem-solving, creativity, and growth. What draws me to the technology field most is its ability to turn ideas into reality. I enjoy learning how digital systems support communication, organization, and innovation behind the scenes. Technology interests me when it is practical and purposeful—when it helps people manage projects, tell stories, improve efficiency, or bring ideas to life. I am especially intrigued by information systems, digital tools, and the way technology connects creative thinking with structured execution.One of the most personal ways I have explored technology is through a business concept I created called Cloud n Fire. This idea centers on adaptive clothing designed to help regulate body temperature depending on environmental conditions. While the project began as a creative idea, turning it into a realistic concept pushed me to think critically and technically. I researched materials, sustainability, user needs, and how technology influences design and production. This experience showed me that innovation requires more than creativity—it requires planning, research, and systems thinking. Developing this idea helped me realize how closely technology and entrepreneurship are connected, and it reinforced my interest in careers that combine both. Another major influence on my technical growth has been photography and digital editing. What started as a creative hobby became a structured technical process. Using professional camera equipment and editing software has taught me discipline, organization, and troubleshooting skills. I manage files, backups, editing workflows, and software tools to create consistent, polished results. Learning how to manipulate lighting, color, and digital settings required patience and problem-solving, especially when things did not work as expected. These experiences helped me become more confident navigating technology independently and reinforced my ability to learn new tools quickly. Athletics has also shaped my relationship with technology in meaningful ways. As a track and field athlete and team captain, I often rely on digital tools to stay organized and communicate effectively. From coordinating schedules to tracking responsibilities and supporting team operations, technology helps keep everything running smoothly. Leadership roles taught me that technology is most effective when it supports people, teamwork, and accountability. Being responsible for others forced me to become more organized, reliable, and detail-oriented—skills that are essential in any technology-driven environment. While I have not yet participated in formal technology clubs or coding programs, my experiences reflect consistent engagement with technology in real-world, hands-on ways. I actively seek opportunities to learn, experiment, and improve my technical skills. I am motivated not only by curiosity, but by the desire to build a stable, impactful future for myself and those around me. Technology excites me because it is constantly evolving and because it rewards those who are willing to learn, adapt, and think critically. My background has taught me resilience, creativity, and responsibility—qualities I plan to carry into the technology field. As I move forward, I am eager to deepen my knowledge through coursework, collaborative projects, and experiential learning opportunities that allow me to apply technology in meaningful, people-centered ways.

One meaningful act of kindness I offered was supporting a teammate who was quietly struggling during our track season. She had started missing practices, seemed withdrawn, and was clearly under pressure both academically and personally. Instead of assuming she would “bounce back,” I chose to intentionally check in with her. I started by walking with her after practice, listening rather than trying to fix everything. I helped her break down assignments, reminded her of deadlines she had missed, and made sure she didn’t feel alone during workouts. As a team captain, it would have been easy to focus only on performance, but kindness meant putting the person before the results. I learned that showing up consistently sending a text before meets, encouraging her during drills, and reminding her of her strengths made a real difference. Over time, she began attending practice more regularly and regained confidence not only as an athlete, but as a student. That moment was important because it reminded me that kindness doesn’t have to be dramatic to be impactful. Sometimes, it looks like listening without judgment and choosing patience when it would be easier to overlook someone’s struggle. Supporting her reinforced my belief that leadership is rooted in empathy. The experience shaped how I approach relationships today and strengthened my commitment to being someone who uplifts others, especially when they feel unseen. There was a time when I felt pressure to fit into expectations that didn’t align with who I truly was especially as a student-athlete. I was often expected to minimize my ambitions, emotions, or individuality to avoid standing out. Whether it was being told I was “doing too much” or feeling discouraged from fully expressing my goals, I found myself shrinking to make others comfortable. Eventually, I realized that conforming was costing me my confidence. I made the decision to stop apologizing for wanting more from academics, leadership, and my future. I began speaking up more confidently, embracing my role as a team leader, and pursuing opportunities even when others doubted my ability to succeed. Choosing to be authentically myself meant accepting criticism without letting it define me. Resisting pressure to conform was not easy, but it was empowering. It allowed me to reclaim my voice and trust my instincts. I learned that authenticity attracts respect and creates space for others to be themselves as well. Being boldly, unapologetically me has helped me grow stronger, more self-assured, and more determined to lead with confidence and purpose—no matter where my path takes me.

I am a senior at Buckhorn High School who has learned that growth often comes from navigating uncertainty with perseverance and purpose. Throughout my high school career, I have balanced academics, athletics, leadership, and personal challenges while remaining committed to becoming the best version of myself. These experiences have shaped both my character and my vision for how I hope to make a positive impact on the world. One of the most meaningful parts of my life has been my involvement in Track & Field. As a jumper and multi-year team captain, I learned discipline, resilience, and leadership through both success and setbacks. Track taught me that progress is rarely linear—improvement requires patience, consistency, and a willingness to keep showing up even when results are not immediate. Leading my teammates challenged me to be supportive, composed, and accountable, reinforcing the importance of encouragement and trust in any group dynamic. Beyond athletics, I am deeply interested in business, leadership, and project management. I am drawn to careers that allow me to organize ideas, guide teams, and turn vision into action. While I am still exploring the exact path my career will take, I know I want to work in a role where I can create solutions, lead with integrity, and contribute to initiatives that positively affect people’s lives. Whether through entrepreneurship, management, or community-focused leadership, my goal is to be someone who builds systems that make opportunity more accessible. One adversity I have faced is growing up with ongoing pressure to succeed while often feeling misunderstood or minimized. Balancing school, athletics, and expectations from others sometimes led to self-doubt and emotional exhaustion. There were moments when I questioned my abilities and worth, especially when my efforts were criticized rather than recognized. Instead of allowing those moments to define me, I learned how to advocate for myself, set boundaries, and refocus on my long-term goals. I turned adversity into motivation by choosing self-discipline over discouragement and persistence over doubt. I also learned to overcome challenges by seeking growth rather than perfection. Through reflection, mentorship, and personal accountability, I built confidence in my own voice and abilities. This process taught me emotional strength and resilience—qualities that matter as much as any academic or athletic achievement. Learning how to move forward despite uncertainty has shaped how I approach challenges today and how I intend to lead in the future. In my career, I plan to make a positive impact by using my leadership and problem-solving skills to support others and create meaningful change. I hope to work in environments where collaboration, innovation, and community matter. I want to uplift people who may feel overlooked or unsupported and contribute to initiatives that promote growth, stability, and access to resources. My experiences have taught me that empowerment can change trajectories, and I want to be part of that change. Ultimately, my journey has taught me that adversity is not an obstacle but a foundation. It has shaped my resilience, clarified my values, and strengthened my desire to help others succeed. As I move forward, I carry with me the lessons learned through challenge and commitment, ready to use my talents to create positive impact wherever my career path leads.

One problem I noticed during high school was how overwhelmed students—especially student-athletes—often feel while trying to balance academics, extracurriculars, and personal responsibilities. I experienced this firsthand. Between practices, schoolwork, leadership roles, and family obligations, I struggled to stay organized and mentally focused. I realized the issue was not a lack of effort, but a lack of structure and support systems designed for students managing demanding schedules. To solve this problem for myself, I created a personalized academic and wellness planning system. Instead of using one generic planner, I designed a weekly structure that broke my time into manageable categories: school assignments, athletic commitments, self-care, and personal goals. I also created accountability check-ins for myself, such as weekly reflections to evaluate what worked and what did not. This system helped me reduce stress, improve my time management, and stay intentional about my priorities. After seeing the benefits personally, I began sharing my approach with teammates and classmates who were experiencing similar challenges. Many of them struggled with burnout, missed deadlines, or constant stress despite working hard. By walking them through simple planning techniques and goal-setting strategies, I saw how even small organizational tools could make a meaningful difference. This experience showed me how accessible solutions can significantly improve student well-being. If I had the funding and resources to expand this idea, I would develop a student-support platform focused on organization, mentorship, and mental wellness. The platform would be designed specifically for middle- and high-school students balancing multiple responsibilities, including sports, jobs, and family obligations. The goal would be to provide structure without pressure and guidance without judgment. The first phase would involve research and student input. I would work with educators, counselors, and students to identify common stress points and barriers to success. Surveys and focus groups would help shape the platform’s features, ensuring it reflects real student needs rather than assumptions. This research would allow the system to remain flexible for students from diverse backgrounds and schedules. The second phase would focus on development. The platform would include customizable planners, deadline reminders, mental health check-ins, and goal-tracking tools. It would also offer optional peer-mentorship matching, allowing students to connect with trained mentors who understand the pressures of academics and extracurriculars. All tools would be designed to be simple, accessible, and mobile-friendly. The third phase would prioritize accessibility and outreach. With proper funding, the platform would be offered free or at low cost to schools and community organizations. Partnerships with school districts, athletic programs, and youth centers would ensure that students who benefit most particularly those in under-resourced communities have access. Training sessions for educators and volunteers would help integrate the platform into existing support systems. Ultimately, this project reflects my belief that success should not come at the cost of mental health. Students deserve systems that support both achievement and well-being. This solution would empower students to manage their time, reduce stress, and feel more confident in their ability to handle responsibilities. With the right resources, this idea could grow into a meaningful support system that helps students thrive not just survive during critical stages of their development.

I am a high school senior at Buckhorn High School who has grown through persistence, responsibility, and a commitment to becoming better each year. My journey has been shaped by balancing academics, athletics, and personal growth, often while navigating challenges that required maturity and resilience. I take pride in pushing myself beyond what is comfortable, because growth has never come from ease it has come from effort. Throughout high school, I have challenged myself academically through honors and advanced coursework while learning how to manage pressure, deadlines, and long-term goals. Education has always represented opportunity to me. I understand that success is built not only on intelligence, but on discipline, consistency, and a willingness to keep going when things feel overwhelming. These lessons have prepared me for the expectations of college and beyond. Athletics have played a significant role in shaping who I am today. As a Track & Field athlete and multi-year team captain, I learned invaluable lessons about leadership, accountability, and resilience. Track pushed me both physically and mentally, teaching me how to handle setbacks, stay motivated, and support others even when outcomes were uncertain. Being a captain meant serving as a role model showing up prepared, encouraging teammates, and maintaining positivity during difficult moments. These experiences strengthened my confidence and taught me how to lead with empathy rather than authority. Beyond athletics, I am deeply interested in business, leadership, and project management. I enjoy organizing ideas, problem-solving, and working toward goals that require both creativity and structure. Although I am still exploring the exact career path I will pursue, I know I want to work in a field where I can lead projects, create solutions, and make a meaningful impact. I am motivated by the idea of building something purposeful whether that is a business, a program, or an initiative that helps others succeed. This scholarship would make a significant difference in my educational journey. Like many students, financial concerns play a role in my college planning. Receiving this scholarship would ease the burden of tuition, textbooks, and other academic expenses, allowing me to focus fully on my studies and involvement on campus rather than financial stress. It would provide me with the freedom to invest my energy into learning, leadership opportunities, and community engagement without constantly worrying about whether I can afford to continue. More than financial support, this scholarship represents belief in my potential and my commitment to making the most of every opportunity I am given. It would serve as motivation to continue working hard and holding myself to high standards. Knowing that others have invested in my future would push me to give back, both during college and beyond, through mentorship, leadership, and service. I see my education as more than a personal achievement; I see it as a responsibility. I want to use the opportunities I receive to uplift others, especially students who may face challenges similar to my own. This scholarship would help me take the next step toward becoming a leader who not only succeeds individually, but contributes meaningfully to the communities I am part of. With this support, I will be able to pursue my goals with focus, purpose, and gratitude—determined to honor this opportunity by striving for excellence and using my talents to make a positive difference.

Being raised in a single-parent household ( with my mother) has shaped my perspective on responsibility, resilience, and self-motivation from an early age. Growing up in a home where not everything came easily forced me to understand the value of effort, sacrifice, and adaptability. While my family structure may not have looked traditional, it provided lessons that continue to influence how I navigate challenges and how I envision my future. In a single-parent household, I learned early that strength is not always loud or obvious. I witnessed firsthand what it means to carry multiple responsibilities at once balancing work, finances, and emotional support while still showing up for your family. This environment taught me independence and accountability. There were moments when I had to mature quickly, whether that meant managing my time carefully, helping out more at home, or learning to solve problems on my own. These experiences instilled in me a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for perseverance. Being part of a blended family further strengthened my adaptability and emotional intelligence. Learning how to navigate different personalities, expectations, and relationships required patience and communication. It taught me that family is not only about structure, but about effort, understanding, and support. Living in a blended household helped me develop empathy and an ability to connect with people from different backgrounds skills that will be essential no matter what career path I ultimately choose. These family experiences also influenced how I view success. I understand that progress is not always linear and that setbacks do not define failure. Watching my family overcome obstacles reinforced the idea that determination and consistency matter more than perfection. As a result, I approach my goals with a mindset focused on growth rather than comparison. I know how to keep going even when results are not immediate, because I have seen the rewards of persistence unfold over time. Looking toward the future, I may not know exactly which career I will enter, but I am certain about the kind of impact I want to make. I want to use my talents whether in leadership, creativity, organization, or teamwork to help people feel supported, empowered, and capable. I am especially drawn to roles that allow me to guide others, create opportunities, and build systems that make success more accessible. My experiences have shown me that support can change the trajectory of someone’s life, and I want to be part of providing that support. I envision a future where I am able to give back in ways that reflect what I value most: mentorship, encouragement, and access to resources. Whether that looks like advocating for students, supporting families, creating programs, or leading initiatives that uplift underserved communities, my goal is to be someone who makes a tangible difference. I want people to feel seen, heard, and believed in especially those who may come from nontraditional or challenging family backgrounds like mine. Being raised in a single-parent and blended family household did not limit my dreams; it expanded them. It taught me resilience, empathy, and the importance of community. These lessons have shaped both who I am today and the future I hope to build one rooted in service, compassion, and the belief that where you come from does not determine how far you can go.

I am a senior at Buckhorn High School, where I have grown academically, athletically, and personally through both challenge and responsibility. Throughout high school, I have pushed myself in honors and advanced coursework while learning how to manage time, pressure, and commitment. School has taught me discipline and perseverance, but more importantly, it has helped me understand who I am and the type of leader I want to become. One of the most influential parts of my high school experience has been my involvement in Track & Field. As a jumper and multi-year team captain, track has played a major role in shaping my character. The sport taught me resilience, accountability, and the importance of consistency. Being a captain required more than athletic performance; it meant supporting teammates, setting an example, and maintaining a positive environment even during difficult moments. Track showed me that leadership is not about recognition, but about reliability being someone others can count on. Outside of athletics, I have a strong interest in business, project management, and entrepreneurship. I enjoy turning ideas into organized plans and working through challenges step by step. This interest has inspired my long-term goal of pursuing a business-focused degree after high school, where I can develop leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills. I am especially drawn to careers that allow me to manage projects, build initiatives, and create opportunities for others. My academic and extracurricular experiences have taught me how to stay committed to long-term goals while adapting along the way. Community involvement is something I value deeply, even when it happens in small, everyday ways. Whether it is supporting teammates, participating in school efforts, or being present for others who need encouragement, I believe that impact comes from consistency rather than recognition. I try to contribute wherever I am needed and to be someone who adds value to a group rather than waiting for direction. If I were to start my own charity, my mission would be to support middle- and high-school students particularly student-athletes and those from underserved backgrounds who face academic pressure, mental health challenges, or a lack of mentorship. Many young people are expected to perform at high levels without being given the guidance or tools to manage that pressure. My charity would focus on empowerment, balance, and access to support. The organization would serve students by providing mentorship, academic assistance, and personal development resources. Volunteers would act as mentors, tutors, and workshop leaders, helping students with time management, goal setting, confidence building, and college or career readiness. Services would include study groups, leadership workshops, mental-health awareness programs, and athletic-support initiatives that emphasize wellness alongside achievement. The goal of this charity would be simple but meaningful: to remind students that their worth is not defined by grades, performance, or competition outcomes. With the right support system, every student deserves the opportunity to grow with confidence, stability, and purpose. This belief reflects my own experiences and the values I hope to carry forward into my future education and career.

The person who has had the greatest impact on my life is my great-grandmother. She wasn’t loud, flashy, or famous, but she had a steady way of seeing straight into my heart. She was the one person I could talk to about anything without feeling judged or rushed, like she carried a small lantern that always cut through whatever confusion or frustration I was dealing with. Losing her changed me in a way that I’m still learning to understand, but her influence continues to shape how I move through the world. Growing up, I always felt safe sitting beside her. She had this calm that didn’t need to be explained just being in her presence made the noise in my head settle. Anytime life stretched thin or stressful, she found a way to pull me back to myself with a short story, a reminder, or just a quiet moment where she listened. She made me feel loved in a way that wasn’t conditional. It wasn’t based on whether I succeeded or failed; it was based on who I was. That kind of love stays with you. Her advice often came wrapped in simple words, but those words stayed rooted in my mind. She taught me patience when I wanted to rush, courage when I wanted to shrink, and responsibility when I felt like giving up. She didn’t push me toward perfection she pushed me toward becoming someone I could be proud of. When she passed, it felt like a piece of my foundation shifted. I depended on her voice, her wisdom, and her presence more than I realized. For a while, I felt unbalanced without her. But the impact she made didn’t disappear with her. In many ways, it grew stronger. Losing her forced me to mature, to pay attention to the lessons she left behind instead of waiting for her to repeat them. When I find myself at crossroads whether in school, sports, or my personal life I still hear her. She taught me how to move with intention, how to handle conflict without anger, and how to stay true to myself even when it feels easier to blend in. Her influence shows up in the goals I choose, the people I care about, and the standard I hold myself to. Her passing also taught me empathy. When someone loses an important person, I understand that kind of quiet ache because I’ve lived it. It changed the way I treat people. I try to show kindness the way she did gently, consistently, and without expecting anything back. She proved that you don’t have to be perfect to make a lasting impact; you just have to care deeply and show it. She is still the person whose voice guides me, whose lessons ground me, and whose love gave me the confidence to grow. Even though she’s gone, she remains the biggest and most meaningful influence in my life.

Change, for me, isn’t a dramatic lightning strike. It’s more like a quiet turning when you look at your own life and realize you deserve better, can do better, and want better. Over the last year, I’ve felt that turning. I’ve had moments where I wasn’t proud of my choices, times when I felt overwhelmed, or disconnected from myself. Even when I was succeeding on the outside, especially in school and track, the inside felt cluttered. I reached a point where I knew I needed to reset my direction, not because anyone forced me to, but because I wanted to grow into someone I could recognize and be proud of. One of the biggest reasons I want to change is because I’ve learned how much my habits shape my future. I want to step into my adult life with discipline, stability, and purpose not just drifting but deciding. I want to build a future where I can stand on my own, create opportunities instead of waiting on them, and prove to myself that I’m capable of more than people expect. That desire is my “why.” To move closer to that vision, I’ve been taking real steps instead of just making promises to myself. I’ve been intentional about my academics, keeping my GPA strong and challenging myself with honors and AP English classes. Mentally, I’ve been working on healthier ways to cope with stress and keeping myself accountable. Physically, track has taught me more about commitment than anything else. Triple jump requires technique, discipline, and the courage to keep pushing even when you fail a dozen times before you get it right. That mindset has spilled into the rest of my life I’ve learned to adjust, to get back up, and to keep moving forward even when the landing isn’t perfect. This scholarship would help me by giving me the chance to step into college with less financial stress weighing me down. I want to study business and project management so I can eventually build my own brand and create something useful like my “Cloud n Fire” clothing concept, which came from wanting to solve real problems in everyday life. Financial help would let me focus on my education, my training, and my development as a leader without constantly worrying about how I’m going to afford the next step. But I don’t want this investment to stop with me. I fully believe in paying forward the opportunities I receive. In the future, I want to help younger athletes especially girls who feel lost, overlooked, or like they don’t have anyone to guide them. I want to mentor them the way I wish someone would have guided me when I felt stuck. Whether that’s through coaching, helping with college prep, or offering support through community programs, I want my growth to ripple outward. I want other young people to know they can rewrite their story, too. Change isn’t a single moment; it’s a decision you keep making. I’m choosing it now, and with this scholarship, I’ll have the foundation to build a life that I’m proud of and one that helps someone else rise, too.

Losing my great-grandmother was one of the most life-shaping experiences I’ve ever had because she wasn’t just another family member she was the one person I felt completely safe opening up to. She was the person I could talk to about anything, no matter how big or small, and she never made me feel judged or misunderstood. When I sat with her, whether we were having long conversations or just talking about everyday things, I felt loved in a way that grounded me. She gave me a sense of emotional peace I didn’t find anywhere else, and she became the person I depended on for advice, comfort, and clarity. My great-grandmother had a gentle way of listening that made me feel seen. She didn’t rush me or make my problems feel silly she treated everything I said like it mattered. When life felt overwhelming, she was the person who could calm my thoughts and remind me I had strength inside me even when I couldn’t feel it myself. Her words were never loud, but they carried wisdom that stayed with me long after our conversations ended. She helped me understand myself, my emotions, and my choices in a way no one else ever has. When she passed away, I felt a space in my life disappear a space where comfort used to be. It wasn’t just sadness; it was the deep ache of losing someone who truly understood me. There were moments when all I wanted was to talk to her, to hear her voice, or to have her tell me it would be okay. Realizing that those moments were gone forever changed me in a way I’m still learning to understand. Her absence made everyday challenges feel heavier at first because the person who used to guide me through them was no longer there. But as painful as that loss was, it also pushed me to grow. Without her there to lean on, I had to learn how to find strength within myself. I had to remember the advice she gave me and apply it on my own. Even now, when I’m struggling, I try to imagine what she would tell me. In a way, her guidance didn’t disappear it became something internal, something I carry with me like a quiet voice reminding me not to give up on myself. Her loss also changed the way I interact with others. Because she listened to me with so much patience and care, I try to give that same kind of understanding to people around me. She taught me that listening is a powerful kind of love, and now I try to be that safe person for others the way she was for me. I learned to value deep conversations, emotional honesty, and the kind of connection that makes someone feel truly supported. Most of all, losing her gave me a reason to push forward. She believed in me in a way that made me want to believe in myself. I want to build a future that reflects the love she gave me and the strength she always said I had. Even though she’s gone, her impact continues to shape who I am. She left me with wisdom, resilience, and a sense of purpose that I carry into everything I do.

In this passage, Marcus Aurelius asserts that the only true source of strength and freedom lies in mastering one’s internal responses rather than attempting to control external circumstances; his underlying meaning is that self-governance is the foundation of resilience, moral clarity, and human dignity in a world defined by constant change. Marcus Aurelius opens his statement with a sharp philosophical boundary: the division between the mind and the external world. This boundary is not merely a reflection on human psychology but a foundational principle of Stoic ethics. By declaring that one has “power over your mind,” Aurelius emphasizes the uniqueness of human agency. Nothing external fortune, weather, political chaos, loss, insult, or praise falls reliably within human command. Yet, in his view, this limitation is not a tragedy; it is an invitation to focus one’s energy on the realm where control is both possible and meaningful. Aurelius’s deeper purpose here is to redirect one’s attention from the futility of resisting life’s uncertainties to the empowerment that comes from governing one’s inner life. The phrase “not outside events” underscores the fragile and unpredictable nature of everything beyond the self. The ancient world Aurelius inhabited was full of war, disease, personal betrayal, and rapid shifts in power. Yet his insight still applies universally because the core human experience remains unchanged: people continue to suffer when they expect stability from unstable things. Aurelius is teaching that attachment to external outcomes people behaving as we want, life unfolding as planned, success always following effort sets one up for constant disappointment. His underlying message is that a life oriented toward controlling externals is a life of emotional slavery, because it makes one's peace dependent on forces that will always shift. Aurelius’s argument becomes more profound when examined through the lens of intentionality. The mind, in his philosophy, is not simply a container for thoughts but the commander of judgment, interpretation, and action. When he says we have power over our minds, he is reminding the reader that meaning is constructed internally. Events by themselves carry no inherent value; what matters is the interpretation assigned to them. A setback becomes a catastrophe only if the mind labels it one. An insult becomes degrading only if the mind accepts the insult as truth. In this sense, the mind is the gatekeeper between external events and emotional experience. Aurelius is urging readers to reclaim this gatekeeping role consciously and deliberately. The shift from the first sentence to the second “Realize this, and you will find strength” reveals the heart of his underlying meaning. Recognition itself is transformative. Strength, in the Stoic tradition, is not brute force or dominance; it is the stability and clarity that arise when one's peace is no longer hijacked by external turbulence. Aurelius presents strength as a direct result of awareness: the moment one internalizes the limits of control and accepts responsibility for internal states, the mind becomes grounded rather than reactive. This is not a call to indifference or emotional numbness. Rather, Aurelius is arguing that emotional resilience comes from disciplined thought. To govern the mind is to foster the ability to pause before reacting, to evaluate situations rationally, and to choose responses aligned with one’s principles. This inner power makes a person harder to shake, less dependent on praise, and less devastated by criticism or misfortune. Aurelius’s meaning is that mastery of thought leads directly to mastery of life. When considering Aurelius’s own life, the significance of this passage deepens. As emperor, he had immense political authority yet faced numerous crises plagues, wars, personal loss, and betrayals. If anyone could have believed he was entitled to control external circumstances, it was him. Yet his writings repeatedly affirm the opposite: even the most powerful human being must yield to the unpredictability of the world. This paradox highlights his central point external power is never absolute, but inner power can be. Aurelius’s philosophy grew out of necessity, not luxury. His reflection on internal control was a survival strategy for maintaining moral integrity amid the pressures of rule. The moral dimension of the passage becomes clear as well. For Aurelius, inner control is not just emotional protection; it is a moral duty. If one’s mind remains steady, one can make wiser choices. Ethical behavior becomes grounded in principle rather than impulse or societal pressure. Aurelius implicitly argues that virtue requires internal discipline. When individuals are ruled by external events anger triggered by offense, fear triggered by uncertainty, greed triggered by opportunity they lose the ability to act with reason and justice. By mastering the mind, Aurelius believed one regains the freedom to act according to virtue rather than circumstance. Even more importantly, Aurelius’s statement reflects a profound respect for human dignity. To suggest that strength lies within one’s own mind is to assert that each person has inherent power, regardless of their environment or social status. In a world where many things remain outside human control, he points the reader toward the one place where freedom is always possible. His message is radical because it levels the playing field: every human being, whether a laborer or an emperor, possesses access to inner strength if they cultivate their own mind. Ultimately, the underlying meaning of this passage is that the world will always be in flux, but the disciplined mind can remain grounded. Aurelius challenges the reader to stop seeking stability in shifting external circumstances and instead cultivate strength from within. By mastering the one realm that truly belongs to us our thoughts we gain clarity, resilience, and moral purpose. His message endures because it speaks to a timeless truth: power over the mind is the only lasting form of strength in a world defined by change.

Sustainability should be a priority in every field, but in business and project management my future career path it is especially important. Businesses have a powerful influence on how resources are used, how communities are impacted, and how long-term decisions shape the world we live in. When companies overlook sustainability, they create waste, increase pollution, and contribute to problems that harm both people and the environment. But when they choose sustainable practices, they can save money, improve efficiency, and make a positive difference for future generations. I believe true leadership means thinking beyond yourself and considering how your actions affect the world around you, which is why sustainability will be a central part of my career. As someone who plans to work in project management, I will be responsible for planning, organizing, and guiding projects from start to finish. That gives me the opportunity to make environmentally conscious decisions at every stage. Whether it’s choosing eco-friendly materials, reducing unnecessary waste, or creating systems that minimize energy use, project managers have the ability to shape how workplaces, events, and operations run. Sustainability is not just a trend it’s a responsibility, and I want to be a leader who prioritizes smart, responsible choices. In the future, I see myself helping reduce environmental impact in several ways. First, I want to focus on efficient resource management. Many businesses waste time, money, and supplies simply because they don’t plan ahead. By organizing projects carefully, setting realistic goals, and tracking resources, I can help companies avoid over-ordering, reduce harmful emissions from shipping, and limit the amount of material that gets thrown away. Small changes add up, especially when a whole team follows a sustainable plan. Second, I want to promote the use of green technologies and sustainable vendors. This means choosing partners who use recycled or low-impact materials, selecting digital tools instead of paper when possible, and encouraging my teams to reduce energy use. Even simple shifts like switching to energy-efficient lighting, using reusable products, or adding recycling systems can create a lasting impact in a workplace. Third, I hope to use my leadership position to educate and influence others. One person can start a change, but a whole team can transform a company culture. By sharing why sustainability matters, encouraging coworkers to adopt eco-friendly habits, and making sustainability a natural part of every project, I can help build environments where people are thinking long-term. I want to be the kind of project manager who not only gets the job done but also inspires others to care about the world they’re helping create. Lastly, I plan to start or support youth programs that teach environmental awareness, because young people deserve to understand how their actions impact the planet. As someone who wants to mentor the next generation, I believe that showing teens how sustainability connects to everyday life can create a stronger and more responsible future workforce. Overall, sustainability matters because the decisions we make today shape the world we leave behind. As a future project manager, I’m committed to building systems, workplaces, and projects that reduce environmental harm and encourage smarter, greener ways of working. My goal is to lead with purpose protecting the planet while helping people and businesses succeed.

My name is Shaniyah, and I am a student, an athlete, and someone who has learned to turn challenges into drive. Growing up, I never had everything handed to me, but I’ve always had determination. Whether it was balancing school and track, teaching myself photography with a beginner camera, or navigating personal setbacks, I’ve learned that the most powerful change comes from resilience. These experiences shaped the foundation of who I am today: someone who believes that success is not about perfection, but about consistent growth and the willingness to lift others up along the way. Track and field has taught me discipline, confidence, and how it feels to show up even on days when I don’t feel strong. Photography has taught me perspective literally and emotionally. And school has taught me that education isn’t just a requirement; it’s preparation for the future I want to build. Each part of my life connects to the career path I’m working toward combining business, leadership, and people-centered skills to create positive change in the spaces I enter. My goal is to study business and eventually work in project management a career where leadership, communication, and organization come together to turn ideas into reality. Project management fits me because I’m someone who likes to make order out of chaos, bring people together, and build something that will last beyond my own involvement. But the impact I want to make goes deeper than job titles. I want to be the kind of leader who opens doors for others, especially young people who feel overlooked or underestimated. Coming from a community where many students feel pressured to figure everything out on their own. I want to use my career to create opportunities: internships, training programs, workshops, and spaces where teens can learn professional skills early. Too many young people don’t realize they have talent or potential because no one has ever taken the time to invest in them. I want to be someone who does. In the long term, my vision is to build a youth-centered development program that combines leadership training, career readiness, and creative expression something that reflects the same combination of passions that shaped me. I want to teach students how to present themselves professionally, how to plan a project, how to manage time, and even how to use creative outlets like photography to build confidence and personal identity. I know the difference it makes when someone believes in you before you believe in yourself, and I’m committed to becoming that person for the next generation. I also hope to make an impact through representation. Young Black women in leadership roles in business are still underrepresented. By stepping into that space and succeeding, I hope to show others that their goals are achievable, even if their starting point is challenging. I want to prove that you can rewrite your story, grow from your mistakes, and still aim high. Everything I’ve been through every challenge, every success, every shift in direction has prepared me for a career centered on growth, purpose, and community. I want to create systems that make success more accessible, especially for youth who feel like the world expects them to fail. I want to show them that they can be leaders, innovators, and creators too. I’m still growing, learning, and becoming, but I know one thing for certain I want my career to leave people better than I found them. And I’m committed to building a future where young people have more support, more guidance, and more belief because that’s the kind of impact that lasts.

Growing up, sports have always been more than just something I did after school they became a space where I discovered confidence, discipline, and purpose. Track and field especially has shaped who I am. It taught me how to push through mental and physical challenges, how to stay focused on long-term goals, and how to believe in myself even when results weren’t showing yet. These lessons didn’t just help me become a better athlete; they helped me become a stronger person. Because of that, I want to give younger athletes the same opportunity to grow, believe in themselves, and feel supported. One of the biggest things I’ve learned through sports is that consistency and community matter. Track isn’t a sport you can do halfway every practice, every rep, every meet teaches you something. But I also realized that not every kid has someone cheering them on or guiding them. Some young athletes get discouraged early because they feel alone, judged, or overlooked. I know what it feels like to struggle mentally while still trying to compete, so I want to be someone who encourages them, motivates them, and lets them know that they’re capable of more than they think. My goal is to use what I’ve learned in track to create positive change in my community through youth sports. I hope to mentor younger athletes especially middle school girls who are just starting to discover their confidence. I want to help them understand not only the physical side of sports, like improving form or technique, but also the mental side: showing them how to overcome self-doubt, how to stay disciplined, and how to show up for themselves even on tough days.I also plan to promote healthy habits and positive mindsets through workshops or summer clinics that focus on discipline, teamwork, and self-care. Many teens today struggle with stress, confidence, and pressure, and sports can be a powerful outlet if they’re surrounded by the right support. I want to help create that support. My goal is to make sports feel welcoming and empowering for every kid no matter their background, speed, or skill level. In the future, I hope to continue building programs that give kids a place to belong. Whether I’m coaching, mentoring, or volunteering, I want to be the person who helps them discover the same strength that sports helped me find within myself. Making a positive impact doesn’t always require something big sometimes it’s just being present, encouraging someone, and helping them believe in their potential. That’s the impact I hope to make through youth sports.

My “pie in the sky” dream the one that feels bold, ambitious, and slightly out of reach—is to build a successful business that creates opportunity, stability, and inspiration for people who grew up feeling unheard or unsupported. I want to be the kind of leader who proves that your beginnings don’t have to be your ending. My dream is to turn everything I’ve gone through every lesson, mistake, hardship, and moment of growth into something that changes people’s lives for the better. This dream started forming long before I even realized it. It sparked from all the moments where I felt like I had to grow up fast, figure things out on my own, or solve problems without guidance. It came from times when I wanted someone to say, “You’re capable, you’re smart, and you can build something amazing,” but didn’t always hear it. Over time, that silence didn’t discourage me it fueled me. It made me want to become the person who gives others the support I often had to give myself. It also grew from my passions: track taught me discipline and resilience, while photography taught me creativity and patience. Together, they helped me understand that I want a future where I’m both structured and artistic, where I can bring ideas to life and lead people toward something greater. This is how my idea for “Cloud n Fire,” a temperature-adaptive clothing concept, was born. It made me believe I could take a vision in my mind and turn it into something real. It showed me that my creativity isn’t just a hobby t’s a strength. And my leadership skills aren’t accidental they’re part of who I’m meant to be. To reach this dream, I know I will need to take several important steps. First, I need to continue my education and earn a degree in Business or Project Management, where I can learn the strategies, financial skills, and organizational tools needed to build a strong foundation. College will give me the chance to expand my ideas, gain mentorship, and discover new possibilities for my future business. Second, I need to develop experience through internships, entrepreneurship programs, or working with companies that value innovation and community impact. I want to learn what makes a business succeed, what makes people trust a brand, and how to build something that lasts. Third, I need to step out of my comfort zone. To reach a dream this big, I will have to take risks, believe in myself even when the world doubts me, and stay committed even during setbacks. My courage will matter just as much as my talent. Finally, I want to build a network of people who share my drive, my values, and my vision. Success is never just a solo journey, and I want to surround myself with individuals who push me, support me, and challenge me to grow. My “pie in the sky” dream is to turn my life experiences into leadership, my creativity into innovation, and my personal growth into something that lifts others up. It may feel big and slightly out of reach, but it inspires me every day—and I’m ready to take the steps to make it real.

Education has been one of the few things in my life that has given me structure, purpose, and direction, even during moments when everything else felt uncertain or overwhelming. Growing up, I learned early that life doesn’t always go the way you expect and that sometimes you have to fight for your own sense of stability. School became the one place where I could measure my growth, push through difficulties, and see a path that could lead me to something better. Over the years, my education didn’t just shape my goals it shaped my identity, my confidence, and my belief that I could build a life different from anything I’ve experienced. High school has been a complicated but meaningful journey for me. I’ve had moments where I felt mentally drained, stressed, or unsure about myself. There were times when I felt like I wasn’t doing enough or like I was falling behind. I struggled with pressure at home, emotional ups and downs, and trying to balance schoolwork with everything happening in my personal life. I’ve dealt with burnout, long nights of overthinking, and moments when I felt misunderstood or dismissed. But through all of that, school remained my constant. It gave me goals to work toward and a reason to keep pushing. One of the biggest influences in my life has been track and field. Track taught me discipline even on days when my mind wasn’t in the right place. Being involved in athletics taught me to keep going even when I didn’t feel motivated, and it pushed me to show up for myself. There were times I thought about quitting because mentally I felt disconnected, tired, and heavy. But track also reminded me that I am stronger than I realize. Being selected as “Most Athletic” showed me that people see potential, resilience, and ability in me even on the days when I didn’t see it in myself. Track didn’t just shape my work ethic; it taught me that I’m capable of pushing through obstacles and reaching goals when I stay committed. Those lessons followed me into the classroom and gave me the discipline to stay on track academically even when life felt chaotic. Another part of my identity that shaped my goals is my passion for photography and creativity. Photography helped me slow down and pay attention to the world around me. It taught me patience, storytelling, and how to appreciate small details that others might overlook. When I hold a camera, I feel like I’m creating something meaningful. This creativity helped guide me toward wanting to build something in life not just a job, but a project or business that reflects who I am. I even started developing a concept called “Cloud n Fire,” a clothing idea that mixes creativity and innovation. That experience helped me realize that I enjoy designing, planning, organizing, and bringing ideas to life. It made something click for me: I want a future where I can create, lead, and bring purpose into my work. That realization shaped my goal to pursue a degree in Business or Project Management. The more I learned in school whether it was writing, planning projects, studying business concepts, or collaborating with classmates the more I understood that I’m drawn to leadership, structure, and problem-solving. School helped me discover strengths I didn’t even know I had, like being able to communicate, stay organized, think creatively, and work under pressure. These skills gave me direction and made my career goals feel real and attainable. But my goals aren’t just about having a successful career they’re about creating change. I want to use my education to create opportunities for people who feel lost, unsupported, or unsure of themselves, because I know what it feels like to be in that position. I’ve had moments where I felt alone in my decisions, moments where I needed guidance but didn’t know who to turn to. Those experiences made me want to become someone who provides clarity, encouragement, and opportunities for others especially young women who feel overlooked or misunderstood. In the future, I want to build a business or program that not only helps people financially but emotionally and mentally as well. I want to create safe spaces, job opportunities, mentorship programs, or community projects that uplift people who grew up feeling like they had to figure everything out on their own. I want to show others that their past doesn’t define their future and that mistakes, struggles, or difficult circumstances don’t determine what they can accomplish. Education has given me the tools to dream bigger and the structure to turn those dreams into plans. It has shown me that I am capable of achieving stability, success, and fulfillment through hard work and determination. Most importantly, it has given me direction at times when life felt confusing or heavy. My future goals come from the lessons, challenges, and growth that education has given me. By investing in my education, I’m not just building a better future for myselfI’m preparing to build something that can help others rise, grow, and find their own direction. And that, to me, is the greatest impact I hope to make in the world.

My name is Shaniyah Green, and I am a senior at Buckhorn High School. Growing up, I learned early that life requires strength, patience, and the ability to keep moving forward even when things feel heavy. I haven’t always had an easy journey, but every challenge I’ve faced has taught me something about resilience and the kind of person I want to become. I’ve developed a strong sense of independence, responsibility, and determination to build a future that looks nothing like any struggles I’ve seen. Throughout high school, I dedicated myself to athletics, especially track and field, where I competed in triple jump. Track gave me structure and discipline, but it also taught me deeper lessons. I learned how to work under pressure, how to motivate myself when I felt overwhelmed mentally, and how to balance hard days with big goals. Being recognized as “Most Athletic” showed me that people see my potential even in moments when I doubt myself. Track also shaped my work ethic if I want something, I’ll put in the effort to earn it. Outside of athletics, I’ve become passionate about photography and creative expression. I love capturing the world through a lens and finding beauty in moments other people might overlook. Photography taught me patience, attention to detail, and how to bring ideas to life visually. Those creative skills follow me into every project I take on, from schoolwork to personal business ideas. One of my future goals is to build a brand that blends practicality, creativity, and innovation an idea that sparked from my concept called “Cloud n Fire,” a clothing idea focused on temperature-adaptive technology. Thinking like an entrepreneur comes naturally to me: I like solving problems, designing experiences, and creating things with purpose. In college, I plan to major in Business or Project Management because I want a career that allows me to lead, organize, build, and make an impact. I’m drawn to business because it gives me the chance to help other people whether by creating jobs, improving systems, launching new products, or supporting communities. I want to use my degree to build a pathway not just for myself, but for the people around me who need someone to believe in them, guide them, or provide opportunities they never thought were possible. My long-term goal is to become a leader who is supportive, innovative, and community-focused. I want to use the skills I gain to empower younger students, especially young women, to realize that their mistakes or difficult moments do not define their entire future. I want to show people that you can come from a place of pressure, confusion, or pain and still grow into someone strong, successful, and compassionate. Education and business give me the tools to make the kind of changes I wish I had growing up more support, more understanding, and more opportunities. Ultimately, I hope to make a positive impact on the world by using my story, talents, and leadership abilities to build something meaningful. Whether I’m managing major projects, starting a business, mentoring others, or creating solutions that help communities thrive, I want my work to show that success is possible for anyone willing to work for it. I want to be the kind of person who opens doors, inspires confidence, and creates a future that’s brighter not only for myself, but for everyone I can help along the way.